Many people felt that this could be the cup final at the start of the season. It should prove to be a hard hitting and entertaining final, but thats not what we are here to discuss. We are going to look at how the final could effect the teams fantasy values next season.
The Stanley Cup hangover is certainly real. We have seen it hit year after year. While its not always a sure thing, it is something to consider before drafting. Chris Pronger has now gone to the final back to back seasons. That is a lot of hockey and could effect his performance next season. Don't be surprised if he starts off slow. Not to mention the playoff heroes that create hype only to vanish the next season. How many managers did you know who drafted Pisani high this year? He had a wrist shot like Sakic in the playoffs but he had no touch in the regular season to follow.
Eric Staal looked like a lock for 50 goals this season, or at least 40. Yet his brother Jordan scored more than Eric this season. In keeper leagues managers can look at the big picture and they know they have quality, but in a one year race these drops in production can kill you.
Ottawa will get numbers from Spezza and Heatly no matter what happens, but will Alfredsson skill post big numbers? He is getting long in the tooth and will have had a miraculous post season. This could spell a drop next season. He could be rested more, Eaves could receive more ice time on the top lines.
Anaheim saw a second straight huge season from Teemu Selanne, but his age and a long cup run could result in a drop next season. No matter what happens in the final, Selanne will have to work extremely hard in the off season to be ready for the long 82 game schedule. While I can't see him retiring while he is playing at this level, I can see him resting and coming on a little more slowly next season. Be it for another chance to win the cup or to try and defend.
The emergence of Perry, Penner and Getzlaf could mean less ice-time for Selanne and Mcdonald next season. While nothing is certain, you can be sure that there will be an effect from a cup run and you should be prepared for it in one year pools.
While players like Alfredsson and Selanne could easily repeat their production next year, there is also a big chance they scale it back to rest their bodies or simply won't have a full tank to start the year. It might be smarter in a one year pool to draft a stud who will be more rested and hungry to start the season. If your guy tarts hot you could always move him for an older stud who starts slow plus a player and get their production once they get their legs.
Just start planning ahead and thinking about how you can out think other managers, this can go a long way in bringing you a title.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Recent Signings of Signifigance
Ryan Kesler: Vancouver resigned Kesler to a three year deal. Kesler needs to start putting up more points or he will just be a speed player that disappoints fantasy owners.
Lasse Kukkonen: The Flyers signed the promising young D-man to a two year deal. He showed he had a big shot last season, it will be interesting to see how PHI uses him.
Scottie Upshall: Signed a two year deal with the Flyers, now we just need to see if he will be on one of the top two lines. He could really breakout next season.
Nicklas Backstrom: Washington signed their promising young center prospect to a three year deal. Look for him to play with Semin next year 5 on 5 and not Ovechkin.
Jonathan Toews: Chicago inked Toews to a three year deal. He could center Havlat next season on the top line.
Johan Holmqvist: Tampa inked him to a one year deal to see if he could improve on last season. Tampa will have three guys competing for ice in net, and I would avoid all three of them!
Nikolai Kulemin: Toronto inked him to an entry level contract. At 20 years of age this kid can score goals. He will be staying in Russia next season, but keep him on your keeper league radar for the future.
Jordan Leopold: Colorado signed Leopold to a two year deal. We sure hope he can stay healthy next season. He has a decent shot and should see PP time.
Lasse Kukkonen: The Flyers signed the promising young D-man to a two year deal. He showed he had a big shot last season, it will be interesting to see how PHI uses him.
Scottie Upshall: Signed a two year deal with the Flyers, now we just need to see if he will be on one of the top two lines. He could really breakout next season.
Nicklas Backstrom: Washington signed their promising young center prospect to a three year deal. Look for him to play with Semin next year 5 on 5 and not Ovechkin.
Jonathan Toews: Chicago inked Toews to a three year deal. He could center Havlat next season on the top line.
Johan Holmqvist: Tampa inked him to a one year deal to see if he could improve on last season. Tampa will have three guys competing for ice in net, and I would avoid all three of them!
Nikolai Kulemin: Toronto inked him to an entry level contract. At 20 years of age this kid can score goals. He will be staying in Russia next season, but keep him on your keeper league radar for the future.
Jordan Leopold: Colorado signed Leopold to a two year deal. We sure hope he can stay healthy next season. He has a decent shot and should see PP time.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Team Cheat Sheet: Toronto Maple Leafs
Here comes the fast rundown. DND = Do Not Draft
Toronto Maple Leafs:
Antropov, Nik C - He is worth a look in deep leagues and should have a career year next season.
Aubin, Jean-Sebastien G - :UPDATE: No Value after the Toskala deal: DND
Battaglia, Bates LW - FA match up play only. DND
Belak, Wade D - Great PIM player, especially when he plays OTT. PIM league, deep pool pick.
Bell, Mark LW - :UPDATE: Acquired from SJS: I have said all along he still has 30 goal and 100 PIM potential. With Sundin to lead him and a new environment I expect a huge bounce back season. Solid pick for PIM leagues.
Blake, Jason LW - UPDATE No one sees Blake repeating last season's numbers, and he could hurt Bell's production as well. Blake is still a decent LW option for all leagues but is getting a little old to take early in keepers.
Clemmesen, Scott G - UPDATE His arrival could spell goodbye to Raycroft. DND
Colaiacovo, Carlo D - Could break out next season, kep an eye on. Late rounder for deep leagues.
Devereaux, Boyd C - Not enough fantasy game. DND
Gill, Hal D - Gets a few points and decent PIMs. Deep pool option.
