After about 30 games each for the respective NHL teams, and given the state of the the world-wide economy, we thought it was time for us to chime in on our annual buy, hold or sell segment during our trip around the league. We'll start with the Northwest Conference first:
Vancouver Canucks - with the recent signing of Mats Sundin, the Canucks appear to have found the offensive shot-in-the-arm that they have been looking for all season. Sundin's arrival should bolster the Canucks PP, and allow for further offensive opportunities for his linemates and even the defencemen. It's likely Sundin will be paired with Demitra and Wellwood, and both those guys should be good "buys" in your trade dealings. Of course, like all things fantasy pool related, much of this depends on Sundins' own health - and frankly, we are not convinced he's 100%. Track records of guys similarly coming back mid-season as free agents (see Niedermayer and Selanne from last year) has not been great. Their conditioning usually is not good, and they are prone to the dreaded "groin injury". Right now, the buzz around Sundin is terrific - and he hasn't played a game yet. As a result, we'd be "selling" as his trade value won't be any higher. Kevin Bleiksa squeaks in as a "hold" commodity right now, as he's playing well on the Canucks PP and should see an uplift in points. Sami Salo is hurt, big surprise, and gone for about a month. You might be able to convince someone else to take a flyer on him with Sundin in the mix, so we'd "sell" if you could. Same goes Edler and Ohlund, who we think are about maxed in terms of offensive production, even with Sundin. Roberto Luongo is taking longer to come back from his groin injury, and that's never a good thing. Look for him sometime mid-January and should be a "hold".
Edmonton Oilers - such high expectations are the start of the year that have not been realized is how we'd characterize the Oilers to date. Hemsky and Souray are the only consistent guys at this stage - and both are high on our "sell" lists. Hemsky continues to be the marquis name in trade rumors for guys like Boumeester and Kovulchuk. His move to either of those teams could adversely impact his fantasy value. Souray has been very good, and there is sure to be a lesser "injury-risk" defenceman that you can parlay him into at about the same fantasy value. Erik Cole has been a big disappointment and he's a "hold" for now. Playing now the 3rd line, he's trying - just not producing. You won't get much for him. Horcoff is under-achieving, and at this stage looks to have reverted tio his 2nd line status of a few years ago; he's a "sell" in our books. Ditto Dwayne Roloson, who for now appears to be the #1guy in Edmonton. Despite Sam Gagner's sophomore slump, which we did warn about, he's a "hold" or "buy" if you can. He should come cheap and he might not turn it around this year, but he's too good to be this bad for the remainder of his career.
...the rest of the Northwest conference tomorrow.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Monday, November 17, 2008
15 games in ... Part II
Phladelphia - after just returning from missing time with an injury, Flyers center Daniel Briere is sidelined for about 2-3 weeks with a sore groin. This is bad news for Briere owners, but good news for Jeff Carter and Mike Richards owners. Both young guns should rack up more points with the additional ice-time. We are a little concerned about Briere's "brittleness" this season and as we've seen in the past, these types of injuries could linger for the majority of the season. We'd sell our stock in Briere to be sure.
In Toronto, Jason Blake's recent tirade about sitting a few games has resulted in him quietly asking to be moved. The problem for the Leafs is that he makes way too much for a disgruntled veteran. Time will tell if he is able to right the ship, but to date Ron Wilson has lowered his sights on Blake and the results are not good for Blake owners.
In Vancouver, Kevin Bieksa is on the shelf again for another 2-3 weeks with a broken bone in his foot. Just as it looked as though Bieksa was hitting his stride, yet another injury has sidelined him. This will mean more fantasy valued ice time for Salo and Ohlund, and will effective silence any more trade rumors involving Bieksa at least for the time being.
In Edmonton, the Oilers are said to be trying to package Dustin Penner, Robert Nilsson, Taylor Chorney and a first round draft pick for Ilya Kovulchuk. Kovulchuk has made it very well known he wants out or Atlanta and would prefer that to be sooner rather than when he is a UFA. There would be many other teams interested in Kovulchuk's services, but the kicker is that any deal would be subject to Kovulchuk agreeing to a contract extension.
In Toronto, Jason Blake's recent tirade about sitting a few games has resulted in him quietly asking to be moved. The problem for the Leafs is that he makes way too much for a disgruntled veteran. Time will tell if he is able to right the ship, but to date Ron Wilson has lowered his sights on Blake and the results are not good for Blake owners.
In Vancouver, Kevin Bieksa is on the shelf again for another 2-3 weeks with a broken bone in his foot. Just as it looked as though Bieksa was hitting his stride, yet another injury has sidelined him. This will mean more fantasy valued ice time for Salo and Ohlund, and will effective silence any more trade rumors involving Bieksa at least for the time being.
In Edmonton, the Oilers are said to be trying to package Dustin Penner, Robert Nilsson, Taylor Chorney and a first round draft pick for Ilya Kovulchuk. Kovulchuk has made it very well known he wants out or Atlanta and would prefer that to be sooner rather than when he is a UFA. There would be many other teams interested in Kovulchuk's services, but the kicker is that any deal would be subject to Kovulchuk agreeing to a contract extension.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Around 15 games and Wow!
Lots to discuss, so lets get started.
Tampa Bay - the Lightening announced today that they gassed Barry Melrose as coach and replaced him with associate coach Rich Tocchet. This comes as a mild surprise, but clearly it looks like the team that many picked, including us, to dominant the Southeast is not playing to its' potential. The issue for some is team chemistry and roles. There are alot of new faces on the club, and that usually takes some time to gel. Goaltending has been pretty good, but the play of the team's defence has been shaky. Tocchet is a no nonsense kind of guy and should positively influence the team for the next few weeks. If that doesn't happen, you can expect that guys like St. Louis, Malone and Prospal to begin to get shopped in possible trades.
Sticking with the Lightening, them moving Matt Carle to Philly for Steve Eminger and Steve Downie was a surprise. No question the Lightening could use some more grit, and Downie, when in control, could fulfill that Steve Ott-Matt Cooke mold. Carle was supposed to be better than last years' disaster, but so far, he's not been able to improve. Eminger was a high draft pick for the Capitals, moved to the Flyers at draft day, and gets yet another chance to realize the potential that made him a first round draft pick. If Eminger finds his game, and Downie keeps his cool, the 'Ning could really benefit from this swap.
New Jersey - news that Martin Brodeur is going to be gone for about 3-4 months with a ligament injury in his elbow has got to make not only Devils players scared, but also poolies in general. Already a an offensively challenged team, the loss of Brodeur and his ability to steal some games is likely going to mean a clamping down on any offense that the team may have been able to generate. Look for guys like Parise, Elias and Zajac to struggle even more now that Marty is gone. Kevin Weeks is not the short term answer either, so we anticipate that the Devisl may try to add another goalie to the mix. Rumors have them inquiring about Dwayne Roloson or Matthieu Garon from the Oilers.
More to follow tomorrow...
Tampa Bay - the Lightening announced today that they gassed Barry Melrose as coach and replaced him with associate coach Rich Tocchet. This comes as a mild surprise, but clearly it looks like the team that many picked, including us, to dominant the Southeast is not playing to its' potential. The issue for some is team chemistry and roles. There are alot of new faces on the club, and that usually takes some time to gel. Goaltending has been pretty good, but the play of the team's defence has been shaky. Tocchet is a no nonsense kind of guy and should positively influence the team for the next few weeks. If that doesn't happen, you can expect that guys like St. Louis, Malone and Prospal to begin to get shopped in possible trades.
Sticking with the Lightening, them moving Matt Carle to Philly for Steve Eminger and Steve Downie was a surprise. No question the Lightening could use some more grit, and Downie, when in control, could fulfill that Steve Ott-Matt Cooke mold. Carle was supposed to be better than last years' disaster, but so far, he's not been able to improve. Eminger was a high draft pick for the Capitals, moved to the Flyers at draft day, and gets yet another chance to realize the potential that made him a first round draft pick. If Eminger finds his game, and Downie keeps his cool, the 'Ning could really benefit from this swap.
