News:Phil Kessel scored the game-winning goal Sunday in a 2-1 victory over Boston. The goal came at even strength.
Analysis: The even strength part is significant because he'd gained the unfortunate reputation that he was only able to get points against his old team when he was on the PP. Two of his three goals this series have come at even strength and both were game-winners.
News:Phil Kessel scored a power-play goal in Monday's loss to Boston.
Analysis: The goal was nice, but he gave away the puck on the PP and the Bruins drilled home a shorthanded marker in the second. He and the Leafs did turn up the heat in the third, but it was too little, too late.
News:Phil Kessel's goal Saturday stood as the game-winner in a 4-2 victory over the Bruins in Game 2 of their first-round series.
Analysis: He looked like the Cheshire Cat after potting that goal -- the grin was enormous. And his mates on the bench were ecstatic. It's clear he's well-liked by his team. His backchecking was also strong, so perhaps this was what he needed to break his black-and-gold curse.
News:Phil Kessel was held to one shot in Wednesday's Game 1 loss to Boston.
Analysis: He needs to get the monkey -- and Zdeno Chara -- off his back. He's struggled miserably against his old team, but we did like how he drove hard to the net -- he went straight into the pipe when he would have curled away in the past.
News:Phil Kessel potted his 20th goal of the season in Saturday's loss to the Canadiens; the goals came on the power play. He finished regular-season play on a five-game, point streak (four goals, five assists).
Analysis: Leafs' fans hope he can carry his current success into the playoffs. His 52 points this season plant him squarely into the bottom half of the top-10 league scorers.
News:Phil Kessel scored twice in Toronto's 4-0 win over Florida on Thursday night. He has three goals and five assists on his current four-game streak, and 17 points (nine goals, eight assists) in his last 10 games.
Analysis: He and Alexander Ovechkin have been the hottest guys in the NHL of late, and his 51 points are getting a whole lot closer to the top five in NHL scoring.
News:Phil Kessel scored a goal in the Maple Leafs' 5-2 loss to the Lightning on Wednesday. The goal extended his current point streak to three games and six points (one goal, five assists).
Analysis: Despite netting the goal, Phil Kessel finished the game with a minus-2 rating. He has improved his overall defensive game this season, but there will still be a few games like this.
News:Phil Kessel picked up two more helpers, this time in Saturday's playoff-clinching win over Ottawa, and is closing in on a top-five finish in assists in the NHL.
Analysis: Phil the Thrill has always been known as a sniper, but his under-rated playmaking has burst onto the scene this year. Oh ya -- his 48 points are approaching top-five overall, too. One word: stud.
News:Phil Kessel assisted on all three Toronto goals Thursday in a 5-3 loss to the Isles.
Analysis: Two of the assists came on the power play, and as a result Phil Kessel ended up with a minus-1 rating despite his offensive production. Despite being held scoreless Tuesday, he's been hot offensively, ripping off 12 points in his last seven games.
News:Phil Kessel scored the game-winning goal on the power play in Monday's 2-0 victory over the Devils. His goal streak now stands at four games and six goals, and his point streak is at five games and nine points.
Analysis: Take us to the steakhouse -- the boy is sizzling. He has 43 points in 42 games and is now cruising at just greater than a point-per-game pace for the first time in his career.
News:Phil Kessel's point streak stands at four games and eight points (five goals, three assists) after he potted a goal and added an assist in Saturday's win over Montreal.
Analysis: His streaks are often prodigious -- take full advantage.
News:Phil Kessel scored two goals for the Leafs in a 3-2 shootout loss to the Rangers on Wednesday night. He has back-to-back two-goal games and six points (four goals, two assists) on his current three-game point streak.
Analysis:Phil Kessel's goal scoring has been down this year -- he now has 14 -- but he's still delivering at a point-per-game pace. He typically scores in bunches, so be sure to take full advantage.
News:Phil Kessel scored two goals and added an assist in Monday's 4-3 win over the Rangers. One of the goals came on the power play; the other was the game-winner.
Analysis: The goals were his first in 10 games, but he has 38 points -- including 12 goals -- in 39 games. Monday was a nice return to fantasy glory and you can expect it to continue now that he has the proverbial monkey off his back.
News:Phil Kessel set up the game-winning goal in Saturday's 2-1 win over New Jersey. He now has 25 assists and 35 points on the season, but he has gone nine games without a goal.
Analysis: The more impressive fact was his willingness to stay on the puck, make the pass and absorb a massive hit within seconds. In the past, he would have bailed on the pass to avoid the hit. The sniping will return, but it's clear he has grown his playmaking game this season. Use as you normally would.
News:Phil Kessel notched two assists for the second straight game Thursday against Carolina.
Analysis: Both games have seen Phil Kessel reunited with Joffrey Lupul on Toronto's top line. Despite what's perceived as a disappointing season, he's still nearly on a point-per-game pace, and it seems like he could do even better going forward.
News:Phil Kessel picked up two assists in Tuesday's win over Florida. The points came after coach Randy Carlyle moved Joffrey Lupul to Kessel's line.
Analysis: The move immediately injected life into Phil Kessel's game, and that's important. Phil was a Thrill when he skated with Loops last season; this move could result in a nice uptick in his production.
News:Phil Kessel's point streak stands at four games and seven points (four goals, three assists) after he potted his 10th goal of the season in Saturday's shootout loss to the Jets. He has six goals in his last seven games.
Analysis: He's always had a reputation for streakiness, but it seemed like he'd gained more consistency last season. Nope. He's streaking again this year, but that could change if the Leafs reunite him with Joffrey Lupul who returned Saturday after missing 25 games.
News:Phil Kessel scored both Leafs goals Tuesday in a loss to the Jets. He now has five goals and four assists over his last five games.
Analysis: Phil the Thrill hasn't provided the scoring touch his owners expected, as these were just his eighth and ninth goals on the season. But there are signs of life, as Phil Kessel's in the midst of by far his hottest stretch of the year.
News:Phil Kessel scored a goal and added two assists in Saturday's shootout loss to the Penguins. He has seven points (three goals, four assists) in his last four games.
Analysis: After a slow start to the season, he is starting to snipe a lot more and that's great news for his owners. Keep him rolling.
News:Phil Kessel scored a power-play goal and added two even-strength assists in Wednesday's 5-4 win over the Senators.
Analysis: He now has 20 points -- six goals and 14 assists -- in 24 games this season. Your patience was rewarded Wednesday night, but you drafted him for his sniping, not his playmaking. He needs Joffrey Lupul back.
News:Phil Kessel scored his just third goal in his last 11 games in Monday's win over the Devils. He has five markers on the season.
Analysis: He's still setting up guys, but he's not delivering on his draft position. He's struggling of late, too -- this is his second point in his last five games, a span where he's also minus-5. You can't bench him so stay patient.
News:Phil Kessel scored his fourth goal of the season in Monday's win over the Flyers.
Analysis: He still has 16 points in 20 games, but he has been playing set-up man instead of sniper. Adjust your expectations if he stays with James van Riemsdyk when Joffrey Lupul returns. Phil Kessel feeds JVR, but gets fed by Loops.
News:Phil Kessel picked up two assists in Thursday's win over Buffalo, giving him 12 helpers in 18 games this year.
Analysis:Phil Kessel's scored all three of his goals and eight of his assists in the last nine games, as he's back to driving the Toronto offense after a horribly slow start to the year.
News:Phil Kessel scored the game-winning goal Monday against the Panthers. He also had five shots on net and four penalty minutes.
Analysis:Phil Kessel only has three goals on the season, but all three have come in his last six games. He has a proven track record in this league, so there is still reason to believe he will turn things around.
News:Phil Kessel's point streak stands at four games and seven points after he picked up an assist Monday against the Flyers. He now has 11 points in 13 games.
Analysis: He's streaky so enjoy the ride. He should end up close to a point-per-game pace by season's end.
News:Phil Kessel scored a goal and added two assists in Saturday's 6-0 win over Montreal. The goal and one of the assists came on the power play.
Analysis: He's heating up as we know he often does. He has six points (two goals, four assists) in his last three games; half of those points have come on the PP.
News:Phil Kessel, held without a goal for the first 10 games of the season, finally broke through on a late-third-period power play Thursday in Winnipeg, breaking a 2-2 tie with the game-winner.
Analysis: Well, it certainly took him long enough -- 11 games and 46 pucks on net. A 30-goal scorer in four straight years, Phil Kessel almost certainly won't reach that plateau again in the shortened season, but now that he's got the monkey off his back, expect him to start finding the twine with his usual frequency.
News:Phil Kessel picked up two assists Tuesday against Washington, but still hasn't scored a goal this season. He has six assists in 10 games.
Analysis:Phil Kessel has averaged 33 goals a season while with the Maple Leafs; his lowest total was 30 in his first season. He has also tallied at least 30 for four straight years. The drought is official.
News:Phil Kessel snagged an assist Tuesday in an OT win over Buffalo. He now has no goals and three assists in six games this season.
Analysis: Do not panic that Phil the Thrill doesn't have any goals yet -- he's too darn good for that to continue much longer. You'll just have to wait him out -- it's almost impossible to sit a sniper like him.
News:Phil Kessel fired four more shots Saturday, but failed to score a goal in a 5-2 loss to the Rangers. He now has gone 24 shots without a goal.
Analysis: He has been strong on the ice and with the puck, but hasn't gotten any any lucky bounces. He's still trying to rely on his outside speed instead of going hard to the net. He'll start potting goals the moment he goes into dirty ice.
News:Phil Kessel failed to find the scoreboard on any of Toronto's season-high five goals Wednesday.
Analysis: Only Dion Phaneuf (6:55) saw more power-play ice time than Phil Kessel (6:19). Kessel absorbed a big hit at the Pittsburgh blue line by Brandon Sutter but didn't miss a shift. He'll look to pick up some points Thursday at home against the Islanders, against whom he's totaled 19 points in 23 career contests.
News:Phil Kessel picked up two points, both assists, in Saturday's 2-1 win over Montreal. Both came on the power play.
Analysis: He was pretty much invisible otherwise, but it was good to see him explode on a third period breakaway. It was limited evidence, but perhaps rumors of poor fitness levels aren't true. He's largely known as a sniper, but his playmaking is very underrated.
News:Phil Kessel, who has been skating in Toronto to stay in shape, says he probably won't be headed overseas to play hockey, reports the Toronto Star.
Analysis: He says that unspecified family commitments will likely keep him in North America. The sore wrist that kept him out of action at the World Championships seems to be a thing of the past.
News:Phil Kessel revealed that he's been playing with an injured left wrist and he won't play for Team USA in the upcoming World Championships as a result, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis:Phil Kessel is not expected to require surgery and should be in fine shape for the 2012-13 season. He'll be coming off a career-best 37-45-82 campaign and will certainly go in the first three rounds of almost any draft next season.
News:Phil Kessel put himself over 80 points on the season with three assists in Tuesday's loss to Buffalo, the first time in his career he has cracked that milestone.
Analysis:Phil Kessel is one of the few highlights for Toronto this season, as the talented winger has been one of the league's top scorers. He has four points in the last two games and has an outside shot at notching 40 goals -- he needs to tally three in the season's final two games.
News:Phil Kessel scored his 37th goal of the season Saturday as the Leafs beat the Sabres 4-3.
Analysis:Phil Kessel rebounded nicely from Thursday's disastrous minus-3 performance in a loss to Philadelphia. He's not perfect, but the constant criticism is probably a little much for guy who's been near the top of the scoring charts all season. He needs two points in the season's final three games to reach 80 for the first time in his career.
News:Phil Kessel's assist Saturday gives him 77 points on the season.
Analysis: He has six points in his last seven games. He's not the shrinking violet that the Toronto media likes to portray him -- he's producing but he'll never drive the bus. He's a complementary scorer, not a guy who can carry his team. We're happy as long as he scores.
News:Phil Kessel notched his 36th goal of the season in Tuesday's loss to the Islanders.
Analysis: The shot was so hard that the puck came out as fast as it went in, and play had to be stopped to review the goal. He has four goals in his last 11 games but he is continuing to pick up assists. His output has slowed with Joffrey Lupul's absence but he remains one of the NHL's purest scorers. Keep him rolling.
News:Phil Kessel scored the game-winner on the power play and added an assist in Toronto's win over Ottawa on Saturday night. His point streak stands at three games and four points (one goal, three assists).
Analysis: It's his first goal in his last five games and his 35th of the season. And he has 75 points in 72 games and appears to be settling into coach Randy Carlyle's new defensive scheme. Use him well.
News:Phil Kessel got back on the board with an assist in Tuesday's loss to the Panthers. He now has 72 points on the season.
Analysis: The games are getting tighter defensively as the end of the season nears, and Phil the Thrill is finding there is a lot less room on the ice for him to maneuver. He may still reach 80 points this season, but it's going to be tough sledding.
News:Phil Kessel was held off the scoresheet Sunday against the Capitals. It was the second straight game that he failed to record a point.
