Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Orange Crushed


A mix between bullies and snipers is the best way to describe the Philadelphia Flyers. Having built a young and deep team, the Flyers have only looked up after finishing dead last 2 seasons ago. Much of their main focus is on the top two lines as they are gritty and sharpshooters. The Flyers have been forever plagued with the fact they have never had a true all-star goaltender. That is may be addressed this offseason as well as their lack of depth in the backend. That being said, there are plenty of fantasy options to keep in mind on this team.

Jeff Carter - Surpassing everyone’s expectations last year, Carter had a career year with 84 points in 82 games. He will no longer slip on draft day and should be looked at repeating his totals again next season. He should be drafted as a long term keeper a top two center in Philly.

Mike Richards – Another great season for the captain. He is a complete player that has a great ability to create plays, score goals and throw down the gloves when needed. He has developed into a top keeper center that should be taken in the top 2 rounds.

Simon Gagne – A huge bounce-back season, Gagne played in all but 3 games and was close to a point per game. Look for more of the same next season as Gagne should only be considered a small injury risk. He should be drafted in the top 5 rounds as he is a keeper and in the prime of his career.

Scott Hartnell – An all-round good season, Hartnell played in all 82 games and ended with 60 points. He plays a gritty game that contributes to his fantasy value. Hartnell plays a power-forward type game that lands him in the penalty box more often than not. Keep him on your radar as a sleeper keeper or in middle rounds of your draft.

Joffrey Lupul – After 3 campaigns with 50 points, Lupul looks like he has hit his fantasy ceiling. His names have been in rumors as a salary dump in Philadelphia, he will be a great addition as a depth player on draft day. If Lupul does get moved, don’t expect him to break the 50 point mark and draft him before his time.

Mike Knuble – A UFA this summer, Knuble will be looking to cash in. It will be a long shot for him to return to Philly, he is more of a depth player at this point in his career. Knuble has no keeper value and should be looked for 50 points no matter where he signs in the off-season.

Kimmo Timonen – The power-play quarterback in Philly, Timonen was able to put up 43 points in 73 games last season. He is a reliable dman and is always good for 40 points. He should be taken after all top tier defenseman are gone and may have keeper value in deeper leagues.

Claude Giroux – This young winger has made a great impact on his team and has made several veterans disposable. Giroux should improve on his play next season and looks to be playing on the top line. HE should be drafted earlier on in deeper leagues especially in a keeper format.

Daniel Briere – An injury riddled season plagued Briere last year. After returning from injury, it appears Briere may have lost his spot as a top two pivot in Philly. He looked awkward playing wing and may be moved if they can find someone to take his monster contract. A great talent, Briere’s value has fallen and is poised for a better season next year.

Daniel Carcillo – This PIM monster has a bad temper and is a perfect fit in Philly. Carcillo should be looked at as a penalty guy and as small added value when he scores. He should be on your radar come draft day.

Martin Biron – A UFA this off-season, Biron is more than a back-up goaltender. He has the ability to be very good in short bursts. He may be the number one guy in Philadelphia next season because of salary restrictions and should be looked on as a goalie on a great team that will get you wins.

Mark

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