Could Marcel Hossa Shine, Too?

Marian Hossa is an offensive star, but what about brother Marcel? 

(Originally published by thehockeynews.com and msn.ca on Sept. 19) 

Many poolies jumped off this roller coaster ride a long time ago. It started with a stellar training camp in Montreal, followed by a disappointing pro debut, followed by a strong minor-pro season and then back again. Finally, that cycle ended with Marcel Hossa’s trade to the Rangers after another strong camp in 2005.

Or did it?

Two more weak offensive seasons in New York and keeper league owners are hopping off the wagon faster than Marian Gaborik can snap a groin.

Here he is again, though. On a line with Jaromir Jagr and Scott Gomez, forming excellent chemistry and showing impressive offense. More teasing? Perhaps. But then again – perhaps not.

Hossa will be 26 in November, so he should not be written off just yet. Prior to spraining his knee in early March, he was clicking with Jagr even then, racking up 13 points in 14 games. The possibility is intriguing. The thought of him jumping from 18 points last season to 68 points this season would be a coup for any fantasy squad.

Depending on how deep your fantasy league is, try and scoop him up in a late round for your bench. He should be worth sitting on…

The Coyotes seem to have settled on a top line of Steve Reinprecht, Shane Doan and Mike York, while Peter Mueller centers a second line that includes Radim Vrbata and Bill Thomas. So far it has been Vrbata who has been the sparkplug for this team (after two pre-season games). If Thomas becomes the goal-scorer the team envisions, then this so-called second line will become the first line before November…

Injuries, from a fantasy hockey perspective: It looks like New Jersey right winger Jamie Langenbrunner will undergo groin surgery, which will put him on the shelf until the start of November. This opens the door for potential second-liner Barry Tallackson to make his mark. A dislocated shoulder for Cam Janssen opens the door for tough guy David Clarkson to make an impact, as well…

Farm Report: Early cuts of note – Francois Bouchard, Karl Alzner, Josh Godfrey of Washington (despite very strong camps); Dale Mitchell of Toronto; Erik Ersberg of Los Angeles.