Analysis: We hate to say this but we can't help but think Phil Kessel misses the injured Joffrey Lupul. And if that's true -- coupled with the Leafs' shift to more defensive hockey -- Kessel could see his record pace grind to a near halt. Monitor closely.
News:Phil Kessel scored a goal in Wednesday's loss to the Penguins.
Analysis: It was his 34th of the season and enough to give him sole possession of third place on the NHL sniper's list. It will be interesting to see how well Phil Kessel will perform now that linemate Joffrey Lupul is out for a month with a shoulder injury. So far, so good.
News:Phil Kessel scored a goal and added an assist, both of which came on the power play, in Tuesday's loss to the Bruins. He also finished minus-2.
Analysis: He moved back into a tie with the idle Corey Perry for third in the goal chase (33) and now sits fifth on the scoring list with 70 points. The minus-2 is a bit disconcerting, but it comes with the Phil Kessel package.
News:Phil Kessel picked up an assist Wednesday in a loss to Chicago.
Analysis: He may not be sniping at the same rate as he was earlier but he is still finding a way to deliver offense for you. He has points in 11 of 14 games in February and six goals and 11 assists in those games. You know what to do.
News:Phil Kessel picked up a goal and an assist -- both on the power play -- in Tuesday's loss to Florida.
Analysis: It's only his second goal in his last nine games and his first power-play goal since January 19. But he has continued to deliver offense in other ways and now has 67 points in 63 games. Keep him rolling. He's finding a way.
News:Phil Kessel saw his five-game scoring streak snapped Saturday against the Capitals.
Analysis: He was dangerous most of the night, both in firing the puck and dishing it to mates. But Michal Neuvirth turned him down at every turn.
News:Phil Kessel scored his 31st goal of the season in Tuesday's OT loss to the Devils.
Analysis: It was a clutch snipe that knotted the game at three with 44 seconds left in the third and broke a five-game goal drought for the winger. Still, he's on a four-game, four-point streak and has points in eight of his last nine games. Make sure you take full advantage.
News:Phil Kessel picked up an assist -- his 33rd of the season -- in Saturday's loss to the Canucks.
Analysis: It's notable because it establishes a new career mark for playmaking from this notorious sniper. He has 63 points in 59 games, three assists on his current three-game scoring streak and 12 points in his last eight games. Sizzle.
Leafs' Kessel Continues Chase For NHL Scoring Lead
News:Phil Kessel's point streak stands at four games and nine points (four goals, five assists) after setting up two goals in Thursday's loss to Philadelphia.
Analysis: He's also a remarkable plus-8 in those four games, a stunning feat for a guy whose rap before this season was one of laziness on the defensive side of the ledger. He remains on the edge of top spot in the scoring race with 60 points and is as automatic as they come for fantasy owners these days.
Leafs' Kessel Hits 30 Goals For Fourth Straight Season
News:Phil Kessel notched his 30th goal of the season in Tuesday's loss to the Jets. It is the fourth straight season he has reached that milestone.
Analysis: He has done it in just 54 games, so if he stays healthy (knock on wood), he should easily reach 40 or 45. That will put him in very heady company. By the way, he's on a three-game goal streak in which he has four goals and three assists.
News:Phil Kessel scored twice while adding an assist in Monday's 6-3 win over Edmonton, his second straight three-point game.
Analysis:Phil Kessel iced the win with an empty-netter and has shaken whatever doldrums caused him to post a three-point drought. He also finished plus-4, a new career high. Kessel remains one of the league's strongest players this season and is on his way to carrying Toronto to the playoffs.
News:Phil Kessel snapped a three-game point drought with a goal and two assists in a win over the Senators on Saturday.
Analysis: He now has 54 points on the season and a share of the Leafs' scoring lead with Joffrey Lupul. He'd been mired in a bit of slump of late, going 10 games without a multi-point effort. Hopefully this effort smashes that slump.
Leafs' Kessel Picks Up Three Points At All-Star Game
News:Phil Kessel scored a goal and added two assists in Sunday's All-Star Game.
Analysis: He was one of five players on his team and seven in the game to score at least three points.
News:Phil Kessel scored his 26th goal of the season in Monday's win over the Islanders. He also finished plus-1.
Analysis: It's the plus-1 that is truly meaningful because the warts on his game have really poked through in the previous six outings. He had a goal and an assist in the previous six but was also minus-6. His commitment to playing in all three zones really seems to be escaping him of late and that's going to burn those of you in leagues that count plus-minus. We suppose that's a small price to pay for 51 points, though.
News:Phil Kessel ended a four-game goal drought with a tally in Thursday's win over Minnesota.
Analysis: The speedy winger put five shots on goal and grabbed the goal playing away from Joffrey Lupul. Phil Kessel appears to have shaken whatever doldrums were handicapping his play the last 10 days.
News:Phil Kessel snapped his three-game scoring drought with an assist in Tuesday's loss to the Senators.
Analysis: He had speed all night, but he was also man-handled like a schoolyard skinny, particularly by Zack Smith. Still, he was able to set up linemate Joffrey Lupul and both men snapped their slumps. He should be just fine going forward.
News:Phil Kessel was held without a point Saturday and finished minus-2. It's his third-straight game without a point.
Analysis: It's the longest drought of the season and the first time he's actually gone more than one game without a point. He was rocked early by the Rangers' Brian Boyle and didn't seem to put in the kind of defensive effort his coach expects. As a result, he saw just 15:55 in ice time, his lowest total since Nov. 3. He'll rebound. Continue to use him as you always do.
News:Phil Kessel was selected to play in the 2012 All-Star Game in Ottawa later this month.
Analysis: Last year, he was there as the token Leaf and selected last in the league's new fantasy draft approach. Alexander Ovechkin even laughed and snapped pics of a lonely Phil sitting by himself in a folding chair, waiting to be picked. This year, the table might not be turned but Phil won't be the last man to go in the draft. He's tied with Steven Stamkos for fourth overall in league scoring with 28 points and after 42 games, he's second only to Stamkos on the goal scorer's list with 24. He hasn't gone more than six games without sniping a goal and is showing remarkable passing vision, often setting up linemate and fellow all-star, Joffrey Lupul.
News:Phil Kessel picked up a goal and an assist Saturday in a win over Detroit to extend his current point streak to eight games and nine points (five goals, four assists).
Analysis: The Wings simply could not contain his speed -- his goal came on a penalty shot after he was hacked while on a breakaway and his assist came when he and Joffrey Lupul took flight after a breakout. He's now tied with Claude Giroux for second in the NHL with 48 points and they're just one point behind Henrik Sedin. And he's now alone in second in the goal chase with 24. Can you say All-Star? ... on the ice and in fantasy.
News:Phil Kessel stretched his goal streak to three games and his point streak to seven (four goals, three assists) Thursday when he scored the game-winning goal over the Jets.
Analysis: It's actually his first game winner since Oct. 29. He remains on pace to score more than 45 goals and 90 points. Use him well.
News:Phil Kessel's point streak stands at six games after he potted his 22nd goal of the season in Tuesday's win over the Lightning.
Analysis: He remains top-five in both goals and points in the NHL and has proven his detractors wrong. He also fired seven shots on net Tuesday so his recent shot outage was just an anomaly.
News:Phil Kessel stretched his point streak to five games when he sniped his 21st goal of the season in Saturday's loss to Winnipeg.
Analysis: He's having a great season but he has had trouble firing pucks in his last few games. He had just a single shot Saturday and none Thursday after firing 17 in his previous three contests. Hopefully it's just a weird quirk and nothing more.
News:Phil Kessel picked up an assist Tuesday against Florida. His point streak now stands at three games.
Analysis: He has a goal and two assists in those three games and 10 points in his last 10 games. But unfortunately, he has just one power-play point in that span. It's a small quibble, of course, but we'd like to see more production with the man advantage. Still, he's an outstanding roll.
News:Phil Kessel picked up an assist on Joffrey Lupul's empty-net goal Friday night in a win over the Islanders.
Analysis: He wasn't as prolific a shooter as he was Thursday night -- he had just two shots this night instead of the 10 against the Sabres. Still, it's his 41st point of the season; they have come in just 35 games. His consistency is remarkable -- his longest pointless streak is just a single game. And his plus-minus (plus-3) is a huge swing from his minus-20 from last year. His star has arrived; use him well.
News:Phil Kessel struck for his 20th goal of the year Thursday against Buffalo, tying him with Marian Gaborik, Jonathan Toews and Steven Stamkos for the NHL lead.
Analysis: It sure is crowded up at the top right now. Phil Kessel was extra active in this one, putting a season-high 10 shots on goal.
News:Phil Kessel scored a goal and added an assist in Saturday's loss to the Canucks.
Analysis: There was a long stretch in the second and into the third periods where he didn't even record a shot. But his release on his goal was so hot that Roberto Luongo just couldn't react fast enough. He sits one goal behind Steven Stamkos (20) for the league lead. You know exactly what to do.
News:Phil Kessel picked up an assist in Friday's game to give him 37 points in 31 games.
Analysis: That's a 98-point pace for a guy who has never tallied more than 64. And it also means something between 45 and 50 goals. You know what to do.
Leafs' Kessel Scores; Moves Back Into Tie For NHL Lead
News:Phil Kessel bagged his 18th goal of the season in Friday's loss to Washington.
Analysis: He moves back into a tie for the league lead with Ottawa's Milan Michalek. Phil the Thrill has been quite consistent in terms of points this season but his goals have come in bunches. He now has goals in back-to-back games so there could be a few more goals in the next couple games.
News:Phil Kessel ended his six-game goal drought with a tally in Tuesday's loss to New Jersey. He was very active on the offensive end, totaling eight shots on goal.
Analysis: The naysayers of anything Phil Kessel or Leafs-related, mostly Leafs fans, will want to point out that Kessel directed the puck in with his foot following a Martin Brodeur save. Regardless, these are the bounces goal-scorers need to get back on their game. Kessel was buzzing around the New Jersey goal all night, being emphatically denied by Brodeur on several occasions. Look for Kessel to get back to scoring, but even in the drought, he still managed five assists.
News:Phil Kessel registered two assists in Monday's 4-2 win over the Rangers, giving him four helpers in the last four games.
Analysis: Critics of Kessel, of which there are absolutely none, especially in Toronto, will want to point out that the high-flying winger has no goals in the last six games. Kessel has been contributing to the team's scoring with five assists over those six games and is a minus-6 as well. Play him with confidence, just remember that this is Phil Kessel, who ceases to score goals occasionally. When he's hot, however, there are few skaters more dangerous.
News:Phil Kessel notched an assist in Wednesday's loss to Boston.
Analysis: One point may not seem like much but it's a huge monkey off Phil Kessel's back -- he has struggled mightily against his former team. His 32 points still lead the league and he's on pace for 106 this year.
News:Phil Kessel picked up an assist in Tuesday's win over Tampa. He now has five points on his current three-game scoring streak.
Analysis: He continues to lead the NHL in points with 30. His consistency this year has blown away all previous impressions of him. In fact, he has points in 18 of 22 games and hasn't gone more than a game without a goal. We're not sure that can last but it sure is impressive.
News:Phil Kessel scored both goals in Sunday's 3-2 loss to the Hurricanes. One came on the power play.
Analysis: He leads the league with 16 goals and 29 points. He hasn't wavered in his consistency yet this season despite thoughts that he might. He has points in eight of 10 games this month.
News:Phil Kessel scored a goal and added an assist in Saturday's win over the Capitals.
Analysis: He was flat-out impressive, playing like he had the puck on a string and outplaying Alexander Ovechkin by a country mile. And oh yeah -- he was also the first guy back on the back-check. His start isn't a fluke -- he really has grown his game ... and grown up. He has goals in four of his last six games and 14 on the season. Forty (or more) are within his grasp.
News:Phil Kessel potted a power-play goal in Tuesday's shootout loss to Phoenix, giving him at least one point in each of the last four games.
Analysis:Phil Kessel has always played with confidence, but now he appears to have added the elusive element of consistency. The crafty sniper has 13 goals and 25 points on the season, both good enough for the league's lead. Expect his numbers to fall off a bit at some point, despite the hopes of those in Toronto.
News:Phil Kessel's point streak stands at three games after an assist in Saturday's loss to the Senators.
Analysis: He has an equal number (12) of goals and assists, and continues to lead the league in points ... for now.
News:Phil Kessel scored a power-play goal, his 12th marker of the season, in the first period Thursday against the Blues, and later won the game with the lone goal of the shootout.
Analysis:Phil Kessel has been an absolute beast so far this year, as he's got a point in all but three games and leads the NHL in goals and points. Enjoy the ride, as he finally seems to have found that extra gear we all knew he had in him.
News:Phil Kessel scored his 11th goal of the season in Tuesday's loss to the Panthers. It was the Leafs' only goal.
Analysis: We love what he's doing this year but this was just his first goal in five games and second in his last seven. Snipers will go through slumps but he's showing he can still deliver assists (five in the previous six games) even when he's not scoring. This will be a career year for the Thrill. Enjoy the ride.
