Bleacher Report - Articles by Josh Kyrzakos

NHL Fantasy Files Vol 6: Captain Canuck On The Mend

Josh Kyrzakos — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 05:41:26 -0500

At the quarter-way mark of the 2008-09 NHL season there appears to be something strange in the Gatorade. Goalies are dropping at an alarming rate this year. I will recap the starting goaltenders who have suffered an injury over the first 20 games: Martin Brodeur, Evgeni Nabokov, Marc-Andre Fleury, Rick DiPietro, Kari Lehtonen, Pascal Leclaire, and Manny Legace. Now, Roberto Luongo can be added to the list.

Almost a third of starting goaltenders have been hurt during the first quarter of the season! It is always wise to keep an eye on emerging back-up goaltenders, but this year it’s become even more important because of the unusually high number of injuries.

I begin this week’s installment of the NHL Fantasy Files by recommending yet another back-up goaltender:

Curtis Sanford (VAN—G)

During last night’s tilt against the Pittsburgh Penguins Roberto Luongo injured his groin making his first save of the game. While being helped off the ice by teammates he put no weight on his leg. Luongo is scheduled for an MRI to determine the extent of the injury but early estimations out of Vancouver are to prepare for the worst.

A cold Curtis Sanford came off the bench to replace Luongo to earn his second victory of the season. Sanford has posted respectable numbers so far this year but he has never shown he can excel at the professional level. Because Sanford was never drafted he took the long road to the NHL. He bounced around the semi-professional league before finally getting legitimate shot at the big leagues in 2005 thanks to the poor play of St. Louis goalie Patrick Lalime.

Sanford has never started for a full season since his days in the Ontario Hockey League so there’s no reason to think that the Canucks will rely on him for the remainder of this season.

So why am I recommending him? If Luongo is out for an extender period of time the Canucks will HAVE to rely on him until they can negotiate a trade with another team. The Blue Jackets, Blackhawks and Oilers are all shopping goalies so it shouldn’t take long for the Canucks to replace Sanford.

Sanford will shoulder the load for Vancouver until a trade can be made and should be active in all fantasy formats.

Jiri Hudler (DET—RW)

The young winger is only owned in 29% of leagues, yet he has 18 points through 19 games, including six points over the last three games. He’s fourth on the star-studded Red Wings in scoring and shouldn’t be a free agent for long.

His ice time is nothing to brag about, but he is making the most of his opportunities. Coach Mike Babcock should give Jiri a shot for top-line ice-time now that he’s producing like a top-line player.

Last night against the Calgary Flames he played under 12 minutes but the six shots he put on net led the team. Currently he is on a three-game goal-scoring streak; as long as he keeps putting the rubber at the net he’ll keep scoring goals.

While you shouldn’t expect Hudler's point production to increase, a steady spot on the Detroit powerplay will give him more points during the man advantage.

Scott Walker (CAR—RW)

With Justin Williams on the injured reserve list the Hurricanes have to be happy to have Scott Walker back in the lineup.

Walker missed the beginning of the season due to hand surgery, but since returning to the ice he has six points in nine games—five in the last five games.

Walker is playing close to 20 minutes per game on a line with all-stars Ray Whitney and Rod Brind’Amour.

Walker’s crash and bang style means he is injury prone, but when he’s healthy he can get 50 points and 100 penalty minutes. If your league rewards penalty minutes Walker is worth a look.

Bobby Ryan (ANA—RW)

Keeper League Alert!

Sidney Crosby entered the NHL with much fanfare in 2005 after being drafted first overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Anaheim Ducks were much more cautious with second overall selection Bobby Ryan.

Since being drafted in 2005 Ryan posted two 100-point seasons in the Ontario Hockey League, and a spent a season and a half in the AHL where he earned a point-per-game.

It would appear that general manager Brian Burke simply did not want to give the young stud a chance. Last year he played 23 games for the Ducks, got 10 points but was sent back to the Portland Pirates.

The Brian Burke era is ending in Anaheim but the Bobby Ryan era is just beginning. An injury to Francois Beauchemin opened up the cap space for him to join the Ducks. There is no reason to expect him to play another game in the minor leagues.

Ian White (TOR—D/RW)

The Toronto Maple Leafs began the season with ten defencemen under contract. Two years ago Ian White was considered to be a keystone piece of Toronto’s future. This October he found himself watching games from the press box.

A thin Maple Leaf offence led Ron Wilson to experiment with the speedy defenceman on the wing. And Ian White and responded to the experiment better than anyone could’ve expected.

White is playing on the Leafs third line Jason Blake Dominic Moore. He has seven points through nine games and is on pace for a 50-point season. He does have some offensive ability. He scored 32 goals in one season as a defenceman for the Swift Currrent Broncos. I do not expect he will stay on pace for 50 points but he should get at least 30 points which warrants him a spot as your squad’s fourth defenceman.

If he qualifies as a defenceman in your league pick him up… now. The poor man’s Dustin Byfuglien is currently owned in only 8% of leagues, but because you read the NHL Fantasy Files he should be owned in yours.

***AUTHOR'S EDIT***

Nov 25th, 9:26AM: Because Colaiacovo was traded, White will shift back to the Leafs blue line for a week or two. When Van Ryn returns to the blue line White will be back on right wing, and when he is, he's worth owning.

If you would like to know Josh's opinion on a player he hasn't mentioned, you may ask his fantasy advice here. He will respond to your questions as soon as possible.

NHL Fantasy Files Vol 5: Injuries Equal Opportunities

Josh Kyrzakos — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 13:37:14 -0500

The NHL Fantasy Files are late this week because (as my regular readers know) I spent the last week in Cuba. I took the weekend to catch up on a week’s worth of hockey and to research my recommendations.

While my vacation was wonderful, but I’m quite happy to be back in a country that airs more than just Spanish episodes of Everybody Loves Raymond. I sure missed watching Saturday night hockey while hiding from Hurricane Paloma in my hotel room.

Here are some players owned in fewer than 50 percent of leagues that I recommend this week:

Ty Conklin (DET—G)

Tonight Ty Conklin starts for the second game in a row. Why? Chris Osgood, starting goaltender for the first place Detroit Red Wings has decided to bench himself.

“I’m just tired of letting in three goals a game,” Osgood said. “You go from last year where it was always one or two. It’s something we’re working on, something I’m working on. It’s not something we can’t take care of.”

Conklin played surprisingly well for the Pittsburgh Penguins when called upon last year, and should repeat his performance with the defensively superior Red Wings. If you’re relying on Weekes, Clemmensen, Kolzig, or Fernandez for spot starts I’d suggest dropping one of them for Ty Conklin. Coach Mike Babcock will ride him while Chris Osgood works out the kinks in his mechanics.

Kris Versteeg (CHI—RW)

His fifteen points over sixteen games places him third in team scoring and only one point behind Patrick Sharp. Yet he is owned in less than a quarter of leagues.

Playing on a line with sophomore all-stars Toews and Kane there is no reason Versteeg shouldn’t challenge for the NHL rookie scoring title.

As a bonus, he should also earn you a boatload of penalty minutes. Last year for the Rockford IceHogs he had 174 penalty minutes to go with his 49 points.

While Versteeg doesn’t come with the name recognition of a Martin Havlat or a Jonathan Toews, he can be had for free if you act now.

Pavol Demitra (VAN—LW)

Pavol is healthy…for now.

While he is healthy, he’s worth owning. Demitra typically misses 10 games a season with an injury. He’s already missed ten games this season so hopefully that the last he will see if the IR.

Demitra also typically puts up 60 points. But that was playing under Jacques Lemaire in Minnesota. Pavol has shown chemistry with the Sedin twins and has the potential to return to his St. Louis form with those two offensive-minded line mates.

Cam Barker (CHI—D)

The second Blackhawk I will recommend this week is the red hot Cam Barker.

While Barker has not shown much offensive talent with the Blackhawks over the past two seasons he does have an offensive upside. He scored a point-per-game for the Medicine Hat Tigers of the Western Hockey League and played well in the American Hockey League this year. It appears Barker finally has caught up to the NHL-level game.

Since being called up in late October Barker has nine points over eight games for the Blackhawks and is playing on the first power play unit alongside Brian Campbell.

He is owned in less than 20% of leagues and is easily worth a shot at your fourth defenceman position.

Tim Connolly (BUF—C)

The last player I will recommend this week is another oft-injured player.

Since the lockout Tim Connolly has scored 103 points in 119 games for the Buffalo Sabres. The only problem is he cannot seem to stay healthy.

He has played extremely well for the Sabres this season but did not travel with the team this weekend after Keith Tkachuk drilled him into the boards. He is day-to-day with a bruised chest.

As he is only owned in a small fraction of leagues there is no need to pick him up immediately, but monitor his health closely and pick him up once you’re sure he’s 100%.

***EDIT***

Nov 19, 12:36pm: Reports out of Buffalo are now that the team will update Tim Connolly's status on a week-to-week basis rather than day-to-day. This does not look good for his health. Take Connolly off your watch list for now.

If you would like to know Josh's opinion on a player he hasn't mentioned, you may ask his fantasy advice here. He will respond to your questions as soon as possible.

NHL Fantasy Files Vol 4: Better Have Back Up

Josh Kyrzakos — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 08:15:50 -0500

This week The NHL Fantasy Files will appear in an abbreviated version.

In a few hours, I will fly directly into a hurricane. Why, you ask? A month ago, I booked a vacation for Cuba, and—wouldn’t you know it—Hurricane Paloma touches down in Varadero the same day I do. So if there’s no NHL Fantasy Files next week, you know why.