Green, Travis C - No value here. DND
Kaberle, Tomas D - Good option on the blue line, few PIMs. Great option if you just want points.
Kilger, Chad LW - Decent FA for match up play. DND
Kubina, Pavel D - Good filler for injuries. Had some hot streaks last season. DND
McCabe, Bryan D - Top tier D option. Great for all leagues.
Newbury, Kris C - No value here. DND
O'Neill, Jeff C/RW - Worth a gamble in deep leagues if nothing else is left.
Peca, Michael C - Not much fantasy value here. Match up play at best. DND
Pogge, Justin G - If Leaf nation turns on Razor next year this kid could see some starts. Decent option for deep keepers and farm teams.
Pohl, Johnny C - Keep an eye on in case he gets more PP time or better ice. DND
Ponikarovsky, Alexei LW - Decent option at LW in middle rounds. Good for 20-30 goals.
Raycroft, Andrew G - :UPDATE: With Toskala in town, Razor could be traded soon. If he is not traded he will have to battle for starts since it looks like the Leafs have brought in a new #1.
Stajan, Matthew C - Love this kid but he seems locked into a 3rd line/stopper role. Little value.
Steen, Alexander C - Good upside and young. Good keeper option, lesser value in standard pools until he breaks out.
Sundin, Mats C - The old man should be a lock for a PPG, good PIMs and huge SOG totals. Good for all pools. Look to sell him high this season if you have him in keepers. Look to the future.
Tlusty, Jiri C - Leafs expect big things from him, and keeper managers can too. Year or two away.
Toskala, Vesa G - :UPDATE: Acquired from SJS: The leafs are looking to extend him, which means he is here to do more than push Raycroft. A decent goalie, but his value will depend on what the Leafs do with Raycroft.
Tucker, Darcy LW/RW - I don't buy into a scoring tucker, but in PIM leagues he is a solid option.
Wellwood, Kyle C - He was enjoying a breakout season until injury struck. Great assist and PP guy.
White, Ian D - Worth keeping an eye on. Showed decent coring skills and is young.
Wozniewski, Andy D - No value here. DND
Thats it, check back for updates as players change teams and prospects move up the food chain.
Toronto Maple Leafs:
Antropov, Nik C - He is worth a look in deep leagues and should have a career year next season.
Aubin, Jean-Sebastien G - :UPDATE: No Value after the Toskala deal: DND
Battaglia, Bates LW - FA match up play only. DND
Belak, Wade D - Great PIM player, especially when he plays OTT. PIM league, deep pool pick.
Bell, Mark LW - :UPDATE: Acquired from SJS: I have said all along he still has 30 goal and 100 PIM potential. With Sundin to lead him and a new environment I expect a huge bounce back season. Solid pick for PIM leagues.
Blake, Jason LW - UPDATE No one sees Blake repeating last season's numbers, and he could hurt Bell's production as well. Blake is still a decent LW option for all leagues but is getting a little old to take early in keepers.
Clemmesen, Scott G - UPDATE His arrival could spell goodbye to Raycroft. DND
Colaiacovo, Carlo D - Could break out next season, kep an eye on. Late rounder for deep leagues.
Devereaux, Boyd C - Not enough fantasy game. DND
Gill, Hal D - Gets a few points and decent PIMs. Deep pool option.
Green, Travis C - No value here. DND
Kaberle, Tomas D - Good option on the blue line, few PIMs. Great option if you just want points.
Kilger, Chad LW - Decent FA for match up play. DND
Kubina, Pavel D - Good filler for injuries. Had some hot streaks last season. DND
McCabe, Bryan D - Top tier D option. Great for all leagues.
Newbury, Kris C - No value here. DND
O'Neill, Jeff C/RW - Worth a gamble in deep leagues if nothing else is left.
Peca, Michael C - Not much fantasy value here. Match up play at best. DND
Pogge, Justin G - If Leaf nation turns on Razor next year this kid could see some starts. Decent option for deep keepers and farm teams.
Pohl, Johnny C - Keep an eye on in case he gets more PP time or better ice. DND
Ponikarovsky, Alexei LW - Decent option at LW in middle rounds. Good for 20-30 goals.
Raycroft, Andrew G - :UPDATE: With Toskala in town, Razor could be traded soon. If he is not traded he will have to battle for starts since it looks like the Leafs have brought in a new #1.
Stajan, Matthew C - Love this kid but he seems locked into a 3rd line/stopper role. Little value.
Steen, Alexander C - Good upside and young. Good keeper option, lesser value in standard pools until he breaks out.
Sundin, Mats C - The old man should be a lock for a PPG, good PIMs and huge SOG totals. Good for all pools. Look to sell him high this season if you have him in keepers. Look to the future.
Tlusty, Jiri C - Leafs expect big things from him, and keeper managers can too. Year or two away.
Toskala, Vesa G - :UPDATE: Acquired from SJS: The leafs are looking to extend him, which means he is here to do more than push Raycroft. A decent goalie, but his value will depend on what the Leafs do with Raycroft.
Tucker, Darcy LW/RW - I don't buy into a scoring tucker, but in PIM leagues he is a solid option.
Wellwood, Kyle C - He was enjoying a breakout season until injury struck. Great assist and PP guy.
White, Ian D - Worth keeping an eye on. Showed decent coring skills and is young.
