BUY
F Slava Kozlov, Atlanta Thrashers
Kozlov had a rough beginning to the season, scoring only two points in his first five games. The rest of the month didn’t go much better for the former Red Wing, as he only put up six points in 12 games. Since then, the forward has heated up, already equaling his point total from last month in the past six games. Although Kozlov is far off his point per game pace that he had a year ago, the forward is on the right track. Still receiving over 16 minutes per game, Kozlov still sees time on a line with Kovalchuk, who has been on fire lately. Expect a strong second half for Kozlov, who should continue to creep closer to his point per game average.
F Scott Gomez, New York Rangers
Gomez has had a rough start with New York, as he only managed to score two goals and one assist over the first month of the season. But with a brand new month comes a fresh start, and Gomez has capitalized on that as he is currently riding a six game point streak. With owners frustrated over his production, many may trade Gomez now, with this being the highest his stock has been in a long time. With all the talent in New York, Gomez will most likely turn this season around and could pay dividends over the next few months.
F Pavol Demitra and F Marian Gaborik, Minnesota Wild
Demitra and Gaborik have been explosive together, but unfortunately, neither one can still healthy. With it being unknown when either forward may return, taking a gamble on Demitra or Gaborik posses a big risk, but could earn a very high reward. Demitra has scored 10 points in his first 10 games with Minnesota, while Gaborik has put up 13 points in 12 games. Owners of Demitra or Gaborik may choose to cut their losses now, as both have a history of taking their sweet time getting back to the ice. If so, purchasing either of the two warrants a huge risk, but with it comes a fat reward. It all depends if your willing to take the risk.
SELL
F Jason Williams, Chicago Blackhawks
Williams is having a fantastic start to this season, scoring six goals and 16 points in 17 games played. He has played a crucial role in Chicago’s powerplay, netting 11 of his points on the PP. Although it may seem odd to sell Williams, his stock may not get any higher. He has never scored more than 58 points in a season, and with Martin Havlat returning soon from injury, William’s role may decrease. It’d be wise to get all that you can for Williams now, as it will be hard to get rid of an unproven player, such as Williams, during a slump.
F Mike Fisher, Ottawa Senators
Fisher has been the beneficiary from Spezza’s injury, as the forward has been playing on the top line with Heatley and Alfredsson. Fisher has racked up four assists in his last three games, giving him 13 points on the year. With Spezza returning for Ottawa’s next game, Fisher will most likely be moved back to the second line where the opportunities will be limited. Playing with Heatley and Alfredsson increases the value of any player, and it did just that for Fisher, but now is the time to cut him loose.
F Alexander Semin, Washington Capitals
It seems as though Semin’s ankle injury is worse than it was once reported. According to the Washington Times, Semin has still yet to skate, making his return further delayed. The forward has only played four games this season, while registering one point. Those who used a high draft pick on Semin may want to cut their losses now, as there are still probably owners around drooling over Semin’s potential if he returns.
For Illegal Curve, I’m Jonny Remis
