They have a calming affect when things are going bad and a steadying affect when everything is well with the world. Sometimes if a younger guy gets out of line, the veteran will step in and set the young guy straight. Too much cockiness will not be tolerated in a dressing room. Too much individual and personal, rather than team gain, will not be tolerated by veterans in a dressing room. When they speak, young players better listen.
Veterans teach how to lead.
How to win. How to survive. If you take and add up all the years that Gilmour, Andreychuk, and Patrick have played, the total is 51. In those 51 years of excellence and experience from 3 quality individuals, there is 1 Stanley Cup. Gilmour has it while a member of the Calgary Flames.