z-Archives (other articles)

One week from today, the trade deadline will tear through the National Hockey League like a Texas tornado. The funnel cloud is forming as we speak, as a few goaltenders have already been uprooted and dropped in a new city. Whether these changes improve or ruin a goalie’s fantasy value depends on many different factors, but one thing I know for sure is that traded goalies will be re-energized as they start the next chapter of their pro careers.

This week I discuss the Zach Bogosian trade rumors, players to look at for next season, and a late season fantasy hockey strategy to employ.

A goalie’s performance is shaped as much by the audience as by the actual goaltender. Each and every game is scrutinized in relation (or in comparison) to the demands and expectations of the viewer. Goaltending, even on a basic level, is a very difficult position to analyze. Therefore the viewer’s ability to understand the goalie’s state of mind will always play a major role in how that goalie’s performance, and thus their fantasy value and upside, is portrayed.

In order to better project the fantasy value of an NCAA goaltender, one thing you must realize is that they’re a totally different breed. When I scout a college goalie, I have to recognize elements such as their daily class and practice schedule, the college culture and lifestyle, the intense rivalries, and most importantly, the game’s style differences. Ultimately, I think of the NCAA as a parallel universe to that of the NHL. It’s the same sport, just in a different world.

The Penguins announced that star center Evgeni Malkin is going to miss the remainder of the 2010-11 season with a torn ACL (and a torn MCL as well) in his knee. His recovery time is anywhere from four to eight months. What does this mean? A significant injury always leads to a significant opportunity. Even if Sidney Crosby does return in the near future from his concussion, the Penguins have a tremendous hole to fill (as do many poolies who own Malkin).

Developing in a losing environment, Boston’s embarrassment of riches, the next Jeff Skinner, and more!

For six elite goaltenders, the All-Star Weekend was a chance for them to showcase their skills to the entire hockey world. For the other 54 NHL goalies, it was a chance to relax for a long weekend, push the proverbial reset button and get refocused in order to play their best hockey of the season down the stretch.