Babcock makes a bold prediction!

Most Leafs fans were hoping to see Dion Phaneuf go during this off-season. Unfortunately for them, he obviously did not.

Good news though, Mike Babcock strongly believes in Dion Phaneuf and has a plan for him. Babcock is so confident, that he had this to say about his captain:

“He’s going to have the best year he’s had in a long time. He’s prepared hard all summer. We’re going to help him with his game and he’s going to help us by being the player he’s capable of being. And we’re going to look after him. We’re not leaving him hung out to dry, either on the ice, with the media or in town.”

Assuming that Mike Babcock is right, it would be a nice refreshing sight to see Phaneuf play at the fullest of his potential.

Babcock believes that Phaneuf should not address the media everyday, and the Leafs will grant the captain with days without media duties.

"This is going to be a safe place for players to play. When things go good in your life, you’re likely to see more positives. When things are going bad in your life, it’s hard. Guys are sticking microphones in your face and you’re supposed to have all the answers. I don’t think that’s fair. We are going to do is make sure Dion gets at least one day a week off from the media. You know, Nick Lidstrom, Steve Yzerman, Kris Draper ... they had those guys out lots in front of the press too. It’s not supposed to be a grindfest.”

Mike Babcock is definitely the man for this job. It is rare to see a coach thinking about his players media duties. That is what makes Mike Babcock as successful as he is, he sees the bigger picture like no one else.

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Image Keystone Press