Wednesday 6 June 2012

The Captain

It has been 2 and a half years since one of the biggest names in defense came to the Toronto Maple Leafs, but has he done anything? Dion Phaneuf was and is still a young player. With multiple great seasons in his bio and a Norris nomination to go along with it, Dion had what it takes to be a powerhouse defenseman in the NHL. If we go back in time and look at the players the Leafs gave up for him and a few others the trade looks like it couldnt get any better. Stajan, Mayers, White, and Hagman were shipped out and changed the franchise in an instant. Not only did the Leafs get Phaneuf but a pretty good prospect in Aulie. (traded this season for Carter Ashton)

Since Dion has been with the Leafs he has put up 84 points in 174 games and is -14. Not bad compared to a lot of defenseman in the league but compared to his previous seasons these number are bad! Its not always about the number on defense though, Dion just does not look like the same man he was in Calgary. Ask a Flames fan on how good he was.

Most Leafs fans know the Dion Phaneuf is Brian Burkes pride and glory but should he be?

With a big cap hit and o.k performances in the blue and white could Dion Phaneuf be on his way out or possibly lose the 'C'. With 2 full seasons under his belt it is time for him to step up and start doing his job. Winning games and getting the team the post-season is what we all for in a captain and Dion has not done either. I am not hating on Dion Phaneuf but I am starting to get a little impatient with him as well as the team. In my opinion the first thing he needs to do is start being that mean man who hits hard and actually hits the net.

Could Dion Phaneuf be on the move?



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