Wozniewski, Andy D - No value here. DND
Thats it, check back for updates as players change teams and prospects move up the food chain.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Team Cheat Sheet: Los Angeles Kings
I think we have enough of these in the books to know the drill. DND = Do Not Draft
LA Kings:
Armstrong, Derek C - He had a career year last season and that was not much. DND
Blake, Rob D - He will get you pts, PPPs, SOG and a nasty minus. No longer top tier but serviceable. In leagues that don't use +/- he is a top D pick.
Brown, Dustin LW/RW - Should have better numbers next year as the Kings get better. Worth a look in keeper PIM leagues.
Burke, Sean G - The Kings could roll with three goalies next season. That eats up too many roster spots for mid-level numbers at best. DND
Calder, Kyle LW - UPDATE While I see Calder bouncing back next season, he does not look to get much PP time. Look for Calder's stats to improve but he should not get the production he did while in DET. He will be a great player in SHP leagues.
Cammalleri, Michael C - This kid should only get better. Early keeper pick.
Cloutier, Dan G - Like Burke, not much value unless desperate. DND
Dallman, Kevin D - No value here. DND
Frolov, Alexander LW - Has 50 goal potential. High keeper pick.
Handzus, Michal C - UPDATE Look for Handy to play the shut down role in LA. Don't expect the numbers he put up while skating with Havlat. DND
Heward, Jamie D - He can put up decent numbers. about 1 point every 3 games. Late round of deep leagues.
Ivanans, Raitis D/LW - One of my favorite plays last year for PIMs. Good for PIM leagues that use fighters.
Johnson, Jack D - Prospect gold. People compare him to some of the best. Fantasy owners will be drafting him early in keeper leagues. Don't over reach for him, take a proven players first.
Kopitar, Anze C - His +/- will get better and so should his production. Great keeper pick. He may be a year away from helping in shallow roto leagues.
Labarbera, Jason G - He could be the #1 next year. Keep an eye on him.
Lundmark, Jaime C - This is not the sleeper for you. DND
McCauley, Alyn C - Centers like this are a dime a dozen. DND
Modry, Jaroslav D - Has the shot to score goals, but does not score enough. DND
Nagy, Ladislav LW - UPDATE He could be a fantasy monster or a fantasy bust. He will have more talented centers to play with than he did last year (no disrespect to Modano). Look for Nagy to be close to a PPG player.
O'Sullivan, Patrick C - If he and Kopitar don't party too much he could break out next year. Solid keeper draft pick.
Piskula, Joe D - Prospect not ready for a look yet. DND
Preissing, Tom D - UPDATE A solid late round D option who can score some points. He does not get many PIMs and is behind Vis and Blake on the PP unit. Deep leagues only.
Stuart, Brad D - UPDATE Once thought to be a very good option for points and PIMs, I would stay away until he regains form, Especially given how deep LA is on offensive D-men. Match up play only. DND
Thornton, Scott LW - With the deep young talent of the Kings his ice time is in trouble. DND
Tukonen, Lauri RW - Next season should see him get NHL time. He can score some goals and get some PIMs. Good keeper pick. Not ready to contribute for most leagues.
Visnovsky, Lubomir D - When healthy he can really pile up points. Great pick for all leagues.
Weaver, Mike D - Decent shot, but he is too deep on the depth chart. DND
Willsie, Brian RW - FA match up play. DND
Thats it for now, keep checking for updates as players change teams and prospects move up the food chain.
LA Kings:
Armstrong, Derek C - He had a career year last season and that was not much. DND
Blake, Rob D - He will get you pts, PPPs, SOG and a nasty minus. No longer top tier but serviceable. In leagues that don't use +/- he is a top D pick.
Brown, Dustin LW/RW - Should have better numbers next year as the Kings get better. Worth a look in keeper PIM leagues.
Burke, Sean G - The Kings could roll with three goalies next season. That eats up too many roster spots for mid-level numbers at best. DND
Calder, Kyle LW - UPDATE While I see Calder bouncing back next season, he does not look to get much PP time. Look for Calder's stats to improve but he should not get the production he did while in DET. He will be a great player in SHP leagues.
Cammalleri, Michael C - This kid should only get better. Early keeper pick.
Cloutier, Dan G - Like Burke, not much value unless desperate. DND
Dallman, Kevin D - No value here. DND
Frolov, Alexander LW - Has 50 goal potential. High keeper pick.
Handzus, Michal C - UPDATE Look for Handy to play the shut down role in LA. Don't expect the numbers he put up while skating with Havlat. DND
Heward, Jamie D - He can put up decent numbers. about 1 point every 3 games. Late round of deep leagues.
Ivanans, Raitis D/LW - One of my favorite plays last year for PIMs. Good for PIM leagues that use fighters.
Johnson, Jack D - Prospect gold. People compare him to some of the best. Fantasy owners will be drafting him early in keeper leagues. Don't over reach for him, take a proven players first.
Kopitar, Anze C - His +/- will get better and so should his production. Great keeper pick. He may be a year away from helping in shallow roto leagues.
Labarbera, Jason G - He could be the #1 next year. Keep an eye on him.
Lundmark, Jaime C - This is not the sleeper for you. DND
McCauley, Alyn C - Centers like this are a dime a dozen. DND
Modry, Jaroslav D - Has the shot to score goals, but does not score enough. DND
Nagy, Ladislav LW - UPDATE He could be a fantasy monster or a fantasy bust. He will have more talented centers to play with than he did last year (no disrespect to Modano). Look for Nagy to be close to a PPG player.
O'Sullivan, Patrick C - If he and Kopitar don't party too much he could break out next year. Solid keeper draft pick.
