Darryl Dobbs contributed to much of The Hockey News‘ fantasy content from 2002 through 2014, including nine consecutive issues of The Ultimate Pool Guide. He also contributed significantly to the Score Forecaster(2006-07, 2007-08, 2008-09, 2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12 editions), and Pool Expert‘s draft kit, as well as several columns in Canadian newspapers, including the Vancouver Sun. He made several radio appearances (HF Radio, BIG105 in Red Deer, FAN 960, FAN590, 640 Toronto, XM204 and dozens of online podcasts). Today, outside of DobberHockey and DobberProspects, you can find his work on Yahoo! Puck Daddy as well as Sportsnet.ca. Dobber graduated from the University of Guelph with a Degree in Statistics and Minor in Mathematics. Currently, he resides in Pickering, Ontario with his wife Hemwanti and daughters Avery and Mackenzie. Follow him on Twitter (DobberHockey)
Pittsburgh, Washington, Chicago…and?
At the end of 2005-06, the Pittsburgh Penguins finished with a dismal 58 points. However, with Sidney Crosby about to be joined by Evgeni Malkin it was easy to see that great things were about to happen. Astute poolies had already stocked their teams with Pens and have seen nothing but dividends ever since. In 2006-07, the team that made the biggest strides was Pittsburgh. While they jumped from 58 to 105 points, the Washington Capitals floundered to just 70.
Once again, astute poolies knew that Alex Ovechkin could only be held back for so long and stocked up on his teammates. In 2007-08 they jumped to 94. That same year, the Chicago Blackhawks showed signs of life with 88 points. In 2008-09 they made it 104. Three years, three talented teams, three giant steps. In every case, poolies who saw it coming stocked up on the players for that particular team had it made in the shade – especially if they are in keeper leagues with a postseason component. So who is the team to watch in 2009-10? Here are the nominees…
