February 9, 2013

Leafs defenceman Dion Phaneuf says he has to start picking up his offensive game for the Leafs to continue their playoff push. (Dave Abel/QMI Agency)

WINNIPEG - When Dion Phaneuf steps onto the Bell Centre ice surface Saturday night, he should get a nice comfy feeling all over.

After all, this is the only rink in which he has registered a point in all season.

Three weeks ago, Phaneuf registered an assist in the Leafs season-opening 2-1 road win over the Montreal Canadiens. In the subsequent 10 games, he has been held off the scoresheet.

Now the Leafs return to the home barn of the Habs for a marquee battle on Hockey Day in Canada. And Phaneuf himself knows its time to pump up his stats if he wants to help his team make a playoff push.