Fantasy Take – Habs Ink Mark Streit
Neil Parker
2017-07-25
Montreal signed Mark Streit to a one-year, $700,000 contract Tuesday.
The Canadiens added to their blue line, but the 39-year-old Streit probably isn't the ideal answer to their lack of puck-moving defensemen. The veteran is definitely better than a number of in-house candidates, though. Streit is more than capable of moving the puck up ice, and he should prove to be a tremendous power-play asset.
However, he's missed time in each of the past two seasons, and Streit also suited up for just three playoff games for the Penguins during their Stanley Cup run. It's difficult to envision Streit as anything more than a supporting piece at this stage of his career, so Montreal's defense corps is still a huge question mark.
The salary and term land this signing in no-risk territory, and on paper in July, it's still a solid move. Streit plays a sound possession game, brings experience and could have another solid season in the tank.
Fantasy Breakdown
Streit profiles as a perfect fit to slide in as Andrei Markov's replacement on the No. 1 power-play unit, which is a significant fantasy boost for the Swiss native. As a result, Streit should be in line for a modest rebound offensively, and he's definitely worth considering as a late-round option to fill out your blue line. There's a clear path to both a high floor and upside. Remaining healthy will be important.
Jeff Petry's value probably takes the biggest hit with Streit's addition. Petry has a nice cross-category profile, but might not receive enough power-play looks to take a full step forward offensively now.
Carey Price likely benefits from this addition, as well. As noted, Streit is capable of driving possession, and while his play in the defensive end isn't a strong suit, he should continue to see the majority of his shifts begin in the offensive zone. Price
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