Just Fantasy Hockey - Week 2 Forecaster

For leagues which allow weekly roster moves it’s important to maximize each roster spot. With every team playing on Saturday followed by a rest day, there are higher amount of teams only playing 2 games this week. Colorado, Detroit, Boston, Nashville, Chicago, Buffalo, Florida, Toronto, St. Louis, New York Islanders and Atlanta players will only see ice twice. Conversely, Anaheim will suit up 4 times next week. So take that into consideration when making your roster moves for the week.
Key Match ups

October 6th

Washington at Philadelphia

The two Eastern conference powerhouses meet up for the first time and will be an early test for both undefeated teams. Emery has a hold on the starting job in Philly but will have the first real test since returning to the NHL; where as in Washington, Theodore and Varlamov have split the first two games this year. Look for Theodore to get the start as his solid game against the Bruins has increased his value. Regardless of who wins this affair, it should be a high-scoring game.

October 7th

Montreal at Vancouver

Montreal is coming off two overtime wins in week 1 against Toronto and Buffalo while Vancouver remains winless in its’ first two games. Montreal overhauled practically their entire team in the off-season, while Vancouver locked up their three most important assets to long term contracts. With Montreal’s infirmary filling up with blue-liners, the Canadiens will continue to look at Carey Price to carry the load. Outshot in their previous two contests, Price looks rejuvenated and primed for a good season. Luongo on the other hand has not looked solid in his first two starts and will be looking to rebound against the Habs. Expect a tight, low scoring hockey game.

October 8th

Pittsburgh at Philadelphia

Emery owners should know that what they really own after Ovechkin, Semin, Backstrom, Crosby and Malkin visit this week. These two Atlantic division foes have no love loss between them and should end up finishing 1-2 this year in their division. Pittsburgh won four of the six games last year, one by shoot out, another by an overtime win. This is the ultimate test for Philadelphia, as the basis of the Chris Pronger trade was to help them contend with the likes of Pittsburgh and Washington. This will be a hard fought game one of a division series that should turn into a war by the end.

Chicago at Detroit

Both of these teams are returning from their respectful trips to Europe. The Black Hawks are in the Motor City for the first time since their defeat in the Western Conference Finals. An injured Marion Hossa removes some of the intrigue to this game, while Patrick Kane remains eager to continue his early scoring ways. A winless Detroit should be nothing to worry about, for now. Struggling to get their offense going in Europe, the Wings should come alive on their home ice. With both teams having question marks in goal, this should be an offensive showdown...start all your Hawks and Wings.

October 10th

Washington at Detroit

There is a real possibility of Detroit starting the season winless in their first four games. The big question, however, is who will be starting in goal for the Red Wings. Chris Osgood remains the number one goaltender in Detroit as Jimmy Howard’s play in Sweden was less than average. Coach Babcock was critical of Howards play during the pre-season. Look for Howard to split time with Osgood but be on a very short leash. Talented rookie Ville Leino continues to impress with limited amounts of ice-time. Look for his ice-time to increase in the weeks ahead if he keeps on producing.

Brian