He talks constantly, on the ice and on the bench. Inside the Kings' dressing room, he always has encouraging words. Phaneuf is the first to admit that his vocal style differs from the quieter, lead-by-example style inside most NHL rooms.
"It's part of my personality," Phaneuf said. "It's part of the way that I play. I like to talk on the ice. I think it's an important part of the game. Communication helps out, whether it's breaking the puck out, or being the eyes for someone else going to get the puck, you're always in position to talk.