F Steven Reinprecht, Phoenix Coyotes
Reinprecht has had trouble staying healthy during his stay with Phoenix, but it looks as if the former Calgary Flame is finally injury free. Starting off this season rather slowly, Reinprecht has gotten hot in November, scoring four goals and eight points in his last four games. Although Phoenix lacks a lot of goal scorers, Reinprecht has still been able to rack up four assists, as rookie Peter Mueller has stepped up his play recently. Look for Reinprecht and Mueller to be a reliable tandem as the season goes on.
Fantasy Take: Reinprecht has always been a reliable low end fantasy option, but the knock on him is his health. If he can stay healthy, then expect a 50+ point season for the centerman.
F Peter Mueller, Phoenix Coyotes
Mueller was probably drafted in most keeper leagues, but still may be available in your draft due to his slow start this season. With only two points in the month of September, it looked as if Mueller needed a few more years in the NHL before becoming a reliable fantasy option, but with six points in his last three games that may not be the case. Scoring his first career hat-trick earlier this week, Mueller has rebounded from his slow start, scoring eight points in 14 games this season. With the Coyotes devoted to giving significant playing time to their rookies, Mueller may be in store for a fantastic rookie season.
Fantasy Take: Mueller has been an excellent contributor for Phoenix over the past few games, but it’s entirely possible that the rookie may come back down to Earth very soon. Keep an eye on Mueller’s stats over Phoenix’s next few games before inserting him into your lineup.
F Jere Lehtinen, Dallas Stars
Lehtinen has been that typical player over the past few years that usually gives you around 50 points and never anything more. Although it’s possible that Lehtinen will revert to his old ways this season, it should be noted that the forward has scored 15 points in his first 17 games with Dallas. He is currently riding a four game point streak and is third on Dallas in team scoring. The Stars are also giving Lehtinen a chance to succeed on the power play, and he has responded quite well, scoring one goal and six power-play assists.
Fantasy Take: Only expect around 50 points for Lehtinen, as he has never reached higher then 52 points in his 12 year career.
G Mathieu Garon, Edmonton Oilers
With Edmonton Oilers starter Dwayne Roloson struggling this year, the Oilers have given backup Mathieu Garon a chance to show the team what he can do. Receiving five starts this year, Garon has gone 3-2-0 with a .887 save percentage in those games. With Roloson continuing to struggle, the Oilers may opt to use Garon more, which could lead to a split between the two goaltenders.
Fantasy Take: Garon is only a lower end fantasy option at best right now. He is currently backing up Roloson, but if Rolo continues to play the way he has, then expect a lot more of Garon in the mix.
For Illegal Curve, I’m Jonny Remis