Here are some players owned in fewer than 50 percent of leagues that I recommend this week:

Mikhail Grabovski (TOR—C)

Picked up as a Canadiens cast-off, Grabovski was thought to be the type of player who would excel amongst the AHL ranks but always struggle to stick in the NHL.

This past week Mikhail has proved his critics wrong. Centering a line between Niklas Hagman and Nikolai Kulemin, Grabovksi has been a much needed sparkplug on a revitalized Toronto roster. In the team's last three losing efforts he has potted five goals and more importantly been a plus-5. Even when his team is losing, he’s still a threat at both ends of the ice

While you shouldn’t expect him to keep that pace up, he’s certainly worth a flyer in deep leagues.

Ryane Clowe (SJ—LW)

I consider him the most underrated player on the San Jose Sharks.

Clowe is tied with Joe Thornton in scoring, and recently he earned the Gordie Howe hat trick against the Minnesota Wild when he dropped the mitts in the third period and slid a puck past Niklas Backstrom.

He has 11 points over the past nine games, yet is only owned in 44 percent of leagues.

You got to give more respect than that to a player than can help you in all six standard fantasy categories.

Kyle Wellwood (VAN—C)

I cannot in good conscience recommend him.

He has six goals since being recalled from the AHL. He’s one of the most creative players in the NHL. And yet he doesn’t have that drive that I like to see in players. He’s habitually out of shape, and he has an attitude that doesn’t do him any favors.

Play him at your own risk. He might be scoring, but he's still in worse shape than your Dad (see above).

Tuomo Ruutu (CAR—LW)

The streaky left winger is hot. Get him now while you still can.

Ruutu burst on to the scene in 2003 and hockey pundits predicted his large frame and light hands would explode on the NHL. And they did. Then he got injured.

Since his injury-plagued rookie campaign he was perennially pegged as a solid sleeper – if only he could stay healthy. This year fans gave up on him. October saw him sidelined with a sore groin. However in November he has six points in four games.

He has the tools to keep up point-per-game production as long as he can stay healthy. And now, he appears to be that way.

Kevin Weekes (NJ—G) and Brian Boucher (SJ—G)

Last week I recommended Joey MacDonald and Fredrik Norrena as Band-Aid goalie solutions. Neither goalie is worthy of keeping on your roster for the full season, but can help temporarily while you search for a more long term solution.

This week I’ll add two more goalies to that list.

Kevin Weekes may be regarded as the better goaltending solution since Martin Brodeur is projected to be out until February. However, I do not think Lou Lamirillo will ride him for that long. Except the Devils to bring in a veteran goaltender, but Weekes can get you some quick wins in the short term.

Evgeni Nabokov, the West Coast version of Martin Brodeur banged his knee in a shoot-out last night and is listed as day-to-day.

Last season Nabokov started all but five games for the San Jose Sharks. This season the Sharks brought in Brian Boucher to help rest their prized goaltender so he’d be rested for the playoffs. So far this year Boucher hasn’t let in a goal by shutting out both the Lightning and the Kings.

Boucher will play all games for the Sharks while Nabokov rehabs his knee. And once Nabokov returns expect Boucher to play more often so another scare like this doesn’t occur.

If you would like to know Josh's opinion on a player he hasn't mentioned, you may ask his fantasy advice here. He will respond to your questions as soon as possible.

NHL Fantasy Files Vol 3: Seen Stamkos?

Josh Kyrzakos — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:05:11 -0400

October has come to a close and some draft day rock stars have emerged.

If you have Shea Weber, Phil Kessel, or Brandon Dubinsky on your team, give yourself a pat on the back. All were drafted well after the 100th pick in most drafts but they combined for 30 points in October.

Franchise players Alexander Ovechkin, Ilya Kovalchuk, and Marian Gaborik, meanwhile, have combined for a lackluster 12 points during the same stretch.

It will be difficult to pinpoint a player who will get 10 points on your free agents list this November, but there are some possibilities out there.

Here is who I would recommend you pick up while you still have a chance:

Joffrey Lupul (PHI—RW)

A slow start to the season led some managers to give up on Joffrey. But a slow start was to be expected after Lupul spent time on the shelf last season with a concussion, an injured spinal cord, and a high ankle sprain.

It’s important to remember that, despite those injuries, Lupul registered 46 points in 56 games.

Lupul began the 2008-09 campaign pointless and minus–3 in his first five games, but bounced back in his next five games with five goals, a plus-5 rating, and an assist.

Is it that the Flyers started winning when Lupul started scoring? Or is it that Lupul started scoring when the Flyers started winning? Either way, as long as he keeps putting points on the board, he should be on your team!

Steven Stamkos (TB—C)

Seen Stamkos? It might be too late now to see him on the free agent list. Although he was drafted in most leagues, his dropped to 35 percent owned in fantasy leagues.

Patient managers were rewarded Thursday night when Stamkos scored his first NHL goal by deflecting a Vinny Lecavalier slap shot past Ryan Miller. Stamkos also scored his second NHL goal and chipped in with an assist on the game-winning goal.

After going pointless in the first seven games of the season, Stamkos now has four points in the last two games. While he won’t get 80 points this season, it appears he’s finally adjusting to the NHL and could get more than 50 points as long as he keeps seeing time on the power play.

Because he only qualifies as a center, I’d avoid him in shallow leagues. But he’s worth a flier in deep leagues, and is a must own in keeper leagues.

Maxim Afinogenov (BUF—RW)

Maxim Afinogenov was one of the biggest busts of last season. Afinogenov played only 56 games in last two seasons. Two years ago he scored 61 points, but last year he only managed 28 points in the same number of games. Critics pointed to the departure of Chris Drury and Scott Gomez and claimed the reason Afinogenov put up such great numbers was because of his teammates.

If that’s the case, Afinogenov is in luck. The Sabres are winning games again and he has contributed seven assists to those wins.

What makes Afinogenov’s seven assists most surprising though is that none of them have led to a goal by NHL goal leader Tomas Vanek. Afinogenov is finding the sticks of grinders like Clarke MacArthur and Adam Mair instead.

If Lindy Ruff bumps the playmaker onto Vanek’s line, watch out! The two should be deadly together.

Alex Auld (OTT—G)

Six Flags is open, and Alex Auld is riding shotgun to Martin Gerber.

Last year Martin Gerber usurped Ray Emery's job as the starter, and before that Emery battled Dominik Hasek for the starting job. Hasek was brought in after the Sens gave up on Patrick Lalime.

The Ottawa Senators have never been confident in their goaltending, but they have also never brought in a goaltender mid-season. Instead, they have always chosen to allow the backup goaltender to steal the spotlight.

Auld appears to be the next goalie to do so. The Senators are Auld’s sixth team in the last three years, including a brief stint in the American Hockey League, but he is finally showing why the Florida Panthers traded Roberto Luongo for him in 2006.

Auld and Gerber have played an equal number of games in October, but Auld’s statistics are far superior. In five starts this year, Auld has a 2.20 goals against average and a .929 save percentage.

Joey MacDonald (NYI—G) and Fredrik Norrena (CLB—G)

Rick DiPietro and Pascal Leclaire are both on the injured reserve list. Neither goalie is one you should rely on, but if you are desperate for saves, Joey MacDonald and Fredrik Norrena are serviceable solutions.

Norrena is the more talented of the two, but Leclaire should only be out for a week or two. Meanwhile, DiPietro’s injury is veiled in a shroud of secrecy, so MacDonald may be the better long-term option.

The Blue Jackets will rely heavily on Norrena as they play eight games in the first half of November. A heavy schedule could tire him out, so expect Dan LaCosta to spell him on nights when they play back-to-back games. Luckily, the heavy schedule should not be too difficult for the Blue Jackets, as they play against some weak teams including the Islanders, Coyotes, and Oilers during that stretch.

DiPietro left last Saturday’s game against the Hurricanes after allowing two goals in the first period. He watched Monday’s game from the press box, and was placed on the injured reserve list on Thursday with an undisclosed lower body injury. With DiPietro’s season up in the air, MacDonald is the next in line to play between the pipes for the Islanders. While MacDonald will not earn a lot of wins, he will stop a lot of pucks for the anemic Islanders.

If you would like to know Josh's opinion on a player he hasn't mentioned, he will respond to comments below within 24 hours.

NHL Fantasy Files Vol 2: Don't Call It A Comeback

Josh Kyrzakos — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 04:45:31 -0400

Hello Hockey Heads!

What a wild ride this season has been so far! Keith Tkachuk is already almost halfway to his 15th NHL season with at least twenty goals, and the talent-laden Philadelphia Flyers are the only team yet to win a game.

Things certainly seem strange on the ice right now, but there are some things you can count on. Evgeni Malkin leads the NHL in points, and Marty Brodeur recorded his 98th career shutout. He'll own almost every major goaltending record by the time he retires.

But Tkachuk, Malkin, and Brodeur are all taken in your league. Who are the players you can get for free that will help you now?

Brian Rolston (NJ—LW)

After coming back to New Jersey after stops in Colorado and Minnesota, Rolston is off to a slow start with only two points.

Last week he injured his foot crashing into the boards, but no serious damage was done to his foot. There is no timetable set for his return yet, but I cannot imagine he will be out for very long.

The former first-round pick has shifted back to center and was brought into New Jersey to jump start the offence. He gathered 59 points on the defencive-minded Minnesota Wild last year, and you can expect him to build on that with Brent Sutter’s Devils. If you want him, get him now while his stock is still low.

Loui Eriksson (DAL—LW)

After a rough week of being beaten by the Blues, the Avalanche, and the Devils, Dallas coach Dave Tippett decided to juggle the lines. He bumped star rookie Fabian Brunnstrom from the top line and replaced him with Eriksson. The results were glowing. Eriksson, Ribeiro, and Morrow combined for 10 points in Dallas’s 5-3 win over the New York Islanders.

