Consider Taking on Jaroslav Halak or Josh Harding

No matter what kind of fantasy hockey league you are in, there are always people on the lookout for goaltenders. If you fall into this category, take note. Over the past several months, we have heard rumors surrounding goaltenders Jaroslav Halak and Josh Harding.

The Halak rumors are far more intense at this point in time, so fantasy managers, especially in keeper leagues may want to consider making a play for Jaro Halak. Halak has been playing 2nd fiddle to Carey Price in Montreal for the past couple years, however, Price’s inconsistencies has allowed Halak to showcase his talents and prove he could be a number 1 goaltender candidate somewhere in the NHL. Now is the perfect time for fantasy managers (especially in keeper leagues) to make a play for him. Chances are not too many fantasy managers are thinking about the trade deadline at this point, so it may be easier to acquire him before March roles around. You may have to sit on him for a month or so, but remember we have the Olympic break, so it certainly is manageable.

Josh Harding is a lesser known case, which may make him easier to acquire. He is a sound backstop playing behind an all-star caliber goaltender. With Anton Khudobin in the system and Backstrom’s contract far from over, Harding would certainly benefit from going elsewhere rather than riding the pine. Making a pitch for him or plucking him off the waiver wire is low risk since you’re probably not offering up a terrible amount for him, if anything at all; essentially a roster spot if you pluck him off the waiver wire.

Now, if these players don’t get moved during the trade deadline, they could certainly find themselves elsewhere over the summer, so hang onto them if you have the capacity to do so. Managers in keeper leagues may find this more beneficial at this point in time. For those in year-to-year leagues, perhaps you wait until after the Olympics to consider making a move.

Remember, these trade scenarios are still rumors, so don’t put all your eggs in one basket. It’s more food for thought than anything, but it’s fun to play with strategies and different types of scenarios.