Fantasy hockey poolsters have had a lot to cheer about in the early going, from blowouts, to shutouts, and nailbiters to shootouts. What to make of the early going, is it too early to dump that aging vet for the new kid on the block? Are the Hurricanes ever going to win? Will Brian Leetch get signed?
Theses are all questions that loom in the first week of NHL 2006-07. The veterans need to be watched carefully, as this is proving again to be a young mans game. There are a lot of youngsters producing and if they are available, you will want to get them on your team. A few examples are Steve Bernier in San Jose, Anze Kopitar in LA, Kyle Wellwood in Toronto, Duvie Westcott in Columbus, Alexander Semin in Washington. These are just a few of the late round sleepers or waiver wire pickups that could help get your team off to an early season charge.
Keep an eye on players' ice time especially on the powerplay. Penalties are being called and an even greater rate than last season, so Powerplay time is critical to a players fantasy success. Be careful of the veteran player that is off to a slow start as this may be a sign of things to come or not come, depending on how you look at it. Petr Nedved, Owen Nolan, Mark Recchi, Tony Amonte, and Doug Weight all are scoreless in 3 games. You may look to deal these guys if you can find a taker. I am not saying that they won't eventually come around, but their better days are clearly behind them now. Move on and pick up some of the exciting youth this league has to offer.
As for the 'Canes, relax, they will get on a roll and I would not be surprised if their upcoming road trip is just what the doctor ordered. Cam Ward has looked very good in the early going, even though he has yet to win a game. This team will be fine sooner rather than later and look for them to be the team to beat in the Southeast.
Brian Leetch news has really been heating up in the last few days as injuries are starting to take their toll. Teams are realizing that no playoff spot is guaranteed and lost points in October could mean a dark arena in the Spring. Therefore guys like Brian Leetch could be a hot commodity for an injury riddled club. Philly fits the bill as Mike Rathje is out indefinitely with a herniated disk. The Flyers are in desperate need of another puck moving d-man so Leetch could very easily be in their plans. The question however is, does he have anything left? As far as fantasy hockey is concerned, I would wait until he is signed and has played in several games before I would make a move for this veteran future Hall of Famer.
Enjoy the games and remember always pay attention, the first to the latest info has the advantage.
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