Rule 6.2 of the 2008 -- 09 Official NHL Rulebook indicates that '' [ only ] when the captain is not in uniform , the coach shall have the right to designate three alternate captains .
Rule 6.2 of the 2008 -- 09 Official NHL Rulebook says that '' [ only ] when the Captain is not in uniform , the Coach shall have the right to designate three Alternate Captains .