News:Phil Kessel remains on the top of the league scoring race after picking up an assist in Thursday's win over the Blue Jackets. He has 21 points.
Analysis: He's also the league's top goal-getter with 10 and the Leafs are the best in the NHL. We weren't sure we'd ever be able to type those words. He has elevated his intensity and his game to a level we just haven't seen before. Pretty soon, we'll have to revert to calling him Mr. Business, his college nickname, instead of Phil the Thrill. Enjoy the ride.
News:Phil Kessel had two assists Wednesday night in a win over New Jersey. He now has 20 points in 12 games.
Analysis: Best of all, he was plus-3 and now sits at a combined plus-9 this season. He really has taken his game to a completely different level. You know what to do.
News:Phil Kessel is the NHL's player of the month for October.
Analysis: His 10 goals and eight helpers in 11 games last month helped the Leafs get off to a 7-3-1 start, good for first in the Northeast Division and their best in over a decade. He's the first Leaf to win the honor since Felix "The Cat" Potvin in 1993.
News:Phil Kessel set up a goal and then potted the game winner in a 4-3 victory over Pittsburgh on Saturday night.
Analysis: He continues to lead the league in goals (10) and points (18), and has been held off the score sheet just once in 10 games. He has clearly taken his game to a completely different level this season and is intensely engaged in all three zones. And his start this season is eerily similar to that of Steven Stamkos' last year. Not that he's as complete a player as Stammer but his game really has grown.
News:Phil Kessel left practice Friday early because he was "banged up" according to a report on Toronto's Sportsnet 590 The Fan.
Analysis: He took several hard hits Thursday night but coach Ron Wilson said he should be fine to go Saturday against Pittsburgh. Phil Kessel continues to lead the NHL in scoring and is tied with James Neal of the Pens for the goal lead.
News:Phil Kessel potted his ninth goal of the season in Monday's loss to the Flyers, giving him goals in six of eight games this season.
Analysis:Phil Kessel has been the key to Toronto's fast start. The dynamic winger is playing with a massive amount of confidence and Monday's goal saw the puck deflect off another player and land on his stick for an easy finish. Kessel is showing no signs of slowing down, but remember he has been streaky over his career and relying on him to continue scoring in 75 percent of his games could prove faulty. Regardless, play him with confidence.
News:Phil Kessel scored a goal and added an assist Saturday. He now has points in six of the Leafs' seven games this season.
Analysis: He has really stepped up his game this year. His 14 points lead the NHL and he's tied for the goal lead with eight.
News:Phil Kessel extended his point streak to 15 regular season games -- 10 games at the end of last season and five from this season -- with a goal and two assists in Wednesday's win over Winnipeg.
Analysis: The goal and one of the assists came on the power play. Phil Kessel has been white-hot so far this season and may actually be starting to dispel the notion he's a streaky scorer. He became a little more consistent over the second half last year but has really ripped it open this year -- five games, seven goals and 12 points overall. He can't maintain this pace. You may be able to leverage him in a deal for a whole lot more, particularly from a Leafs fan. Go check.
News:Phil Kessel continued his torrid start with a goal in Toronto's 3-2 overtime loss to Colorado on Monday.
Analysis:Phil Kessel is off to an outstanding start and has six goals in four games. He's been notoriously streaky during his career, but with his talent and ability to produce, the wet spells make the wait worth it.
News:Phil Kessel was named the NHL's first star of the opening week after scoring five goals and adding three assists in three games.
Analysis: He was also plus-7 in those games. He does tend to be streaky but this is a great way to start the season.
News:Phil Kessel scored twice and added an assist in Saturday's win over Calgary. He was also plus-3.
Analysis: Three games, five goals, eight points and a plus-7 rating -- he's on fire. He appears to be playing a more committed game in all zones and the results have been offensively spectacular.
News:Phil Kessel scored his first hat trick in a Leafs' uniform in Saturday's win over Ottawa. He also picked up an assist.
Analysis: He had his feet moving all night long -- the key to his success -- and he was absolutely flying. It was his third career hattie. He was also a solid plus-3, a category that he was horrible in last year. He's great when he's got it going; now we just need to see him replicate his late 2010-11 consistency and we'll slot him up the cheat sheets.
News:Phil Kessel, who battled a minor groin injury during camp, logged nearly 21 minutes in the Leafs' season opener and finished with an assist and a plus-1 rating.
Analysis: Ultimately, we never expected this to be a serious ailment for the talented winger, but tissue injuries certainly can linger and hopefully this one is in fact fully healed so it's a non-factor moving forward.
News: Coach Ron Wilson revealed Tuesday that Phil Kessel is battling a minor groin injury. The forward wasn't supposed to make the trip to Ottawa, but was forced into duty with others also fighting minor aches and pains, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis: It doesn't sound like anything that's going to impact Phil Kessel's regular season status, but it's at least worth monitoring because even the most minor of groin injuries can linger.
News:Phil Kessel notched his first goal of the preseason in Friday's 2-1 loss to Buffalo.
Analysis: He banged in a John-Michael Liles rebound after charging hard to the blue paint. He, Tim Connolly and Joffrey Lupul have taken their time finding some chemistry but there were glimpses of potential this night. A 40-goal season could be in the offing if he and Connolly spark it up.
News: Kessel's fantasy value took an uptick Saturday with the Leafs' signing of centerman Tim Connolly, a pass-first playmaker with vision not unlike Kessel's previous center in Boston, Marc Savard.
Analysis: The only thing that really separates Savard and Connolly is that Savard shoots left and Connolly wires right. But both men have elite vision (when healthy), something that the shoot-first, ask-questions-later Kessel needs. A 40-goal season is in his cross-hairs next season; plan accordingly.
News: Kessel went out with a bang Saturday, notching his 32nd goal of the season in a 4-1 loss to the Canadiens.
Analysis: He ended the year on a 10-game scoring streak and the best overall output (64 points) of his career.
News: Kessel scored his 31st goal of the season in Wednesday's loss to New Jersey. The goal came on the power play and stretched his scoring streak to nine games.
Analysis: His streak is the second-longest of his career but it's a far cry from his high-water mark of 18 games in 2008-09. And his 63 points are a career best. Maybe there's a chance for consistency in his game after all.
News: Kessel's point streak now stands at eight games after he picked up an assist Tuesday against Washington.
Analysis: What's even more remarkable is that just two of those points are goals -- he has seven assists in that span. He clearly has found chemistry with Joffrey Lupul; just wait to see how those two might take off with a top line center.
News: Kessel hit the 30-goal plateau in Saturday's win over Ottawa. It's his third consecutive 30-goal season.
Analysis: Just imagine what he could do if he had an elite center who could dish him the puck. He has 96 goals over his last three seasons and should be able to string together several more 30-goal stanzas. And maybe even a few back-to-back 40s, too. By the way, he's on a seven-game point streak (two goals, six assists).
News: Kessel scored his 29th goal of the season in Thursday's win over the Avalanche. It stood as the game winner.
Analysis: It came on the PP early in the third. He's just one snipe away from his third straight 30-goal season. Not bad for the much-maligned 23-year-old. By the way, he's on a three-game point streak again.
News: Kessel picked up an assist Saturday in the Leafs' win over Boston.
Analysis: He's starting to slow down a little -- he only has five points in his last nine games and only one of those was a goal. One word: uh-oh.
News: Kessel picked up an assist Wednesday against Carolina. It came on the power play.
Analysis: He has more helpers than goals of late, something that isn't what we've come to expect from him. He has 17 points (nine goals, eight assists) in his last 15 games but just four of those points have come in his last seven games. And all but one of those four were helpers. He may be slowly easing into another slump; watch closely.
News: Kessel scored a goal and added an assist in Saturday's win over Buffalo.
Analysis: He has three points in his last three games and 16 in his last 13 games. Is this his first real stretch of consistency? We're not sure but who cares? Roll his tail and take full advantage.
News: Kessel hit the 50-point threshold Tuesday with an assist in an OT loss to the Islanders.
Analysis: This may come as a surprise but he's on pace to match his previous career high in points (60); unfortunately, he hit that mark two seasons ago in just 70 games. He's an auto-roll in straight points leagues but he's a spot-starter while hot in head-to-head formats. The highs are great but the valleys can be very, very low.
News: Kessel potted a goal and added an assist in Toronto's big 3-2 overtime victory over Pittsburgh on Wednesday night
Analysis: He's on fire with eight goals in his last eight games. Kessel has also added five assists during that stretch. His fantasy value has never been higher this year.
News: Kessel scored his 26th goal in Sunday's 3-2 overtime loss to Atlanta.
Analysis: Kessel extended his current point streak to four games and eight points (4G, 4A). Kessel has 47 points in 63 games.
News: Kessel's two assists Saturday give him 10 points in his last six games.
Analysis: When he's hot, he's hot. His current improvement is linked to the arrival of Joffrey Lupul with whom he is developing some real chemistry. Use him well; just watch for signs of another slump.
News: Kessel had a huge fantasy night Thursday in Montreal. He scored two goals and added two assists; both goals and one helper came on the power play.
Analysis: Slump shlump -- that 14-game goal drought is long forgotten now that he has six goals in his last five games. Get on board quick -- his pendulum has swung back into the excellence category.
News: Kessel notched the game-winning goal Tuesday in a win over the Islanders.
Analysis: He has four goals in his last four games and six points in his last seven games. He's back to being a must-roll again.
News: Kessel scored the first goal of the game as Toronto downed Buffalo 2-1 Wednesday night.
Analysis: After going 14 straight games with a goal, Kessel suddenly has three in his past two. He's been a very streaky scorer this season, but his 247 shots on goal are good for second in the entire league.
News: Kessel ended a 14-game goal drought with two tallies Tuesday in Toronto's win over Boston.
Analysis: Apparently, Kessel only responds to playing against his former team. We're assuming you, unlike Ron Wilson and Toronto, exercised your option of removing the petulant winger from your lineup and likely did not benefit from Kessel's outburst. His last drought was followed by a streak that featured five goals in four games, but he's hardly shown himself to be consistent, and of course, is the sole reason for the Leafs being out of the playoffs presently.
News: Kessel provided two power-play goals Tuesday in a 4-3 win over the Bruins.
Analysis: Kessel had gone 14 consecutive games without scoring a goal, but this performance should quiet the critics for awhile. Start him through the good, the bad and everywhere in between.
News: Kessel's goal-scoring drought reached 14 games Saturday when he was held off the scoresheet in Montreal.
Analysis: He has five assists over that span. He and his coach both tried to clear the air recently about their disagreement last Sunday but we're not sure we buy it. He's streaky but this is killing head-to-head owners.
News: Kessel, who is mired in 10-game goal slump, showed some frustration Sunday after being demoted to the third line during morning practice, reports TSN.ca.
Analysis: Reporters asked Kessel if his coach had taken him aside to address any issues and the usually quiet winger said this: "No, me and Ron don't really talk. That's all I have to say about that." The move to the third line was likely an attempt to snap him out of his defensive funk (he's minus-8 in those 10 games). Is there bad blood brewing in the Big Smoke? A sulking Kessel will likely be even less productive. Yikes.
News: Kessel was the last player selected in Friday night's All-Star draft.
Analysis: Sure, it's embarrassing -- we've all been afraid to be picked last. But he ended up with a brand-new car and $20,000 for his favorite charity, just to ease his ego. It won't affect his fantasy value but you can be guaranteed it's going to burn the butts of Leafs' fans everywhere.
News: Kessel snagged two assists Thursday in the win over Anaheim, snapping a three-game points drought.
Analysis: Kessel had an impressive five goals in four games earlier this month and is getting involved in the Leafs' recent offensive outbursts. He's been a bit streaky this season, but the chance for a breakout is always there for Kessel, who is still just 23-years old.
News: Kessel sniped his 19th goal of the season in Tuesday's win over the Sharks. His goal streak now stands at four games.
Analysis: He has five goals in that span -- it's one of those streaks. Use him well right now.
News: Kessel is the only Leaf headed to the All-Star Game in Raleigh at the end of the month.
Analysis: It's his first appearance in an NHL All-Star Game; he has 18 goals and 12 assists for 30 points in 41 games.
News: Kessel extended his goal streak to three games and four goals with a marker in Monday's win over the Kings.
Analysis: When he's hot, he's hot. And right now, he's on fire. He has points -- including six goals -- in six of his last seven games and he has his sights on a 35-goal, 60-point season. We may criticize him sometimes but right now, we're loving this.
News: Kessel scored a goal and added an assist, both of which came on the power play, in Friday's win over Atlanta.
Analysis: He now has three goals in his last two games and five in his last six. He's on one of his streaks; make sure you have him active.
News: Kessel scored twice in Thursday's OT win over St. Louis.
Analysis: Man, he has a beautiful release. Both goals were beauties and they give him four goals and three assists in his last five games. He's actually on a 30-goal pace. But only you know where a 30-goal, 20-assist guy fits in your lineup.
News: Kessel fired eight shots on Boston's Tuukka Rask on Monday night but couldn't solve the netminder.
