New Leafs coach Babcock on Phaneuf: 'I'm a fan of Dion's'

Dion Phaneuf has support from someone other than Phil Kessel.

The Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman - frequently criticized in his role as team captain - has the support of new head coach Mike Babcock, who wants to speak with Phaneuf and get things off on the right foot.

"I like to think I'm a straightforward communicator," said the coach. "I'm going to get to know Dion and he's going to get to know me."

Phaneuf was outspoken about his team's poor campaign, calling the situation "embarrassing" after a late season loss. Despite attacks about his ability to captain the storied franchise, Phaneuf received support from Kessel - who lashed out at the media.

The 30-year-old Phanuef had a tumultuous season for the Maple Leafs, which included a defamatory tweet situation involving his wife Elisha Cuthbert and teammate Joffrey Lupul to go along with the constant media attention and poor on-ice performance, so a fresh start with a supportive coach could be just what he needs.

"I think you have to help your captain do things right," said Babcock on Wednesday. "I'm a fan of Dion's."

Phaneuf expressed his enthusiasm about the hiring of Babcock, as well.

"I'm in," Phaneuf said when asked if he's ready to be a part of the process Babcock referred to repeatedly at his introductory press conference. "I signed here for seven years for a reason. To be part of it."

"I'm excited," Phaneuf added. "And the guys are excited, too. It's big for our fans and our organization.There was a lot of interest in where he was going to go, and rightfully so. You want to play for a coach of his calibre."

Phaneuf tallied three goals and 26 assists in 70 contests for Toronto last season.