Piskula, Joe D - Prospect not ready for a look yet. DND
Preissing, Tom D - UPDATE A solid late round D option who can score some points. He does not get many PIMs and is behind Vis and Blake on the PP unit. Deep leagues only.
Stuart, Brad D - UPDATE Once thought to be a very good option for points and PIMs, I would stay away until he regains form, Especially given how deep LA is on offensive D-men. Match up play only. DND
Thornton, Scott LW - With the deep young talent of the Kings his ice time is in trouble. DND
Tukonen, Lauri RW - Next season should see him get NHL time. He can score some goals and get some PIMs. Good keeper pick. Not ready to contribute for most leagues.
Visnovsky, Lubomir D - When healthy he can really pile up points. Great pick for all leagues.
Weaver, Mike D - Decent shot, but he is too deep on the depth chart. DND
Willsie, Brian RW - FA match up play. DND
Thats it for now, keep checking for updates as players change teams and prospects move up the food chain.
Team Cheat Sheet: Dallas Stars
Here is the rundown including the UFA players. I will update as players come and go. DND = Do Not Draft
Dallas Stars:
Barch, Krys RW - With Barnaby and Morrow out Barch unloaded for 107 PIMs in just 26 games. Good PIM guy for leagues that use fighters.
Barnaby, Matthew RW - This guy should retire, if not you can get PIMs somewhere else. DND
Barnes, Stu C - At his age and production he could be used for FA match up play but DND
Baumgartner, Nolan D - A good PIM Dman but will he be in the league? DND
Boucher, Philippe D - In a class with Souray and Phanuef. Great pick for all leagues.
Daley, Trevor D - He never seems to meet his offensive potential. DND
Eriksson Loui LW - Keeper prospect. Has big offensive upside. Goal scorer.
Fedoruk, Todd LW - UPDATE Good match up guy for PIMs but DND him in fighter leagues. He is one bad punch away from retirement.
Hagman, Niklas LW - FA match up play only, DND
Halpern, Jeff C - 40 pt potential is not draft worthy. DND
Jokinen, Jussi LW - Has yet to bloom but could be a goal scorer. Worth a look.
Klemm, Jon - No value here. DND
Lehtinen, Jere LW/RW - He can score goals, but thats all he brings. Let someone else take him. DND
Lindros, Eric C/RW - Once a fantasy monster, injuries make him high risk with limited reward. If you draft him take him late, very late.
Miettinen, Antti LW/RW - Another Dallas guy that has yet to live up to his offensive potential. Keep an eye on him during the season but DND
Modano, Mike C - He can still get it done if healthy, but since centers are a dime a dozen, let someone else take him. DND
Morrow, Brenden LW - In PIM leagues this guy is a must. Even though he wants to cut down on his PIMs he is still going to rack them up. He gets all around stats.
Norstrom, Mattias D - Solid in real life, no fantasy value. DND
Ott, Steve C/LW - Decent FA PIM play. DND
Peterson, Toby C - UPDATE Someone should have told Dallas that getting more like EDM was not a good thing. DND
Riberio, Mike C - He has the game, but his effort and heart are questionable. Decent numbers but I'd take a different center. DND
Robidas, Stephane D - Has PIM value in deep leagues
Smith, Mike G - He is certainly worth a bench spot if you want to carry a back up goalie. He could even end up splinting time next season .
Stefan, Patrik C - Just another Dallas center I have to say DND on.
Turco, Marty G - Has solid numbers every year. Not great for H2H leagues due to slumps each season.
Winchester, Brad C - UPDATE Not sure where he fits into Dallas, but he does not fit in on any team for fantasy. DND
Zubov, Sergei D - Has the skill, but age and injuries are always a concern. Don't overreach for him.
Thats it for now. Many of these guys are held back due to the style of play in Dallas. If Dallas ever opens it up on offense look for several guys to explode. Check in for updates as players move around.
Dallas Stars:
Barch, Krys RW - With Barnaby and Morrow out Barch unloaded for 107 PIMs in just 26 games. Good PIM guy for leagues that use fighters.
Barnaby, Matthew RW - This guy should retire, if not you can get PIMs somewhere else. DND
Barnes, Stu C - At his age and production he could be used for FA match up play but DND
Baumgartner, Nolan D - A good PIM Dman but will he be in the league? DND
Boucher, Philippe D - In a class with Souray and Phanuef. Great pick for all leagues.
Daley, Trevor D - He never seems to meet his offensive potential. DND
Eriksson Loui LW - Keeper prospect. Has big offensive upside. Goal scorer.
Fedoruk, Todd LW - UPDATE Good match up guy for PIMs but DND him in fighter leagues. He is one bad punch away from retirement.
Hagman, Niklas LW - FA match up play only, DND
Halpern, Jeff C - 40 pt potential is not draft worthy. DND
Jokinen, Jussi LW - Has yet to bloom but could be a goal scorer. Worth a look.
Klemm, Jon - No value here. DND
Lehtinen, Jere LW/RW - He can score goals, but thats all he brings. Let someone else take him. DND
Lindros, Eric C/RW - Once a fantasy monster, injuries make him high risk with limited reward. If you draft him take him late, very late.
Miettinen, Antti LW/RW - Another Dallas guy that has yet to live up to his offensive potential. Keep an eye on him during the season but DND
Modano, Mike C - He can still get it done if healthy, but since centers are a dime a dozen, let someone else take him. DND
Morrow, Brenden LW - In PIM leagues this guy is a must. Even though he wants to cut down on his PIMs he is still going to rack them up. He gets all around stats.
