Barkov has been named team captain for Finland’s squad that will take part in next month’s 4 Nations Face-Off. “It's a huge honor,” Barkov said Thursday, following the announcement. “I'm really thankful for that opportunity to be a captain of the national team, and can't wait to can't wait to get going in the tournament.”

Team Finland announced their leadership group for the 4 Nations Face-Off today and both Carolina Hurricanes forwards Sebastian Aho and Mikko Rantanen were named alternate captains. Finland will be captained by Aleksander Barkov of the Florida Panthers and Mikael Granlund of the San Jose Sharks will also serve as an alternate captain.

RALEIGH, N.C. - The Finnish Ice Hockey Association, in conjunction with the NHL and the NHL Players' Association, announced its leadership group for February's 4 Nations Face-Off on Thursday. Carolina Hurricanes forwards Sebastian Aho and Mikko Rantanen were named assistant captains.