Analysis: Rask stole a couple goals from Phil the Thrill but that's the way the puck seems to bounce for the former Bruin.
News: Kessel's two assists Saturday extended his point streak to three games and five points.
Analysis: Yep, he's streaking. Get him back in your lineup as it may not last long. But it will hopefully be productive.
News: Kessel picked up a power-play assist in Thursday's loss.
Analysis: He has three power-play points in his last four games and may be worth spot duty again. And maybe -- just maybe -- he's poised for another streak. Saturday in Ottawa might just be a good game for the enigmatic winger.
News: Kessel scored twice in Tuesday's 4-3 loss to Carolina. The first came on the power play.
Analysis: He snapped a four-game goal slump with the markers and ended up with seven shots on net on the night. Is it a foreshadowing of another potential streak? We hope so but it may just be a guessing game -- he's just so painfully streaky.
News: Kessel picked up an assist in Monday's loss to Atlanta. He was also minus-2.
Analysis: So much for a streak. He has just 20 points in 33 games, including six in his last 12. The Leafs expected more. So did we.
News: Kessel scored a goal and added an assist, and was named the game's first star Tuesday in a win over the Oilers.
Analysis: He now has goals in back-to-back games and five points in as many games. He's streaky and it looks like he's on that path right now. Make sure you take advantage.
News: Kessel, who was called out by his coach for his lack of creativity on the ice, scored his 11th goal of the season in Saturday's win over Montreal. It was his first goal in eight games.
Analysis: He scored because he went hard to the net, something he hasn't done much of lately. Then again, he was invisible for other parts of the game. But with three points in his last four games, he could be on the cusp of breaking his current slump. Take a chance and activate him.
News: Kessel has now gone seven games without a goal and is mired in a slump that has seen the sniper pot just three markers in his last 20 games.
Analysis: We warned you he'd be streaky and when the pendulum swings back, he'll likely go on a massive tear. But we just don't know when that's going to happen. He has just seven points and is minus-12 in those 20 games and that makes him a must-sit until he starts to streak again.
News: Kessel picked up an assist Wednesday in a loss to the Penguins.
Analysis: He now has helpers in back-to-back contests but just three points in his last nine games. He's still a risky activation but he has played a bit better in his last two. Maybe playing center is helping him find his inner playmaker.
News: Kessel's shootout winner lifted the Leafs to a 3-2 win over the Bruins on Saturday night.
Analysis: He didn't hit the scoresheet otherwise and certainly didn't impress at the face-off dot in his debut as the top-line center. And he made a few significant defensive lapses. But he was noticeable for what seemed to be a little more creativity than usual. The experiment may just continue.
News: Kessel will start at center Saturday against Boston, reports the Toronto Star. He had volunteered to try center at Friday's practice.
Analysis: "I grew up a centerman, so go out and try it," said Kessel after Saturday morning's skate. "We're not winning, we've got to find a way to win, score some more goals. It's frustrating. I was brought here to score goals, be an offensive player. I'm not scoring enough, doing enough. I've got to pick it up." Moving to center won't solve your scoring woes, friend -- you don't play a two-way game on the wing so what makes you think you can add that responsibility now? This is a disaster in the making. If he succeeds with his defensive responsibilities, he'll no doubt lose offensive focus. But the silver lining Saturday is clear -- it'll give him a little more space on the ice and away from Zdeno Chara. Still, find someone else.
News: Kessel scored his first-career shorthanded goal in Friday's loss to Buffalo.
Analysis: He's been mired in a horrendous slump (five points in his last 13 games) but he does have five points in his last six games. Perhaps he's turning the corner again.
News: Kessel was benched for a few shifts Monday night after his failure to backcheck resulted in the Stars' lone goal.
Analysis: He's a perimeter player who only sees offense and that doesn't always sit well with coach Ron Wilson. Still, he's the Buds' bread and butter when it comes to scoring so we don't think this will happen often. But he has been benched once before this season and his line has been called out by his coach as well. He needs to step it up.
News: Kessel posted the game-winning goal Thursday against New Jersey, giving him four points in the last three games.
Analysis: Kessel's as streaky of a player as there is in the league, but when he's on, the points come in bunches. He has two goals and two helpers over the last three contests and was buzzing around the New Jersey goal (seriously, who hasn't this year) prior to scoring. If you can catch him at the crest of one of these streaks, enjoy the ride, but be aware of the several games he's invisible that are looming on the horizon.
News: Kessel snapped a seven-game scoring slump Saturday with his eighth goal of the season.
Analysis: It's nice to see him snap the goal drought but he's not out of the woods yet -- he hasn't picked up an assist in 12 games. He's hard to sit; his potential is too great. Swallow hard and hope this goal is the sign of something beautiful to come.
News: Kessel's point slump stretched to seven games Wednesday when the Panthers held him off the score sheet.
Analysis: He's now one game from matching the longest drought of his career (he had two, eight-game slumps in his rookie season in Boston). He did fire five shots on net and appeared to be far more inspired that he had of late; let's hope this means the slump will be over soon.
News: Kessel hasn't scored in five games and his coach essentially called him and his linemates out after Saturday's loss to Buffalo, reports the Toronto Star.
Analysis: "If you'd put a snap shot or freeze-frame camera on the [Mikhail] Grabovski line or the [Christian] Hanson line (Saturday), you would have seen three guys around the puck all the time. With those three guys (Bozak line) you don't see that enough," coach Ron Wilson said. "Hopefully they realize they need to support each other more and go from there." Kessel has always been notorious for his streaky play, something that makes him a far riskier head-to-head play than in a straight points format. He'll burst out soon enough and it'll happen in a big way. But there may be a few more empty games for him to come before then.
News: Kessel was once again held off the score sheet when the Leafs met the Capitals on Wednesday night.
Analysis: Now that's four straight without a point. This is fairly predictable; we just don't know how long it'll last. But you cannot sit him -- he could explode at any time.
News: Kessel was held off the score sheet Tuesday night. It was his third-straight game without a point.
Analysis: He has always been streaky so this isn't anything new. But he has just two shots in his last two games. He's bound for a 40-goal season; the goals are just going to come in bunches.
News: Kessel scored his seventh goal of the season in Tuesday's win over Florida.
Analysis: He stripped the puck off Stephen Weiss and then fired a rocket past Scott Clemmensen on the ensuing breakaway. He now has nine points in eight games this season. You know what to do.
News: Kessel scored the Leafs' lone goal Monday. It came on the power play.
Analysis: He has five goals and two helpers in just five games, and is making those first-round picks he was traded for a distant memory. He has a real shot at 40 goals this season; roll with confidence.
News: Kessel looks to rebound Friday against the Rangers after being benched for part of the second period of Wednesday's win over the Penguins.
Analysis: He stretched out his shifts to just over a minute when his coach preferred (and prefers) 40-45. We think his little sit-down will be etched in his mind and we'll see an inspired Kessel in the Big Apple.
News: Kessel scored twice, including the winner during an overtime power play, in the Leafs' 4-3 win over the Rangers on Friday night. He added an assist.
Analysis: It was nice to see him respond positively to his mini-benching Wednesday night. He has four goals and two assists in four games. Great first week.
News: Kessel picked up a goal and an assist Saturday in the Leafs' 5-1 win over the Senators.
Analysis: Two games and two goals, plus one assist -- this guy is hot. He looks like he could pot 40 or more this season; that's fantasy money in the bank.
News: Kessel muscled home a breakaway goal in Thursday's 3-2 win over the Canadiens.
Analysis: Tyler Bozak sprung him loose and he showed off his speed and increased strength as he forced the puck through Carey Price. We're impressed. He's an automatic roll in just about every format.
News: Kessel scored twice in Monday's win over Buffalo.
Analysis: He has four goals in three preseason games and had another waved off. We love his chemistry with Tyler Bozak and Kris Versteeg; good things are about to come for his owners.
News: Kessel scored twice in Wednesday's preseason win over Ottawa.
Analysis: His improved fitness level was evident from the first drop of the puck. And he showed off his seeing-eye sniping, too. Forty goals are in his sights; even more are possible if he gets some support.
News: Kessel impressed coaches Friday during fitness testing and he could be in the best physical shape of his young career, reports the Toronto Star.
Analysis: Last season, he was out of shape after offseason surgery and it took him months to get himself into better shape. Now, he's 10 pounds lighter and appears to be stronger and faster than he's ever been. We'd bump him up a few ticks on our draft list -- he could be poised for an explosive year, supporting cast or not.
News: Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel was able to play on Tuesday against the Flyers despite dealing with some cramping issues. He failed to record a point in 19:02 of ice time and finished at minus-1. He also spent two minutes in the penalty box.
Analysis: The Maple Leafs gave up a first-round pick to get Kessel from Boston. While it looks as though the Bruins will get a top-five pick in this June's draft, the Maple Leafs are still pleased with Kessel's output. He scored 30 times and recorded 55 points in 67 games. Kessel is a decent Fantasy play when healthy.
News: The Toronto Globe & Mail reports that Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel had some cramping issues Saturday against Boston and had to leave practice on Monday because of them.
Analysis: Kessel has 55 points this season, but his assists have dried up lately with just two in his last 11 games. He appears to be a little bit of a questionable start in Fantasy Week 25 (April 5-11), so start him at your peril. When healthy, Kessel is a solid start in the majority of Fantasy formats, with the potential to be a must-start option.
News: Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel scored his 22nd goal of the season in Saturday's 2-1 shootout win over the Senators.
Analysis: Kessel had no points in his previous three games, but before that he was on fire with 10 points in a five-game stretch. He has been erratic since coming over to Toronto, but he's too talented to bench in many formats.
News: Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel scored a power-play goal and tallied an assist on Monday against the Sharks. Kessel tied it for Toronto with a power-play goal in the final minute of the second period, on a play set up by defenseman Tomas Kaberle, who earned the 400th assist of his career.
Analysis: Kessel has four multi-point games during a five-game point streak. He has six goals and four assists in that span. Kessel has been on fire since switching hockey sticks. He is starting to score again after having some struggles in January, so it appears safe to keep Kessel active in Fantasy.
News: Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel scored twice and assisted in Saturday's win over the Senators. He now has five goals and three assists in his last four games.
Analysis: Kessel switched his stick recently, and the move seems to really be paying off. Hopefully he can keep this run going and get back to being the point-per-game guy we know he's capable of being. He should be activated in all formats for Fantasy Week 19 (Feb. 8-14).
News: Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel tallied a pair of assists during Friday's game against the Devils. He has three goals and five points in three games since moving to a new stick.
Analysis: Kessel has totaled four goals and 10 assists in his last 13 games. His scoring is a bit down, but at least Kessel is moving the puck. He did lose center Matt Stajan in a trade recently, but Kessel seems just fine without him. Kessel is a decent Fantasy start, but he can definitely be much more if he picks up the scoring. It does seem the change of equipment is helping.
News: The Globe and Mail reports that Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel has three goals in his last two games since switching to a new stick.
Analysis: Whatever's working for Kessel, his Fantasy owners won't really care as long as he continues to produce. After initially catching on quickly after his move to Toronto, Kessel's offense really dried up in mid-December. However, he started assisting again about 10 days into January and hasn't looked back. All owners should think about getting him back active immediately.
News: Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel scored twice in Saturday's loss to the Canucks, doubling his goal total from the previous 21 games.
Analysis: Kessel has been assisting a lot lately, but Toronto didn't bring him in to do that. Hopefully this game will get him back on track, but that's far from a guarantee. Continue to roll with him in most Fantasy formats.
News: Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel picked the perfect time to bust out of a scoring slump that hounded him since January began. With 5:48 left in Monday's game against Nashville, Kessel fired a shot between the pads of Dan Ellis to give Toronto a 4-3 win over the Predators. The goal was his first in nine 2010 contests.
Analysis: You knew it was only going to be a matter of time before Kessel sorted himself out, and he now appears to be back on track with six points in his last five games. Get him back active in all Fantasy formats as a high-end forward.
News: Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel tallied a pair of assists and finished at plus-2 on Thursday against the Flyers. He has four assists during a three-game point streak, but Kessel hasn't scored in seven January games.
Analysis: Fantasy owners continue to wait for Kessel to snap his scoring funk and get back on track. Even when he had his breakout season in 2008-09 with Boston, Kessel's goals seemed to come in waves. Kessel is arguably the Maple Leafs' top offensive weapon and a viable Fantasy start on most weeks. At least he is being productive in some manner with the assists.
News: Toronto C Phil Kessel continued to struggle on Friday against the Sabres. He had no points in 21:49 of ice time. In his last 11 games, he has only one goal with no assists and a minus-8 rating.
Analysis: Kessel had been mired in a funk the last few weeks and some folks were pointing at the fact he might be wearing down a little after he missed the preseason conditioning drills while recovering from shoulder surgery. Fantasy owners shouldn't buy into that too much since Kessel is still taking a ton of shots. Even the best forwards go cold at times. Kessel is arguably the Maple Leafs' top offensive weapon and a viable Fantasy start on most weeks.
