Stempniak Signs with Coyotes

Fantasy Impact: Lee Stempniak has signed with the Phoenix Coyotes for two years.

The Coyotes get: a third-line sniper in a second-line costume. Stempniak has proven that he can get 50 points and has hinted at 60-point ability, but he has yet to show 80-game consistency. That said, he had 14 goals in 18 games with Phoenix last year and fits into coach Dave Tippett’s system well. If he reaches the 60-point mark ever in his career, it will be this year on this team.

Fantasy Players Impacted: Radim Vrbata just went from second-PP-unit stalwart, to off the power play altogether. He was probably a third liner during even strength anyway, but this signing solidifies that. Furthermore, promising prospect wingers Brett McLean and Mikkel Boedker will be looking at a tough battle to crack the roster this year. McLean is close to being NHL ready and it would be a shame if he has to make the AHL his bitch this year – which is exactly what will happen if he goes back there.

Fantasy Players This Helps, In Order:

1. Stempniak

Fantasy Players This Hurts, In Order:

1. McLean

2. Vrbata

3. Boedker