Norstrom, Mattias D - Solid in real life, no fantasy value. DND
Ott, Steve C/LW - Decent FA PIM play. DND
Peterson, Toby C - UPDATE Someone should have told Dallas that getting more like EDM was not a good thing. DND
Riberio, Mike C - He has the game, but his effort and heart are questionable. Decent numbers but I'd take a different center. DND
Robidas, Stephane D - Has PIM value in deep leagues
Smith, Mike G - He is certainly worth a bench spot if you want to carry a back up goalie. He could even end up splinting time next season .
Stefan, Patrik C - Just another Dallas center I have to say DND on.
Turco, Marty G - Has solid numbers every year. Not great for H2H leagues due to slumps each season.
Winchester, Brad C - UPDATE Not sure where he fits into Dallas, but he does not fit in on any team for fantasy. DND
Zubov, Sergei D - Has the skill, but age and injuries are always a concern. Don't overreach for him.
Thats it for now. Many of these guys are held back due to the style of play in Dallas. If Dallas ever opens it up on offense look for several guys to explode. Check in for updates as players move around.
Player Breakdown: Dion Phaneuf
Dion Phaneuf D/CGY If you have played fantasy hockey the last two years then this name is very familiar to you. Phaneuf exploded onto the fantasy scene in the 2005/2006 season. He scored 20 goals as a rookie on the blue line and he was strong in his own end. He is every real life and fantasy managers dream.
At 6'2" and 220 lbs he hits even bigger than his size. He looks for the big hit, stands up for his teammates and drops the gloves. His PIM totals should stay between 80 and 100 for a long time. His cannon from the blue line on the power play is among the best in the NHL and he is accurate too.
While his rookie stats were slightly better for fantasy managers than last season, he suffered no sophomore slump. He put up 17 goals, 33 assists for 50 pts in 79 games played and was +10. Dion added 98 PIMs, 31 PPPs and had 4 GWGs and registered 230 SOG.
While Phaneuf might not enjoy huge assist totals playing in Calgary he will continue to play in every situation and put up goals and PIMs with the best of them. This guy is a monster and one of only a handful of defense men I feel is worth a keeper spot.
At 6'2" and 220 lbs he hits even bigger than his size. He looks for the big hit, stands up for his teammates and drops the gloves. His PIM totals should stay between 80 and 100 for a long time. His cannon from the blue line on the power play is among the best in the NHL and he is accurate too.
While his rookie stats were slightly better for fantasy managers than last season, he suffered no sophomore slump. He put up 17 goals, 33 assists for 50 pts in 79 games played and was +10. Dion added 98 PIMs, 31 PPPs and had 4 GWGs and registered 230 SOG.
While Phaneuf might not enjoy huge assist totals playing in Calgary he will continue to play in every situation and put up goals and PIMs with the best of them. This guy is a monster and one of only a handful of defense men I feel is worth a keeper spot.
Dark Horse: Mark Bell
Mark Bell LW, TOR UPDATE a 5 month jail sentence could hurt my prediction here! Just like his former teammate Kyle Calder this season was forgettable for Bell. The hype and buzz on Bell going to San Jose to play with Thornton and Cheechoo was huge. I bought in hook line and sinker. I looked at Bell's last season in Chicago, I looked at his age and I felt he was ready to hit his prime. I pictured the next Morrow and a shot at 30-40 goals and 100 PIMs. While Bell came up way short on the points, he did still add in 83 PIMs. I was lucky enough to trade Bell off in all my leagues before he killed me. However, I am hoping he re-enters the draft in my keeper league.
While I highlighted Bell in my Bounce Back article, I felt it was important to list him and Calder as dark horses for next season. Lets look at all that went wrong for Bell last season. He started off the summer with a driving under the influence violation, that hung over his head most all season. He had repeated groin issues that nagged him all season, and he struggled to find his role on the team.
Why will next season be any different? Hopefully his legal and injury problems will be behind him, allowing him to just focus on hockey. He still has Thornton and Marleau to set him up and if he gets hot he will earn more power play time. Plus he still plays nasty and drops the gloves no matter how the rest of his season is going. He can get 20-30 goals and 100+ PIMs next season even if he struggles and is inconsistent.
Bell has never been consistent, the key is riding him when he is hot and playing him for PIM match ups. Managers are going to go for the big names when they draft SJS players, if you miss out on the big names you can steal Bell late in your draft and get a piece of the action. He could come cheap with high reward. Don't be afraid to trade for him if he starts slow next season either. If Bell starts slow, managers will panic he is going to repeat last season and you can land him for next to nothing, maybe even get him off the waiver wire if managers drop him.
Not many players are capable of 30 goals and 100 PIMs in fantasy, so don't forget about Bell because of last season.
UPDATE: Bell moving to TOR could give him the fresh start he needs. He will have Sundin and Wellwood to pass him the puck and will get plenty of ice in Toronto. The arrival of Jason Blake hurts Bell's value in my eyes but I still believe he is capable or 30 goals and 100 PIMs.
While I highlighted Bell in my Bounce Back article, I felt it was important to list him and Calder as dark horses for next season. Lets look at all that went wrong for Bell last season. He started off the summer with a driving under the influence violation, that hung over his head most all season. He had repeated groin issues that nagged him all season, and he struggled to find his role on the team.