Look for Tippett to keep this unit intact as long as Dallas keeps winning.

Eriksson is only owned in two percent of fantasy leagues right now, so if you’re in a deep league he’s worth a gamble.

Mike Van Ryn (TOR—D)

I struggle with recommending Mike Van Ryn because I’m a Leaf fan and I do not want to be a homer. For a team projected to be in the bottom of the league, the Leafs are surprisingly deep at defence, which makes it even harder for me to recommend Van Ryn. But let me explain.

The top powerplay unit in Toronto consists of Tomas Kaberle and Pavel Kubina. However, that unit is simply not working. Both players have just a goal and an assist despite ample opportunity. Van Ryn has as many points as the two players combined.

But aside from looking at the statistics, watch Van Ryn play. After an injury-plagued season last year and a lackluster showing the year before, Van Ryn has returned to the level he played at between 2003 and 2005. He’s playing sound defensive hockey and his shot rivals that of his predecessor, Bryan McCabe.

Van Ryn is only owned in two percent of leagues as well, but if he stays on pace for a 50-point season, don’t expect him to be available for long.

Nikolai Khabibulin (CHI—G)

If I told you there was a starting goalie available in your league that is among the top five goalies in save percentage would you believe me?

The Bulin Wall has recorded a .931 save percentage during his four starts this year and he's only 30 percent owned. Teammate Cristobal Huet is looking rather average right now with his paltry .907.

Despite Khabibulin’s great stats, it’s not a question of if he will get traded; it’s a question of when. He is the fourth-highest paid goaltender in the league and Chicago needs the cap space to bring in a No. 2 centerman.

Chicago has openly been shopping him since training camp. Teams know that if they want him, they will have to make the first offer, because the Blackhawks will take anything they can get. Chicago has two NHL-capable goaltenders in Rockford. They’ll move Khabibulin to a team that will play him in a starting role at the first opportunity they can.

Patrice Bergeron (BOS—C)

I look at fantasy leagues and sometimes I shake my head. Phil Kessel is owned in 76 percent of leagues, but Patrice Bergeron is owned in less than half of leagues.

Kessel has six goals and one assist, while Bergeron has one goal and five assists. Who do you think is feeding Kessel the puck?

Bergeron was on his way to becoming an elite NHL player when his season was ended early by a concussion. He’s back on track now and should post another 70-point season. Try to find another 23-year-old player who already has two 70-point seasons under his belt on the free agent list. I bet you can’t.

If you would like to know Josh's opinion on a player he hasn't mentioned, he will respond to comments below within 24 hours.

NHL Fantasy Files: Season Two, Volume 1

Josh Kyrzakos — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 04:29:56 -0400

Welcome back to another year of The Fantasy Files.

The season is well underway and some sleepers are starting to step up, and some veterans are starting to show their age.

You’ve built your fantasy team, and you’re making room on your trophy shelf, but before you’re ready to claim your spot among the pool leaders there are still a few holes you’d like to fill on your roster.

Who are the players you should target now?

Sam Gagner (EDM—C)

Sam Gagner is among the top ten players in the league for shots on net. He's tied with Marian Hossa and Vinny Lecavalier with 4.5 shots per game, however Gagner has yet to pot the puck.

He’s probably owned by another manager in your league, but they are likely frustrated with his slow start. Get him now for cheap while you still can!

As an added bonus, he’s playing on Andrew Cogliano’s wing. Sammy G should soon pick up the coveted RW status. Right wing appears to be the shallowest position this season; his eventual multi-position qualification could come in very handy.

Ales Kotalik (BUF—RW)

After back-to-back 40-point seasons Ales Kotalik appears to have found the touch that netted him 62 points in the 2005-06 season. He’s off to a quick start with three points in three games and is currently only owned in 20 percent of Yahoo! leagues.

Buffalo is playing a defensive brand of hockey this year and it’s proven to work, getting them off to an enviable 3-0-0 start.

Michael Nylander (WAS—C)

Like Rodney Dangerfield, Michael Nylander gets no respect. He’s one of the most underrated fantasy players in hockey right now.

He is only owned in 23 percent of leagues, but since the lockout Nylander has gathered 205 points in 204 games. Just call him Mr. Consistency.

Despite his outstanding numbers, he doesn’t even get the respect he deserves on the Washington Capitals, with Nicklas Backstrom and Sergei Fedorov claiming the No. 1 and No. 2 pivot spots. But all that is going to change. Viktor Kozlov left the last game with an “undisclosed knee injury” and will be out a couple of weeks. Expect the Caps the lean on Nylander and for him to pick up the slack.

David Booth (FLA—LW)

I recommended Booth last year, and I'm going to do it again because he's still only owned in less than a quarter of leagues despite his blazing speed.

Sometimes it can be a good thing not to be on a team’s top line. The Florida Panthers have stacked their top line with Cory Stillman, Stephen Weiss, and Nathan Horton. This has led opposing teams to focus their best defensive players on that combination. Meanwhile, Booth has been able to capitalize on the open ice left for his shifts.

So far this season he’s registered three goals in three games. Pick him up now while you can and ride the hot streak until other teams become wise. It won’t last forever, but it sure will be nice while it does.

Sergei Kostitsyn (MON—LW)

No, I didn’t say Andrei.

Last year I recommended brother Andrei as the safer fantasy choice, and he delivered with a 53-point campaign. Younger brother Sergei chipped in with 27 points of his own.

But this year, it's Sergei’s year to shine. He’s already off to a solid start with four points in four games. While he won’t finish the year with 82 points, I don’t expect his production to drop dramatically. A season similar to Andrei’s mark last year is within reach.

I’d also like to give a shout out to reader Francois who writes in “Sergei Kostitsyn is way more talented than his brother. I have seen him play since being called up and there is always something happening when he has the puck in the offensive zone.”

NHL Fantasy Files: Week 23

Josh Kyrzakos — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 00:57:28 -0500

This week marks the last week of the Fantasy Hockey regular season, and thus this will be the last week of the NHL Fantasy Files for 2008.

Looking back on the year it’s been an eventful season. I made some strong predictions and I hope my advice was able to help your team along the way.

My predictions for Peter Mueller, Jonathan Cheechoo, Nicklas Backstrom, Dan Carcillo, Robert Nilsson, Mike Knuble, Radim Vrbata, Mark Recchi, and Sergei Samsonov all paid dividends.

Some of my predictions were not as favorable. I was scorned hard by Jan Hlavac, Slava Kozlov, Sandis Ozolinsh, Joakim Lindstrom, Bobby Ryan, and Karri Ramo. But that’s how fantasy hockey goes. You win some, and you lose some.

I would like to thank The Bleacher Report for giving me the opportunity to publish my fantasy advice each and every week, and going forward should you need any help you can always reach me via my writer profile here.

Going into the final week of the Fantasy Hockey regular season I recommend:

Steve Bernier (BUF – RW)

Give Darcy Regehr credit, he’s learned from his past mistakes. When it became clear that Brian Campbell was not going to resign with the Buffalo Sabres Regehr had no choice but to trade the defender. And he was able to get value for the rearguard. In return from San Jose he not only received a first round draft choice, but winger Steve Bernier.

Bernier comes with pedigree. His resume boats a 101-point season with the Moncton Wildcats of the QJMHL and he’s not afraid to throw his weight around.

The combination of points and penalty minutes makes him a valuable fantasy player. In his two games with the Buffalo Sabres he’s already scored two goals and chipped in with an assist. Pick him up before it’s too late.

Jere Lehtinen (DAL – RW)

After missing the months of December and January with hernia surgery he’s picked up right where he left off.

Lehtinen posted 12 points in February to follow-up in 10 points in November and has 31 points in 36 games this season. He’s likely available in your league because of his low point totals, but he’s almost at a point-per-game pace so he shouldn’t be available.

He’s playing on Dallas’ top line with Mike Ribiero and Brendan Morrow. While second liners Niklas Hagman and Antti Miettinen are already taken in most leagues Jere Lehtinen remains unclaimed. Remedy this problem now!

Joe Pavelski (SJ – C)

Yes, that’s Joe Pavelski, not Joe Thornton. The Sharks other Joe who plays center led all forwards with ice time last game and scored a powerplay goal to bring his goal scoring streak to three games.

Though primarily a center he does see time playing on Thornton’s wing for the power play.

During the Sharks' current five-game winning streak, Pavelski has fired 18 shots on net and has five points.

Expect that as long as he keeps putting up solid numbers that the Sharks will keep winning games. And if the Sharks keep winning games, he’ll keep playing 20 or minutes every one of them.

Brian Boucher (SJ – G)

Heading into last night’s game Evgeni Nabokov has played a staggering 62 of 64 games for the San Jose Sharks. It was clear he needed a rest.

His numbers have slowly been declining this season and San Jose Sharks GM sought out relief at the trade deadline b acquiring free agent goaltender Brian Boucher.

Last night Brian Boucher showed the NHL he still has some game left in him by shutting out the St. Louis Blues in his first NHL game since March 30th2007.

He has spent the entire year playing for the Philadelphia Phantoms where he posted a respectable 23-16 record with a 2.47 GAA and a .917 SV%.

He certainly will not supplant Evgeni Nabokov as the starting goaltender, but expect that he will be leaned on to give Nabokov regular rest heading toward the playoffs.

Sami Salo and Alexander Edler (VAN – D)

The two Canuck defenders have both rang up 4 goals in the past month and logged considerable ice-time on the Vancouver blueline.

With Roberto Luongo guarding the pipes behind them they can play with confidence knowing there is another solid line of defense behind them.

If you have a choice of the two, I would recommend Alexander Edler and his booming slapshot first, but if he’s not available the playmaking Sami Salo is no slouch either.