New Jersey - news that Martin Brodeur is going to be gone for about 3-4 months with a ligament injury in his elbow has got to make not only Devils players scared, but also poolies in general. Already a an offensively challenged team, the loss of Brodeur and his ability to steal some games is likely going to mean a clamping down on any offense that the team may have been able to generate. Look for guys like Parise, Elias and Zajac to struggle even more now that Marty is gone. Kevin Weeks is not the short term answer either, so we anticipate that the Devisl may try to add another goalie to the mix. Rumors have them inquiring about Dwayne Roloson or Matthieu Garon from the Oilers.
More to follow tomorrow...
Thursday, October 23, 2008
2 weeks in and...
...too every poolies' surprise (not), Pavol Demitra and Marion Gaborik are injured. Like we couldn't see that coming. Demitra is out with a rib injury and Gaborik and his nasty groin are on the sideline as well. This is very problematic for the Wild, who are already rumored to be shopping Gaborik after he reportedly turned down a contract extension in the $7M-$8M per year range. Problem for all involved is Gaborik's health is always a question mark. Vancouver is rumored to be very interested in acquiring Gaborik; he and Demitra are best friends. The players rumored headed back to Minnesota are Mason Raymond, Corey Schneider and a first round draft pick. The Flames are also rumored to be interested in Gaborik; dangling Dustin Boyd, Leland Irving and a first rounder. For now, Gaborik looks to e at least a few weeks away, and Demitra is supposed to be back before then. As a poolie, you should be trying to move these guys for more dependable options.
In Chicago, Denis Savard got axed 4 games into the season with Joel Quenville taking over. You can anticipate that the Blackhawks should rebound and begin playign better for a few weeks with a new bench boss, but the team needs to do something about the goaltending situation which is rumored to be causing a rift in the dressing room. New and very young captain, Jonathan Toews is struggling early to find his offensive game as well. The Flyers are said to be interested in looking at Khabibulin as their tandem of Biron and Nittymaki have been under-whelming to date, but there would need to be some salary cap management on the part of both teams to make a trade work.
In Chicago, Denis Savard got axed 4 games into the season with Joel Quenville taking over. You can anticipate that the Blackhawks should rebound and begin playign better for a few weeks with a new bench boss, but the team needs to do something about the goaltending situation which is rumored to be causing a rift in the dressing room. New and very young captain, Jonathan Toews is struggling early to find his offensive game as well. The Flyers are said to be interested in looking at Khabibulin as their tandem of Biron and Nittymaki have been under-whelming to date, but there would need to be some salary cap management on the part of both teams to make a trade work.
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Day one - of a long season
Despite the boring NHL games in Europe last weekend, the league's regular season kick-offs tonight and I wanted to catch you up on the latest...
Sergei Zubov - is gone from 4-6 weeks with surgery on his hip. Expect him back late October early November. Not deadly for the Stars as they existed without him for sometime last year, but their PP will not be nearly as potent without him manning the point. On the flip side, Niskanen, Boucher and Robidas will all see more minutes as a result.
Nik Khabibulin - after being placed on waivers last week and no takers, it looks like the Blackhawks will try and move the former #1 within a week. Likely destinations are the LA Kings and also now entering the talks are the Ottawa Senators, who might take a flyer on the Bulin Wall if the Hawks take Martin Gerber back as part of the deal. The Sens would likely also need to jettison someone else to make the deal work under the salary cap as well (i.e., Donovan). Watch the Sens close out of the gate, if Gerber struggles, the talks will heat immediately. For the Kings, it's all about making sure they are at the league minimum as well as storing a potential trade asset at the deadline as well as not wrecking Bernier's psyche by having their young stud goalie see 40 shots per game.
In Vancouver, the Canucks added some needed grit in the addition of Shane O'Brien and the versatile Michel Ouellet from the Lightening for Lukas Krajicek and mid-level prospect Juraj Simek. O'Brien's offense is under-rated, but he'll be counted on to add some toughness for the Canucks defence. Krajicek has some puck-moving ability and Lightening brass are stock-piling slick puck-moving defencemen in attempts to get as many rearguards as they can that may get the puck up to their very talented forwards.
In Montreal, Chris Higgins has had a sore groin for almost the entire camp, and remains on shelf for the start of the season. This is not good news for the Habs. Higgins needs to be healthy for them to win, and this smell like it could turn into an issue that may linger for the entire season. Higgins owners be warned.
Sergei Zubov - is gone from 4-6 weeks with surgery on his hip. Expect him back late October early November. Not deadly for the Stars as they existed without him for sometime last year, but their PP will not be nearly as potent without him manning the point. On the flip side, Niskanen, Boucher and Robidas will all see more minutes as a result.
Nik Khabibulin - after being placed on waivers last week and no takers, it looks like the Blackhawks will try and move the former #1 within a week. Likely destinations are the LA Kings and also now entering the talks are the Ottawa Senators, who might take a flyer on the Bulin Wall if the Hawks take Martin Gerber back as part of the deal. The Sens would likely also need to jettison someone else to make the deal work under the salary cap as well (i.e., Donovan). Watch the Sens close out of the gate, if Gerber struggles, the talks will heat immediately. For the Kings, it's all about making sure they are at the league minimum as well as storing a potential trade asset at the deadline as well as not wrecking Bernier's psyche by having their young stud goalie see 40 shots per game.
In Vancouver, the Canucks added some needed grit in the addition of Shane O'Brien and the versatile Michel Ouellet from the Lightening for Lukas Krajicek and mid-level prospect Juraj Simek. O'Brien's offense is under-rated, but he'll be counted on to add some toughness for the Canucks defence. Krajicek has some puck-moving ability and Lightening brass are stock-piling slick puck-moving defencemen in attempts to get as many rearguards as they can that may get the puck up to their very talented forwards.
In Montreal, Chris Higgins has had a sore groin for almost the entire camp, and remains on shelf for the start of the season. This is not good news for the Habs. Higgins needs to be healthy for them to win, and this smell like it could turn into an issue that may linger for the entire season. Higgins owners be warned.
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Blues, Canucks, Oilers and Red Wings
St. Louis - just so were clear, a 20 year old kid went golfing and says he tore not only his ACL, but MCL as well, while getting his foot caught between the barking brake and the golf cart floor of his golf cart...uh-huh. Wow, and our dogs ate our homework too! Erik Johnson is the kid, and right now the Blues have got to be cringing at the fact that Steve Wagner and Eric Brewer are now their best options as an offensive defencemnn. For Johnson owners, it's a full 12 months (and likely more like 18) from surgery, rehab to skating before we think begins to be close to 100%. Basically a lost year. Again - wow! I thought kids were smarter than this?
Vancouver - someone is going to have to convince me that naming Luongo the captain isn't a blatant attempt to kiss-up to the Canucks net-minder. There is a reason that goalies don't wear letters, and haven't since before we were born. On the fantasy side though, who cares! If it motivates the hardest working guy on the team to work that much harder (usually meaning even better fantasy value), give him the alphabet - we don't care. Still with the Canucks, it looks like Demitra is going to be centering the 2nd unit, between Taylor Pyatt and either Mason Raymond or Kyle Wellwood. Wellwood has shown offensive touches, particularly on the PP, while Raymond's speed is always appreciated by his coaches.
Edmonton - as it looks now, Dustin Penner is and will skate on a line with Moreau and Pisani, while Erik Cole moves to Penner's spot on the #1 line. Good news for Cole, bad news for Penner fantasy-wise
Detroit - Chelios is gone for at least 4-6 weeks with a broken foot. His fantasy value is low, but this makes room for Lebda, Kronwall and others for more playing time early.