News: Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel spoiled Jeff Deslauriers' shutout bid with four minutes left in the third period on Wednesday, scoring a power-play goal. It was his first goal and point in seven games.
Analysis: Kessel had been mired in a funk the last few weeks and some folks were pointing at the fact he might be wearing down a little after he missed the preseason conditioning drills while recovering from shoulder surgery. Fantasy owners shouldn't buy into that too much since Kessel is still taking a ton of shots. Even the best forwards go cold at times. Kessel is arguably the Maple Leafs' top offensive weapon and a viable Fantasy start on most weeks.
News: NHL.com reports that Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel has gone cold over the last couple weeks with no points in six games and a minus-6 during that span.
Analysis: Kessel was doing great once he got back healthy, but he's certainly in the midst of a slump at the moment. Bench him in smaller leagues until his game starts to come around.
News: Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel scored and added two assists in Saturday's win over the Patriots.
Analysis: Kessel has been on a point-per-game pace since joining his new teammates in early November and remains a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.
News:Phil Kessel and Jason Blake each scored two goals and the Maple Leafs beat the Blue Jackets 6-3 on Thursday. The Maple Leafs struck early. From the back boards, Alexei Ponikarovsky flipped a no-look, behind-the-back centering pass that went off defenseman Mike Commodore's stick to Kessel's. Kessel skated across the slot, pulling the puck back as Steve Mason tried to poke-check it, and slipped it into the net. The Maple Leafs made it 4-1 shortly after when Alexei Ponikarovsky took a pass and was held up by a defender but kicked the puck to Kessel for a quick shot in the high slot resulting in his second of the night and 10th of the season.
Analysis: Kessel has four goals in his past four games and 10 in the past 13 to drive the Leafs. He has been nothing short of spectacular since returning from offseason shoulder surgery and has become a viable Fantasy start.
News: Toronto RW Phil Kessel had two assists on Tuesday in a 3-0 win at Montreal. His first assist came on a Jeff Finger goal scored 12:51 into the first period. The second goal came 6:53 into the second period.
Analysis: Kessel has been everything the Maple Leafs had hoped for since they traded for him in the offseason. He missed the first month of the season recovering from shoulder surgery, but it definitely appears he is back at 100 percent as he has four points in his past three games and 13 points overall in his first 14 games. He remains a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel scored a goal during Monday's game against the Islanders. Kessel, who scored for the sixth time in 10 games with the Maple Leafs, charged hard to the goal and had a tap-in after taking a nice pass from Matt Stajan at 15:32 of the second period.
Analysis: Kessel has been everything the Maple Leafs had hoped for since they traded for him in the offseason. He missed the first month of the season recovering from shoulder surgery, but it definitely appears he is back at 100 percent. Consider Kessel a nice Fantasy start.
News: Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel scored his first goal since moving to Toronto as his team defeated the Red Wings on Saturday. He also assisted.
Analysis: The Leafs offense should revolve around Kessel this season if Toronto wants to get out of the NHL basement, so start him in more than just 56 percent of leagues. He has the ability to be a solid starting Fantasy forward in all formats.
News: Toronto WR Phil Kessel was removed off the injured reserve list on Tuesday for the Maple Leafs' game against the Tampa Bay Lightning. He had been out all season recovering from shoulder surgery.
Analysis: The Maple Leafs are in dire need of some consistent offense after a rocky October. They traded for Kessel for a reason and hope he can make an immediate impact. "Fans have to temper their expectations," Kessel said. "Having said that, I'm going to give everything I've got. I'm really excited to get back out there. The biggest adjustment will be just getting used to the speed of the game." There is a little risk involved with starting Kessel in Week 5 (Nov. 2-8) since he could be a little rusty not having played in a game since the playoffs with Boston. But Fantasy owners should start scooping up the talented scorer. He can be a viable Fantasy forward.
News: The Toronto Sun reports Maple Leafs forward Phil Kessel, who has been out all season recovering from shoulder surgery, needs to pass one final medical test before making his season debut. If all goes well, Kessel is expected to debut for Toronto on Tuesday against the Lightning. Kessel practiced on a line with Matt Stajan and Jason Blake on Monday. "(Mikhail) Grabovski and (John) Mitchell are centers who like to have the puck a lot," coach Ron Wilson said. "Matty, on the other hand, is someone who can dish it off and get the puck to Phil." Stajan is well aware of the expectations that come with playing with Kessel. "That's my job, get the puck to Phil. He's a goal scorer and he needs the puck," Stajan said.
Analysis: The Maple Leafs are in dire need of some consistent offense after a rocky October. They traded for Kessel for a reason and hope he can make an immediate impact. "Fans have to temper their expectations," Kessel said. "Having said that, I'm going to give everything I've got. I'm really excited to get back out there. The biggest adjustment will be just getting used to the speed of the game." There is a little risk involved with starting Kessel in Week 5 (Nov. 2-8) since he could be a little rusty not having played in a game since the playoffs with Boston. But Fantasy owners should start scooping up the talented scorer. He can be a viable Fantasy forward when healthy.
News:The Toronto Star reports Maple Leafs coach Ron Wilson said "there's a good chance" injured forward Phil Kessel, who has been out all season following shoulder surgery, will debut on Tuesday against the Lightning. He was able to skate on Saturday.
Analysis: Wilson is toying with the idea of starting Kessel on a line with Matt Stajan and Jason Blake, Either way, he will be a welcomed addition to a team that has struggled to score early in the season. Kessel could be a little rusty coming off a major injury. Also, he is trying to settle into a new environment now that he is no longer with Boston. Fantasy owners should start adding Kessel. Start him at your own peril in Week 5 (Nov. 2-8).
News: The Toronto Sun reports that Maple Leafs RW Phil Kessel (shoulder) practiced on a limited basis with his new teammates Thursday. "He has been doing a lot of skating," coach Ron Wilson said. "He's getting closer to where he can be involved in regular practices."
Analysis: Kessel had shoulder surgery this offseason, and the Leafs need him healthy as soon as possible with the rough start they've got off to. Continue to stash the must-start Fantasy forward in all formats until he's ready to return.
News: The Maple Leafs have placed RW Phil Kessel (shoulder surgery) on the long-term injured list. He is out until at least early November.
Analysis: Kessel, who had shoulder surgery over the summer, left a top contender for a team in a transition period when he went from Boston to Toronto in September. Kessel is going to get plenty of scoring chances for Toronto when healthy. However, our biggest concerns are his health and the chemistry he builds with his new teammates. Still, he will have high-end Fantasy potential once he's healthy again.
News: The Toronto Maple Leafs acquired the rights to Phil Kessel after months of talks with the Boston Bruins and then signed him to a five-year, $27 million deal on Friday. Toronto sent a first and second-round pick in the 2010 draft to Boston, along with another first-round pick in 2011. "Bringing Phil Kessel aboard, it's a statement to our players that we intend to be competitive right away, and I think he gives us a dimension that we need," Maple Leafs general manager Brian Burke said. "(Kessel) told me he's walking on air. This is a free agent that could have signed with other teams, he wanted to sign with us, and I think it's an important pick up for us."
Analysis: Kessel scored 36 goals and added 24 assists in 70 games with Boston last season. The 21-year-old forward, who's entry-level deal expired after last season, failed to negotiate a contract extension with Boston in the offseason. The Bruins picked Kessel fifth overall in the 2006 draft. Burke, who nearly had a deal in place with Boston for Kessel at the draft, didn't give up his pursuit of the talented forward. His job was made easier last week when Kessel broke off talks with the Bruins. "It's taken a long time, it's taken a lot of effort, but I think it's worth it," Burke said. Kessel had shoulder surgery over the summer and won't be ready to play until at least November. This trade is very interesting for Fantasy purposes. Kessel leaves a top contender for a team in a transition period. He also loses the chance to play alongside Marc Savard. The talent might not be as good as in Boston, but Kessel is going to get plenty of scoring chances for Toronto when healthy. However, our biggest concerns are his health and the chemistry he builds with his new teammates. Kessel is an injury-risk Fantasy flier Draft Day because of the shoulder issue, but when he does return to play, he has high-end Fantasy potential.
News:The Sports Xchange reports RW Phil Kessel, a restricted free agent, remains unsigned by Boston, with all indications pointing to him playing somewhere else when he returns from shoulder surgery in November. "Phil's a terrific young player, but I'm responsible to our team," Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli said. "I've said publicly and I'll say it again: I want Phil to be on our team. I'll do everything I can do to put him on our team -- within reason and within the balance that I'm talking about. If it means moving players, I'll do it; if it means matching offer sheets, I'll do it."
Analysis: The Bruins hold the rights to Kessel, meaning they could match any contract offer sheet made by another team. However, the Bruins are considering trading Kessel because they are less than $2 million under the salary cap, and Kessel is reportedly looking for a contract worth $4 million or more. The three teams mentioned as being serious players in the Kessel talks are the Maple Leafs, Rangers and Predators. The ball seems to be in Kessel's court. If he wants to play for Boston, he might have to take a 1-year contract at a reduced rate. If he wants more money and a longer deal, then Boston might be forced to deal him or pass at matching an offer sheet. Kessel is an injury-risk Fantasy flier Draft Day because of the shoulder issue, but when he does return to play, he has high-end Fantasy potential regardless of what jersey he dons.
News:The Sports Xchange reports after a rather surprising shake-up on the defense, the Bruins were apparently set to go to training camp with the roster they had in late July. However, there was the little matter of restricted free agent Phil Kessel to take care of. Aaron Ward was shipped to Carolina and Derek Morris was signed to take his place via a one-year contract, meaning the club had some $1.3 million left under the cap, not considered enough to take care of Kessel's new deal. With that small amount of wiggle room under the cap, general manager Peter Chiarelli said the club would be quiet, at least in the coming weeks.
Analysis: The Bruins have said they would match any offers to Kessel, but offer sheets were nonexistent in the NHL, so it wasn't clear what would happen to Kessel. He is scheduled to miss the start of the season after postseason shoulder surgery. Kessel might have to take a reduced one-year deal in 2009-10, prove he is healthy and then hit the free-agent market again next summer. We expect Kessel to be playing in the NHL this season, but where and when it begins remain the top two questions. Consider him an injury-risk Fantasy flier Draft Day. Kessel does have high-end Fantasy potential when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports RW Phil Kessel is still an unsigned restricted free agent, but Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli said, "Yes, yes he will (be back). I don't like to talk about negotiations, but he's a player of impact. (He has) the speed, and he's still a young player."
Analysis: The Bruins have been trying to free up cap space to get Kessel under a long-term contract. There were rumors earlier this summer that Boston was willing to trade Kessel for a top blueliner, but those issues have since died down. It was very much and up-and-down season for Kessel in '08-09. He came out of the gate on fire and was one of the NHL's best skaters. Then a case of mono settled in and derailed Kessel's season. He wasn't as effective of a scorer until very late in the year. He still finished with a career-high 60 points and plus-23 rating. Kessel also lived up to all the hype that followed him early in his career. It looks as though he is going to miss the beginning of the 2009-10 season recovering from shoulder surgery, so there will be some risk involved with drafting the high-end Fantasy forward.
News: There was a buzz in the Montreal air Friday night as the first round of the 2009 NHL draft commenced. While one major trade went down -- Chris Pronger moving from Anaheim to Philadelphia -- and the Islanders made John Tavares the first overall pick, the remaining drama involved the trade that didn't happen. Earlier Friday the Maple Leafs and Bruins appeared to have a trade in place that would send Toronto defenseman Tomas Kaberle and the No. 7 pick in the draft to Boston for forward Phil Kessel. However, the trade was nixed because Toronto never included their first-round pick in the deal as Boston believed and thought they were getting a draft selection from the Bruins.
Analysis: The Maple Leafs have been long rumored to be shopping Kaberle and defenseman Pavel Kubina, so it wasn't surprising to see a deal almost go down Friday. Kaberle probably would have liked to move to a contender like Boston, but the Bruins were just asking for too much. Especially since Kessel might not be ready for the start of the season due to shoulder surgery and is a restricted free agent, so there is a chance Toronto might have lost him in the end. Both players could still be in play this offseason, so stay tuned. Whether they stay or go, Kaberle and Kessel have high-end Fantasy potential.
News:The Sports Xchange reports RW Phil Kessel, the Bruins' leading goal scorer (36) in 2008-09, underwent surgery to repair rotator cuff and labrum tears and is not expected to be ready for the start of next season.
Analysis: It was very much and up-and-down season for Kessel in '08-09. He came out of the gate on fire and was one of the NHL's best skaters. Then a case of mono settled in and derailed Kessel's season. He wasn't as effective of a scorer until very late in the year. He still finished with a career-high 60 points and plus-23 rating. Kessel also lived up to all the hype that followed him early in his career. Still, it looks as though he is going to miss the beginning of the 2009-10 season, so there will be some risk involved with drafting the high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Bruins high scorers Phil Kessel and David Krejci face surgeries that could keep them from playing early next season. The 21-year-old Kessel, who led Boston with 36 goals, will have surgery for a torn rotator cuff and labrum in his shoulder. The 23-year-old Krejci, second on the team with 73 points, will undergo hip surgery. General manager Peter Chiarelli said Monday their status for the start of the season is questionable. Both played in all 11 Bruins playoff games. Boston was eliminated Thursday night by Carolina in seven games.