Although their stats so far this season are lean, I expect both players will put up solid numbers on the Canucks powerplay heading into the playoff drive.

NHL Fantasy Files: Trade Deadline Edition

Josh Kyrzakos — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:11:00 -0500

This week I decided to wait until after the trade deadline to make my recommendations.

It’s a good thing I waited. All but two teams (Boston and Edmonton) made some sort of move at the trade deadline. A total of 46 players changed teams, and a slew of draft picks were swapped—including three first round picks. Some teams anted up for the playoffs. And other teams built for the future.

I raise an eyebrow and question the sanity of some general mangers, and I applaud the courage of others. Shipping Cristobal Huet to Washington for a draft pick is a curious trade, and giving up a handful of youth for Marian Hossa is a risky move.

Regardless of what analysts have to say about the 2008 NHL Trade Deadline, two things are certain:

1) Canada should investigate moving its newest statutory holiday “Family Day” so that it falls on the same day as the NHL Trade Deadline

2) The fantasy value for dozens of hockey players fluctuated today. Some for the better (Brian Campbell) and others for the worse (Johan Holmqvist)

Based on today’s moves, here are some players whose stocks are rising that may be available in your pool.

Marcel Hossa (PHX – LW)

This isn’t the Hossa you were expecting me to mention is it? Marian’s younger brother Marcel has been buried on a talented Rangers line-up.

The ‘Yotes must be high on the kid because they sent a lot of talent the Big Apple to pick him up along with goaltender Al Montoya.

I would expect the former first round draft pick to line up alongside Peter Mueller and Shane Doan once he makes his way out to the desert.

Phoenix is a fast young team and while out of the big city spotlight Marcel should be able to mesh well with their new style of game.

Colby Armstrong (ATL – RW) & Erik Christensen (ATL – C)

Now that the Pittsburgh Penguins have picked up Marian Hossa, they are one of the favorites to win the Eastern Conference. But they gave up a lot of young talent to acquire the veteran.

Right wing Colby Armstrong will immediately be plugged into one of the Thrashers top two lines—possibly in the position left vacant by Marian Hossa on the first line, if it’s not given to Mark Recchi.

If Armstrong does not play on the top unit with Ilya Kovalchuk, he will still have a chance to play on the second power-play shift with Slava Kozlov. Either way, he will see more ice-time in Atlanta than he had in Pittsburgh.

Likewise, Erik Christensen will also receive an increase in ice-time now that the centerman is out from behind the shadows of Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Jordan Staal down the Penguins middle lane.

Sergei Fedorov (WSH – C)

Fedorov’s best days are behind him, but Washington is making a huge push to get into the Stanley Cup playoffs this year. The hopes and dreams of hockey fans in the capital rest on the two newest Capitals Sergei Fedorov and Cristobal Huet.

With Fedorov out from under the thumb of Ken Hitchcock in Columbus he will be revitalized by the Russian youth in Washington.

Both Alexander Ovechkin and Alexander Semin hail from his motherland Russia. I expect he will feel quite comfortable in a Caps uniform.

Jan Halak (MON – G)

Cristobal Huet was dealt to the Washington Capitals. What does this mean for fantasy managers?

Cristobal Huet’s value drops. Olaf Kolzig’s value plummets. Carey Price’s value skyrockets. And Jan Halak’s value climbs.

Out of the four goalies I just mentioned he’s likely the only goalie available in your league. And I recommend picking him up, or at least keeping a close eye on him.

Jan Halak is now the back-up to 20-year-old Carey Price. While showing flashes of brilliance, Price has struggled this season—most recently against the New York Rangers when he allowed three goals before the 14-minute mark of the first period.

Jussi Jokinen (TB – LW)

Tampa Bay cleaned house today. Brad Richards, Jan Hlavac, Johan Holmqvist, and Vaclav Prospal have all found new homes this week.

In the trade that sent superstar Brad Richards to the Dallas Stars the Lightning received shootout sniper Jussi Jokinen. With Prospal in Philly there is now an opening on Tampa’s top line.

Don’t be surprised to see Jussi Jokinen play on the left side of Vincent Lecavalier and Martin St. Louis. Jokinen has the speed and creativity to be an assist machine with linemates like this!

NHL Trade Deadline Wish List: Part Two

Josh Kyrzakos — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 05:50:25 -0500

In my last installment of The Trade Deadline Wish List I highlighted ten players that all GMs wish they could add to their roster.

However, the blockbuster trades rarely ever pay off. Last year Ryan Smyth did nothing to further the Islanders chances, neither did Atlanta's acquisition of Keith Tkachuk, nor Peter Forsberg's debut in Nashville. Superstar players do not guaruntee superstar results.

The 2007 Stanley Cup champion Anaheim Ducks only made minor moves at the trade deadline. Brian Burke’s largest trade deadline splash was the acquisition of tough guy Brad May.

So let’s look at ten role players that could be made available who could help put a playoff-bound team over the top.

Dwayne Roloson (Edmonton)

It was only two years ago when Kevin Lowe acquired Dwayne Roloson at the trade deadline for a draft pick. That acquisition, seemingly minor at the time, gave Edmonton the opportunity to make a Cinderella run for the Stanley Cup finals.

Roloson went 12-5 in the playoffs sporting a .927 save percentage. He has fought consistency for his entire career, but has the ability to be outstanding during stretches.

BEST FIT: The San Jose Sharks might want to invest in a strong backup goalie as it appears Evgeni Nabokov is beginning to tire after starting 58 of San Jose’s 59 games this season. Compare his save percentage of .925 in November and December to the .885 save percentage he’s recorded in 2008 and it’s clear he needs a rest.

Darcy Tucker (Toronto)

Someone has lit a fire under the Maple Leafs firecracker. After a horrible start to the season Darcy has raised his game several notches over the past two weeks.

He’s putting on a show for the scouts. Either he really wants to remain in Toronto, or he really wants to be traded.

In the month of February we have seen the Darcy of old. He’s racked up 6 goals and 24 penalty minutes in that stretch. Darcy has the ability to play with the grit, heart, and determination of a Stanley Cup contender.

BEST FIT: Tucker would be a perfect fit for Brian Burke’s rough & tumble Anaheim team. I was surprised when John Ferguson Jr. didn’t trade him to Anaheim last year at the trade deadline. Now Burke has a chance to get him for much cheaper – as long as he can fit Darcy’s $3 million per year contract under his cap.

Martin Havlat (Chicago)

If you look up the term ‘injury prone’ in the dictionary you will find a picture of Martin Havlat—which is probably the reason Chicago is hoping to unload his $6 million dollar salary.

He only has one year left on his contract, so a richer team in the NHL would be able to afford taking a risk on the talented winger.

Havlat has the scoring touch of a Lemieux but the bone structure of a house of cards. If his quick feet and exceptional hands can find a place on a team that plays a fast-paced game, he’ll be too quick to hit.

BEST FIT: With Dan Cleary hurt and Tomas Holmstrom slumping, Havlat would look fantastic alongside Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg in Detroit.

Michael Ryder (Montreal)

The Montreal Canadiens have been dangling the two-time 30-goal scorer to a number of teams hoping to package off the pending unrestricted free agent for a player they can keep.

Ryder is certain to leave the Canadiens at end of the season after playing much of this season on the third and fourth line.

Last night he showed a hint of what he is capable of by potting a hattrick in a miraculous 6-5 comeback victory over the New York Rangers. Scouts took notice of his efforts and I would be shocked not to see Ryder swap jerseys before the deadline. Unless Montreal wants to let him walk at the end of the year, they’d be smart to trade him now while they can still get something for him.

BEST FIT: All season long Vancouver has been struggling to find a winger to play with the Sedin twins. Taylor Pyatt, Mason Raymond and Ryan Shannon have all failed to answer the call. Ryder has the speed and the hands to keep up.

Barret Jackman (St. Louis)

Barret Jackman broke into the league on a whirlwind. In his rookie campaign he earned 19 points from the St. Louis blue line, but also accumulated 190 penalty minutes. His hard-hitting style raised many eyebrows around the league and it also earned him the 2003 Calder Trophy, narrowly beating out Henrik Zetterberg.

Jackman has since learned a more disciplined game. This season he only has 63 penalty minutes through 55 games. However his scoring is way down.

I suspect that his drop in point production is due to the new coaching style implemented by Andy Murray.

BEST FIT: Jackman is a steal at $2 million per season and with his decreased production this year might even be able to be re-signed for less during the off season. The cash strapped Buffalo Sabres would be the perfect fit for Barret Jackman, especially if there were to lose Brian Campbell.

Yanic Perreault (Chicago)

Teams who win face-offs win games. Yanic Perreault wins face-offs. If you look him up on Wikipedia you will see this written about him:

“Yanic is statistically one of the best face-off men in the NHL. He consistently has one of the best face-off win percentages in the NHL. He is regarded as one of the greatest face-off men in NHL history.”

Currently Perreault is wearing a split on his right wrist to protect a fracture, so that may deter teams from trading for him, however he should not be injured for more than a week or two so he could still significantly help a team in the playoffs that has trouble winning draws.

BEST FIT: The Minnesota Wild rank dead last in the NHL for face-off percentage, winning only 46.6% of their draws. The Wild currently sit first in the Northwest Division, but if Vancouver or Calgary were to catch them they could be flirting with playoff elimination. How can they ensure they win more games? Win more face-offs.

Pavel Kubina (Toronto)

Toronto’s new whipping boy is in an enviable position. He currently collects a $5 million dollar paycheck and will do so until 2010.

Cliff Fletcher is desperate to trade the defenseman's contract.