Vancouver - someone is going to have to convince me that naming Luongo the captain isn't a blatant attempt to kiss-up to the Canucks net-minder. There is a reason that goalies don't wear letters, and haven't since before we were born. On the fantasy side though, who cares! If it motivates the hardest working guy on the team to work that much harder (usually meaning even better fantasy value), give him the alphabet - we don't care. Still with the Canucks, it looks like Demitra is going to be centering the 2nd unit, between Taylor Pyatt and either Mason Raymond or Kyle Wellwood. Wellwood has shown offensive touches, particularly on the PP, while Raymond's speed is always appreciated by his coaches.
Edmonton - as it looks now, Dustin Penner is and will skate on a line with Moreau and Pisani, while Erik Cole moves to Penner's spot on the #1 line. Good news for Cole, bad news for Penner fantasy-wise
Detroit - Chelios is gone for at least 4-6 weeks with a broken foot. His fantasy value is low, but this makes room for Lebda, Kronwall and others for more playing time early.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Gonchar, Schnieder and other stuff
All right, it's our first blog of the new hockey season, officially, so let's get down to business.
Pens Gonchar out 4-6 months - hard to imagine the machine that is the Penguins offense not reeling from this development that Gonchar will be gone from 4-6 months because of shoulder surgery. Already without their best 2nd option in Ryan Whitney until mid-November, the Pens best answers to replace the stats are Kris Letang and rookie Goligoski. This isn't good news, and right now the Pens PP may be housed by Letang and 4 forwards as you may see Peter Sykora playing the point on the PP.
Schneider to Thrashers - wholly salary dump Batman. The Ducks basically had to give Schneider away for a mid-level prospect in Painchaud and of almost no fantasy interest in Larsen of Klee. Ilya Kovulchuk should benefit, as should the Thrashers anemic PP. But that said, Schneider is 39 years old, and is not likely to complete an entire season. He's even less likely now that he is the Thrashers best offensive defenceman. He'll see more icetime though and more PP time for sure.
Tim Stapleton of Leafs sent down - sometimes the Euro-gamble pays off and sometimes it doesn't. Early on, it looks like the Leafs bringing back Tim Stapleton from Europe this year is not going to pay the big dividends some thought it might. Stapleton may be back later in the season, or the club may be looking to get him some North American playing time. Whatever the reason, it's too early to send a "big part of your offense" down, so let the Leafs' fans take a flyer on this guy and choose a more stable option.
More to follow tomorrow.
Pens Gonchar out 4-6 months - hard to imagine the machine that is the Penguins offense not reeling from this development that Gonchar will be gone from 4-6 months because of shoulder surgery. Already without their best 2nd option in Ryan Whitney until mid-November, the Pens best answers to replace the stats are Kris Letang and rookie Goligoski. This isn't good news, and right now the Pens PP may be housed by Letang and 4 forwards as you may see Peter Sykora playing the point on the PP.
Schneider to Thrashers - wholly salary dump Batman. The Ducks basically had to give Schneider away for a mid-level prospect in Painchaud and of almost no fantasy interest in Larsen of Klee. Ilya Kovulchuk should benefit, as should the Thrashers anemic PP. But that said, Schneider is 39 years old, and is not likely to complete an entire season. He's even less likely now that he is the Thrashers best offensive defenceman. He'll see more icetime though and more PP time for sure.
Tim Stapleton of Leafs sent down - sometimes the Euro-gamble pays off and sometimes it doesn't. Early on, it looks like the Leafs bringing back Tim Stapleton from Europe this year is not going to pay the big dividends some thought it might. Stapleton may be back later in the season, or the club may be looking to get him some North American playing time. Whatever the reason, it's too early to send a "big part of your offense" down, so let the Leafs' fans take a flyer on this guy and choose a more stable option.
More to follow tomorrow.
Monday, August 04, 2008
Free Agent Frenzy - Part IV
New York Islanders
Adds or Resigns: D-Mark Streit, F-Mike Comrie, F-Doug Weight, F-Jeff Tambellini, F-Sean Bergenheim, F-Frans Nielsen.
Subtractions: Likely D-Bryan Berard and coach Ted Nolan.
Fantasy Impact: Unsure if the actual signings for the team will have as much of an impact as the loss of players coach Ted Nolan. Nolan was actually hired prior to GM Garth Snow it was evident that the two of them were not seeing eye-to-eye. For the poolie, Mark Streit should bolster a fairly anemic Islanders PP, but Doug Weight’s signing was about bringing in someone to get the team to the floor of the league salary cap, rather than actually believing the team will be better with Weight in the line-up. To date, the signings do little to inspire fantasy poolies to think the Islanders will get much better. Tambellini might be worth a very late round pick as Snow wants the team to play it’s young guys.
New York Rangers
Adds or Resigns: F-Markus Naslund, D-Dmitri Kalinin, F-Aaron Voros, F-Patrick Rissmiller, D-Michal Rozsival, D-Wade Redden, G-Stephen Valiquette, D-Paul Mara, F-Nigel Dawes, F Greg Moore, F-Fredrik Sjostrom, F-Nikolai Zherdev and F-Dan Fritsche.
Subtractions: Jaromir Jagr, Martin Straka, Fedor Tyutin, Christian Backman, Ryan Hollweg.
Fantasy Impact: No Jagr, no Straka and potentially no Marek Malik appears to have sent the message that the NY version of team Czech Republic is over. Zheredev is an enigmatic talent who has the ability to really shine, while Naslund has not been a premier sniper now for 4 seasons. Watch for both those guys to be paired with either Gomez or Drury respectively. Redden will need to seriously rebound to make fans forget about Tyutin, as Redden offensive game has stalled for the past two season. Actually the stronger signing may have been Dmitri Kalinin from the Sabres, who’s defensive game is very strong and offensive game is developing. Voros, Rissmiller and Fritsche bring size and energy to the 3rd and 4th lines likely. The Rangers will certainly be a much harder team to play against. Currently the Rangers are still talking with Brendan Shanahan to see if he’ll re-sign.
Ottawa Senators
Adds and Resigns: F-Josh Hennessy, F-Antoine Vermette, F-Chris Kelly, G-Alex Auld, F-Shean Donovan, F-Jarkko Ruutu, D-Jason Smith.
Subtractions: G-Ray Emery, D-Wade Redden, likely D-Andrej Meszaros.
Fantasy Impact: Pretty uneventful signing period for the Sens, who reportedly were trying to land Brian Campbell and then, Marian Hossa. Biggest impact may be Jason Smith, who will very likely wear an A, and provide just a ton of grit and desire on the Sens back-end. Gone is uber-distraction Emery, replaced with “white bread” Alex Auld. The Sens are still rumored to be looking for a puck moving defencemen, or to try and off-load Martin Gerber contract on someone, but that will also come through trade. Super-pest Ruutu is a decent bet if you need non-goon PIMs.
Philadelphia Flyers
Adds and Resigns: F-Jeff Carter, D-Steve Eminger, D-Ossi Vaananen, F-Glen Metropolit, F-Nate Raduns, F-Riley Cote, D-Randy Jones, F-Arron Asham, F-Joffrey Lupul, D-Danny Syvret, D-Janne Niskala.
Subtractions: F-Vacalav Prospal, F-RJ Umberger, D-Jaroslav Modry, D-Denis Gauthier, F-Tristan Grant, F-Patrick Thoresen.
