Fantasy Rankings

With September around the corner with training camps fast approaching, there’s little doubt that there will be plenty of local flavor in fantasy hockey leagues.

Who makes the cut? Usual suspects like Martin Brodeur and Henrik Lundqvist are at the top of any goalie list along with Ryan Miller who doesn’t get as much love due to where he plays.

Searching for a bonafide scorer? Look no further than the Devils’ Zach Parise who lit the lamp 45 times also finishing with 94 points last year playing on one of the league’s best lines. The Zach Attack headlines a strong local flavor that includes Sabre sniper Thomas Vanek and newest Ranger Marian Gaborik who if healthy, should be a lock for 40 goals. Keep an eye on Kyle Okposo who could make some noise in his second season teaming with top pick John Tavares on the Island. Each should just be scratching the surface.

Need an offensive blueliner? In his first season as an Islander, Mark Streit proved he was worth every penny pacing the club in points (56), assists (40), power play goals (10) and power play points (29) while his 16 goals tied for second trailing only Okposo. Just imagine the fantasy impact Tavares could have on Streit’s production. Twenty goals and 70 points isn’t out of the question. If you’re looking for a second tier player, Johnny Oduya could be your man. While not flashy, he has proven he can be productive in New Jersey as has Paul Martin. Neither will blow you away but probably should be around late to be scooped up. If you’re looking to catch lightning in a bottle, Michael Rozsival will drop following a disappointing season. Under John Tortorella, the Czech is being counted on to pick it up. With his shot, he could get back to double digits.

Want some free advice? Even though he’ll improve by default, don’t count on Wade Redden to give you much of a boost.

In a deep Atlantic, here’s how we see it by position:

Goalies

1.Martin Brodeur

2.Henrik Lundqvist

3.Marc-Andre Fleury

4.Ray Emery

5.Martin Biron/Dwayne Roloson

Defensemen

1.Chris Pronger

2.Sergei Gonchar

3.Mark Streit

4.Kimmo Timonen

5.Kris Letang

Wings

1.Zach Parise

2.Marian Gaborik

3.Simon Gagne

4.Patrik Elias

5.Chris Kunitz

Centers

1.Evgeni Malkin

2.Sidney Crosby

3.Jeff Carter

4.Mike Richards

5.Travis Zajac

Overall Fantasy Rankings

Goalies

1.Martin Brodeur-The best in the biz. Enough said!

2.Roberto Luongo-Should be a lock for 40+ wins on strong squad.

3.Tim Thomas-Rating Vezina winner has earned this ranking. Can he repeat minus quality backup?

4.Niklas Backstrom-Most overlooked elite goalie in the league finally got recognition nominated for Vezina.

5.Evgeni Nabokov-All Nabby does is win and always among shutout leaders. Won’t get high save percentage.

6.Miikka Kiprusoff-Has slipped but consistently wins and should see improvement thanks to Jay Bo.

7.Henrik Lundqvist-King Henrik’s one of the best. Expect him to improve GAA and SHO.

8.Ryan Miller-Few talk about him but it’s always Miller Time in Western New York. Won 34 games in 58 starts. If healthy, watch out.

9.Cam Ward-Most improved netminder last season proving he could carry load. With just about everyone back, expect big things from Cam.

10.Marc-Andre Fleury-Isn’t great during season but he’s usually good for 35+ wins. Pencil him in for 40.

11.Steve Mason-Took league by storm last year pacing with 10 shutouts while carrying the BJ’s to their first postseason. Beware the sophomore jinx which is why he’s rated a little low.

12.Jonas Hiller-Did solid job taking over for Giggy carrying Ducks into playoffs and past rival San Jose. But is half a season really enough to gauge?

13.Pekka Rinne-The forgotten rookie who nearly backstopped the Preds into the playoffs possesses quick reflexes which could make him future star.

14.Chris Osgood-No secret Ozzie struggled much of last season but the unflappable vet is reliable for near 30 wins and should bounce back.

15.Chris Mason-The other Mason got red hot turning the Blues from in the Tavares sweepstakes to playoff bound. He’ll need to prove it wasn’t a fluke.

16.Nikolai Khabibulin-The Bulin Wall went from being unclaimed to a Chicago hero getting them all the way to the Conference Finals. Now, he tries to get a young talented Oiler club back to the second season.

17.Tomas Vokoun-Has dropped a little but still is a solid netminder who can start 50+ games and put up decent numbers. Don’t forget Clemmensen backs up.

18.Marty Turco-Can the consistently good vet rebound from poor season? A proven winner should drop in drafts making him potential steal depending on if you believe the Stars are a playoff team.