Statistically speaking, Kubina has not been all that bad. He’s earned 26 points in 51 games, placing him fifth on the Leafs in scoring tied with Matt Stajan and Alex Steen. He is also one of the few Maple Leafs not to carry a negative plus/minus.

BEST FIT: It will be a challenge for Cliff Fletcher to find a team willing to take on a contract of his size, but if there’s a team that can afford him it’s the Nashville Predators. The Preds payroll is the lowest in the league, and the new ownership team might want to bring him in at the deadline as a treat for the fans. With 172 goals against, defense hasn’t been their strong suit.

Patrick Marleau (San Jose)

You might be surprised to see the Sharks captain classified as a role player, but Marleau has been just that for the San Jose Sharks this season. In 55 games he has collected 28 points. But what is more alarming is his -21 plus/minus – fourth worst in the league. Statistically he’s on par with Radek Bonk.

The Sharks have recently place Marleau on the injured reserve list with a groin injury but has been practicing with the team and should suit up shortly.

BEST FIT: His $6.3 million contract extension will deter some of the higher spending teams from investing in him. He would look great on Ottawa’s second line with Cory Stillman, but they would have a tough time justifying his salary with Spezza, Heatley & Alfredsson already on the books. Calgary is shopping Tanguay, and swapping Marleau for Tanguay makes sense for both teams.

Sergei Fedorov (Columbus)

Fedorov is a shadow of his former self. Since leaving Detroit in 2003 his production has been slowly declining.

Columbus’s playoff hopes are slowly fading and they would be wise to ship out Fedorov before the trade deadline. Fedorov is an unrestricted free agent at the end of the year and it’s unlikely that he will resign in Columbus. There is a plethora of young talent at center that is itching for icetime—namely Gilbert Brule and Joakim Lindstrom.

BEST FIT: The obvious choice is Detroit. Perhaps Fedorov can rekindle some of the old glory he had with the team back in the nineties. If not, at least he’ll get to retire a Red Wing.

Marek Malik (New York Rangers)

Malik finished the 2005-2005 season with a +28. Last year he finished the season with a +32. However this season he is only a +3 and has fallen out of grace with the coaching staff in New York.

He stands at 6’6” and weighs in at 240 pounds, but is criticized for a lack of physical game. Several times this season he has watched the game from the pressbox as a healthy scratch.

He has the ability to be an effective scoring defenseman (remember that shootout goal against Olaf Kolzig?) but prefers to be a strong stay-at-home pointguard.

BEST FIT: He would do well on a team that requires a strong man to guard the net. Marc-Andre Fleury is no sure thing in the Pittsburgh net and Malik is the type of player who can keep opponents from entering the defensive zone. With Sergei Gonchar on the point Pittsburgh lacks a strong defensive defenseman. Malik could be the answer they are looking for.

NHL Fantasy Files: Week 20

Josh Kyrzakos — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 06:20:20 -0500

This week’s column is a little delayed because I spent the weekend in Charlotte, North Carolina to watch some East Coast Hockey League games.

Let me tell you, as a Torontonian, being able to see hockey in a 20,000 seat arena for a fraction of the Leafs' price was quite a treat.

Those guys in the ECHL know how to treat a fan.

But you didn’t come here to read about my adventures—you want the fantasy goods, and I got ’em for you.

Both Ryan Malone and Jonathan Cheechoo have been lighting up the nets like I predicted they would. I hope you were able to pick them up while you still could. They’re long gone in your league by now.

We are at a very exciting point of the season for fantasy players now. With one major trade already in the books the rest of the NHL is sure to follow suit.

Who will the trade deadline help out this season?

Andrew Ladd (CAR – LW)

Andrew Ladd was drafted fourth overall by the Carolina Hurricanes. They have been waiting patiently for three years for the winger to blossom.

Health issues have plagued his short career, and he’s been buried behind a deep roster. But shipping Cory Stillman to Ottawa has opened up a spot on the top line for Ladd.

Last night he lined up with veterans Rod Brind’Amour and Sergei Samsonov. He responded by pumping two pucks past Boston netminder Alexander Auld.

If Ladd can find a home on the top line, and I think he will, he’s a solid pick for the remainder of the season, and an immediate pick-up in any keeper league.

Michael Ryder (MON – RW)

Ryder has been a healthy scratch for half of the Canadiens' six games this February. He has only scored eight goals so far this season, and when he is in the line-up he’s playing a checking role. It seems to be a certainty that Ryder will be traded within the next two weeks.

Regardless of where Ryder ends up, he will be in a better situation than he is in playing for Montreal. He will be on a team that wants him, rather than the white-hot Montreal Canadiens who are content to let him sit on the bench.

It is only a matter of time before another team decides to take a gamble on the speedy winger, and when they do, jump on him. Michael will prove that his back-to-back 30 goal seasons were no fluke.

Nik Antropov (TOR – C)

The rumour mill says that Maple Leafs’ centre Mats Sundin has agreed to consider waiving his no trade clause. Once the negotiations are done and the dust has settled, Mats will have picked his destination and be on a playoff-bound team.

If Cliff Fletcher does his job, that means rookies, prospects and picks will be coming back to the Toronto Maple Leafs.

So who will be the Leafs new number-one centre in the interim? For the balance of the year at least it should be Nik Antropov.

Nik started out the season strongly, but has since cooled off. He is probably owned in your league, but by a manager who is frustrated with his lack of production in 2008. In the month of December he had 12 points, but in January that total dropped off to a mere six.

Wrangle him out of the hands of his current owner and wait for Sundin to get traded. If Antropov remains on the Leafs, he will be the new pivot on their top power-play unit. Of course, if Antropov himself gets traded his value will plummet, as he’ll likely end up on the third line of any other team.

Jack Johnson (LA – D) and Matt Moulson (LA – LW)

Los Angeles is set to have another fire sale. The exodus should begin this week. Los Angeles has a lot of veteran players to offer: Rob Blake, Ladislav Nagy, Brian Willsie, Tom Preissing, Brad Stuart, Scott Thornton, and Jaroslav Modry are all said to be on the shipping block.

Defenceman Jack Johnson was selected third overall by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2005. While still in the NCAA, his rights were a key piece in the deal that sent Tim Gleason and Eric Belanger to the Carolina Hurricanes.

So far, he only has nine points in 59 games this season. But with Stuart, Preissing, Blake, and Modry out of the way, he should get ample power-play opportunity to show the Kings they did not make a mistake when they acquired him.

Another graduate of the NCAA system will benefit greatly from increased ice time. Already starting to pile up points, Matt Moulson is set to be a prominent piece in the Kings future.

Since being recalled at the end of January, Moulson has five points in 10 games. He is already seeing icetime with the likes of Anze Kopitar and Dustin Brown, but if the Kings ship out some veteran players, it will only solidify his place on the roster.

Sean Bergenheim (NYI – RW)

Last year, Garth Snow made a splash at the deadline when he acquired winger Ryan Smyth. Although the team made the playoffs, the results were not what he expected. The Sabres ousted the Islanders in five games, and Ryan Smyth left for Colorado.

This year I expect Garth Snow to be a seller rather than a buyer. Mike Comrie, Trent Hunter, Miroslav Satan, and Ruslan Fedotenko could all have new jerseys by the end of the month.

If this is the case, then coach Ted Nolan will look toward Sean Bergenheim to step up his game and earn his increased icetime.

Bergenheim had 33 points in 36 games last year in the Swedish Elite League, and 47 points in 55 games the year before for the AHL Bridgeport Sound Tigers. He can perform in either a North American or European setting—which shows that his game is well-rounded and that he’s ready for the NHL.

If he falters, Nolan may look toward Blake Comeau, but I suspect Bergenheim will rise to the challenge.

NHL Trade Deadline Wish List: Part One

Josh Kyrzakos — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 05:05:11 -0500

There are only three weeks until the February 26th NHL trade deadline.

Curtis Joseph and Teemu Selanne have both signed new contracts, and Peter Forsberg does not appear to be far behind.

Once Forsberg puts ink to paper a domino effect will occur as the other playoff bound teams will be forced to match the signing.

Over the next three weeks I will write a series of articles focusing on the players that could be moved before the trade deadline, who is looking, and what those players could fetch in return.

If there’s a player you would like me to specifically address, please make the request in the comment section below.

Below are the top ten players teams would like to acquire at the trade deadline. I do not think all ten will move, but I suspect as many as half of them will change jerseys before February 26th.

Rob Blake (LA)

Just ask the Colorado Avalanche or the Anaheim Ducks—picking up a veteran defencemen at the trade deadline greatly improves a team’s chance of winning a Stanley Cup.

It is not in spite of, but because of Blake’s age that there are several teams interested in his services. Possible destinations include Detroit, New York, Colorado, and San Jose. In return LA would most like to receive a goaltender to fend off the pucks until Bernier is ready to step in, which gives the edge to Detroit.

Dan Boyle (TB)

Tampa’s salary cap is strained under the weight of their top three forwards, but GM Jay Feaster is intent on keeping the rearguard.

I suspect that the Lightning will find a way to retain his services but that will not stop the rumours from flying. The teams that do not sign Blake will use Boyle as their fall-back plan.

Brian Campbell (CAR)

Brian Campbell is a free agent at the end of the year and is demanding big dollars. Darcy Regehr is already shelling out over $7 million per season toward Thomas Vanek, and has lost a number of players to unrestricted free agency.

Giving Brian Campbell a few million dollar raise might be a tough pill to swallow, but it might be something he has to do. If Buffalo does move him, expect them to move him out of the Eastern Conference.

Johan Holmqvist (TB)

It seems silly that a team in such desperate need of goaltending would give up Holmqvist, but Tampa has pegged Ramo as the goalie of the future and needs to sign a veteran goalie in the offseason to guide the rookie.

