Every year, several ‘no name’ players breakout and finish the year among the league’s best. Taking a look at who those breakout stars could be, here are four players that are probably available on your league’s waiver wire:
F Viktor Kozlov, Washington Capitals
Brought in this past year by the Capitals, Kozlov has registered a point in each of Washington’s three games, scoring two goals and one assist. Playing on the top line with Alexander Ovechkin boosts Kozlov’s fantasy value significantly, as Ovechkin can make any player into a fantasy stud (see Chris Clark 06-07′ season). A proven goal scorer (Kozlov netted 25 goals with the Islanders last year), Kozlov may reach the 60 point plateau, but only if he can stick around on
Washington’s #1 scoring line for the remainder of the year.
F Dustin Brown, Los Angeles Kings
After scoring only 28 points in his second year in the league, Brown made a huge leap last year, increasing his point total by 18. Entering his fourth year in the league, Brown has been given more ice time, as well as better linemates. Playing on a line with Anze Kopitar, Brown has already tallied two goals and two assists (both goals were assisted by Kopitar). Looking to make the playoffs this year, L.A. will need another strong season from Brown, who should eclipse the 20 goal mark for the first time in his young career.
F Nik Antropov, Toronto Maple Leafs
Since he was drafted in 1998, Antropov has always been a legitimate goal scorer, but has had a reoccurring problem with staying healthy. Never completing a full 80 game season in his career, Antropov appeared in 54 games last season, scoring 18 goals and 33 points. Off to a hot start this season, Antropv may be able to surpass his career high of 45 points, as he has scored three points in three games while playing alongside Mats Sundin. If he can stay off the IR, expect Antropov to record around 55 points.
F Ruslan Fedotenko, New York Islanders
Playing with a new team this year, Fedotenko has scored one goal and four assists in his first three games. After spending several years in Tampa Bay playing on the second and third lines, Fedotenko has been featured on New York’s top line, playing alongside Mike Comrie. Although Fedotenko’s fast start won’t hold up, the forward should be good for at least 40 points.
For Illegal Curve, I’m Jonny Remis