Analysis: Kessel had a strong finish to the season after mono sidetracked him in the middle of 2008-09. Kessel still had a career-high 36 goals, 24 assists, 60 points and plus-23 rating. Kessel is one of the top North American skaters and will be a viable Fantasy forward on Draft Day 2009. That said, monitor this injury because it could dampen his value if he's forced to miss some time early in the year.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel was active for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals Sunday against the Hurricanes despite hurting his elbow in Game 1. Kessel failed to record a point in 16:01 of ice time and finished at even. Kessel has four goals and four assists in six postseason games.
Analysis: Kessel had a strong finish to the season after mono sidetracked him in the middle of 2008-09. Kessel still had a career-high 36 goals, 24 assists, 60 points and plus-23 rating. Kessel is one of the top North American skaters and will be a viable Fantasy forward on Draft Day 2009.
News: Boston forward Phil Kessel was the only Bruins player not to practice on Saturday. He banged his elbow in a fall in Game 1, but coach Claude Julien said his leading regular-season goal-scorer will be ready for Game 2
Analysis: Kessel had a banner year in 2008-2009, netting 60 total points with 36 goals and 24 assists. He should be a solid No. 3 Fantasy forward option on Draft Day 2009.
News:Phil Kessel had three goals and an assist to help the Bruins wrap up their Eastern Conference championship with a 6-2 victory over the New York Islanders on Sunday. Boston struck with 4:40 left in the first period to make it 2-0. Yann Danis made a pad save on Blake Wheeler's shot, but the rebound bounced out to an uncovered Kessel, who simply put it in the open left side. In the second, Tim Thomas poke-checked the puck off Tim Jackman's stick on a short-handed breakaway, and Kessel wound up with his second of the game at 5:27, again on a power play. Kessel, who missed Saturday's game with the flu, notched the hat trick on a one-timer at 12:53 of the third. The former University of Minnesota star had a team-high 36 goals in 70 games.
Analysis: Kessel just returned to the lineup Tuesday after missing five games with an undisclosed injury, but in his final three games of the season he managed five goals. While it has been a career year for Kessel, we always ponder the what might have been in the event Kessel wasn't slowed by a case of mono. The 21-year-old forward will be a restricted free agent in the offseason, so there is a chance he might leave Boston. However, wherever he lands, Kessel has shown he can be an effective scorer in the NHL. Kessel will be no worse than a No. 3 Fantasy forward on Draft Day 2009.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel was kept out of Saturday's game against the Sabres because of the flu. He is questionable for the team's season finale on Sunday at the Islanders.
Analysis: There's no reason for the Bruins to be playing Kessel if he is sick and they are doing the right thing by not playing him. It's not good for his Fantasy owners however as he likely won't play on Sunday either. Kessel will likely be a No. 3 Fantasy forward on Draft Day 2009 with the potential to be more.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel was back in the lineup Tuesday against the Senators. Kessel, who returned after missing five games with an undisclosed injury, cut the lead to 2-1 with his 32nd goal three minutes into the second. Marc Savard took advantage of sloppy play by the Senators behind their net to gain a turnover and feed the puck out front to Kessel, who beat Alex Auld from the edge of the crease. Kessel now has five goals and two assists in six games.
Analysis: Despite having such a long layoff, Kessel looked as sharp Tuesday as before exiting the lineup. Kessel really needed a strong finish to the season after a bout with mono took him out of his game. Illnesses have been the downfall of Kessel's young career, but he certainly has battled back and tried to be a top scoring force in the NHL. Kessel will likely be a No. 3 Fantasy forward heading into 2009-10 with room to be a must-start option.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel missed a fifth straight game Saturday against the Rangers with an undisclosed ailment.
Analysis: Kessel was sidelined in January with a bout of mono and it appeared last week he was receiving treatment for a shoulder issue. Kessel is still the Bruins' top scorer with 31 goals, but he had 24 goals prior to the mono and has scored just seven times in his last 25 games. Obviously, the illness hit him very hard. Kessel has high-end Fantasy appeal, but is more of a low-end option until he can pick up the scoring again.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel missed a fourth straight game Thursday against the Senators with an undisclosed ailment. Kessel is not expected back until next week, but he is still considered questionable for Saturday against the Rangers.
Analysis: Kessel was sidelined in January with a bout of mono and it appeared last week he was receiving treatment for a shoulder issue. Kessel is still the Bruins' top scorer with 31 goals, but he had 24 goals prior to the mono and has scored just seven times in his last 25 games. Obviously, the illness hit him very hard. Kessel has high-end Fantasy appeal, but is more of a low-end option until he can pick up the scoring again.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel sat out Tuesday against the Lightning for a third straight game with an undisclosed illness. "We're going to see (Kessel) come back with the team at some point this week," coach Claude Julien told the Boston Globe. "I guess we anticipate that he should be playing again early next week." The Bruins still have no intentions to release the severity of Kessel's injury/ailment. "We're in the business of protecting our players," Julien told reporters, "and you guys are in the business of exposing them."
Analysis: Kessel was sidelined in January with a bout of mono and it appeared last week he was receiving treatment for a shoulder issue. Kessel is still the Bruins' top scorer with 31 goals, but he had 24 goals prior to the mono and has scored just seven times in his last 25 games. Obviously, the illness hit him very hard. Kessel has high-end Fantasy appeal, but is more of a low-end option until he can pick up the scoring again.
News: According to The Boston Globe, Boston C Phil Kessel missed Saturday's game against the Maple Leafs and is also ruled out for Sunday's game at Philadelphia because of an undisclosed injury. "We're going to assess it as an undisclosed injury that's going to be reassessed at the beginning of next week," Bruins coach Claude Julien said. "We really feel at this stage that it's probably better to be cautious." Rookie Blake Wheeler took over for Kessel on the first line. The report adds that Kessel was seen walking through the dressing room at Ristuccia Arena with a wrap on his shoulder following an off-ice workout.
Analysis: Kessel is Boston's top scorer this season with 31 goals and 23 assists in 67 games took a hard hit by Jan Hejda back on March 10 but showed no effects from the hit. He is only currently activated in 51 percent of leagues despite being the team's leading scorer as his production isn't what it was earlier in the season. Unless word comes down that he'll be active on Tuesday against the Lightning, he'll likely need to be sidelined for the upcoming scoring period.
News:Phil Kessel scored his 30th goal of the season early in the first period and set up Marc Savard's first in 16 games 65 seconds later, leading the Boston Bruins to a 2-1 win over the New York Islanders on Saturday.
Analysis: Kessel became Boston's first 30-goal scorer since teammate Patrice Bergeron had 31 in the 2005-06 season. A bout with mono had really taken Kessel off course lately. He was riding high in November and December and looking like one of the best scorers in the NHL, then he was hit by the ailment and hasn't been the same. Kessel does have three goals in his last two games, however, and could be getting back to normal finally. Think about activating him again if he's on your bench.
News: Boston C Phil Kessel was rocked on a check into the boards by Columbus D Jan Hejda with 6:30 left in the second period Tuesday. He was in pain as he skated to the bench and was helped into the dressing room, but returned for the third. Kessel didn't have a point in 15:34 of ice time and finished at even.
Analysis: Maybe the hit with bring Kessel's offensive game to life since it has been pretty non-existent as of late. A bout with mono has really taken Kessel off course. He was riding high in November and December and looking like one of the best scorers in the NHL, then he was hit by the ailment and hasn't recovered. Kessel has just four goals in his last 25 games. He has high-end Fantasy potential, but while he is struggling, you might as well treat Kessel as a low-end player.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel scored a goal during Saturday's 5-3 win against the Blackhawks. Kessel scored his 27th for Boston after Blackhawks defenseman Brian Campbell fell down at the blue line and Kessel converted a 3-on-2 with Milan Lucic and Marc Savard 1:35 into the third period. It was his third goal in seven games.
Analysis: A bout with mono has really taken Kessel out of his offensive game. He was riding high in November and December and looking like one of the best scorers in the NHL, then he was hit by the ailment and hasn't recovered. Kessel has just four goals in his last 23 games. He has high-end Fantasy potential, but while he is struggling, you might as well treat Kessel as a low-end player.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins RW Phil Kessel, reunited with Marc Savard and Milan Lucic, snapped his 14-game goal-scoring slump (11 since returning from mono) just 1:38 into Sunday's game against the Lightning and went on to play a strong game. "When Phil plays like that he's a great player," Bruins coach Claude Julien said. "When he doesn't play like that, it takes away a lot of opportunities and he's half the player that he can be. You want to build some consistency in having him compete like that every night. I thought he did a pretty good job at that in the first half of the season. Last month it's slipped quite a bit."
Analysis: The Lucic-Savard-Kessel has had a lot of success this season and Julien would like to keep the trio together as long as they are producing. It helps Kessel playing alongside the All-Star Savard, who is one of the best passers in the NHL. Kessel has high-end Fantasy appeal, so hopefully Sunday's goal will get him on track.
News: Less than two minutes into a 4-3 loss to the Lightning on Sunday, Boston C Phil Kessel was able to beat goalie Karri Ramo with a slap shot. It was his 25th goal of the season abd 20th assist, giving him 45 overall points.
Analysis: Kessel's last goal prior to Sunday came way back on Jan. 3 against the Sabres. He has been mired in a horrific funk of late, tallying only one point in all of February which was an assist against Ottawa. Hopefully he'll snap out of it and play like the No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward that he is.
News:The Sports Xchange reports C Marc Savard has a goal in five of the last seven games, but his linemates, RW Phil Kessel and LW Milan Lucic, are struggling to score. Kessel hasn't scored in the six games since returning from his bout with mononucleosis and his last nine overall, and Lucic, who played Saturday after missing a game with a bruised toe, hasn't scored in his last eight games around a pair of injuries.
Analysis: Kessel returned from mono way before he was expected to. Perhaps he is still a little bit sluggish and fatigued, and could have used the extra time to rest. But he has the heart of a competitor and didn't want to sit on the sidelines. Kessel has shown he can be a real treat for Fantasy owners when he is clicking on all cylinders, but until he gets back to that level, consider him more of a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel had a pair of assists in his first game Thursday against the Devils after missing six with mononucleosis. Kessel has two goals and three assists in his last seven appearances.
Analysis: Kessel made a quicker than expected recovery from mono and Fantasy owners are definitely over the moon about it. The fact Kessel tallied two points in his first game back is also comforting. Kessel's scoring has been down the last few weeks, but he has the talent to get hot at any time. Kessel definitely has high-end Fantasy potential.
News: The Boston Globe is reporting that Phil Kessel, who had been expected to be out until mid-February due to mononucleosis, will return to the lineup Thursday night against New Jersey. On Tuesday, Kessel got some good news when he was cleared to play by team doctors. On Wednesday, he went through his first full practice with his teammates since his last game, Jan. 10 against Carolina. Barrign any last-minute change of plans, Kessel should return Thursday night. "I'm fine. I'm back," Kessel said. "I got the test done [Tuesday]. I'm cleared. So I'm pretty happy about it."
Analysis: Kessel, the team's leading goal scorer, was originally expected to miss a month. However, he thought he was suffering from mononucleosis for several weeks before he was diagnosed. That would explain why he totaled just three goals and an assist in the last nine games before being shut down. If Kessel was dropped in your league, pick him up immediately. If you are in a daily league, think about getting him active. When healthy, he is a high-end Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins C Phil Kessel, who has missed just over a week with mononucleosis, is skating but expected to miss another three weeks.
Analysis: The Bruins have to be careful with Kessel and makes sure he can get over the chronic fatigue that is associated with mono before suiting him up again. It appears he might miss a month of action, so Fantasy owners better be ready for the long haul. Kessel is in the midst of a breakout season and has developed into a high-end Fantasy option.
News: The Boston Globe reports that Bruins C Phil Kessel will likely be out a month with mononucleosis. "The general assessment of mononucleosis is that a guy is typically out around a month," said GM Peter Chiarelli. "That said, it could be longer, could be shorter, all based on how an individual recovers."
Analysis: What another tough break for Kessel, who is just a few years removed from beating cancer. He was having a breakout season with 24 goals and 17 assists in 42 games. Kessel has emerged as a high-end Fantasy forward, but needs to be kept reserved in Fantasy until at least mid-February.
News: The Bruins placed forward Phil Kessel on injured reserve Monday with mononucleosis. The Boston Globe reports Kessel practiced with the team Monday afternoon, but then came the announcement he would be placed on IR. The Bruins put no timetable on his return.
Analysis: What another tough break for Kessel, who is just a few years removed from beating cancer. He was having a breakout season with 24 goals and 17 assists in 42 games. Kessel has emerged as a high-end Fantasy forward, but needs to be kept reserved in Fantasy until further notice.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel scored his 24th goal of the season in Saturday's loss to the Sabres, giving him 40 points for the first time in his three-year NHL career.