19.Cristobal Huet-Now he gets to earn his keep on sudden Cup contender in hungry market.

20.Mike Smith-Might be a bargain if the always reloading Bolts are more competitive. At least the D should improve.

21.Ray Emery-The headcase returns following a great season in the KHL. Can he silence doubters or will Philly faithful be screaming for Boucher? No. This ain’t 1999-00!

22.Carey Price-What a fall from grace for the heir apparent to Sir Patrick. What is he? Another Thibault/Theodore or legit?

23.Jonathan Quick-Former third rounder from Milford, Connecticut quietly put up good numbers after recall. Ersberg backs up but what’s the deal with J. Bernier?

24.Simeon Varlamov-Nobody will forget his first round performance in relief of Theodore along with a save for the ages robbing Sid The Kid. But is the Russian ready for primetime?

25.Pascal Leclaire-Can a new team help him get back to 2007-08 level? The Sens have enough worries with Heatley and Elliott backs up.

26.Kari Lehtonen-Remember when he was supposed to be a franchise netminder? It could be do or die literally for oft injured/inconsistent former No.1.

27.Vesa Toskala-Would you trust a guy who once allowed a 190-footer to immortal Rob Davison? No wonder Burke signed The Monster.

x28.Jonas Gustavsson-For all the hype, better be the second coming of Christ Lundqvist or it could be real long season in hockey capital.

29.Ilya Bryzgalov-Had down year and must rebound or Maloney pet project Montoya could supplant him.

30.Jean-Sebastien Giguere-Never count out a proven performer. Don’t forget all the distractions he dealt with off ice. One bad Hiller streak and one hot one could get job back.

Defensemen

1.Mike Green-Forget his playoffs. He’s like an extra forward as his 31-42-73 in 68 games allude to. The man’s a power play machine (18 PPG, 38 PPP) who actually could hit 80 points.

2.Nicklas Lidstrom-The ageless wonder shows no signs of slowing down teamed with Rafalski and is a plus/minus king. He’s 40 next Spring.

3.Chris Pronger-The biggest move of the offseason was the former Hart/Norris winner moving to Philly where he should fit right in. Goals and points could hike on higher scoring roster.

4.Scott Niedermayer-Is back for one more run on a loaded Ducks team that might be West darkhorse. Plus/minus suffered last season but figure it to rise.

5.Zdeno Chara-The most dominant physical blueliner finally got his due with a Norris capping a brilliant season in Beantown. A fantasy behemoth who can put up 20 goals, 10+ PPG, 100 PIM and a solid plus/minus.

6.Dan Boyle-One of the game’s most underappreciated D who’s usually good for 15+ goals and between 55-60 points.

7.Andrei Markov-The Russian seems to get better every year going from 49 to 58 to 64 points the past three seasons. Would be nice if he had more PPG and a better plus/minus.

8.Sergei Gonchar-Looked pretty good during Pens’ run playing through injury. Offseason recovery should help get one of the game’s offensive staples back to form.

9.Shea Weber-Exploded last year for 23 goals, 10 PPG and 53 points. If he didn’t play in Music City, would get more notoriety. Also plays chippy which is always a fantasy plus.

10.Mark Streit-Proved his worth in first season on lowscoring Isles. With Tavares, production might increase to 20 goals and 70 points. Keep him on your radar.

11.Brian Rafalski-The other half of the NHL’s best pair is a lock for 40+ helpers and close to 60 points. Did show some leaks in Cup versus Pens.

12.Dion Phaneuf-Disappointed last year with 11 goals, 47 points and minus-11 rating. Should be better thanks to Bouwmeester addition. What’s happened to his PPG? From 16 to 13 to 10 all the way down to 4 last year. Should be better and will rack up 100+ PIM.

13.Sheldon Souray-No shock that he bounced back with 20+ goals, 12 PPG, 50+ pts and near 100 PIM following injury riddled 2007-08. Problem is he’s always gonna be a risk. Boom or bust.

14.Dennis Wideman-Plays in Chara’s large shadow but is one of the most solid blueliners in the game. Expect a near repeat of last year.

15.Brian Campbell-Think offense here. He came on strong in first year in the Windy City. Forty assists is a lock but needs to score more goals. Also doesn’t take penalties.

16.Cam Barker-We prefer Campbell’s younger teammate who’s emerging. Six goals and 34 assists is just the tip of the iceberg for former 2004 third overall pick.

17.Jay Bouwmeester-Now that he’s out of the Sunshine state, Jay Bo should fare even better teamed with Phaneuf in Calgary. If he shot puck more, could score 20. But that’s not needed. Plus/minus should hike.