Why will next season be any different? Hopefully his legal and injury problems will be behind him, allowing him to just focus on hockey. He still has Thornton and Marleau to set him up and if he gets hot he will earn more power play time. Plus he still plays nasty and drops the gloves no matter how the rest of his season is going. He can get 20-30 goals and 100+ PIMs next season even if he struggles and is inconsistent.
Bell has never been consistent, the key is riding him when he is hot and playing him for PIM match ups. Managers are going to go for the big names when they draft SJS players, if you miss out on the big names you can steal Bell late in your draft and get a piece of the action. He could come cheap with high reward. Don't be afraid to trade for him if he starts slow next season either. If Bell starts slow, managers will panic he is going to repeat last season and you can land him for next to nothing, maybe even get him off the waiver wire if managers drop him.
Not many players are capable of 30 goals and 100 PIMs in fantasy, so don't forget about Bell because of last season.
UPDATE: Bell moving to TOR could give him the fresh start he needs. He will have Sundin and Wellwood to pass him the puck and will get plenty of ice in Toronto. The arrival of Jason Blake hurts Bell's value in my eyes but I still believe he is capable or 30 goals and 100 PIMs.
Dark Horse: Kyle Calder
Kyle Calder LW, LA This season saw a lot of ups and downs for Calder. Sitting on a minus 25 for the season when he left PHI in a trade to DET it looked like anything Calder touched turned bad. If you watched him play later in the season the effort was there, especially on the PK. No matter how hard he worked, Calder could not get it going on offense. Lots of trade rumors surrounded Calder but not many felt PHI would find a dance partner. Then DET came calling and Calder fit right in. Calder found his scoring touch and as a manager who added him to my roster near the trade deadline and benched him until he was traded, I saw big rewards. Calder averaged a PPG over his first thirteen for DET. While he did trail off some after that, he showed fantasy owners he was not dead yet. Calder found where the back of the net was again and also found himself in the playoffs instead of on the golf course. Even facing elimination in ANH for game six Calder is on a high from his days in PHI.
When Calder and Bell left Chicago last season Blackhawk fans were sick. After the struggles Bell and Calder had this season and with the arrival of Havlat in Chicago fans barely remember their names, and many fantasy managers don't either.
Calder has 25-30 goal potential in his game and his gritty style means he can add up some PIMs along the way. LW is not a deep position in fantasy hockey so if you can snag Calder late he could reward you big time.
Where Calder signs next season could tell us a lot. Once Calder signs I will break down his chances for success in his new city. Just remember the bounce back factor, Calder can't do any worse and he has shown potential in the past, next season could be Calder's best to date.
UPDATE: Calder igning in LA will hurt his value. He will have both Nagy and Frolov ahead of him on LW for key offensive ice. He should still be worth a look in deep leagues, especially ones that have SHPs. Calder will have no pressure next year and could net 20 goals in a lesser role in LA.
When Calder and Bell left Chicago last season Blackhawk fans were sick. After the struggles Bell and Calder had this season and with the arrival of Havlat in Chicago fans barely remember their names, and many fantasy managers don't either.
Calder has 25-30 goal potential in his game and his gritty style means he can add up some PIMs along the way. LW is not a deep position in fantasy hockey so if you can snag Calder late he could reward you big time.
Where Calder signs next season could tell us a lot. Once Calder signs I will break down his chances for success in his new city. Just remember the bounce back factor, Calder can't do any worse and he has shown potential in the past, next season could be Calder's best to date.
UPDATE: Calder igning in LA will hurt his value. He will have both Nagy and Frolov ahead of him on LW for key offensive ice. He should still be worth a look in deep leagues, especially ones that have SHPs. Calder will have no pressure next year and could net 20 goals in a lesser role in LA.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Team Cheat Sheet: Pittsburgh Penguins
Your fast guide to who is worth a look and who is dead weight in Fantasy team by team. As always, tis is a to date list that includes UFA players. Updates will be made as players leave and sign. DND = Do Not Draft
Pittsburgh Penguins:
Armstrong, Colby RW - He was on fire with Sid to start his NHL career and then dropped off last season. He is young and can bounce back. Good keeper pick for power forward.
Cairns, Eric D - He is all but retired, DND
Christensen, Erik C - He can core the puck. Look for him to play more wing and PP next season. Huge sleeper potential.
Conklin, Ty G - UPDATE Ty will provide an experienced backup for MAF. Don't look for him to help your fantasy team much, but if he plays well in his starts he could be a great match up play for nights he starts VS weak teams. DND
Crosby, Sidney C - You all know how I hate drafting centers, but this guy is an arguable #1 pick in any and all leagues.
Eaton, Mark D - More real life impact than fantasy. DND
Ekman, Nils LW/RW - 60 pt potential but he is low on my list of Penguins. I'd rather you take Colby or Christensen over Ekman.
Esposito, Angelo C - UPDATE PIT does it again at the draft. This kid could make the team next year, at worse you should have him on your farm team or keeper. He will be pure fantasy gold one day.
Fluery, Marc-Andre G - Great keeper pick, might be a little inconsistent still for GAA/SV% but the win totals will be there. He is a work horse.
Gonchar, Sergei D - Fantasy stud on D but age is a concern. If in a keeper take Whitney instead.
Kwiatkowski, Joel D - No PP time = no need to draft him. DND
Laraque, Georges RW - Decent for PIM leagues that use fighters.
Letang, Kristopher D - Could be a breakout year next season. He could hurt Gonchar and Whitney's numbers on the PP. Good keeper pick. PP specialist.
Malkin, Evgeni C/LW - He is my favorite player next to Forsberg. Last year was just a look at what this kid can do. Expect 100pts plus next season and healthy PIM totals to go with all those points!