Fantasy Impact: the young Flyers will have a speedier, yet softer defence; come the start of play in 2008-09. Eminger was a very high draft pick for the Capitals that has yet to realize his potential. Umberger became expendable when the Flyers signed Carter. Carter should build on a very productive 2nd half of the season last year. Lupul will play with either Carter or Briere and should tally many goals if he stays healthy. We think the young Flyers will again be an exciting team to watch, as well as draft earlier in your pool, we are just not sold on the strength of their defence or goaltending in general.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Adds or Resigns: D-Jeff Finger, G-Curtis Joseph, F-Mikhail Grabovski, F-Dominic Moore, Matt Stajan, F- Jamal Mayers, F-Ryan Hollweg, F-Ben Ondrus.
Subtractions: F-Mats Sundin, G-Andrew Raycroft, D-Andy Wozniewski, F-Darcy Tucker.
Fantasy Impact: And let the gutting begin. Interim GM Cliff Fletcher is certainly making all the tough decisions; letting Tucker go, letting Raycroft go, trying to sign Sundin but he likely won’t be back. These are actually the pretty good moves. Jeff Finger is a bit of a noggin’ scratch – big $ for a guy that made it to the NHL as a 28 year old rookie. Mayers and Hollweg will try to ensure that the team plays tough, but we are not sure if Mayers has much left in the tank. All in all it’s going to be a lean season for the Buds.
Washington Capitals
Add or Resigns: D-Mike Green, G-Jose Theodore, F-Keith Aucoin, F-Sergei Fedorov, LW- Brooks Laich, F-Boyd Gordon, D-Shaone Morrisonn. Subtractions: G-Cristobel Huet, G-Olaf Kolzig, D-Steve Eminger.
Fantasy Impact: On an improving, young team the moves made by Caps management, save for the Green signing, are worrisome. Sergei Federov played very well for the 20 games that the Caps had him and into the playoffs, but we’ve seen this before and he’s going to be a waste of a roster spot by the All-Star break. Jose Theodore’s decent season last year for the Avalanche will not be repeated in Washington. He’s just not that good. No real improvements for the team. In fact, from a poolies view point it looks as though they’ve gotten weaker and that’s not good. Green’s a budding NHL offensive super-star, and he’ll need to be for the caps to repeat last year.
Adds or Resigns: D-Mark Streit, F-Mike Comrie, F-Doug Weight, F-Jeff Tambellini, F-Sean Bergenheim, F-Frans Nielsen.
Subtractions: Likely D-Bryan Berard and coach Ted Nolan.
Fantasy Impact: Unsure if the actual signings for the team will have as much of an impact as the loss of players coach Ted Nolan. Nolan was actually hired prior to GM Garth Snow it was evident that the two of them were not seeing eye-to-eye. For the poolie, Mark Streit should bolster a fairly anemic Islanders PP, but Doug Weight’s signing was about bringing in someone to get the team to the floor of the league salary cap, rather than actually believing the team will be better with Weight in the line-up. To date, the signings do little to inspire fantasy poolies to think the Islanders will get much better. Tambellini might be worth a very late round pick as Snow wants the team to play it’s young guys.
New York Rangers
Adds or Resigns: F-Markus Naslund, D-Dmitri Kalinin, F-Aaron Voros, F-Patrick Rissmiller, D-Michal Rozsival, D-Wade Redden, G-Stephen Valiquette, D-Paul Mara, F-Nigel Dawes, F Greg Moore, F-Fredrik Sjostrom, F-Nikolai Zherdev and F-Dan Fritsche.
Subtractions: Jaromir Jagr, Martin Straka, Fedor Tyutin, Christian Backman, Ryan Hollweg.
Fantasy Impact: No Jagr, no Straka and potentially no Marek Malik appears to have sent the message that the NY version of team Czech Republic is over. Zheredev is an enigmatic talent who has the ability to really shine, while Naslund has not been a premier sniper now for 4 seasons. Watch for both those guys to be paired with either Gomez or Drury respectively. Redden will need to seriously rebound to make fans forget about Tyutin, as Redden offensive game has stalled for the past two season. Actually the stronger signing may have been Dmitri Kalinin from the Sabres, who’s defensive game is very strong and offensive game is developing. Voros, Rissmiller and Fritsche bring size and energy to the 3rd and 4th lines likely. The Rangers will certainly be a much harder team to play against. Currently the Rangers are still talking with Brendan Shanahan to see if he’ll re-sign.
Ottawa Senators
Adds and Resigns: F-Josh Hennessy, F-Antoine Vermette, F-Chris Kelly, G-Alex Auld, F-Shean Donovan, F-Jarkko Ruutu, D-Jason Smith.
Subtractions: G-Ray Emery, D-Wade Redden, likely D-Andrej Meszaros.
Fantasy Impact: Pretty uneventful signing period for the Sens, who reportedly were trying to land Brian Campbell and then, Marian Hossa. Biggest impact may be Jason Smith, who will very likely wear an A, and provide just a ton of grit and desire on the Sens back-end. Gone is uber-distraction Emery, replaced with “white bread” Alex Auld. The Sens are still rumored to be looking for a puck moving defencemen, or to try and off-load Martin Gerber contract on someone, but that will also come through trade. Super-pest Ruutu is a decent bet if you need non-goon PIMs.
Philadelphia Flyers
Adds and Resigns: F-Jeff Carter, D-Steve Eminger, D-Ossi Vaananen, F-Glen Metropolit, F-Nate Raduns, F-Riley Cote, D-Randy Jones, F-Arron Asham, F-Joffrey Lupul, D-Danny Syvret, D-Janne Niskala.
Subtractions: F-Vacalav Prospal, F-RJ Umberger, D-Jaroslav Modry, D-Denis Gauthier, F-Tristan Grant, F-Patrick Thoresen.
Fantasy Impact: the young Flyers will have a speedier, yet softer defence; come the start of play in 2008-09. Eminger was a very high draft pick for the Capitals that has yet to realize his potential. Umberger became expendable when the Flyers signed Carter. Carter should build on a very productive 2nd half of the season last year. Lupul will play with either Carter or Briere and should tally many goals if he stays healthy. We think the young Flyers will again be an exciting team to watch, as well as draft earlier in your pool, we are just not sold on the strength of their defence or goaltending in general.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Adds or Resigns: D-Jeff Finger, G-Curtis Joseph, F-Mikhail Grabovski, F-Dominic Moore, Matt Stajan, F- Jamal Mayers, F-Ryan Hollweg, F-Ben Ondrus.
Subtractions: F-Mats Sundin, G-Andrew Raycroft, D-Andy Wozniewski, F-Darcy Tucker.
Fantasy Impact: And let the gutting begin. Interim GM Cliff Fletcher is certainly making all the tough decisions; letting Tucker go, letting Raycroft go, trying to sign Sundin but he likely won’t be back. These are actually the pretty good moves. Jeff Finger is a bit of a noggin’ scratch – big $ for a guy that made it to the NHL as a 28 year old rookie. Mayers and Hollweg will try to ensure that the team plays tough, but we are not sure if Mayers has much left in the tank. All in all it’s going to be a lean season for the Buds.
Washington Capitals
Add or Resigns: D-Mike Green, G-Jose Theodore, F-Keith Aucoin, F-Sergei Fedorov, LW- Brooks Laich, F-Boyd Gordon, D-Shaone Morrisonn. Subtractions: G-Cristobel Huet, G-Olaf Kolzig, D-Steve Eminger.