18.Tomas Kaberle-A favorite fantasy player who always produces should be back in fine form anchoring the Leafs’ blueline. Will he stay put?

19.Kimmo Timonen-Has always been a steady player but goals have dropped dramatically from 13 to 8 to only 3 last year. Expect 40+ points and a healthy plus/minus.

20.Rob Blake-The big man can never be underestimated as his return to glory days showed playing with San Jose. Doesn’t put up as many points but can still get that shot through for double digits. Plus he’s a PIM machine.

21.Niklas Kronwall-Love the Swede who’s shown great improvement going from 22 to 45 to 51 points. But it’s hard to see him matching the 45 assists. Plus/minus should be better though.

22.Tom Gilbert-Glad to see the American’s play get recognized as he belongs on Team USA. Doubled assists last year. Figure 40+ points with slight goal increase. Avs dealt him for Tommy Salo and pick that hasn’t panned out. Huh?

23.Kevin Bieksa-Is a tough customer who could benefit from Schneider addition. But will he stay healthy?

24.Ryan Whitney-Might be the best candidate for a rise. Especially if back 100 percent teamed with Niedermayer.

25.Filip Kuba-Has emerged into good offensive D capable of 35+ assists and 40 points. You could do worse.

26.Brent Burns-Another comeback candidate who can play both D and up front. But expect him more on back end firing shots. Double digits goals and 40+ points are expected.

27.Bryan McCabe-Can still one-time with best and probably will increase stats due to Jay Bo’s departure. A return to 10+ PPG and 45-50 points shouldn’t be a surprise.

28.Duncan Keith-Can he repeat 8-36-44 and plus-33? Probably not but should put up points along with PIM and steady +/-.

29.Jaroslav Spacek-Was good for Buffalo matching career best 45 points accomplished last with Columbus in 2002-03. But has hardly been consistent as last three seasons show and turns 36 before Valentine’s Day. Habs better hope he doesn’t show age.

30.Ryan Suter-From 16 to 24 to 38 helpers last season helping him eclipse 40 points for first time in career. No question, he’s on the fast track.

31.Mathieu Schneider-What does old reliable got left at 40? Vancity thinks plenty. He’ll have plenty of help from one of league’s best bluelines.

32.Mattias Ohlund-Former Canuck moves to St. Pete to help tudor countryman Hedman. Might see point increase due to more responsibility.

33.Marek Zidlicky-Still a potent weapon good for 40+ points but will PP production (10-15-25) drop due to Burns?

34.Kyle Quincey-Erupted for 38 points in Hollywood after being picked up from Motown. But has a new home with lowly Colorado which means he’ll have to deal with shaky Liles which might mean a poor plus/minus. At least Stastny’s healthy.

35.Keith Ballard-Performed well in first season for Panthers posting 34 points while establishing career best plus-14 rating. Also takes penalties but capable of more.

*36.Victor Hedman-Don’t put heavy expectations on kid because defensemen usually take longer. But should be a good building block in a keeper league.

37.Drew Doughty-Is a player we love and we’re not alone as Canada even invited him to Olympic camp. Kid doesn’t turn 20 until my birthday (Dec.8). Look for him to double production.

38.Johnny Oduya-Is a little high here but we love Johnny 5 and feel he’s capable of reaching double digits goals and 30+ points. Add that to good plus/minus and you have a solid player.

39.Matt Niskanen-If one player’s numbers increase with Zubov gone to the KHL, it’s this guy who in his second season went from19 helpers to 29 attaining 35 points. Many like Robidas but Niskanen’s the guy to watch.

40.Erik Johnson-Missed all last season but don’t forget the former 2006 No.1 overall selection tallied 33 points as a teenager two years prior. If healthy, he could be a big time steal on improving St. Louis blueline.