Malone, Ryan LW - Malone has been killing fantasy owners for the last couple years. The year you pass him in the draft will be the year he explodes. Its just the way of it. Worth a look, but not a high pick.
Melichar, Josef D - Not a lot of value here. DND
Nasreddine, Alain D - Showed flashes last season, but then you look at his age and he is a, DND
Orpik, Brooks D - Ok for a FA match up here and there but DND
Petrovicky, Ronald RW - Love his game but it does not = fantasy value. DND
Recchi, Mark RW - I traded for him and picked him off the waiver wire last season and traded when his value was high. Look for him to get decent numbers if he stays in PIT but sell when he is red hot.
Roberts, Gary LW - In PIM leagues he is worth a late grab. Age and injuries hurt his value. Don't overreach for him.
Ruutu, Jarkko LW - Great PIM draft pick, late rounds only for very deep PIM leagues.
Sabourin, Dany G - UPDATE Looks like its another year in the AHL with the signing of Conklin. If MAF gets hurt they will turn to Sabourin or at least give him a look. DND
Scuderi, Robert D - If you need one goal next season, he could be your man! DND
Staal, Jordan C - Look for all his numbers to improve next season. A "must snag" keeper.
Sydor, Darryl D - UPDATE No value here. DND
Sykora, Petr RW - UPDATE This guy just became a must for all fantasy pools. 40-50 goals seems like a lot, but it also seems reachable for this snipper.
Talbot, Maxime C - Great FA match up play, but not enough production for a roster spot. DND
Whitney, Ryan D - I have this guy in all my keepers, and you should too!
That is it for this batch. As always, look for updates in the future.
Pittsburgh Penguins:
Armstrong, Colby RW - He was on fire with Sid to start his NHL career and then dropped off last season. He is young and can bounce back. Good keeper pick for power forward.
Cairns, Eric D - He is all but retired, DND
Christensen, Erik C - He can core the puck. Look for him to play more wing and PP next season. Huge sleeper potential.
Conklin, Ty G - UPDATE Ty will provide an experienced backup for MAF. Don't look for him to help your fantasy team much, but if he plays well in his starts he could be a great match up play for nights he starts VS weak teams. DND
Crosby, Sidney C - You all know how I hate drafting centers, but this guy is an arguable #1 pick in any and all leagues.
Eaton, Mark D - More real life impact than fantasy. DND
Ekman, Nils LW/RW - 60 pt potential but he is low on my list of Penguins. I'd rather you take Colby or Christensen over Ekman.
Esposito, Angelo C - UPDATE PIT does it again at the draft. This kid could make the team next year, at worse you should have him on your farm team or keeper. He will be pure fantasy gold one day.
Fluery, Marc-Andre G - Great keeper pick, might be a little inconsistent still for GAA/SV% but the win totals will be there. He is a work horse.
Gonchar, Sergei D - Fantasy stud on D but age is a concern. If in a keeper take Whitney instead.
Kwiatkowski, Joel D - No PP time = no need to draft him. DND
Laraque, Georges RW - Decent for PIM leagues that use fighters.
Letang, Kristopher D - Could be a breakout year next season. He could hurt Gonchar and Whitney's numbers on the PP. Good keeper pick. PP specialist.
Malkin, Evgeni C/LW - He is my favorite player next to Forsberg. Last year was just a look at what this kid can do. Expect 100pts plus next season and healthy PIM totals to go with all those points!
Malone, Ryan LW - Malone has been killing fantasy owners for the last couple years. The year you pass him in the draft will be the year he explodes. Its just the way of it. Worth a look, but not a high pick.
Melichar, Josef D - Not a lot of value here. DND
Nasreddine, Alain D - Showed flashes last season, but then you look at his age and he is a, DND
Orpik, Brooks D - Ok for a FA match up here and there but DND
Petrovicky, Ronald RW - Love his game but it does not = fantasy value. DND
Recchi, Mark RW - I traded for him and picked him off the waiver wire last season and traded when his value was high. Look for him to get decent numbers if he stays in PIT but sell when he is red hot.
Roberts, Gary LW - In PIM leagues he is worth a late grab. Age and injuries hurt his value. Don't overreach for him.
Ruutu, Jarkko LW - Great PIM draft pick, late rounds only for very deep PIM leagues.
Sabourin, Dany G - UPDATE Looks like its another year in the AHL with the signing of Conklin. If MAF gets hurt they will turn to Sabourin or at least give him a look. DND
Scuderi, Robert D - If you need one goal next season, he could be your man! DND
Staal, Jordan C - Look for all his numbers to improve next season. A "must snag" keeper.
Sydor, Darryl D - UPDATE No value here. DND
Sykora, Petr RW - UPDATE This guy just became a must for all fantasy pools. 40-50 goals seems like a lot, but it also seems reachable for this snipper.
Talbot, Maxime C - Great FA match up play, but not enough production for a roster spot. DND
Whitney, Ryan D - I have this guy in all my keepers, and you should too!
That is it for this batch. As always, look for updates in the future.
Team Cheat Sheet: Detroit Red Wings
The fast cheat sheet rundown on the current team, updates to follow as UFA players sign or leave the team. DND = Do Not Draft
Detroit Red Wings:
Chelios, Chris D - Amazing he is still going, but his fantasy power ran out a few years ago. DND
Cleary, Daniel LW/RW - Loads of talent, but not enough finish. Worth a draft in deep leagues.
