z-Archives (other articles)

So you’ve been told not to panic (probably by me) about some big-name goaltenders that started off the season in a funk. But now it’s almost a month into the season and a handful of the elite goalies are making even the most confident fantasy hockey managers start to squirm.

The Canadian Hockey League has reached the double-digits in games played, but the college ranks are just catching up. Who gets an A+ so far, and who is failing the grade.

Last season was typical of many previous seasons for two different teams. The Columbus Blue Jackets had another sub par year in which expectations were not met. Their record was 33 wins 49 losses. The Devils on the other hand had another spectacular season in which they reached the playoffs. Their overall record was the opposite - 49 wins 33 losses. While it is still early on in the 2007-08 season it seems the two teams have done a role reversal.

Many expected the Los Angeles Kings to challenge for a playoff spot this season, but it looks like they are still at least another season away. The Kings have been a nightmare defensively, and decided that getting stud prospect Jonathan Bernier out of town before his development was 'screwed up' was the best idea. 

Many of them may not make it, but the American Hockey League's list of leading scorers is always an interesting one to say the least. With both future stars (Brett Hull, Jason Spezza, Daniel Briere) and future busts (almost everyone else) cracking the top ten, taking accurate stock of the leaderboard is imperative- lest you find yourself overpaying for the next Peter Sarno

The start of the fantasy season can be very tricky. Many managers get worried too quickly and make too many moves in the quest to get this season’s hottest players. Often times they give up on a player too soon. Do not be the person who drops a great player, be the person that is patient and smart. Guys like Marian Hossa, Roberto Luongo and Brendan Shanahan will come through eventually. Some players are the real deal, but other players can be nothing but smoke and mirrors. Here is a list of some early notables.

Quick thoughts, expert doings and a question and answer period. The Frog has it all for you this week as Croaks from the Fantasy Frog makes its weekly tour around the NHL.