added 10:06am, via the Toronto Maple Leafs,

David Nonis, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs, announced Tuesday that the hockey club has signed Captain Dion Phaneuf to a seven-year contract extension that will commence at the start of the 2014-15 NHL season.

"Dion is our team leader and has been a pillar in our building process," said Nonis. "He has proven to be a very durable and reliable defenceman in all facets of the game. He plays big minutes in every situation for us and we're pleased to have him under contract for the next seven seasons."

"This is a very proud day for me and my family," said Phaneuf. "I'm very honoured to be the captain of this historic franchise and to maintain the opportunity to play and represent the Toronto Maple Leafs for many years to come. We have passionate fans and a dedicated ownership group. I have great teammates and look forward to growing with them and achieving our goal of winning."