Wings

1.Alexander Ovechkin

2.Zach Parise

3.Ilya Kovalchuk

4.Jarome Iginla

5.Alexander Semin

6.Martin St. Louis

x7.Marian Gaborik

8.Dany Heatley

9.Rick Nash

10.Daniel Sedin

11.Mike Cammalleri

12.Thomas Vanek

13.Corey Perry

14.Patrick Kane

15.Martin Havlat

x16.Patrik Elias

17.Daniel Alfredsson

18.Brad Boyes

19.Bobby Ryan

20.Simon Gagne

21.Devin Setoguchi

22.Alex Kovalev

x23.Marian Hossa

24.Johan Franzen

25.Jamie Langenbrunner

26.Shane Doan

27.Ales Hemsky

28.Patrick Marleau

29.David Booth

30.Loui Eriksson

31.Ray Whitney

+32.Phil Kessel

33.Chris Kunitz

34.Patrick Sharp

35.Bryan Little

36.Brian Gionta

37.Jason Pominville

38.David Backes

39.Teemu Selanne

40.J.P. Dumont

Centers

1.Evgeni Malkin

2.Sidney Crosby

3.Pavel Datsyuk

4.Ryan Getzlaf

5.Nicklas Backstrom

6.Joe Thornton

7.Marc Savard

8.Jeff Carter

9.Mike Richards

10.Henrik Zetterberg

11.Vincent Lecavalier

12.Eric Staal

13.Henrik Sedin

14.Jonathan Toews

15.Jason Spezza

16.Travis Zajac

17.Paul Stastny

18.Derek Roy

19.Mikko Koivu

20.Mike Ribeiro

21.David Krejci

22.Anze Kopitar

23.Jason Arnott

24.Steven Stamkos

25.Olli Jokinen

26.Scott Gomez

27.Brad Richards

*28.John Tavares

29.Tim Connolly

30.Saku Koivu

31.Chris Drury

32.Brian Rolston

33.Joe Pavelski

34.Ryan Kesler

35.Derick Brassard

36.Patrik Berglund

37.Dave Bolland

38.Stephen Weiss

39.Mikhail Grabovski

40.Andy McDonald

41.T.J. Oshie

42.Shawn Horcoff

*43.Cody Hodgson

44.Todd White

*45.Matt Duchene

46.Antoine Vermette

47.Mike Fisher

48.Rod Brind’Amour

49.Jordan Staal

+50.Brandon Dubinsky

xinjured

+unsigned

*rookie

Sleepers

Coast to Coast Tickets

At CTC Tickets, we don't just sell sports tickets, we get excited about them! Become a CTC fan on Facebook for discount and contest news announcements, and follow @CTCTickets on Twitter for opportunities to win gift cards and more.

SBG Global

Don't miss any of the NHL action in New York this year at the SBG Global! The online sportsbook offers live hockey odds, unique NHL betting options, numerous sports betting prop wagers including odds to win the Stanley Cup.

Donate

Bang the Book

Looking for the best online sportsbook? Visit BangTheBook.com for the best bookmaker bonus code, and daily free football picks!

OG Paper

Visit the Online Gambling Paper for the best list of sports betting websites and great guide to the best casinos.

Sold Out Tickets

Wide range of
Ashes Tickets
Rugby Tickets
CheapTheatre Tickets
Dirty Dancing Tickets
JosephTickets
and more available.

GetMeIn.com

the marketplace for Ashes Tickets Cricket Tickets
England Cricket Tickets
Concert tickets
Theatre tickets
Hairspray Tickets
and other tickets.

OC Paper

Learn more about the online casinos from this gambling portal. Whether the casino websites or the NFL odds are your vice, we've got you covered.

2009 NHL Draft

2009 Top 5 Picks 1.John Tavares, NYI 2.Victor Hedman, TB 3.Matt Duchene, Col 4.Evander Kane, Atl 5.Brayden Schenn, LA

Sports Party

Show what you know about the NY sports scene when you bet online.

A Day at the Races

Watch horses and riders battle it out at the world famous Cheltenham festival in England.

Visit Our Sponsors

Sports Betting

The brand new 32Vegas Online Casino brings you the atmosphere of the exciting Vegas strip, straight into your living room.

New York Rangers
New York Islanders
New Jersey Devils Tickets
New York Giants Tickets

2008-09 Stanley Cup Champion

(4) Pittsburgh def. (2) Detroit 4-3 Pens win 3rd Stanley Cup Evgeni Malkin, Conn Smythe CONGRATULATIONS 2009-09 STANLEY CUP CHAMPION PITTSBURGH PENGUINS

Tags

Blueline Blueshirts Brandon Dubinsky Brendan Shanahan Brent Sutter Brian Gionta Brian Rolston Chris Drury Dan Girardi Defenseman Evgeni Malkin First Period Flyers Glen Sather Henrik Lundqvist Islanders Jamie Langenbrunner Jaromir Jagr John Tavares John Tortorella Marc-Andre Fleury Marc Staal Marian Gaborik Markus Naslund Martin Brodeur Michal Rozsival Nigel Dawes Nikolai Zherdev Patrik Elias Penguins Power Play Puck Rangers Red Wings Scott Clemmensen Scott Gomez Sean Avery Second Period Sidney Crosby Stanley Cup Third Period Tom Renney Travis Zajac Wade Redden Zach Parise

WP Cumulus Flash tag cloud by Roy Tanck and Luke Morton requires Flash Player 9 or better.