The Toronto Maple Leafs unveiled a new look today, while naming a new captain. Ex- Calgary Flames defenceman, Dion Phaneuf showed up with the “C” on his jersey to unveil the new jerseys for the 2010-2011 season. He was joined by former captains George Armstrong, Darryl Sittler and Wendel Clark. After looking at the photo, its evident that Dion has a hard time looking bad ass next to Wendel. Those guys both play(ed) hard hockey, but Phaneuf has to take it up a few levels to reach the status of Clark, who had his jersey retired by the Leafs last season.

Personally, I like the look of the new Leafs jerseys. They’re an original 6 team, so they can never really stray too far from tradition with their jerseys (you know, like the Mighty Ducks jerseys circa 1995-1996 or the mid 90′s Canucks 3rd jerseys). I am not convinced that Dion will make a good captain, but you never know. Maybe putting him in a role like this will tone down some of the prima donna attitude and make him mature a little faster.  If anyone thought there was pressure on Dion last year, wait until October 2010 and see how Leafs Nation likes him if they don’t start winning real quick. Either way, I wish him luck as Leafs captain.  Somehow I think he’ll need it.

About Greg Hounslow (554 Posts)

Greg is the founder of Red Mile Blog has been following the Flames through good times and bad since they arrived in Calgary in the early 80s. He has written hundreds of articles on the Flames since 2005 and considers himself an expert on hockey inconsistency and frustration. He shoots right and usually plays defence, but has been known to jump up in the rush. He is a 2-time CAHL men's league champion and knows the sweet taste of beer from a Cup.