Training Camp Notes: September 18th

Training camp is in full swing, and here at Just Fantasy Hockey we're going to break down what you need to know. Every morning, we'll post a blog that highlights performances from intriguing fantasy players and any other relevant training camp news.

What a moment for Theo Fleury last night in Calgary. The dimunitive winger scored the shootout winner in front of the home crowd. It was an amazing moment for Fleury but it may be the peak of his comeback. Fleury looked a step behind and will struggle to make an impact this pre-season. He will likely get a ticket to Abbotsford and, like Claude Lemieux last year, will need to impress there to get a mid-season call-up. Stay away fantasy players.

The big news of the night was the impressive debut of former Boston College standout Colin Wilson. The Nashville centre had a goal and two assists in only 11:26 of ice-time. Wilson may break camp as the Predator's #2 centre and should challenge Cody Hodgson, John Tavares and Nikita Filatov for the rookie scoring title. Only thing holding him back is head coach Barry Trotz's tendency to slowly break in rookies. Draft early in keeper leagues and keep an eye on his progress and ice-time early on.

Maple Leafs fans are starting to get a taste of the future. Nazem Kadri scored his first pre-season goal last night and has not looked out of place in two games. That said, I still can't see Kadri making this team. Tyler Bozak has been one of the most dangerous players on the ice in both pre-season games and looks to be a lock on the roster. Former Vermont winger Viktor Stalberg has also been impressive with his unique blend of size and top-speed. The Leafs are crowded up-front with bottom 6 forwards so it's tough to see where these impressive rookies could fit in. Grab Bozak in the late rounds though, he could be a steal...a very smart player that reminds me of David Krejci. He should be able to match Krejci's rookie season of 27 points in 56 games.

Colorado rookie Matt Duchene played in his first pre-season game last night and went pointless in 12:38 of ice-time. He did receive a team high 2:38 on the powerplay though, showing you that the Avalanche are going to give him every opportunity to make this team. I expect Duchene will make the Avs and have a decent rookie year. Think 35-40 points. Keeper leagues, draft early.

Buyer beware on Kyle Okposo. The promising young Isles winger got absolutely drilled by Dion Phaneuf in last night's game. Phaneuf hasn't thrown a hit like that in a year and a half. Okposo was carried off in a stretcher and has suffered a "mild" concussion. He could be out for a while so keep tabs on his recovery and hope for the best if you already drafted him. Okposo was set for a breakout season.

Chris