Fantasy managers missed the services of key players in 2008-2009 because of injury. Here is a look at players who suffered long term injuries in 2008-2009 and the best way to approach next season in both keeper and non-keeper formats.
Joe Sakic – Center
2008-2009 was Sakic’s 20th season in the NHL and unfortunately, he was only been able to play in 15 games. The previous season wasn’t the greatest either for Sakic as he was in the lineup for just over half of Colorado’s games. With his NHL career in question, it’s not worth considering Sakic in any keeper format as he is only a center and those are quite plentiful these days; he can easily be compensated for. If he does return to the ice, he could be a nice late round pickup in deep leagues as he still has one of the best wrist shots in hockey and should see time on one of the power play units. We’ll monitor Sakic over the summer and keep you posted on any happening with his decision to return.
Rick DiPietro – Goaltender
DP only played 5 games in 2008-2009 for the Islanders because of a knee injury, which has made some question the 15 year contract he signed. In those 5 games, he gave up 15 goals with a .892 SV%; not too shabby considering he is a member of one of the weakest teams in the league. Next season could be the breaking point for DiPietro backers, particularly in keeper leagues, as he will be counted on to play a full season without any major injury issues to get the franchise back in playoff contention. The Islanders are bound to get better as a slew of rookie and younger talents have broken through this season to prove their worth. Also, their offense will certainly receive a boost if they are able to throw Tavares to the mix. Still, it’s difficult to completely rule out an injury-free season for DiPietro, so keeper managers relying on him in keeper leagues may need to do some deep scouting to find the next Chris Mason in 2009-2010.
Marian Gaborik – Right Wing
The Wild were without their Czech sniper for most of the 2008-2009 season because of a hip injury. He has been back in action for 9 games now and has put up 13 points in that span. There is little question of his ability to produce. The question lies in his ability to do it for an entire season. There is a possibility Gabby will be wearing a different sweater next year as talks of an extension in Minnesota have halted. Rumors are swirling in every direction as possible destinations have extended beyond the NHL to Russia and the KHL. Owners have learned that Gaborik is a high risk, high reward player and to always have a backup plan in place. For managers who own him in keeper leagues, it would be wise to have a backup plan in place in case Gabby ends up overseas or injured before the season begins. You can never be too careful with this injury prone player, so cover your assets.
Brenden Morrow – Left Wing
The Stars were seen as a potential Cup candidate until some key injuries, as well as the Sean Avery incident, devastated their lineup throughout the 2008-2009 season. One of the key injuries was to Brenden Morrow. Morrow is known for his passion and tenacity out on the ice and will certainly be a fantasy presence in the 2009-2010 season. Managers who are debating on keeping Morrow should seriously consider it, as he can be the complete fantasy package at times. With Dallas missing the playoffs, he should have the entire summer to recuperate and make a healthy debut in the fall. Hang on to this guy in keeper leagues or try to pick him up in drafts as an overlooked option at left wing in the middle rounds as his value may be skewed because of his injury.
Pascal Leclaire – Goaltender
Leclaire will look to get back to his ’07-’08 self in Ottawa next season where he had 9 shutouts and a 2.25 goals against average. He should wind up as the starting goalie for the Sens as Brian Elliot may need more development time in the minors. Leclaire may not start 70 games, but he should see the majority of the time and with an offense as potent as Ottawa’s is. If the Sens can find some help on defense in the off-season, it could be a good season for Leclaire. Certainly a savvy deadline day move by Ottawa; let’s see if it pays off.
Erik Johnson – Defense
I think it’s safe to say E.J. won’t be playing much golf this summer and if he does, he’ll be walking the course. Can you imagine how good the Blues would be right now if they had their former #1 pick in the lineup? This team has been incredible this year, and with Johnson back on the blue line next season, we’ll only see them get better. While Johnson should only be considered as a keeper in the deepest of keeper/dynasty leagues, he is a prime candidate for being a sleeper defender in 2009-2010 fantasy drafts as he has the offensive mindset to give the Blues a top contributing defenseman; something that they lacked in their lineup in 2008-2009.
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