Analysis: Many people are expecting Kessel to come off his high horse after a great run to start the season, but this kid seems to be the real deal. He wasn't a highly-touted prospect for no reason. Continue to treat Kessel as a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel, who had three goals and three assists in the last three games against Atlanta, scored his 22nd goal during Sunday's 2-1 win against the Thrashers. Kessel, scoreless in two games after an 18-game points streak, tied it at 1:43 of the second period. He took a pass from Marc Savard and surprised Kari Lehtonen, who had 26 saves, with a wrist shot from the high slot, beating him high to the stick side.
Analysis: Many people are expecting Kessel to come off his high horse after a great run to start the season, but this kid seems to be the real deal. He wasn't a highly-touted prospect for no reason. Continue to treat Kessel as a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel extended his point streak to 17 games Saturday when he assisted in a win over the Hurricanes. Kessel's streak is the longest by a Bruin since Adam Oates had a 20-gamer in 1997-98 and is tied with Ray Bourque (1984-85) for the fifth-longest in club history. He has 14 goals and 12 assists during the streak.
Analysis: Kessel has 35 points in 32 games, and we are witnessing the rise of a NHL superstar. He had to deal with some real obstacles early in his career, but now that he is 100 percent and producing, Kessel has developed into a high-end Fantasy option. Owners are hoping he can keep this hot streak going.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel scored twice to extend his point streak to an NHL-high 16 games during Thursday's 8-5 win against the Maple Leafs. Kessel scored his 20th goal on a wrist shot 4:21 into the second period and his 21st goal less than 14 minutes later gave him 100 career NHL points. Kessel also had an assist in the game for his third straight multi-point game.
Analysis: There is no player hotter in the NHL right now than Kessel. He has 14 goals and 11 assists during his point streak and we are witnessing the rise of a NHL superstar. He had to deal with some real obstacles early in his career, but now that he is 100 percent and producing, Kessel has developed into a high-end Fantasy option. Owners are hoping he can keep this hot streak going.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins RW Phil Kessel has already matched his career high of 19 goals and he's done it in 30 games, the fastest a Bruins player has scored 19 since Cam Neely did it in 28 games in 1994-95. Kessel has a 15-game points streak, the club's longest since a 20-gamer by Adam Oates in 1997 and has 22 points (12 goals) in the 15 games. "He's been hot with the stick and it's something we've been looking for for a long time, someone that can be a threat every night," coach Claude Julien said. "He's always been comfortable in the offensive zone."
Analysis: We are witnessing the rise of a NHL superstar as Kessel is finally living up to the hype that followed him out of junior hockey. He had to deal with some real obstacles early in his career, but now that he is 100 percent and producing, Kessel has developed into a high-end Fantasy option. Owners are hoping he can keep this hot streak going.
News: C Phil Kessel had a goal and an assist to extend his points streak to 15 games -- the best in the NHL this season. He has 12 goals and 10 assists during that streak.
Analysis: We are witnessing the rise of a NHL superstar as Kessel is finally living up to the hype that followed him out of junior hockey. He had to deal with some real obstacles early in his career, but now that he is 100 percent and producing, Kessel has developed into a high-end Fantasy option. Owners are hoping he can keep this hot streak going.
News:Phil Kessel had a goal and two assists to extend his NHL-best points streak to 14 games, and the Bruins scored four times on their first five shots in a 7-3 victory over Atlanta on Friday night. "We got the jump on them early," Kessel said. "It was nice to get a lot of guys on the scoreboard." Kessel had an assist in the first-period spree, then added a power-play goal and another assist in the third period. He leads Boston with 18 goals and has 11 assists.
Analysis: We are witnessing the rise of a NHL superstar as Kessel is finally living up to the hype that followed him out of junior hockey. He had to deal with some real obstacles early in his career, but now that he is 100 percent and producing, Kessel has developed into a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel extended his point streak to 13 games Wednesday with an assist in a loss to the Capitals. He has 10 goals and seven assists during the streak.
Analysis: Kessel, who leads the Bruins with 17 goals, is a plus-10 during his streak. He is turning into that game-changing player that Bruins hoped for when they drafted him. We could be witnessing the rise of a star here. Get Kessel active in all Fantasy formats.
News:Milan Lucic, Phil Kessel and Michael Ryder scored in the opening 10:46 and the Boston Bruins coasted to their 14th victory in 16 games, 5-3 against the struggling Tampa Bay Lightning on Monday night. The Bruins made it 2-0 when Kessel's shot caromed off Paul Ranger's stick and behind Mike Smith at 9:29. Kessel, who also had an assist, has scored in six straight games and has seven total in that span.
Analysis: Kessel, who leads the Bruins with 17 goals, is a plus-13 during a 12-game point streak. He is turning into that game-changing player that Bruins hoped for when they drafted him. We could be witnessing the rise of a star here. Get Kessel active in all Fantasy formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins RW Phil Kessel has the NHL's longest current points streak with an 11-gamer. He has goals in eight of the last nine (nine goals over that span), including Saturday against the Panthers, and 14 points in the 11 games. "He's definitely matured into a better pro," Bruins coach Claude Julien said before Saturday night's game. "But that's just a natural thing for any young guy. Every year he gets better."
Analysis: Kessel, who leads the Bruins and is fourth in the NHL with 16 goals, is a plus-11 during his points streak. He has scored in five straight games and is turning into that game-changing player that Bruins hoped for when they drafted him. We could be witnessing the rise of a star here. Get Kessel active in all Fantasy formats.
News:Phil Kessel had two goals, including an empty-netter with less than one second remaining, to help the Bruins down the Lightning 3-1 Thursday. Kessel tied it at 1 when he extended his goal streak to four games at 12:21 of the second. He has eight goals and 13 points during a 10-game point streak.
Analysis: Kessel has scored in seven of eight games and has been one of the NHL's best scorers in the last few weeks. He is finally living up to his potential as a high-end draft pick and Kessel is quickly becoming a top Fantasy option. Scoop him up in the 11 percent of Fantasy leagues he is available in because Kessel finally appears to be the real deal.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins RW Phil Kessel, still only 21 and rumored to be traded more than once in his young career, is staying right where he is. Kessel has scored a goal in six of the last seven games and has 11 points (six goals) during a nine-game points streak.
Analysis: Kessel has 20 points in 24 games this season and might finally be showing the potential that earned him the praise of being Sidney Crosby's U.S. counterpart. Kessel remains more of a No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time, but is quickly developing into much more.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel had a goal and an assist during Friday's 7-2 win against the Islanders. He capped the scoring with a slap shot 17:27 into the third period with his 12th goal. Kessel has five goals and five assists during a career-high eight-game point streak.
Analysis: Kessel has 19 points in 23 games this season and might finally be showing the potential that earned him the praise of being Sidney Crosby's U.S. counterpart. Kessel remains more of a No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time, but is quickly developing into much more.
News: The Boston Globe reports that Bruins C Phil Kessel has a career-best seven-game point streak.
Analysis: Kessel has 17 points on the season and is almost already halfway to the 37 points he put up last season. Kessel has flashed some solid offensive skills during his career, but he has just lacked consistency. Now the Bruins are rolling, Kessel is definitely worth using as a low-end starting forward in most formats.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel had a goal, assist and plus-1 rating in 17:56 of ice time Wednesday against the Sabres. Kessel capped the scoring with a wrist shot 1:16 into the third period. It was his ninth goal of the season and he has scored in his last two games. He also has four assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Kessel has 14 points in 19 games, but has scored just three times in his last 13 games after lighting the lamp six times in his first six games. Once deemed the Sidney Crosby of U.S. hockey, Kessel has flashed some solid offensive skills. However, he hasn't been as consistent as Crosby with the points. Kessel remains a No. 5 Fantasy forward to start at times when he is on a roll.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel scored a goal and finished at plus-2 in 15:09 of ice time Monday against the Maple Leafs. He scored his eighth goal of the season as he trickled a shot through Vesa Toskala's pads 9:40 into the game. Kessel has two goals and three assists in seven games.
Analysis: Kessel has 12 points in 18 games, but has scored just twice in his last 12 games after lighting the lamp six times in his first six games. Once deemed the Sidney Crosby of U.S. hockey, Kessel has flashed some solid offensive skills. However, he hasn't been as consistent as Crosby with the points. Kessel remains a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 in 15:12 of ice time Saturday against the Rangers. He now has an assist in two straight games and three of four.
Analysis: Kessel has 11 points in 17 games, but has scored just once in his last 11 games after lighting the lamp six times in his first six games. Once deemed the Sidney Crosby of U.S. hockey, Kessel has flashed some solid offensive skills. However, he hasn't been as consistent as Crosby with the points. Kessel remains a low-end Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel scored a goal during Saturday's 5-1 win against the Stars. Kessel took a pass off the boards from Marc Savard and fired a shot through Marty Turco's pads for his seventh goal of the season to make it 3-1. It was his first point and goal in six games.
Analysis: Kessel has six goals in his first six games before the well ran dry. The Bruins have been happy to get him involved in the offense this season and love his long-term outlook. However, until he gets a bit more consistent, he remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Boston lost to Buffalo in a shootout on Tuesday but C Phil Kessel played well in regulation. Kessel scored a power-play goal -- the first Buffalo allowed in 27 penalty kills -- on a transition rush. Set up by Milan Lucic atop the right circle, Kessel took a few steps in and snapped a low shot off the left post eight minutes into the second period. It was his 6th goal of the season.
Analysis: Kessel now has nine goals in 10 games dating back to last year's playoffs. Kessel has also played 131 straight games after returning from his battle with testicular cancer. The Bruins always believed Kessel had great offensive potential and he finally appears to be showing it on a line with Patrice Bergeron. Kessel remains a low-end Fantasy option, but if he can stay consistent, he will develop into much more.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel scored the team's only regulation goal Monday and also scored in the shootout during a 2-1 loss to Pittsburgh. Boston tied it at 1 on Kessel's power-play goal 13:53 into the second when he unloaded a wrister over Dany Sabourin's glove from the top of the right circle. Phil Kessel scored on Boston's first shootout attempt before Petr Sykora tied it on the Penguins' second shot.
Analysis: Kessel now has three goals in his last two games and is tied with Marc Savard for the team lead with five. Kessel now has eight goals in nine games dating back to last year's playoffs.Kessel has also played 130 straight games after returning from his battle with testicular cancer. The Bruins always believed Kessel had great offensive potential and he finally appears to be showing it on a line with Patrice Bergeron. Kessel remains a low-end Fantasy option, but if he can stay consistent, he will develop into much more.
News:Phil Kessel had two second-period goals and added an assist for Boston during Saturday's 4-2 win against the Senators. The Bruins took a 2-1 lead 4:47 into the second period on Kessel's one-timer off Marc Savard's pass from the corner. Kessel struck again on a power play with 6:38 left in the period. After the Senators failed to clear a loose puck in front of Martin Gerber, Kessel converted from a pile of players in front of the goal.
Analysis: Kessel now has seven goals in eight games dating back to last year's playoffs. Kessel has now played 129 straight games after returning from his battle with testicular cancer. He has scored in three of four games this season and continues to click on a second line with Patrice Bergeron. Kessel remains a low-end Fantasy option, but if he can stay consistent, he will develop into much more.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel scored the opening goal for the second straight game Saturday as he beat Wild G Niklas Backstrom with a wrist shot 8:03 into the game. He took four shots and finished at even.
Analysis: The Bruins continue to have high hopes for Kessel and continue to move him around. He is seeing some time as a top-six winger and could develop into a reliable Fantasy forward with time. But for now, he remains a low-end option.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel opened the scoring in Thursday's 5-4 win against the Avalanche when he wristed home a shot past Peter Budaj at 6:21 into the first period. He took only two shots in the game and finished at plus-1 in 14:56 of ice time.
Analysis: The Bruins continue to have high hopes for Kessel and continue to move him around. He is seeing some time as a top-six winger and could develop into a reliable Fantasy forward with time. But for now, he remains a low-end option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins RW Phil Kessel was benched early in last year's playoffs but returned this preseason with the energy level and production the coaches want to see. He turns 21 just before the start of the season.
Analysis: Kessel has a pair of assists in two preseason games and has even earned some time playing on the second line with Patrice Bergeron. If the Bruins opt to keep Kessel on a wing with Bergeron, he could be in for a breakout season. Kessel had 19 goals and 18 assists last season. He remains a low-end Fantasy forward heading into the season.
News:Phil Kessel scored the lone shootout goal in rallying the Boston Bruins from a two-goal deficit to seal a 3-2 win over the Buffalo Sabres on Friday night. Kessel's shootout goal was the result of a miscue. Driving on net, Kessel faked right then left and had the puck dribble off his stick but it slid directly through Ryan Miller's legs.
Analysis: The 20-year-old Kessel has a lot of yeasr ahead of him to display his hockey skills. The Bruins already believe in his talents as he is used on the top line. Kessel can be considered a long-term keeper and a low-end Fantasy flier.