Fantasy Impact: On an improving, young team the moves made by Caps management, save for the Green signing, are worrisome. Sergei Federov played very well for the 20 games that the Caps had him and into the playoffs, but we’ve seen this before and he’s going to be a waste of a roster spot by the All-Star break. Jose Theodore’s decent season last year for the Avalanche will not be repeated in Washington. He’s just not that good. No real improvements for the team. In fact, from a poolies view point it looks as though they’ve gotten weaker and that’s not good. Green’s a budding NHL offensive super-star, and he’ll need to be for the caps to repeat last year.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Fantasy Frenzy - Part III
Atlanta Thrashers -
Adds or Resigns: D - Ron Hainsey, F - Jason Williams, F - Eric Boulton, F - Marty Reasnor
Subtractions: Alexei Zhitnik, Bobby Holik
Fantasy Imapct:
As a poolie looks at the depth of talent for the Thrashers, one has to be left with there is very little help for the Thrashers. Jason Williams will be an under-rated winger for the Thrashers, but he won’t make anyone forget about Marian Hossa. Williams will likely be on the top-line for the Thrashers – almost via default. Hainsey gives the Thrashers their best overall defenceman, in the team’s franchise history. Hainsey isn’t the best offensive defenceman, but he will log a lot of minutes. Reasoner is a 3rd liner at best, and Eric Boulton will out up lots of PIMS but little else.
Boston Bruins -
Adds or Resigns: F-Michael Ryder.
Subtractions: no one of fantasy impact
Fantasy Impact:
It’s been a pretty lean UFA signing period for the Bruins. Management of the team is banking on the return to health of Patrice Bergeron and the continued development of young players like: Kessel and Lucic. In Ryder, the Bruins shucked out a lot of dollars for a guy who is as streaky as they come and at times, so poor defensively that the offensive starved Habs couldn’t have him in the line-up. Come draft time, he might be a worth a flyer, particularly if the Bruins move Murray prior to the start of training camp.
Buffalo Sabres -
Adds or Resigns: D-Craig Rivet, G-Patrick Lalime, F-Paul Gaustad (resign), F-Dan Paille (resign), G-Ryan Miller (resign).
Subtractions: Steve Bernier
Fantasy Impact:
For the low budget Sabres, being able to keep the core of the team still in tack year to date has been pretty good. Rivet should help for the loss of Bernier - but he's not Brian Campbell. The team has got to move some your talent, and the stock pile of draft picks they now have, for proven scoring or they'll likely be on the outside looking in come playoff time.
Carolina Hurricanes -
Adds or Resigns: D-Joni Pitkanen, G-Michael Leighton, D-Tim Gleason (resign), F-Tuomo Ruutu (resign), D-Josef Melichar, D-Dennis Seidenberg, F-Chad Larose.
Subtractions: D-Bret Hedican, D-David Tanabe, F-Jeff Hamilton, F-Erik Hamilton.
Fantasy Impact:
The Hurricanes traded for and then signed enigmatic Joni Pitkanen to play a critical role for the ‘Canes and in particular, their power play. The issue is that Pitkanen hasn’t been that type of consistent defencemen since 2002. He’s a risky selection to be sure. Resigning Ruutu and Gleason are solid depth moves for the club. Losing Erik Cole to Edmonton means Andrew Ladd get a serious chance at a top 6 forward position.
Florida Panthers -
Adds or Resigns: F-Cory Stillman, F-Rostislav Olesz (resign), F-Gregory Campbell, D-Keith Ballard, D-Nick Boynton.
Subtractions: F-Olli Jokinen
Fantasy Impact:
There is no denying that losing the teams captain and main offensive threat in Jokinen is going to be a tough hole to fill. Stillman still has some offensive clout, and he’ll see top 6 forward action for sure. Ballard and Boynton were traded together and are very likely to be paired together and log a huge amount of minutes for the offensively starved Panthers. Olesz’s resigning will help but he’ll be challenged to be better than what he’s been to date. Nathan Horton and Stephen Weiss are going to have to grow mightily for the Panthers to get better.
Montreal Canadiens –
Adds or Resigns: F-Alex Tanguay, F-Georges Laraque, Maxim Lapierre (resign), G-Jaroslav Halak, D-Shawn Belle.
Subtractions: Bryan Smolinski, Patrice Brisebois., Michael Ryder
Fantasy Impact:
After failing to land any of the big higher profile free agents in Hossa or Campbell, the Habs finally swung a deal for long sought after Alex Tanguay. Tanguay is a pass first winger with soft hands, starts slow and does have confidence issues. In Montreal the spotlight will be firmly shining upon him to produce and he’ll see top 6 forward time for sure. Locking up Halak gives the Habs excellent young net-minding when paired with Carey Price. Laraque will supply the much needed muscle for the smurf like Habs.
New Jersey Devils –
Adds or Resigns: F-Brian Rolston, F-Bobby Holik, F-Bryce Salvador (resign), F-Jay Pandolfo (resign), F-David Clarkson (resign), D-Bryce Salvador (resign).
Subtractions: none of fantasy value
Fantasy Impact:
The signings of Holik and Rolston actually brings the Devils full-circle as they re-sign two players that they originally drafted. Rolston will likely be the premiere center for the team while Holik will anchor the teams 3rd line. Without losing Elias, Parise or Zajac the most recent signings should help them on the offensive side of the game.
Adds or Resigns: D - Ron Hainsey, F - Jason Williams, F - Eric Boulton, F - Marty Reasnor
Subtractions: Alexei Zhitnik, Bobby Holik
Fantasy Imapct:
As a poolie looks at the depth of talent for the Thrashers, one has to be left with there is very little help for the Thrashers. Jason Williams will be an under-rated winger for the Thrashers, but he won’t make anyone forget about Marian Hossa. Williams will likely be on the top-line for the Thrashers – almost via default. Hainsey gives the Thrashers their best overall defenceman, in the team’s franchise history. Hainsey isn’t the best offensive defenceman, but he will log a lot of minutes. Reasoner is a 3rd liner at best, and Eric Boulton will out up lots of PIMS but little else.
Boston Bruins -
Adds or Resigns: F-Michael Ryder.
Subtractions: no one of fantasy impact
Fantasy Impact:
It’s been a pretty lean UFA signing period for the Bruins. Management of the team is banking on the return to health of Patrice Bergeron and the continued development of young players like: Kessel and Lucic. In Ryder, the Bruins shucked out a lot of dollars for a guy who is as streaky as they come and at times, so poor defensively that the offensive starved Habs couldn’t have him in the line-up. Come draft time, he might be a worth a flyer, particularly if the Bruins move Murray prior to the start of training camp.
Buffalo Sabres -
Adds or Resigns: D-Craig Rivet, G-Patrick Lalime, F-Paul Gaustad (resign), F-Dan Paille (resign), G-Ryan Miller (resign).
Subtractions: Steve Bernier
Fantasy Impact:
For the low budget Sabres, being able to keep the core of the team still in tack year to date has been pretty good. Rivet should help for the loss of Bernier - but he's not Brian Campbell. The team has got to move some your talent, and the stock pile of draft picks they now have, for proven scoring or they'll likely be on the outside looking in come playoff time.
Carolina Hurricanes -
Adds or Resigns: D-Joni Pitkanen, G-Michael Leighton, D-Tim Gleason (resign), F-Tuomo Ruutu (resign), D-Josef Melichar, D-Dennis Seidenberg, F-Chad Larose.
Subtractions: D-Bret Hedican, D-David Tanabe, F-Jeff Hamilton, F-Erik Hamilton.
Fantasy Impact:
The Hurricanes traded for and then signed enigmatic Joni Pitkanen to play a critical role for the ‘Canes and in particular, their power play. The issue is that Pitkanen hasn’t been that type of consistent defencemen since 2002. He’s a risky selection to be sure. Resigning Ruutu and Gleason are solid depth moves for the club. Losing Erik Cole to Edmonton means Andrew Ladd get a serious chance at a top 6 forward position.
Florida Panthers -
Adds or Resigns: F-Cory Stillman, F-Rostislav Olesz (resign), F-Gregory Campbell, D-Keith Ballard, D-Nick Boynton.
