Phaneuf Wants Playoffs

Submitted by Micheal A. Aldred on Thu, 02/04/2010 - 16:21

It didn't take long for Dion Phaneuf to make an impact on the Leafs. Not only did he throw 6 hits in the game on Saturday, but fans got a look at his incredlble one-timer release, and his physicality on the back end. He has been playing with Luke Schenn on the penalty kill, Francois Beauchemin as his 5 on 5 partner, and Tomas Kaberle on the powerplay.

For the second goal of the game, Luke Schenn started the play with an outlet pass to Tyler Bozak. Bozak went on to be a part of the play that lead to Phil Kessel's goal, but while Luke Schenn was on his way to the bench for the line change, Dion Phaneuf put his hand out to keep Schenn on the ice until after the play. Kessel scored and Luke Schenn reveived a plus on the night for his efforts. It's nice to see that type of character from a new acquisition.

Dion Phaneuf made a comment about the remainder of the Leafs season that showed optimism on his behalf.

"It's not over yet," Phaneuf said after practice. "There's a lot of games left. We are where we are, but we have to do our best to get points and make a push for the playoffs. ... If teams lose and you win a few, you're right there."

Phaneuf feels the Leafs playoff hopes are still alive and looks to continue thriving in his new environment to try and get back into the post-season picture.

"We certainly hope so. What happened here (prior to the Phaneuf, Fredrik Sjostrom and J.S. Giguere additions) is unacceptable," said sophomore defenceman Luke Schenn.

"All three guys bring a lot of energy. Like it was said, you needed a bit of a culture change here and these guys bring intensity, you could sense it (Tuesday) night, it showed in our dressing room and then it carried over into the game."

Toronto will look to carry their momentum in the third of three meetings with the New Jersey Devils this season starting tomorrow night. They will then play host to the red hot Ottawa Senators on Saturday.

Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com
www.checkingfrombehind.com
twitter.com/michealaldred

Comments 4

Phil T says:
Thu, 02/04/2010 - 18:54

Phaneuf sure likes clichés. "Lots of games to be played" sure, but I wouldn't get my hopes up if I were him. I think the Leafs can definitely do some damage next year if they get help at forward though.

Ron Guillet says:
Fri, 02/05/2010 - 11:42

It's really all contingent on Kaberle being moved this summer. If they can bring in a top-six forward (and a prospect)... that's a big step forward. Kaberle is useful, but with the addition of Phaneuf he can now be moved to upgrade upfront.

George Prax says:
Fri, 02/05/2010 - 11:58

While I agree that Kaberle is the obvious piece to move at this point, it would be a shame for Leafs fans. I think over a long period of time Phaneuf and Kaberle will complement each other really well. Kaberle is the type of defenseman that makes the players around him better, and he's a true number one defenseman. Phaneuf could be... but I'd be more confortable with him as a #2. Beauchemin is a #3, Komisarek might be a #4, Schenn is a #2.

Wouldn't you guys prefer maybe to try and get rid of Komisarek's contract (if it was possible anyway), and keep Kaberle instead?

Newman says:
Sat, 02/06/2010 - 13:40

Phaneuf LOVES cliches...you will notice that. He also gives the worst interviews of ALL time...case in point OTR on Monday where he said "Im excited to be here" to every single question. I hope this trade benefits both the Leafs and Flames...