Fantasy Hockey 2011: Weekly Roundup Week 2

Now that we've had a week and a half of playing time, I am finally able to write about some injuries and impressions of players around the league. There's already bunches of news going around so we'll get right to the chase with the free agent watch:

Free Agent Watch:

It's still early into the season but there's guys emerging that are worth your attention in your watch list or perhaps a pickup if you feel the need in a deeper league format.

Vinny Prospal, Blue Jackets - He's been playing on top line with Jeff Carter and Rick Nash has surprisingly contributed the only Powerplay Goal for the top line so far. With Carter slightly dinged up, look for Prospal to continue to man the top line. Definitely worth a pickup.

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Oilers - Just go pick him up if he's available. Seriously. Go!

Luke Adam, Sabres - He's been playing quite well in the top line with Jason Pominville and Thomas Vanek but he may or may not be booted off the Jochen Hecht returns. Keep riding him while he's playing well and he'll likely stay there as long as he keeps producing like this but keep a close eye on the situation anyway.

Al Montoya, Islanders - Just like I said before, it's an ugly situation since Evgeni Nabokov held his own on his first start since mid-2010 but I like Montoya better long term than Nabokov. Both will be fighting for playing time since Rick DiPietro got hurt (again) with a concussion.

More after the jump...

Injuries:

Antti Niemi, Sharks - No, he didn't get hurt again. Just letting everyone who drafted know that he's likely to start on Monday but it's not going to be confirmed until the morning skate tomorrow. Keep an ear out, Niemi owners but the light at the end of the tunnel is huge now.

Sidney Crosby, Penguins - FINALLY! He's been cleared to practice with contact and even though a timetable hasn't been set, don't be surprised if things go on the fast track once that's been set and he's taking hits. He's coming...

Evgeni Malkin, Penguins - On the other hand, Malkin played on Friday and produced well but took a day off on Saturday. No reason was given but I am sure it has something to do with his knee. Just be patient and watch for the news.

Martin Havlat, Sharks - He's still skating but hasn't had clearance to play from his shoulder surgery and is still considered day-to-day at this time. It should be soon but the Sharks desperately need him back to bring some firepower to a 1-2 team.

Martin Brodeur, Devils - His shoulder injury is considered minor and he's considered day-to-day as well. Stash him and if you have the space, give Johan Hedberg a pickup if you don't have any better options available.

Drew Doughty, Kings - At first, reports were indicating he may have sustained a concussion, which scared the crap out of owners but it turns out it was a shoulder injury. Sounds like he might be out for a few games at least.

Andy McDonald, Blues - Dang it. Just as it seemed like he was going to be a great value for me, he may have had a concussion. We'll see what the prognosis on whether he had one or not but with any head injury, I wouldn't expect him back anytime soon.

Jeff Carter, Blue Jackets - Sounds like a he reopened an old wound by taking a shot off his foot that already was healing from a hair line fracture in the preseason. He's day-to-day now but still reserve him until you hear what's going to happen to him long term.

Thank for reading and if you have any fantasy hockey related questions, give me an jingle via email or ask through Twitter at @FakeTeams or my personal account at @MattPTurner.