Holmqvist does not fit that bill; he has proven this season that he is not a legitimate number one starter. Either the Rangers or Sharks could pluck him out of Tampa for cheap to play a back-up role.

Marian Hossa (ATL)

Hossa will not come cheap, and the Thrashers are still in the playoff hunt, but several teams are interested in the pending free agent’s services. The two front-runners appear to be his former Ottawa Senators and the league-leading Detroit Red Wings but several teams have made inquiries.

I suspect both Sens and the Wings to make a big splash at the deadline, and if one team is to pickup either Forsberg or Sundin, expect the other to respond by coaxing Hossa’s out of Atlanta’s grasp at a hefty price.

Olli Jokinen (FLA)

Every season, around this time, the Jokinen rumours start; the Panthers fall out of the playoff race and other GMs come sniffing over the carcass to pick at the remains.Jokinen would like to play for a contender, but the Panthers do not appear to be headed in that direction. However, he is still their leading scorer and best asset.

Calgary is rumoured to be making a strong pitch, but I would be surprised to see the Panthers let him go with two years left on his contract.

Ladislav Nagy (LA)

The Kings had high hopes for 2008" Two promising young goalies were manning the nets. Highly touted prospects were expected to make significant contributions, and veteran defensemen were brought in to anchor the team. And yet, The Kings still failed to make an impact.

Nagy is a free agent at the end of the year and is likely not in the future plans for the Kings. He is almost certain to be shipped out of town. Ottawa, Pittsburgh, Colorado and even Nashville could all come knocking on LA’s door for the winger’s services.

Vaclav Prospal (TB)

While the Lightning scramble to try and find room in the cap to resign Boyle, and search for a goalie, Vaclav Prospal appears to be the odd man out. He is almost certain to move, and either Dallas or Ottawa may try to put together a package that would send a goalie to Tampa and bring Prospal their way.

Mark Recchi (ATL)

Two months ago Recchi had been written off by the Pittsburgh Penguins. Atlanta has breathed new life in to the forward and he’s scoring again. With Pittsburgh covering half his salary he comes with a miniscule cap hit, and he’s won a Stanley Cup, making him very desirable to potential suitors.

Recchi has made it clear he’d like to remain in Atlanta, but the Thrashers are unlikely to resign him next season, making him perfect trade bait. If Atlanta moves Hossa Recchi will not be far behind. Dallas, Anaheim, Calgary, Philly, and Montreal could all make a pitch for the speedy winger.

Mats Sundin (TOR)

Last season Peter Forsberg was traded for Scottie Upshall, defenseman Ryan Parent, a first round pick and a third round pick. Forsberg and his bum ankle were publicly considering retirement at the end of the season and thus Sundin should hold greater value than Forsberg.

Cliff Fletcher has been brought in to clean house and the fans of the Leafs would be shocked if “Trader Cliff” doesn’t pull off another deal like he got when he acquired Doug Gilmour in 1992, and subsequently traded Gilmour 1997.

Several teams have inquired about Mats but the most likely destinations for the Swede include Vancouver, Calgary, New York, Anaheim, and Pittsburgh.

NHL Fantasy Files: Week 19

Josh Kyrzakos — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 15:17:42 -0500

Last week I recommended rookie Milan Lucic.

Did you listen?

Lucic picked up five points on the week. He didn’t collect the PIMs that I promised would come along with his points, but when a player is scoring like that, who cares?

Two of my other picks, Jordan Staal and David Clarkson, each picked up a goal and an assist last week. I suspect these young guns will continue to produce for the balance of the season as the playoff race tightens.

This week I recommend some streaky players including a Young Gun I purposely left out of last week’s column because I didn’t trust his hot streak.

Who did I neglect?

Read on...

Brandon Dubinsky (NYR – C)

Brandon Dubinsky could’ve been included in last week’s Fantasy Files. He did play in the Young Guns game this year, but I was hesitant to include him for one reason—the depth that the Rangers have at center.

Dubinsky battles for ice-time down the middle with Scott Gomez and Chris Drury who were each paid big dollars to come in and play 20-plus minutes per game for the Rangers.

He might not be playing on a scoring line, but that’s not stopping him from finding the score sheet. Dubinsky has been earning every minute he’s been given. Including today’s goal against the Canadiens, the Alaskan centerman now has nine points in past 11 games.

With only 43 points in 71 games for the AHL Hartford Wolfpack last year, don’t expect his hot streak to last long, but ride it while you can.

Jamie Langenbrunner (NJ - RW)

Jamie Langenbrunner missed the beginning of the season after undergoing hernia surgery, but returned in November on a hot streak.

He then disappeared from the score sheet for the month of December and early January, but has since found his scoring ways again.

Langenbrunner is currently riding a six-game point streak. He loves to pass the puck and will continue to pick up assists for Brent Sutter’s Devils.

With only 28 points on the season the captain of the New Jersey Devils is likely available in your league. Pick him up while you still can.

Doug Weight (ANA – C)

The minute Teemu Selanne announced his return to the Anaheim Ducks the right-winger was picked up in every fantasy league around the country.

Who stands to benefit the most from the return of the Finnish Flash? The answer you’re looking for is Doug Weight.

Weight has been held scoreless for nine games, so the veteran centerman cannot wait (pun intended) for Teemu’s eventual return to the ice.

If Doug lines up alongside Teemu for faceoffs, he can simply park himself in front of the net to bang home the rebounds for the talented playmaker.

Ryan Malone (PIT – RW)

Only two forwards played more than 20 minutes in Pittsburgh’s victory over the Carolina Hurricanes—Evgeni Malkin and Ryan Malone. And both players found the back of the net.

In fact, Ryan scored three goals last week, and at the most opportune times—two of them were game winners.

With Crosby on the shelf for at least another month, Ryan Malone has stepped up hugely.

Typically, Malone is only good for a point every other game, but since Crosby’s injury on January 18th, Ryan Malone has responded well with seven points in six games.

Now is his time to shine.

Jonathan Cheechoo (SJ – RW)

On December 24th, I recommended picking up Jonathan Cheechoo citing his production jumps half a point per game after the calendar flips pages. He is the prototypical second-half player.

Like clockwork, the Cheechoo Train has started rolling again.

In 2007, he was held to only ten points, but so far in 2008 he’s almost doubled his season point total.

On February 2nd, he demonstrated his rediscovered confidence by firing seven shots at Nikolai Khabibulin; one of them got past the Stanley Cup winning goaltender.

Cheechoo will continue to shoot and continue to score, and he is still available in most leagues.

NHL Fantasy Files: The All-Star Edition

Josh Kyrzakos — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 03:54:50 -0500

Welcome to the NHL Fantasy Files All-Star Edition.

The All-Stars were all snapped up in the first five rounds of your league’s draft. And if they were not, can I join your league and can we play for cash?

There is a way, however, that you can still capitalize on the All-Star action without giving up the farm to trade for Alexander Ovechkin.

In previous weeks I recommended picking up Nicklas Backstrom, Tobias Enstrom, and Peter Mueller—all who went absolutely gangbusters since my recommendations.

This week I will recommend some more players who played in this year’s Young Guns game, as well as a few who appeared in last year’s game...

Jordan Staal (PIT – C)

Jordan Staal entered the season with the highest of expectations. Last season he came out of the gates strong with 29 goals as a rookie, but this year he’s far behind that pace. The sophomore slump has bitten Staal hard as he’s only scored five times this season.

With Pittsburgh under pressure to resign Evgeni Malkin, Colby Armstrong, and Ryan Malone in the comings seasons, Staal may be a player they’ll look to shop in order to help acquire a top-six forward while Sidney Crosby is on the shelf.

With a change of scenery and emergence from the shadows of Crosby and Malkin, Staal may be able to reclaim the game his displayed last season.

Cliff Fletcher, are you listening?

Shea Weber (NSH - D)

Shea Weber is one of the best defensive players in the game. Many pundits rank him up with Dion Phaneuf’s abilities. However, like Phaneuf he can also put the puck in the net.

In his first full season in the NHL last year he collected 40 points despite playing on a crowded Nashville blueline.

An injury held Weber out through much of the early season. Since his return he has not lit up the scoreboard, so the bluechip prospect is still available in many leagues.

The All-Star break may be just what the doctor ordered to rejuvenate the talented rearguard.

Take a chance on him in a single season league, and pick him up immediately in keeper leagues.

Matt Niskanen (DAL – D)

A name not familiar to most of you, Matt Niskanen has quietly been stringing together a solid season down in the heart of Texas.

The 21-year-old first round draft pick has played every game for the new-look Dallas Stars this season and logs more than 20 minutes of ice time per game playing against opposing team’s top lines.

Not only is he gifted offensively, but he also has one of the best plus/minus records on the team proving that he is defensively responsible as well.

Niskanen will eventually replace Sergei Zubov as the Stars power-play quarterback once Zubov retires.

David Clarkson (NJ – RW)

David Clarkson was named to the Young Stars game to replace injured forward Tyler Kennedy.

Clarkson has 13 points so far this season, but has shown flashes of promise on the ice, in fact, he netted the first goal in the Young Guns game!

Most of Clarkson’s value comes in the penalty box—Clarkson is currently ranked sixth in the NHL with 114 penalty minutes.

In 2005-2006 Clarkson amassed a whopping 233 penalty minutes for the Albany River Rats of the AHL while collecting 34 points in 56 games.

Pick him up if your league rewards PIMs.

Milan Lucic (BOS – LW)

The bruising rookie has been a surprise addition to the Boston roster this season. The 19-year-old second round draft pick has become a fan favorite in Beantown.

With only nine points on the season thus far he is not likely active in most leagues, but is a decent acquisition if you are in a keeper league.

