The Journey: AHL All-Stars
Zach Hopkins
2015-01-17
Checking in on the fantasy value of a couple of AHL All-Star defensemen.
The American Hockey League will hold its 2015 All-Star Classic in Utica, NY on January 26th. In this edition of The Journey, I'll highlight a few of the All-Stars that may have fantasy relevance before this season is over.
Brennan is an interesting pick and one that I might not have made had it not been for the recent recalls of players such as Drew Shore and Matt Dumba. Brennan was a second round pick of the Buffalo Sabres in 2007 and has been with a few different organizations since then. T.J. had a successful run in the QMJHL and recorded 116 points in 192 games played between St. John's and the Montreal Juniors. Having always had the potential, Brennan exploded on the scene last season while playing for the Toronto Marlies by registering 25 goals, 47 assists and 72 points in 76 games and being named AHL Defenseman of the Year. He possesses tons of offensive skill but is lacking in his own zone. It's the defensive play that has kept him from the grand stage and is the area that needs the most work. Offensively, he has a blistering shot and passes well to go along with average to above average speed.
Brennan was signed by the New York Islanders this past offseason during Garth Snow's impressive stretch of free agent acquisitions but was later traded to the Chicago Blackhawks for Nick Leddy. After clearing waivers, Brennan reported to the AHL where he has recorded 28 points in 36 games for Rockford and continues to remain relevant despite being with his fourth franchise at the age of 25. Chicago is an organization that plays fast and plays hard. While they are set defensively, their style could present the need for a late-season recall. Head Coach Joel Quenneville has proven that he will ride a hot hand and Brennan is a streaky player that could benefit from such a system. If given the opportunity to expand on his NHL resume, which currently consists of 40 games, he may surprise many with his maturation and eye for joining the rush. Defensively, he can hurt a team and may not be ideal in fantasy leagues that weigh plus/minus heavily. However, if he is recalled and you are in a league that rewards defensive scoring with a premium, you may want to remember his name.
Clips of T.J. Brennan from 2013-2014:
Dobberprospect Rank: Unranked
Fantasy Outlook: C+
Pros: Howitzer of a shot, quick, passing
Cons: Defensive zone breakdowns, reputation of a journeyman at age 25
Anticipated NHL Arrival: Past due; any time