Subtractions: F-Olli Jokinen
Fantasy Impact:
There is no denying that losing the teams captain and main offensive threat in Jokinen is going to be a tough hole to fill. Stillman still has some offensive clout, and he’ll see top 6 forward action for sure. Ballard and Boynton were traded together and are very likely to be paired together and log a huge amount of minutes for the offensively starved Panthers. Olesz’s resigning will help but he’ll be challenged to be better than what he’s been to date. Nathan Horton and Stephen Weiss are going to have to grow mightily for the Panthers to get better.
Montreal Canadiens –
Adds or Resigns: F-Alex Tanguay, F-Georges Laraque, Maxim Lapierre (resign), G-Jaroslav Halak, D-Shawn Belle.
Subtractions: Bryan Smolinski, Patrice Brisebois., Michael Ryder
Fantasy Impact:
After failing to land any of the big higher profile free agents in Hossa or Campbell, the Habs finally swung a deal for long sought after Alex Tanguay. Tanguay is a pass first winger with soft hands, starts slow and does have confidence issues. In Montreal the spotlight will be firmly shining upon him to produce and he’ll see top 6 forward time for sure. Locking up Halak gives the Habs excellent young net-minding when paired with Carey Price. Laraque will supply the much needed muscle for the smurf like Habs.
New Jersey Devils –
Adds or Resigns: F-Brian Rolston, F-Bobby Holik, F-Bryce Salvador (resign), F-Jay Pandolfo (resign), F-David Clarkson (resign), D-Bryce Salvador (resign).
Subtractions: none of fantasy value
Fantasy Impact:
The signings of Holik and Rolston actually brings the Devils full-circle as they re-sign two players that they originally drafted. Rolston will likely be the premiere center for the team while Holik will anchor the teams 3rd line. Without losing Elias, Parise or Zajac the most recent signings should help them on the offensive side of the game.
Monday, July 07, 2008
Free Agent Frenzy (cont.) - Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Penguins:
Adds or Resigns – F Pascual Dupuis (resign), G - M.A. Fleury (resign) , F – Evgeni Malkin (resign), D – Brooks Orpik (resign), F - Ruslan Fedentenko, F - Miro Satan, F - Eric Goddard, F - Matt Cooke, D- Mark Eaton.
Subtractions – F - Ryan Malone, F- Gary Roberts, F- Marian Hossa, F - Georges Laraque, F - Jarkko Ruutu, G - Ty Conklin
Fantasy Impact:
With Malkin and Fleury still having to be resigned to long term deals as RFAs, it looked like Pens GM Shero was caught between a rock and hard place when trying to sign Marian Hossa. That said, Malkin gives the Pens the best 1-2 punch in the league down the middle and getting Fleury under-contract long term was crucial to the teams success. While still prone to the odd “bad goal” Fleury was very good in the playoffs and should elevate his game this year.
Fedetenko and Satan should together provide the grit and the scoring prowess of the departed Malone. In fact, Satan is in an excellent position to receive passes from either Crosby and Malkin. He’s a better scorer than Malone and looks more like a Petr Sykora type of player. If Fedetenko cracks the top 6, he might break 50 points. Eric Goddard assumes Laraque's role as the peace keeper for the Pens, while Matt Cooke is a better fit both on the ice and in the room than Jarkko Ruutu, but likely sees only 3rd line time.
Adds or Resigns – F Pascual Dupuis (resign), G - M.A. Fleury (resign) , F – Evgeni Malkin (resign), D – Brooks Orpik (resign), F - Ruslan Fedentenko, F - Miro Satan, F - Eric Goddard, F - Matt Cooke, D- Mark Eaton.
Subtractions – F - Ryan Malone, F- Gary Roberts, F- Marian Hossa, F - Georges Laraque, F - Jarkko Ruutu, G - Ty Conklin
Fantasy Impact:
With Malkin and Fleury still having to be resigned to long term deals as RFAs, it looked like Pens GM Shero was caught between a rock and hard place when trying to sign Marian Hossa. That said, Malkin gives the Pens the best 1-2 punch in the league down the middle and getting Fleury under-contract long term was crucial to the teams success. While still prone to the odd “bad goal” Fleury was very good in the playoffs and should elevate his game this year.
Fedetenko and Satan should together provide the grit and the scoring prowess of the departed Malone. In fact, Satan is in an excellent position to receive passes from either Crosby and Malkin. He’s a better scorer than Malone and looks more like a Petr Sykora type of player. If Fedetenko cracks the top 6, he might break 50 points. Eric Goddard assumes Laraque's role as the peace keeper for the Pens, while Matt Cooke is a better fit both on the ice and in the room than Jarkko Ruutu, but likely sees only 3rd line time.
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Free Agent Frenzy and More...
OK - it's taken a little time to catch up to the dozens and dozens of deals over the past week and a bit, but we think we've gotten there and are ready to give our two-cents from a fantasy perspective on all the moves. We are going to go team by team, give you an idea of the additions and subtractions and what we think the fantasy impact may be for the players and their respective teams. So, let's get started:
Tampa Bay Lightening:
Adds: F - Vaclav Prospal, F - Ryan Malone, F - Gary Roberts, D - Matt Carle, F - Radim Vrbata, F - Adam Hall, G - Olaf Kolzig, F - Ryan Craig (resigned), D - Janne Niskala, D - Ty Wishart.
Subtractions: D - Dan Boyle, D - Brad Lukowich.
Fantasy Impact: Wow. Where to start. the Lightening are clearly "reloading" and they are doing it right away. The additions to their team should make the team bigger and harder to play against. Vinnie Prospal is back and likely patrolling the wing with St. Louis on Lecavalier's line. Radim Vrbata and Ryan Malone made the best of their opportunities last year. Vrbata had 27 goals last season on a surprising Coyotes team. Malone had a similar goal out put last year in Pittsburgh. Both players will likely see 2nd line duty in Tampa so expect a little less production from him this coming season even with Steve Stamkos centering them. Hall, Roberts and Craig will battle for spots on the 3rd and 4th lines. Moving Dan Boyle to the Sharks creates a pretty big void for the Lightening. Their defence and goaltending were weak links last year, and Matt Carle regressed last year in San Jose. If new coach Barry Melrose can get Carle playing with confidence, the Lightening's impressive offence may turn him into a solid sleeper selection. Olaf Kolzig's contract isn't expensive, but it's loaded with incentives and we wonder what that holds for the future of Mike Smith. With younger goalie prospect Kari Ramo already in the fold, it looks like Smith may be on the outside looking in and is very likely being shopped. There are not very many teams however that may be looking for a #1 unproven goalie, but Colorado has to be a potential. Kolzig will face the same challenges that he had in Washington where the team is very likely to give up alot of scoring chances, but the team's potential for wins could be very high. Another solid sleeper.
Tampa Bay Lightening:
Adds: F - Vaclav Prospal, F - Ryan Malone, F - Gary Roberts, D - Matt Carle, F - Radim Vrbata, F - Adam Hall, G - Olaf Kolzig, F - Ryan Craig (resigned), D - Janne Niskala, D - Ty Wishart.
Subtractions: D - Dan Boyle, D - Brad Lukowich.