Datsyuk, Pavel C - I don't think we have seen his best yet. To many managers sold early on him last season, big mistake. Great draft pick.
Drake, Dallas RW - UPDATE He could be a good match up play for PIMs or SHPs. DND
Draper, Kris C - Good FA match up play, not consistent enough for a roster spot. DND
Ellis, Matt LW - Good AHL player, game has yet to translate to the NHL. DND
Ericsson, Jonathan D - Prospect, not worth a look yet. DND
Ference, Brad D - UPDATE He could see an increase in value playing in DET. Until he shows it, DND
Filppula, Valtteri C - Huge talent, could see large increase in ice time next season. Sleeper pick.
Franzen, Johan C - FA match up play, worth a look in very deep leagues.
Grigorenko, Igor RW - A car accident hurt his developement, but he has huge offensive talent. Sleeper next season.
Hasek, Dominik G - Hard to pass on him but age and injury history work against him. Gamble pick.
Holmstrom, Thomas LW - those not wanting to pay high for Ryan Smyth give Holmstrom a look.
Howard, Jimmy G - Looks to be the goalie of the future in DET. Solid sleeper pick, especially in keepers.
Hudler, Jiri C - Not consistent and will fight with Filppula for ice. Worth a look in deep pools.
Kopecky, Tomas RW - Worth a look in leagues that use fighters. PIM fighter only.
Kronwall, Niklas D - Huge upside if he can stay healthy. Big "IF" don't overreach for him.
Langfeld, Josh RW - Watched him play in Binghamton, had some beers with him, but sad to say DND
Lebda, Brett D - I think this is the next big point getter on the blue line for DET. Mid to late rounder.
Lidstrom, Nicklas D - No signs of slowing down. Solid draft pick early all league types.
Lilja, Andreas D - Once a PIM giant, he is now a DND
Liv, Stefan G - No foreseeable value, DND
Maltby, Kirk LW - FA Match up play only. DND
Markov, Danny D - Good for players looking to play for +/-. Worth a look in deep leagues.
Meech, Derek D - Prospect, not yet worth a sniff. DND
Osgood, Chris G - Will likely back up hasek next year, but I would rather you draft Howard instead.
Quincey, Kyle D - Showed solid play in the playoffs. Could be a sleeper next year, worth a gamble in late round, deep pools only.
Rafalski, Brian D - UPDATE He will step in and fill the void of Schneider very well. He won't get the fantasy PIMs but he will get a lot of points.
Samuelson, Mikeal RW - Deep leagues only. 50 pt player tops.
Zetterberg, Henrik LW - Top tier LW, take high. He will be even better next year.
Thats it folks. Check back for updates.
Detroit Red Wings:
Chelios, Chris D - Amazing he is still going, but his fantasy power ran out a few years ago. DND
Cleary, Daniel LW/RW - Loads of talent, but not enough finish. Worth a draft in deep leagues.
Datsyuk, Pavel C - I don't think we have seen his best yet. To many managers sold early on him last season, big mistake. Great draft pick.
Drake, Dallas RW - UPDATE He could be a good match up play for PIMs or SHPs. DND
Draper, Kris C - Good FA match up play, not consistent enough for a roster spot. DND
Ellis, Matt LW - Good AHL player, game has yet to translate to the NHL. DND
Ericsson, Jonathan D - Prospect, not worth a look yet. DND
Ference, Brad D - UPDATE He could see an increase in value playing in DET. Until he shows it, DND
Filppula, Valtteri C - Huge talent, could see large increase in ice time next season. Sleeper pick.
Franzen, Johan C - FA match up play, worth a look in very deep leagues.
Grigorenko, Igor RW - A car accident hurt his developement, but he has huge offensive talent. Sleeper next season.
Hasek, Dominik G - Hard to pass on him but age and injury history work against him. Gamble pick.
Holmstrom, Thomas LW - those not wanting to pay high for Ryan Smyth give Holmstrom a look.
Howard, Jimmy G - Looks to be the goalie of the future in DET. Solid sleeper pick, especially in keepers.
Hudler, Jiri C - Not consistent and will fight with Filppula for ice. Worth a look in deep pools.
Kopecky, Tomas RW - Worth a look in leagues that use fighters. PIM fighter only.
Kronwall, Niklas D - Huge upside if he can stay healthy. Big "IF" don't overreach for him.
Langfeld, Josh RW - Watched him play in Binghamton, had some beers with him, but sad to say DND
Lebda, Brett D - I think this is the next big point getter on the blue line for DET. Mid to late rounder.
Lidstrom, Nicklas D - No signs of slowing down. Solid draft pick early all league types.
Lilja, Andreas D - Once a PIM giant, he is now a DND
Liv, Stefan G - No foreseeable value, DND
Maltby, Kirk LW - FA Match up play only. DND
Markov, Danny D - Good for players looking to play for +/-. Worth a look in deep leagues.
Meech, Derek D - Prospect, not yet worth a sniff. DND
Osgood, Chris G - Will likely back up hasek next year, but I would rather you draft Howard instead.
Quincey, Kyle D - Showed solid play in the playoffs. Could be a sleeper next year, worth a gamble in late round, deep pools only.
Rafalski, Brian D - UPDATE He will step in and fill the void of Schneider very well. He won't get the fantasy PIMs but he will get a lot of points.
Samuelson, Mikeal RW - Deep leagues only. 50 pt player tops.
Zetterberg, Henrik LW - Top tier LW, take high. He will be even better next year.
Thats it folks. Check back for updates.
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