If you've been following me on Twitter ( at @MattPTurner), you know quite well that I was not pleased about the thrashing the Texas Rangers received at the hands of the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series. Yes yes, I know I am suppose to write about fantasy hockey but just giving you a heads up on why I am alittle more blunt in what I say than normal since I don't feel that terribly inspired or wordy right now. Anyhoo, here's my impression of players whom you may find in free agency/waivers and some injury reports:
Free Agent/Waiver Report:
David Booth, Canucks - He was traded yesterday to the Nucks after showing extremely disappointing numbers so far this season. It sounds like he may be playing in the 2nd line and some powerplay time, too. More than likely, he's available in your free agent/waiver pool so I would go make a claim for him in the off chance the change of scenery will boost his value.
Kris Versteeg & Stephen Weiss, Panthers - Both players have been developing a great chemistry along with Tomas Fleischmann (bless you). If the chemistry continues, they make for a worthy pickup especially since Versteeg is eligible in both LW and RW in Yahoo formats. I don't think he'll keep up the pace but I do think they will be a great contributor.
More after the jump...
Sami Salo, Canucks - It's all systems go for Salo since he's been given top defensive pairing and plenty of powerplay time. If he's somehow available in your league, go pick him up. With Mikael Samuelsson traded away, his time goes to Salo.
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Oilers - @nrlane24 asked me a great question on Twitter last week if I was worried about RNH being sent down to the minors after playing 9 games. He said that the people he's read/watched make it sound like it's a real possibility. And I answered that it could but I find it unlikely since the Oilers are playing crazy hockey and the organization is smart enough not to breakup a good thing when they see it...at least I think so. Granted, he's only 18 and he certainly needs to develop but he's already showing why he's worth the 1st overall pick so far. Ride him while he's doing well since I think the Oilers will but be ready for a demotion at any time if he starts slumping for any reason. This also applies to other rookies like Gabriel Landeskog and the recently demoted Mark Scheifele and other rookies I can't think of off the top of my head.
James Wisniewski, Blue Jackets - Just a friendly reminder that he will be suspension free on Tuesday. Make a quick search to see if someone got impatient and dumped him.
Vinny Prospal, Blue Jackets & Milan Michalek, Senators - I've mentioned both in the past and they're still available in quite a few leagues. They're still worth a pickup since they're producing quite well with their respective teams.
Brian Elliott, Blues - He is making quite a name for himself and has warranted more time to start games with his production. This stinks for Jaroslav Halak owners so hopefully you picked him up to take advantage. I think Halak will figure it out eventually but for now, ride Elliott as long as the Blues continue to do so.
Injuries:
Jose Theodore, Panthers - He left shortly after the first period started on Saturday due to cramps. Doesn't sound too serious so he's day-to-day for now.
Drew Doughty, Kings - Still dealing with a shoulder injury, it sounds like he's still going to be out for about a week so those in weekly leagues need to bench him for another week.
David Backes, Blues - He's dealing with an upper body injury after Saturday's game but it sounds like he's already making progress the day after. Might not be much to be concerned about but he's considered day-to-day now.
James Reimer, Maple Leafs - He got whiplash from Saturday's game and is more than likely going to miss Monday's contest but his status will be up in the air after that.
Don't forget to to follow @FakeTeams and @MattPTurner on Twitter and ask away if you have any fantasy hockey questions!