We on, Dion

I'll bet when BB was targeting Dion Phaneuf last Fall he thought the then Flames' blueliner would make good captain material in another market. And no question he knew number three would eventually wear the cee upon his acquisition this Winter.

It's not like there's plenty to choose from on the current roster, but even if there were Phaneuf would still top the candidate's list. He's just right for the job. He's a young, talented, big mouthed, ego driven, game changing, bad ass dude now playing for both an organization and culture to match (ask the haters).

It's a perfect fit. Since Mats Sundin's departure the franchise has been faceless, without personality, leadership and purpose. Finally, at long last, that changes. At some point over the off-season on what'll appear to be just another summer day, something of great historical significance will go down. Hockey's biggest club will name Dion Phaneuf it's captain thrusting into the scorching spotlight a young man who exudes many of the qualities the franchise is equally loved and loathed for.

Whether it's ugly or beautiful (depends which side of the tracks you choose to reside), it's about time. As a matter of fact, even before being anointed it's new front-man Phaneuf had already unofficially claimed this team, even setting it's course forward. His season capping goal that sent the Habs into the playoffs as losers could very well serve (at least optically) as the conclusion to a forgettable era of Leafs hockey. The next one will also involve Phaneuf, and officially begins when the "C" is slapped on his chest. He closed the door on a brutal past. He'll be the first to step into a welcomed and fresh future.

Not excited? Not encouraged? Check your pulse.