One of the top NHL prospects in the world right now, Alexei Cherepanov, has died. During a KHL game he collapsed while sitting on the bench and died a short time later. It is a shock to hear of such a strong athlete die so suddenly, and at such a young age. My condolences go to the Cherepanov family. Alexei was possibly the NY Rangers' top prospect, who had excellent upside and was expected to join the NHL roster next season when his KHL obligations were complete. He was ranked 39th on my Fantasy Prospects list, but has seen time in the top 10. This is one of the more sudden, and heart breaking tragedies in hockey that I have reported here and I must say I am at a loss for words.

Agent Jay Grossman has confirmed the passing of prospect Alexei Cherepanov. Alexei was drafted 17th overall by the Rangers in 2007 after breaking Pavel Bure's goals by a rookie record in the then-Russian Super League. 

There are unconfirmed reports out of Russia that Rangers prospect Alexei Cherepanov has died following a mid-game collapse on the bench. What is known for sure is that he was or is in hospital in so-called 'grave condition'.

Boston has traded Andrew Alberts to Philadelphia for Ned Lukacevic and a fourth rounder in 2009. Neither player has fantasy value.

The Kings have claimed Kyle Quincey off of waivers. This will offset the loss of JJ, who could miss several months with an injury to the arm area.
 

Lee Stempniak will not play today due to his knee injury. TJ Oshie will take his spot on a line with McDonald and Boyes.

Jiri Novotny was injured on Saturday. He hit his head but his legs felt weak afterwards so the nature of the injury is not really known. He should miss a couple of games. The reason a Novotny injury is fantasy relevant? The Jackets may need to call somebody up, and Nikita Filatov is as good as anyone. Watch for that. Filatov has two goals in two games for Syracuse.

Petr Sykora (groin) was back skating with his teammates yesterday. He hopes to play in their game tomorrow.

Jack Johnson left last night's contest with an upper body injury. It apparently has something to do with his arm.

Patrick O'Sullivan played over 19 minutes in his season debut yesterday. He played on the top line.

Chris Higgins' groin injury will keep him out of tonight's game as well.

Marek Zidlicky did not travel with the Wild on their road trip, meaning his sprained ankle will hold him out of the next three games at least.

Ty Conklin will get the start tonight for Detroit.

Phoenix's top PP unit last night: Turris, Doan, Jokinen, Porter and Jovanovski.

Carcillo played just 10:44 last night.

Enver Lisin was a healthy scratch. As was Brian McGrattan.

The Kings scratched Peter Harrold for the second straight game. Calder and Richardson were also scratched.