In our last report, we highlighted the importance of being reactive in order to improve your odds of winning in such a truncated season. It may be time to scan the NHL for potential bargains and your own roster for over-valued assets.
Since you took the time to read this piece, you are one of those fantasy owners looking for an edge. We all know Claude Giroux owners won’t press the panic button after a disappointing 7 points in 12 games start. But what about those few jewels out there that you may only have a limited window of opportunity to acquire? We’ve saved you the trouble of going through all 30 rosters; this week we explain why two players stand out as deadline bargains and two more as trade assets.
BARGAINS
Duncan Keith (D) – CHI: (12-1-4-5) A rough start to the season for the smooth skating Keith (-2) on a team that has yet to lose in regulation. His struggles also are in stark contrast to his career path (0.50 PPG; 0.65 in the past three years). You can bank on much improved numbers the rest of the way. You may be able to pry him away from an impatient owner for a reasonable price.
Patrice Bergeron (C) – BOS: (10-2-4-6) He’s always been a dependable two way player, but his offensive game has improved every year since he has come into the league as a precocious 18 year old. Now 27, he should be entering his prime and he has a future superstar playing on his right in Tyler Seguin. The Bruins are a powerhouse and this Bean-Town duo may be recognized as one of the best by the end of this season. Make a pitch for him before the explosion occurs.
ASSETS
David Clarkson (RW) – NJ: (12-9-6-15) The hottest goal scorer alive has just shot up every fantasy owner’s wish list, but this veteran third line grinder won’t out-score Ilya Kovalchuk all season long. He did prove last season he could score 30 though and this could legitimize his other-worldly streak in the eyes of a less astute member of your league. We suggest you dangle him immediately. You may be able to acquire a more proven commodity.
Sheldon Souray (D) – ANA: (11-4-3-7) Recognize this hot start from last year, when the hard-shooting rearguard shot of the blocks with a 0.65 PPG in the first quarter? He proceeded to succumb to the weight of rust and his 36 years and finished the season with a .33 PPG. Souray’s uncharacteristic +11 rating (-31 career rating) has him logging huge minutes these past few games and he has always been injury prone. Find a team desperate for help on D and get a king’s ransom if you can!
Week 4 SCHEDULES By Conference
| West | H | R | T | East | H | R | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANA | 3 | 3 | BOS | 1 | 2 | 3 | |
| CGY | 3 | 1 | 4 | BUF | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| CHI | 3 | 3 | CAR | 1 | 2 | 3 | |
| COL | 1 | 2 | 3 | FLA | 3 | 3 | |
| CBJ | 1 | 2 | 3 | MTL | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| DAL | 1 | 3 | 4 | NJD | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| DET | 2 | 1 | 3 | NYI | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| EDM | 2 | 2 | NYR | 2 | 1 | 3 | |
| LAK | 1 | 2 | 3 | OTT | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| MIN | 2 | 2 | 4 | PHI | 4 | 4 | |
| NSH | 3 | 3 | PIT | 1 | 2 | 3 | |
| PHX | 1 | 2 | 3 | TBL | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| SJS | 3 | 3 | TOR | 2 | 1 | 3 | |
| STL | 1 | 3 | 4 | WSH | 3 | 3 | |
| VAN | 3 | 3 | WPG | 3 | 3 |