Fantasy Impact: Wow. Where to start. the Lightening are clearly "reloading" and they are doing it right away. The additions to their team should make the team bigger and harder to play against. Vinnie Prospal is back and likely patrolling the wing with St. Louis on Lecavalier's line. Radim Vrbata and Ryan Malone made the best of their opportunities last year. Vrbata had 27 goals last season on a surprising Coyotes team. Malone had a similar goal out put last year in Pittsburgh. Both players will likely see 2nd line duty in Tampa so expect a little less production from him this coming season even with Steve Stamkos centering them. Hall, Roberts and Craig will battle for spots on the 3rd and 4th lines. Moving Dan Boyle to the Sharks creates a pretty big void for the Lightening. Their defence and goaltending were weak links last year, and Matt Carle regressed last year in San Jose. If new coach Barry Melrose can get Carle playing with confidence, the Lightening's impressive offence may turn him into a solid sleeper selection. Olaf Kolzig's contract isn't expensive, but it's loaded with incentives and we wonder what that holds for the future of Mike Smith. With younger goalie prospect Kari Ramo already in the fold, it looks like Smith may be on the outside looking in and is very likely being shopped. There are not very many teams however that may be looking for a #1 unproven goalie, but Colorado has to be a potential. Kolzig will face the same challenges that he had in Washington where the team is very likely to give up alot of scoring chances, but the team's potential for wins could be very high. Another solid sleeper.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Trade Deadline Day - Part VI 1:15
Pittsburgh - the Pens picked up Marian Hossa and Pascal Dupuis from the Thrashers for Colby Armstrong, Erik Christensen, Angelo Esposito and a first round pick. This is a decent deal for the Thrashers, they get some depth, a decent prospect and a pick. For the Pens, they get a big shot in the offensive arm (potentially) and this could be a boom or bust swap. If Hossa can click with Crosby or Malkin, the East is the Pens to win.
Toronto - the Leafs moved Hal Gill to the Pens and Chad Kilger to the Panthers for a 2nd and 5th round pick. Gill gives the Pens some depth, while the Leafs get some extra picks in a deep NHL draft. Not much impact on the fantasy front however. Kilger gives the Panthers some size for a 3rd round pick.
NY Islanders - the Islanders moved Chris Simon to the Wild for a 6th round pick and Marc-Andre Bergeron to the Ducks for a 3rd round pick. Simon give the Wild even a tougher look for the next 20 games, and Bergeron should assist the Ducks in terms of moving the puck to their talented forwards and might see some 2nd unit PP time.
Detroit - the Red Wings scoop Brad Stuart from the Kings for a 2nd and 4th round pick. Stuart gives the Red Wings another decent defencemen to assist their injury plagued d-core. Stuart won't contribute enough offensively to make him worth alot of poolie attention.
LA Kings - the Kings also shipped JS Aubin to the Ducks for a 7th round pick. Aubin is a security blanket for the Ducks in case Giguere and/or Hillier go down; nothing more.
Phoenix - the Coyotes shipped Fredrik Sjostrom, David Leneveau and Josh Gratton to the Rangers for Marcel Hossa and Al Montoya. Not much fantasy impact here as the tow teams exchange at one time blue-chip prospects that could use a change of scenery.
NY Rangers - the Rangers acquired Christian Backman from the Blues for a 4th round pick. Backman is an average NMHL defenceman that gives the Rangers some depth for a draft pick for the Blues.
Toronto - the Leafs moved Hal Gill to the Pens and Chad Kilger to the Panthers for a 2nd and 5th round pick. Gill gives the Pens some depth, while the Leafs get some extra picks in a deep NHL draft. Not much impact on the fantasy front however. Kilger gives the Panthers some size for a 3rd round pick.
NY Islanders - the Islanders moved Chris Simon to the Wild for a 6th round pick and Marc-Andre Bergeron to the Ducks for a 3rd round pick. Simon give the Wild even a tougher look for the next 20 games, and Bergeron should assist the Ducks in terms of moving the puck to their talented forwards and might see some 2nd unit PP time.
Detroit - the Red Wings scoop Brad Stuart from the Kings for a 2nd and 4th round pick. Stuart gives the Red Wings another decent defencemen to assist their injury plagued d-core. Stuart won't contribute enough offensively to make him worth alot of poolie attention.
LA Kings - the Kings also shipped JS Aubin to the Ducks for a 7th round pick. Aubin is a security blanket for the Ducks in case Giguere and/or Hillier go down; nothing more.
Phoenix - the Coyotes shipped Fredrik Sjostrom, David Leneveau and Josh Gratton to the Rangers for Marcel Hossa and Al Montoya. Not much fantasy impact here as the tow teams exchange at one time blue-chip prospects that could use a change of scenery.
NY Rangers - the Rangers acquired Christian Backman from the Blues for a 4th round pick. Backman is an average NMHL defenceman that gives the Rangers some depth for a draft pick for the Blues.
Trade Deadline Day - Part VI 12:00
Washington - the Capitals have traded Matt Pettinger to the Vancouver Canucks for Matt Cooke. Fantasy impact wise, neither of these guys will excite poolie's as they both play a similar game. Unless your league counts hits, this won't be that much help. Cooke has not been a coach favorite.
Trade Deadline Day - Part V 11:30 a.m.
Columbus - the Blue Jackets have sent Sergei Federov to the Capitals for defenceman Theo Ruth. This is little more than a salary dump as Federov is little more than a 3rd line center/winger. Ruth is a long-term prospect. Not much fantasy value here.
New Jersey - the Devils have acquired Bryce Salvador from the Blues for Cam Janssen. For poolies, there isn't much value here other than perhaps Janssen PIMs.
New Jersey - the Devils have acquired Bryce Salvador from the Blues for Cam Janssen. For poolies, there isn't much value here other than perhaps Janssen PIMs.
Trade Deadline Day - Part IV 11:18 a.m.
Denver - the Avalanche appear to be loading up for the playoff run as they have made two separate deals to add Adam Foote from Columbus and Ruslan Salei from Florida for Karlis Skrastins and a 3rd round pick. Fantasy impact will not be significant for all teams involved. Salei is a better puck moving defenceman than Skrastins, and might see a little time on the PP. Foote has lost a step or two from his days in Colorado. For the stretch drive, he'll be counted on for his physicality and his leadership more than his offence.
Carolina - the Hurricanes have added Tuomo Ruutu from Chicago in exchange for Andrew Ladd. Both players could benefit from a change in scenery. Ruutu can settle into his role as the next Mike Ricci, while Ladd will get a long look as a top 6 forward from the 'Hawks.
Carolina - the Hurricanes have added Tuomo Ruutu from Chicago in exchange for Andrew Ladd. Both players could benefit from a change in scenery. Ruutu can settle into his role as the next Mike Ricci, while Ladd will get a long look as a top 6 forward from the 'Hawks.
Trade Dealine Day Part III - 11:00 a.m.
Ottawa - GM Bryan Murray has dealt a 6th round draft pick to the Blackhawks for Martin Lapointe. For fantasy poolies this is not the impactful deal that many were hoping the Sens would make. Expect Lapointe to contribute a little in the first few weeks, and then assume his role as a grinding checker on the Sens third-line.
Trade Dealine Day Part II - 8:00 a.m.
Montreal - the Habs have dealt soon to be UFA Cristobal Huet to the Washington Capitals for a 2nd round draft pick. Fantasy Impact - it appears that Montreal is clearing cap space with this move for a bigger deal to come (Hossa, Tanguay ?). For Washington, a bit of a noggin' scratcher in that they already have Kolzig and Johnston, unless they believe Huet can give them more than those two 'tenders.
Trade Deadline Day
6:51 - It's trade deadline day in the NHL, and we'll try and keep a running blog all day with the deals, rumored deals and other signings around the NHL. So let''s get to it.
Denver - it looks as though Peter Forsberg is going to give it another try, at a date TBD, sometime this year. Forsberg announced he signed with the Avs for the equivalent of $1M for the next 20 games. for poolies, it really comes down to how Forsberg's foot is feeling it terms of gauging his impact. If he was 100% healthy, we'd be saying to move heaven and earth to get him. That said, he's not, won't be and likely closer to 80%. He'll probably see time on the team's PP, and may even skate on the wing where he won't have to skate as much.
New York Islanders - Mike Comrie has re-upped with the Isles for another year at $4M. Solid move for both parties; Comrie's been the best Isle forward this year and he likes it in Long Island. Not much will change for the Isles on the fantasy impact front though, as the Islanders are likely on the outside looking in come playoff time.