His value comes from playing at a scarce position, and that in addition to having the scoring touch, he also can rack up the penalty minutes.

Last season with the Vancouver Giants of the WHL, despite sitting in the penalty box for 147 minutes, Lucic still managed to get 68 points in 70 games.

NHL Fantasy Files: Week 17

Josh Kyrzakos — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 05:31:00 -0500

It is now All-Star week and there will be lots of talk about the Ovechkins and the Iginlas of the world. But chances are the All-Stars in your fantasy league have already been picked up. Who can help your fantasy squad this week?

Last week I recommended five non-All-Stars to round out your roster. And how did they perform?

I recommended Philly as a team on the rise. Scott Hartnell lit up the net with 5 goals, and superpest Steve Downie chipped in with 3 points. Almost any Flyer is a decent play right now. The team is superhot, having won 7 of 9 games this month.

Sophomore Joel Perrault had a goal and an assist, lifting his season total to 9 points.

Robert Lang was my least productive pick of the week with only 1 assist, but I have faith that he will still be an asset.

Dan Boyle remains injured, but could come back this week and will be a big contributor to any team that acquires him.

Like always, if you have questions about a player I did not mention, that's what the comments section is for. And without further adieu, this week I recommend...

Antero Niittymaki (PHI – G)

It was the 1990s when the Flyers last had a regular starting goaltender. Since Jon Vanbiesbrouck left the net for the Flyers they have gone through a turnstile of back-stoppers including Boucher, Cechmanek, Burke, Esche, and Niittymaki.

So when Martin Biron was signed to be the primary goalie in Philly I was skeptical. Rarely does a Philly goalie start more than 60 games this season.

The 07-08 season began and it appeared that Biron might do it. But then out of nowhere Antero Niitymaki emerged. Having been written off by both critics and fans, Nittymaki fought back.

Since Christmas he has been unbeatable, posting a record of 6-0-1 and sparking the goaltender duel that Philly is famous for. Most recently he held the mighty Senators to a single tally. Look to him to continue getting starts for the red hot Flyers squad.

Todd Bertuzzi (ANA - RW)

It was November 27^th when I last recommended picking up this veteran winger. In November he had 4 points, in December 8 points, and so far in January he’s tallied 13 points in 10 games.

The power forward approached coach Randy Carlyle to request switching from the right wing to the left side. Since the switch he’s been on a point-per-game tear, playing alongside Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf.

Once he qualifies at both LW and RW his value will skyrocket. Go ahead and claim Bertuzzi if he is still available in your league.

Jason Blake (TOR – LW)

With the fans in Toronto calling for change, the move of captain Mats Sundin seems almost inevitable.

When and if Mats is traded, much of the offensive load will fall on the shoulders of the newly acquired Jason Blake.

But Blake has not lived up to expectations in Hogtown. After netting 40 goals last season and only notching 9 so far this year, he should be available for a bargain from a frustrated manager in your league. Point to the fact that the Leafs are rebuilding and that he won’t have any teammates to support him. But the fact is, he hasn’t all season.

Pick him up now, because when Sundin is gone, someone is going to have to score for the blue shirts, and it will probably be Jason Blake.

Sergei Samsonov (CAR – RW)

Sergei Samsonov was written off by the Montreal Canadiens, and then again by the Chicago Blackhawks.

He has played for 5 teams in the past 3 years, but you cannot blame the Blackhawks for waiving the diminutive Russian. He had only chipped in with 4 points in 23 games. However he has been rejuvenated in the South. In only 6 games with the Hurricanes he has already doubled his season total and now has 10 points this year.

Samsonov clicked immediately with NHL iron man Rod Brind’Amour and the speedy Erik Cole, and thus has seen his icetime jump to 18 minutes per game (as opposed to the five minutes per game he was getting in Chicago).

As long as he keeps up his point-per-game average with the Hurricanes, he should be on your fantasy roster.

Cory Murphy (FLA – D)

If you missed out on Dan Boyle, there’s another stud defenseman coming off the long-term injury reserve. Cory Murphy has been on the shelf since November with a bruised shoulder.

Murphy is the Panther’s powerplay quarterback and the team in anxious to get him back. Before he was injured he had 9 points in 12 October games.

Because Murphy’s injury was to his shoulder he should be able to return to the ice problem free and not miss a beat.

He had 50 points in 45 games playing in Finland last year and was a sleeper coming into the season. Now that two months have passed he qualifies again at sleeper status.

Maple Leafs Woes: Don't Blame John Ferguson Jr.

Josh Kyrzakos — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 08:03:56 -0500

John Ferguson Jr. was hired by the Toronto Maple Leafs on August 29th, 2003.

It’s been four long seasons since he took over the reigns of the fabled franchise. In that time, the team has changed significantly.

Before we make Ferguson the latest Leaf scapegoat, let’s look at some of the adjustments he has made to the team.

When Ferguson took over, the Leafs lineup looked something like this:

Roberts – Sundin – Mogilny
Nolan – Antropov – Ponikarovsky
Tucker – Renberg – Reichel
Domi – Green – Corson

Kaberle – McCabe
Svehla – Berg
Belak – Marchment

Belfour – Kidd

Thirteen of those players are still on the squad, and it’s safe to say that Ferguson kept the best of what he had to work with:

Mats Sundin, Darcy Tucker, Nik Antropov, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Alex Steen, Matt Stajan, Kyle Wellwood, Wade Belak, Bryan McCabe, Tomas Kaberle, Ian White, Carlo Colaiacovo, and Nicklas Kronwall.

Critics will claim that Ferguson hasn't taken advantage of opportunities, and that he's hesitant to make changes. However, the team has changed significantly over the past four years. To say he hasn’t tried to improve the lineup would be false.

Many players have come and gone during Ferguson’s tenure:

Joe Nieuwendyk, Ken Klee, Petr Tenkrat, Clarke Wilm, Craig Johnson, Drake Berehowsky, Brian Leetch, Ron Francis, Calle Johansson, Jeff O'Neill, Jason Allison, Alexander Khavanov, Eric Lindros, Jean-Sebastien Aubin, Mariusz Czerkawski, Brad Brown, Luke Richardson, Aleksander Suglobov, Mike Peca, Erik Westrum, Travis Green, Yanic Perreault, and most recently Simon Gamache.

Granted, most of Ferguson’s experiments have been failures, but not everyone brought in by the rookie GM has flopped. Some of his acquisitions are still on the current roster:

Chad Kilger – claimed off waivers, March 2004
Andy Wozniewski – signed May 2004
John Pohl – acquired from St. Louis Aug 2005
Andrew Raycroft – acquired from Boston June 2006 for Tuukka Rask
Pavel Kubina – signed July 2006
Hal Gill – signed July 2006
Bates Battaglia – signed July 2006
Boyd Devereaux – signed Oct 2006
Vesa Toskala and Mark Bell – acquired from San Jose June 2007 for first-round pick in 2007, second-round pick in 2007, fourth-round pick in 2007
Jason Blake – signed July 2007
Dominic Moore – claimed off waivers, January 2008

Ferguson is also responsible for the drafting of some blue-chip prospects, Justin Pogge, Jiri Tlusty, Robbie Earl, and Anton Stralman to name a few. What is most alarming, on the other hand, is that Ferguson was brought in to change the Maple Leaf method of trading youth for aging veterans. While today’s roster is certainly MUCH younger than the roster Ferguson inherited, he gave away a plethora of draft picks to make it happen:

2004: 1st
2005: 1st (Rask), 2nd, 4th
2006: 5th
2007: 1st, 2nd
2008: 2nd (added extra 5th)
2009: 4th

All that said, Ferguson's time is up in Toronto. It might not be his fault, but he will be made the scapegoat.

The Maple Leafs franchise is in trouble because of its ownership structure. The Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan holds a 58 percent share in the ownership. No matter who's sitting in the General Manager’s seat, things won't change in Toronto unless the Board of Directors loosens the reigns and allows the next GM to have ultimate control over the team—as has been granted to Raptors GM Bryan Colangelo.

The next Leafs GM will only be as successful as the Board allows him to be. Scotty Bowman recognized the flaw in the organization and said he would only accept the position of General Manager if he were granted the same respect as Colangelo. He was denied that respect.

Any other "hockey guy" worth his salt will pass on the patsy position.

So go ahead, fire Paul Maurice, fire John Ferguson, fire Richard Peddie. But it’s the Ontario Teacher's Pension Plan Board members (Robert Bertram, James Leech, and Dean Metcalf) who have to go if the Leafs are to have any chance of being competitive again.

The Solution in Toronto: Trade Mats Sundin

Josh Kyrzakos — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 08:26:13 -0500

I was asked to write a midseason report card for the Toronto Maple Leafs, but in my opinion only three players have earned passing grades.

My harsh criticism of the team has left plenty of extra space, in which I will outline the only way the Maple Leafs can right their sinking ship.

My solution might not be a popular one, but it's the only fix.

The Toronto Maple Leafs: At The Halfway Point

(A+) Mats Sundin

Captain Mats has been a one-man wrecking crew. The majority of the Leafs' 16 wins can be credited to him.

He sits 12th in NHL scoring despite having little to no help from his linemates. Other NHL scoring leaders are climbing the charts in pairs —see Ottawa, Calgary, and Tampa for examples.

Sundin has been doing it alone.

(A) Tomas Kaberle

What had been keeping Kaberle from being considered an elite player was his hesitation to shoot the puck—but this season he has been shooting more and it’s paying off on the score sheet.

Tomas is currently ninth among defencemen in scoring and fourth in the Eastern Conference.

(B) Nik Antropov

I have to admit, I had given up on the veteran Kazakh.

But in his eighth campaign with the Buds, he’s finally rounding into the player he was expected to be when he was drafted in the first round a decade ago.

