Kings GM: Phaneuf brings experience, leadership, physicality

Dion Phaneuf is Rob Blake's kind of player.

The Los Angeles Kings general manager acquired the veteran defenseman - as well as forward Nate Thompson - from the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday, and later explained what he values in Phaneuf.

"Dion brings to our club a great deal of experience and leadership. He also plays with a physical edge which complements our lineup well," Blake said. "Nate has a good reputation of being a high-energy player on the ice. Both guys are also high character guys."

Heading out of L.A. are forwards Marian Gaborik and Nick Shore, who Blake thanked for their service.

"We also wish Marian and Nick well. Marian has enjoyed a tremendous career to date and has played an integral role with our team over the years including a Stanley Cup Championship. Nick is a hard worker who came up through our system and has developed into a solid NHL player."

Gaborik was a member of L.A.'s 2014 Stanley Cup-winning team, while Phaneuf helped Ottawa come within one goal of advancing to the finals a year ago.