Philadelphia - the Flyers have acquired Vaclav Prospal from the Tampa Bay Lightening for defensive prospect Alexandre Picard and conditional draft picks. Prospal should supply some secondary scoring for the Flyers. He's not the toughest guy in the locker room, but on the PP, he could be pretty solid. Picard is a rangy stay at home defenceman with limited up-side. The Lightening are getting a big guy, with good quickness but no hands.
Tampa Bay - and with the Lightning, GM Jay Feaster has locked up defenceman Dan Boyle with a 6 year, $40M contract. Boyle is one of the league's premiere offensive weapons, and should post excellent numbers for the years to come. Still with Tampa, it appears the 'Ning are close to trading Brad Ricahrds and Johan Holmqvist to the Dallas Stars for goalie Mike Smith, center Jeff Halpern and winger Jussi Jokinen. Fro ma poolie perspective, if you have either Smith of Richards this is a wonderful move for both players. Richards emerges from the shadow of Lecavalier, and likely forces Modano to the wing in Dallas, while Mike Smith gets the legitimate shot to be a #1 in Tampa Bay.
Buffalo - it looks as though the Sabres are on the verge of trading Brian Campbell to the Sharks for forward Steve Bernier and a first round draft pick. Fantasy impact - is wow, did Buffalo every screw themselves. The Sharks pick up a premiere defenceman in Campbell and give up a forward that was in and out of the coaches dog-house and a draft pick that is assured to be a very late first rounder. What a steal by the Sharks and what a cluster goober by the Sabres. What message does this send to the rest of the Sabres hockey team?
Toronto - the Leafs have dumped Wade Belak on the Panthers for a 5th round pick. Fantasy impact wise, unless you need PIMs, there isn't one.
Denver - it looks as though Peter Forsberg is going to give it another try, at a date TBD, sometime this year. Forsberg announced he signed with the Avs for the equivalent of $1M for the next 20 games. for poolies, it really comes down to how Forsberg's foot is feeling it terms of gauging his impact. If he was 100% healthy, we'd be saying to move heaven and earth to get him. That said, he's not, won't be and likely closer to 80%. He'll probably see time on the team's PP, and may even skate on the wing where he won't have to skate as much.
New York Islanders - Mike Comrie has re-upped with the Isles for another year at $4M. Solid move for both parties; Comrie's been the best Isle forward this year and he likes it in Long Island. Not much will change for the Isles on the fantasy impact front though, as the Islanders are likely on the outside looking in come playoff time.
Philadelphia - the Flyers have acquired Vaclav Prospal from the Tampa Bay Lightening for defensive prospect Alexandre Picard and conditional draft picks. Prospal should supply some secondary scoring for the Flyers. He's not the toughest guy in the locker room, but on the PP, he could be pretty solid. Picard is a rangy stay at home defenceman with limited up-side. The Lightening are getting a big guy, with good quickness but no hands.
Tampa Bay - and with the Lightning, GM Jay Feaster has locked up defenceman Dan Boyle with a 6 year, $40M contract. Boyle is one of the league's premiere offensive weapons, and should post excellent numbers for the years to come. Still with Tampa, it appears the 'Ning are close to trading Brad Ricahrds and Johan Holmqvist to the Dallas Stars for goalie Mike Smith, center Jeff Halpern and winger Jussi Jokinen. Fro ma poolie perspective, if you have either Smith of Richards this is a wonderful move for both players. Richards emerges from the shadow of Lecavalier, and likely forces Modano to the wing in Dallas, while Mike Smith gets the legitimate shot to be a #1 in Tampa Bay.
Buffalo - it looks as though the Sabres are on the verge of trading Brian Campbell to the Sharks for forward Steve Bernier and a first round draft pick. Fantasy impact - is wow, did Buffalo every screw themselves. The Sharks pick up a premiere defenceman in Campbell and give up a forward that was in and out of the coaches dog-house and a draft pick that is assured to be a very late first rounder. What a steal by the Sharks and what a cluster goober by the Sabres. What message does this send to the rest of the Sabres hockey team?
Toronto - the Leafs have dumped Wade Belak on the Panthers for a 5th round pick. Fantasy impact wise, unless you need PIMs, there isn't one.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Selanne a Duck Again
Anaheim - Teemu Selanne's signing for the remainder of the NHL season, does one of two things; it gives the Ducks yet another veteran weapon without actually giving up any assets, and it announces to the rest of the league that the Ducks full intend on defending the title; ferociously. The Ducks look poised to make some noise over the last 30 games of the season.
Fantasy Impact: we anticipate that it will take Selanne a few weeks to get his timing before he begins to make an impact. Look for him to be paired with Bertuzzi and Weight on a very good 2nd line.
Fantasy Impact: we anticipate that it will take Selanne a few weeks to get his timing before he begins to make an impact. Look for him to be paired with Bertuzzi and Weight on a very good 2nd line.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
More league rumblings
Tampa Bay - how much longer coach John. T. holds his job will depend on how well his team comes out of it's latest slump. Their goaltending has not been very good again, but the bigger concern is the teams' defence - which is practically non-existent. Almost every game the 'Ning are falling behind in games forcing them to play their big 3 a ton of minutes. Soon to be returning Dan Boyle should help, but the team may be too far down the standings to make a push for the playoffs. With Vinnie Lecavalier a pending RFA, and rumors are already heating up that Montreal will gladly pay the 5 draft picks to sign him, Tampa is really up against. Look for them to try and move either St. Louis or Richards if things don't improve for a goalie and some defence help.
Calgary - the Flames watched like many a GM last month at the performance of Curtis Joseph. So much so, that they signed the veteran netminder to a remainder one-year deal. CuJo comes in to back up Kippersuff and gives the team a little more depth between the pipes should they need to call on their back-up. He won't put up huge numbers, but he should see a few more starts in the 2nd half as the Flames ready themselves for the playoffs.
Ottawa - is rumored to be combing teams in the Western Conference looking for a veteran forward that could play in their top 6. With Phoenix playing so well, the 'Yotes won't be parting with Sahne Doan any time soon. In LA, Michal Handzus and/or Kyle Calder could be had, but the real question would be if either of those players could help the Senators. Columbus Blue Jackets are set to welcome Fredrik Modin back from a season long back injury, and it may be to showcase him.
Toronto - now that the Leafs have lost a number of games, the team is reportedly looking to gas GM John Fergsuon Jr.. In the meantime, JFJ is said to be shopping under-achieving Jason Blake, but to no one's surprise there are very little takers for him and his $15M over the next 4 years still owed, as well as $2.5 for this season. The Canucks were reportedly interested in looking at Blake, but they're wouldn't be much coming back to the Leafs in return for the salary dump.
Calgary - the Flames watched like many a GM last month at the performance of Curtis Joseph. So much so, that they signed the veteran netminder to a remainder one-year deal. CuJo comes in to back up Kippersuff and gives the team a little more depth between the pipes should they need to call on their back-up. He won't put up huge numbers, but he should see a few more starts in the 2nd half as the Flames ready themselves for the playoffs.
Ottawa - is rumored to be combing teams in the Western Conference looking for a veteran forward that could play in their top 6. With Phoenix playing so well, the 'Yotes won't be parting with Sahne Doan any time soon. In LA, Michal Handzus and/or Kyle Calder could be had, but the real question would be if either of those players could help the Senators. Columbus Blue Jackets are set to welcome Fredrik Modin back from a season long back injury, and it may be to showcase him.
Toronto - now that the Leafs have lost a number of games, the team is reportedly looking to gas GM John Fergsuon Jr.. In the meantime, JFJ is said to be shopping under-achieving Jason Blake, but to no one's surprise there are very little takers for him and his $15M over the next 4 years still owed, as well as $2.5 for this season. The Canucks were reportedly interested in looking at Blake, but they're wouldn't be much coming back to the Leafs in return for the salary dump.
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