Nik credits his turnaround to the fact that this is the first year he hasn’t had to rehab an injury during the offseason. Let’s hope he can stay healthy.

He is already on pace to set personal records for himself in all statistical categories, but he could do even better if he were to use his size to his advantage when fighting for pucks in the corner—and if he shot more often.

Everyone else

My mother always told me if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.

How To Fix A Failing Franchise

With a team in disarray what is General Manager John Ferguson Jr. to do?

John is in a precarious position: Does he save his job? Or does he save the team?

It doesn’t appear that he can do both. No wonder he seems to be in a state of permanent paralysis.

In order to save the Leafs, JFJ needs to start rebuilding now. If the Leafs ever plan to win a Stanley Cup, they have to forget about the 2008 playoffs and look toward the future.

In 2006 the Leafs had the opportunity to trade Bryan McCabe at the deadline, and instead JFJ opted to resign him and make a playoff push...and only came close.

In 2007 the Leafs had the opportunity to trade Darcy Tucker at the deadline, and instead JFJ opted to resign him and make a playoff push...and only came close.

In 2008 the Leafs have the opportunity to trade Mats Sundin at the deadline… will history repeat itself?

The fact is the Leafs do not have many tradable assets on their current roster.

While JFJ has been offering Andrew Raycroft around the league, nobody wants him. Ditto for Bryan McCabe, Darcy Tucker, and Pavel Kubina. Toronto is stuck with those extravagant contracts.

The only player Ferguson can trade right now who will return enough value to make a significant impact on the future of the organization is captain Mats Sundin.

Mats is 37 years old and enjoying a career year. He is playing like he desperately wants to win a Cup. I say let him—only he’s not going to be able to do it in Toronto. Toronto does not have the nucleus to build a championship team in the next five years before Mats retires. If he ever wants to win a Cup, he has to look elsewhere.

When Mats agrees to waive his No-Trade-Clause and is packaged off to a contender, cries for the head of John Ferguson will rise up from Leafs Nation, and John Ferguson will likely lose his job.

Mats Sundin is this year’s Peter Forsberg. Take a look at Philadelphia and the impact that that deadline deal had on the Flyers organization.

The Philadelphia Flyers traded Forsberg to the Nashville Predators for Ryan Parent, Scottie Upshall, a first-round selection, and a third-round selection. And Sundin holds more value than Forsberg because he his healthy, while Forsberg’s foot issues were well documented.

Fear not—I suspect that if Mats were to be traded for youth, prospects, and draft picks, he would return to the Leafs organization in the offseason—after making a legitimate Cup run.

If I still haven’t convinced you, let me remind you of how Mats Sundin came to be a Maple Leaf. In 1994 Mats was traded to Toronto for the Leafs' beloved captain Wendel Clark—a trade that the fans and media hated at the time, but ultimately was the right move.

Mats, good-bye, good luck, thanks for everything...and I hope to see you again soon!

NHL Fantasy Files: Week 15

Josh Kyrzakos — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 16:46:59 -0500

Now is the time of year when injures start to take a toll on rosters.

When stars get hurt, it's your job as a fantasy owner to look to their replacements to plug the holes on your roster.

Sure, losing Vesa Toskala to injury can be a blow to your team, but he’s not irreplaceable.

As in the NHL, in fantasy hockey there are numerous players who can fill the void—and sometimes even do a better job.

If you picked up Ty Conklin when Toskala got hurt, pat yourself on the back. When Vesa comes off the IR, there’s no rush to take him off your own injured list. Instead, continue to ride Conklin’s hot streak while you can.

There's no rule saying you can’t keep a player on the IR even though he’s healthy.

And with all the said, my recommendations for the week...

David Booth (FLA – LW)

Earlier this season, coach Jacques Martin was quoted as saying the only Panthers playing above his expectations were David Booth and goalie Thomas Vokoun.

But like an announcer who discusses a shutout, Martin jinxed his team. A few days later, Booth injured his knee.

Booth had tallied a successful November with nine points in 14 games, and has since come back in style logging, logging three points in three games in 2008.

Keep an eye on this 23-year-old speedster.

Tyler Arnason and Marek Svatos (COL)

Injuries to both Joe Sakic and Ryan Smyth will force the Avalanche to rely heavily on their young guns to shoulder the load.

Marek Svatos has only 18 points in 38 games so far this season, but he potted 50 points in 61 games in his rookie campaign two years ago, so we know he has the potential to improve on his stats.

With the increased ice time, now is his opportunity to show he can be a top-six forward.

Arnason is expected to rejoin the Avalanche on their upcoming five-game road trip. He'll likely step into the role of second-line pivot between Svatos and Brunette.

Arnason had been out for 11 games with a broken wrist. Look for the 28-year-old to play up to 20 minutes per game and see some time on the power play.

Michael Leighton (CAR – G)

John Grahame was waived by the Caroline Hurricanes and sent to the AHL affiliate Albany River Rats.

Some speculate that the Hurricanes could be moving Grahame’s salary to make room for Curtis Joseph, but the fact is that Leighton earned the call up.

Leighton boasted a 2.14 GAA and leads the AHL with five shutouts. He has played admirably in two games with the Hurricanes, allowing three goals in a victory and only one goal in a hard-luck loss.

Grahame had posted subpar numbers (.875 GAA), and starter Cam Ward has been inconsistent (nine games in 31 starts with four goals or more allowed).

If Leighton continues to play consistently, he’ll continue to steal starts.

Andrew Raycroft (TOR – G)

After Scott Clemmensen was given a three game tryout with the Leafs, Andrew Raycroft was put back in net.

Raycroft didn't win his return to the twine, but played competently. He shut the door for nearly two periods after a shaky start.

Toskala should return to the lineup this week, but look for Raycroft to get the nod versus Los Angeles on Thursday, as he attempts to reestablish himself and challenge for starts.

Clemmensen will return to the AHL.

Martin Havlat (CHI – RW)

There is no logical explanation as to why Havlat would be a free agent in your league—but if he is, sign him...until he suffers his next injury.

NHL Fantasy Files: Week 14

Josh Kyrzakos — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 09:49:28 -0500

Happy New Year from your favorite fantasy guru!

This week I spotlight six players who've flown under the radar all season but can help turn your fantasy squad around in 2008.

I hope you'll excuse the brevity of this week’s introduction—I’ve been glued to the World Junior Tournament.

Jonathan Tavares has been superb. I envy the team that's able to draft him.

Like Sidney Crosby, Tavares has the ability to single-handedly turn a franchise around.

Mike Fisher (OTT – C)

Don’t look now, but Mike Fisher has had an absolutely UNREAL December.

In 12 December games he’s posted nine goals and two assists.

Fisher's a streaky player who scores in bunches when given the opportunity. Coach John Paddock has given him that opportunity by pairing him with captain Daniel Alfredsson. Their third linemate rotates depending on the matchup.

Fisher makes a solid third or fourth center in most fantasy leagues.

Andrei & Sergei Kostitsyn (MTL – LW)

The young brothers have both been putting up decent numbers for the struggling Canadiens.

Andrei (22) and Sergei (20) were both drafted by the Habs, and have played their way into regular shifts for Montreal this season.

Andrei is the safer fantasy choice, as he was drafted much higher than his kid brother and has two years more experience. However, Sergei has been playing on the No. 1 power play unit, and already has six points in his short nine-game NHL career.

Andrei has notched 13 points in 14 December games, which should earn him a roster spot in most fantasy leagues, as LW is one of the most difficult positions to fill.

While they're not as talented as the Sedins, if this brotherly connection can keep up their current pace, they could eventually be almost as valuable.

Ty Conklin (PIT – G)

The Penguins haven’t been able to find a solid goaltender all season.

Their first overall draft pick Marc-Andre Fleury has been extremely average, going 9-8 this season after posting a 40-16 mark last year. What's more, Dany Sabourin has gotten progressively worse after an impressive October.

An injury to Fleury gave journeyman backup goaltender Ty Conklin an opportunity to prove himself as a starter once again. Conklin has played for four teams in the past four years, and hasn’t been able to secure a starting position with any of them.

While Conklin hasn’t been spectacular for the Penguins, he has played well enough to earn four straight victories—and victories are the statistic that matters the most.

As long as Fleury is injured and Sabourin keeps struggling, look for Conklin to continue to start (and possibly win) games for the talented young Pens.

Alexei Zhitnik (ATL – D)

After a 32-game pointless streak, the Atlanta rearguard has made his way on to every fantasy league’s free-agent list.

But last week, Zhitnik more than doubled his season point total, earning three points in two games to give him five on the year.

While he’s 35 years old and not getting any better, Zhitnik could still be a solid fourth or fifth defenceman in the second half of the season if he's able to regain his form from last year.

In '06-'07, he had 14 points in 18 games with the Thrashers.

Atlanta isn't particularly deep at the point, so if Alexei can prove that he still has some juice left in him, he could even find himself back on the power play. As it stands, rookie Tobias Enstrom is the Thrasher’s only legitimate defensive threat on the power play. Being able to utilize Zhitnik on the point too would give the Thrashers more flexibility and creativity.

Zhitnik just needs to step up and prove he’s still got it in him.

Rob Blake (LA – D)

After starting the season with only six points in 22 games, Blake came under heavy criticism and was written off by most teams.

However, Blake has improved his play over the month of December, and has 10 points in the last 15 games.

Blake continues to log the bulk of ice time on the Kings blueline, and averages more than four minutes of power-play time per game.

Rumours continue to fly about Los Angeles shopping the veteran defenceman, but Blake would have to waive his no-trade clause to facilitate a trade. A move out of Los Angeles to a playoff contender would only increase his value.

If Blake is somehow available in your league, now is the time to buy.