News: Bruins RW Phil Kessel, who has struggled defensively, has four points (2 goals, 2 assists) in a four-game point-scoring streak. In the first half of the season, Kessel has been pretty steady with 13 goals and 13 assists.
Analysis: Kessel is only 20 years old, so his best years are obviously ahead of him, but to be playing on a top line at his age shows just how much the Bruins believe in his talents. He now has 24 points in 47 games and remains a long-term keeper and a low-end Fantasy flier.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel, moved up to Boston's top line nine games ago, has six points and a plus-3 rating since the promotion, reports the Boston Globe. In the 38 previous games, Kessel had been a team-worst minus-7. "I think everybody's noticed that he's been a lot better," said coach Claude Julien. "That's what we've talked about. You need to be patient with young players. It means you don't give up on those guys. You need to be hard on them. You need to push them to get better. They have to be held accountable like everyone else, which we've done."
Analysis: Kessel is only 20 years old, so his best years are obviously ahead of him, but to be playing on a top line at his age shows just how much the Bruins believe in his talents. He now has 24 points in 47 games and remains a long-term keeper and a low-end Fantasy flier.
News: Bruins C Phil Kessel tallied two assists and finished at plus-1 during Saturday's game against the Devils. He now has two goals and two assists in his last five games.
Analysis: Kessel is still not posting points consistently, but he is only 20 years old and still has a lot to learn. For now, he remains a long-term keeper and a low-end Fantasy flier.
News:Phil Kessel and Matt Lashoff added insurance goals in the third period for Boston during a 5-2 win Monday against the Thrashers. Kessel and Lashoff's goals both came on power plays in the opening 6:37 of the third. Kessel scored off the rebound of Andrew Ference's shot from the point 2:05 into the final period. Lashoff's slap shot from the left point beat Kari Lehtonen inside the far post.
Analysis: Kessel now has two of his 11 goals in the last three games. Kessel is still not posting points consistently, but he is only 20 years old and still has a lot to learn. For now, he remains a long-term keeper and a low-end Fantasy flier.
News: C Phil Kessel had two assists in the win in Atlanta Wednesday.
Analysis: Kessel is just 20 years old and he has a ton of hockey ahead of him, so grab him in any keeper league he might be available in.
News:Phil Kessel scored with only 47.9 seconds to go in the second period during a power play. The second-year forward one-timed a nifty pass from behind the net by Kobasew. The goal ended Toskala's personal best shutout streak at 141 minutes, 47 seconds.
Analysis: Kessel had shown signs of breaking out earlier this season and he is becoming a solid low-end No. 4 or 5 forward in most leagues. He's just 20 years old and he has a ton of hockey ahead of him, so grab him in any keeper league he might be available in.
News:Phil Kessel has three assists and just one goal for the month of November.
Analysis: Kessel had shown signs of breaking out earlier this season and he is becoming a solid low-end No. 4 or 5 forward in most leagues. He's just 20 years old and he has a ton of hockey ahead of him, so grab him in any keeper league he might be available in.
News: RW Phil Kessel, who had a hat trick at Los Angeles on the opening road trip, scored two more Thursday night. "Great, great talent," said C Glen Metropolit.
Analysis: Kessel has shown signs of breaking out already early this season and he is becoming a solid low-end No. 4 or 5 forward in most leagues.
News: Phil Kessel had his first career hat trick and an assist to lead the Bruins to an 8-6 victory over theLos Angeles Kings on Friday night.
Analysis: Before you get too excited, realize that Kessel was facing a goaltender with just two games of regular-season NHL experience. With that said, Kessel has shown signs of breaking out already early this season and he is becoming a solid low-end No. 4 or 5 forward in most leagues.
News: F Phil Kessel shifted again from C to RW and was said to be staying there.
Analysis: Kessel, the No. 5 pick overall in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, might be ready for big things in the new season. He is a solid low-end No. 4 or 5 forward in most leagues.
News: Phil Kessel had an assist in 15:10 of ice time with three shots on goal in Thursday's preseason game at Montreal. He leads all Bruins scores during the exhibition season with two goals and two assists in four games.
Analysis: Kessel, the No. 5 pick overall in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, might be ready for big things in the new season. He is a solid low-end No. 2 Fantasy center or solid No. 3 in all leagues.
News: Phil Kessel and Brandon Bochenski each had a goal, an assist and plus-2 rating in Thursday's game against the Penguins.
Analysis: The rookie Kessel also had a game-high eight shots on net. He snapped a three-game scoreless drought, but still has two goals and two assists with a plus-3 rating over the past five.
News: Petr Tenkrat, Patrice Bergeron, and Phil Kessel each scored goals in Sunday's game at Detroit.
Analysis: Kessel ended a three-game scoreless streak and eight-game goal drought with the marker. His value is limited to larger Fantasy leagues and keeper formats.
News: Cs Patrice Bergeron and Phil Kessel each picked up a pair of assists with a plus-2 rating in Sunday's game against the Devils.
Analysis: Kessel has two assists in each of his past two games and a goal and seven assists over his past eight games. He remains a solid play in larger Fantasy leagues and all keeper formats.
News: Phil Kessel posted a pair of assists and plus-2 rating in 16:24 of ice time in Monday's game at Philadelphia.
Analysis: Kessel has posted four assists over the past five games. He remains a solid No. 3 or 4 Fantasy center in all weekly formats and a solid option in long-term keeper leagues.
News: Bruins rookie F Phil Kessel, who had two goals in Buffalo Wednesday night, in his fifth game since returning from cancer surgery, had an assist and the shootout winner in Thursday's 5-4 win over Pittsburgh. Kessel was skating on the right wing of the Patrice Bergeron-Marco Sturm line.
Analysis: Hopefully Kessel will be able to keep up his strong play and show everyone what kind of person he is to be able to overcome cancer. He should be used as a low-end Fantasy center at this time.
News: Phil Kessel, who was diagnosed with testicular cancer a month ago, played his first NHL game on Tuesday at Ottawa since having surgery Dec. 11 to remove one of his testicles. "It felt good to play," Kessel said. "I was just excited to play (Tuesday)."
Analysis: Kessel was scoreless with a minus-1 rating in 10:04 of ice time, but that's not important right now. The good news is that he is healthy enough to resume his career and hopefully will remain cancer-free.
News: Phil Kessel (lower body injury) was back in the lineup for Tuesday's game at Ottawa, his first game back on the ice since suffering treatment for testicular cancer.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Kessel back into the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues, especially keeper formats.
News: Phil Kessel (lower body) was recalled from his conditioning assignment with Providence of the AHL on Sunday.
Analysis: Kessel might return to the lineup as soon as Tuesday's game at Ottawa, but keep him reserved for Fantasy Week 15 (Jan. 8-14) until he can prove his health.
News: The Boston Bruins sent Phil Kessel to the minors Friday for a quick conditioning stint after recent surgery to treat testicular cancer. Kessel will be recalled from the AHL on Sunday night after Providence plays the Springfield Falcons, Boston general manager Peter Chiarelli said. "At just 19 years old and in his first season in the NHL, it would be difficult for Phil to come right back to Boston in the middle of the season, after being off the ice for a month," Chiarelli said. "These few games in Providence will help Phil readjust to the speed of the NHL so that he is ready to join Boston on Monday morning."
Analysis: Kessel was the fifth overall pick in the 2006 draft. He has scored five goals with four assists in 27 games for the Bruins this season. Kessel learned he had testicular cancer shortly before playing in a Dec. 9 game against New Jersey. He underwent surgery three days later to remove his right testicle. Kessel is useful in larger Fantasy leagues at this stage in his career, but he does have a lot of upside. Keep him reserved in all leagues until he shows that he has returned at 100 percent.
News: Bruins rookie Phil Kessel was shocked when he learned he had testicular cancer. "I couldn't believe it," Kessel said before Boston's game against Florida on Saturday night. "It was tough. I had a hard time with it." Kessel, the 19-year-old former University of Minnesota player drafted in the first round this year, is expected to rest for two weeks before getting back on the ice. Dr. David Judge, a team internist, termed the prognosis "excellent." On Saturday, Kessel and the Bruins confirmed that the center had surgery Monday for testicular cancer. Follow-up tests showed the cancer had not spread. "We had some additional evaluations, some scans and some blood work, and all of that was very reassuring," Judge said. "It had not spread anywhere."
Analysis: Kessel has five goals and four assists in 27 games this season. Keep him reserved until he makes his return to the ice, which is looking like it will happen in the New Year. Kessel is useful in larger Fantasy leagues at this stage in his career, but he does have a lot of upside.
News: Phil Kessel, the No. 5 selection in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, underwent surgery for testicular cancer at a Boston-area hospital. The condition was identified "very recently" after Kessel felt minor symptoms. He will miss Tuesday's game in Montreal, but his status beyond that is unknown at this time.
Analysis: Bruins rookie center Phil Kessel underwent cancer surgery and is "on the road to recovery," his agent said Tuesday. "He got thrown a curveball," agent Wade Arnott told the Boston Globe. "But he's holding up pretty well." Kessel's status is uncertain for the immediate future. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Bruins rookie Phil Kessel, the fifth pick in this year's NHL draft, is being treated for a medical issue unrelated to hockey and will miss Boston's game at Montreal on Tuesday night. The team issued a statement from his family that he would receive treatment Monday. No further details were released at the family's request, team spokesman Matt Chmura said. Kessel did not take part in Monday's practice.
Analysis: The speedy Kessel has five goals and four assists in 27 games. He played one season at Minnesota before signing a multiyear contract with the Bruins in August. The center led Minnesota and was sixth in the Big Ten in scoring with 18 goals and 33 assists in 34 games. The family's statement said, "At this time there is no further update on Phil's condition. When there is an update, and it is appropriate to do so, we will update everyone on Phil's health." Keep him reserved in keeper leagues for now.
News: TSN.ca is reporting Phil Kessel will not be released by the Boston Bruins to participate in the upcoming World Junior Championships for Team USA. The Bruins let USA Hockey know of their decision earlier this week.
Analysis: This does not come as a huge surprise, although with Kessel's decreasing ice time some felt that there might have been a small possibility.
News: Rookie Phil Kessel picked up an assist and even rating with four shots on goal in 12:51 of ice time in Monday's game against the Canadiens.
Analysis: Kessel's assist ended an eight-game scoreless stretch. He remains useful only in keeper Fantasy pools at this point.
News: Phil Kessel scored a power-play goal giving the Bruins a 1-0 lead when he knocked a rebound past Aubin at 14:09 of the first period of Thursday's game against Toronto.
Analysis: Kessel, the No. 5 pick in this year's NHL draft, scored in back-to-back games for the second time this season. He remains more of a option in dynasty pools rather than weekly leagues, although he is certainly starting to increase his Fantasy appeal lately.
News: The Boston Globe reports Phil Kessel has been dropped to the team's third line with Shean Donovan and Wayne Primeau. In addition, he has been moved back to his natural position of center.
Analysis: The speedy Kessel remains a valuable Fantasy player in most long-term keeper leagues, but his value drops considerably in weekly formats.
News: Phil Kessel, Boston's No. 1 pick in this year's draft, scored his first NHL goal on Saturday in the team's 6-2 loss to Buffalo.
Analysis: Kessel is worth a roster spot in Fantasy leagues right now but that is debatable for some. He is really only useful in keeper formats, as he has gotten off to a difficult start for the Bruins. Reserve him in all weekly leagues until he can start contributing.
News: Phil Kessel, Wayne Primeau and Yan Stastny were are scoreless in Thursday's game against Calgary. Kessel and Stastny posted an even rating, while Primeau was a disappointing minus-2.
Analysis: Only Kessel is worth a roster spot in Fantasy leagues right now and that is debatable for some. He is really only useful in keeper formats, as he has gotten off to a difficult start for the Bruins. Reserve him in all weekly leagues until he can start contributing.
News: Brad Boyes has a goal, three assists and a minus-2 rating in five games so far this season. Rookie Phil Kessel has two assists and minus-3 rating during the same span.
Analysis: Despite the slow start, the young Boston centers remain viable Fantasy options in most formats. However, consider reserving Kessel until he is able to get on track.
News: Brad Boyes, Phil Kessel and Glen Murray each posted assists in Thursday's game against the Blues. Boyes and Kessel had a plus-1 rating, while Murray posted a minus-1.
Analysis: The three Boston forwards remains must-starts in all Fantasy leagues. They'll look to continue their momentum in Saturday's game at N.Y. Islanders.
News: LW Phil Kessel, the fifth pick in the NHL draft, had an assist at Tampa Bay Saturday, his first NHL point.
Analysis: The former University of Minnesota product is a stellar keeper prospect and he should be considered a nice No. 3 or 4 center in yearly leagues for now.
News: Rookie Phil Kessel is expected to start on the team's top scoring line with Patrice Bergeron and Brad Boyes.
Analysis: The former University of Minnesota product is worth a middle-round pick in all seasonal Fantasy leagues and a first- or second-round pick in keeper formats.
