F Jeff Halpern, Tampa Bay Lightining
Since being dealt to Tampa, Halpern has been on fire scoring seven points in his last four games. This recent scoring outburst is new territory for Halpern, who has never been much of a scorer, failing to exceed the 50 point plateau in his entire NHL career. Receiving time on the power-play, Halpern has notched five pp points in his short stay with Tampa, giving him a surprising 10 points in 11 games with his new club. Unfortunately, Halpern recently went down with a sore back and is currently day-to-day. Hopefully this is just a minor setback for the forward, who is looking to rejuvenate his career in Tampa.
Fantasy Take: Although these words may sound strange, Halpern makes out to be a decent fantasy option upon return. The forward has meshed very well with his new team and his current stats make him a good lower end option. Monitor his status before inserting him into your lineup.
F Colby Armstrong, Atlanta Thrashers
Unable to find success in Pittsburgh, Armstrong seems to have found a new home in Atlanta registering three goals and seven points in his first nine games with the club. Once considered a fantasy bust, Armstrong has proven he can produce without Crosby and has given Atlanta another scoring threat. Enjoying a fantastic rookie season, Armstrong had trouble regaining his early success and found himself dealt on deadline day in part of the Marian Hossa deal. Hopefully for Atlanta all Armstrong needed was a change of scenery to get his career back on track.
Fantasy Take: Armstrong has been a reliable forward with the Thrashers, scoring six points in eight games this month. Teams looking for help down the stretch should consider Armstrong, who is enjoying success in Atlanta.
F Andrew Ladd, Chicago Blackhawks
After failing to live up to expectations in Carolina, Ladd finds himself in Chicago after being dealt for Tuomo Ruutu. Drafted fourth overall by Carolina, Ladd never found his rhythm with the Canes, exceeding the 20 point mark only once in his three year stay with the club. Looking to prove that he belongs in the NHL, Ladd has come out on fire with Chicago, scoring eight points in his first ten games. Ladd has been given time on the power-play, as well as more minutes in Chicago which has translated into success for the young forward. Although Ladd may not help your fantasy team this year, he has certainly improved his stock come next year’s draft.
Fantasy Take: Ladd has tremendous talent but never seemed to get it going in Carolina. Fortunately for Ladd, it seems as if he has found a home in Chicago, but has been too inconsistent to warrant a starting spot on your roster.
F Samuel Pahlsson, Anaheim Ducks
Pahlsson has been relatively quiet all season long, but finds himself on four game point streak, scoring five points over that span. Receiving plenty of minutes over his past few games, Pahlsson has rewarded the club with his strong play and excellent passing skills. Currently the forward has six goals and 15 points on the year.
Fantasy Take: Although a four game point streak is impressive, Pahlsson has failed to produce all year and shouldn’t be starting on any fantasy rosters.
For Illegal Curve I’m Jonny Remis
