News:Karri Ramo was dealt along with Michael Cammalleri and a fifth-round pick in this June's draft to the Flames in exchange for Rene Bourque, Patrick Holland and a second-round pick in the 2013 draft, Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Karri Ramo has been playing very well for Avangard Omsk of the KHL, but if the Habs can convince him to return to North America at any point, then he'll be more than just a throw-in in this deal.
News: Ramo posted another three wins last week for Avangard Omsk of the KHL and now has a league-leading 27 wins, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis: Ramo, who flirted with the idea of coming to North America for the 2010 season, has been absolutely dominant in the KHL. He's second overall in goals against (1.94), fourth in save percentage (.928) and second in shutouts (five).
News: Ramo may leave the KHL and play for Hamilton of the AHL, according to a report from overseas.
Analysis: It was first thought Ramo would honor his deal with Omsk but it now appears he'll start for the Bulldogs, the Canadiens' farm team. He may even end up as the back-up in Montreal as early as 2011-12.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports the agent for Tampe Bay goalie Karri Ramo, Mark Gandler, has confirmed his client has signed a two-year deal to play for Avangard Omsk of the Kontinental Hockey League (Russia). Gandler added that Ramo, a restricted free agent who was expected to serve as Mike Smith's backup in 2009-10, has been told he will be Omsk's starting goalie. "Of course," Gandler said. "He wouldn't go over there otherwise." Gandler said Ramo's contract has an option which would allow him to opt out after one season. "I don't want to get into the reasons other than to say all of us, including Karri, feel he's better off stepping out for a year and play for Omsk," Gandler said. "Tampa Bay wanted to sign him but we saw it otherwise."
Analysis: Ramo, who turns 23 on July 1, was 4-10-7 with a 3.66 GAA and .894 save percentage in 24 games last season. He saw a lot of time down the stretch as Smith missed the final months with post-concussion syndrome, but struggled mightily. Smith is on track to return in '09-10 and is reporting he is in good shape, so the writing was on the wall for Ramo. He might be back in 2010-11, but it seems as though you can take Ramo out of your Draft Day 2009 plans.
News: Tampa Bay goalies Mike McKenna and Karri Ramo combined to make 29 saves in Saturday's season finale against the Thrashers, but McKenna was on the wrong end of two redirected scores by Derek Armstrong. He ended up getting pulled after allowing four goals on 15 shots in favor of Karri Ramo who went on to give up two more runs.
Analysis: Ramo went winless in his final seven starts and didn't look too impressive in his relief appearance on Friday. He is not guaranteed a roster spot next season and can only be thought of as a long-term keeper option.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo made 29 saves during a 4-2 loss to the Capitals Thursday. Ramo was handed the early one-goal lead as Tampa Bay scored 36 seconds into the game. But then Washington scored three unanswered goals and never looked back. Mike Green capped the win with an empty netter. Ramo dropped to 0-3-4 in his last seven outings.
Analysis: Ramo has had a rough run since making his NHL debut in 2007-08. He has been touted as the future in net for Tamoa Bay, but over these last two seasons, it doesn't appear that way. Granted, it hasn't entirely been his fault since Tampa has been a bottom feeder, but Ramo has a career 3.35 GAA. Mike Smith, who has been out several months with a concussion, will likely be in net next season for Tampa Bay. Ramo is nothing more than a long-term Fantasy keeper at this time. The Lightning TG is a low-end Fantasy option without Smith.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo allowed five goals on 30 shots Tuesday as Tampa Bay fell 6-4 to the Penguins. He has now lost six straight games.
Analysis: Ramo is getting most of the starts in net for the Lightning as Mike Smith remains out with a concussion, but his team has nothing to play for. Continue to ignore him and the Lightning TG in this final week.
News:Zach Parise scored in overtime past Karri Ramo as the Devils snapped a six-game losing streak with a 5-4 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Friday. On the winning goal, Parise took a cross-ice feed from Travis Zajac and drilled a shot into the net before Ramo could react at 1:21. Ramo, who made 34 saves, lost a 2-0 lead in the second period and is 0-2-3 in his last five starts.
Analysis: Ramo allowed more than three goals for the first time in eight outings Friday. He has been giving Tampa Bay quality outings as of late, but the offense has been inconsistent and that's why Ramo hasn't posted many victories. Ramo, as well as the Lightning TG, has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News:The Sports Xchange reports at one point in his career, goaltender Karri Ramo was a rising prospect in the Lightning system. An AHL All-Star berth in his first professional season as a 20-year-old only solidified his organizational status. But this season, his third in North America, with a new regime in charge of Tampa Bay, he found himself trying to show new evaluators he is still a top prospect who figures into Tampa Bay's long term plans. It hasn't been a smooth road for the 22-year-old Finnish netminder following a slow start to the season both at the minor league level and once he was called up to Tampa in the absence of Olaf Kolzig. "The first month, he kind of bothered me with the way he played, because he was really all over the map," Lightning interim coach Rick Tocchet said. "He was pushing everywhere. Goals would be scored because he'd be five yards out of the net and guys would just tap it in. And to me, that's not the type of goalie I want."
Analysis: As Tampa Bay heads to Boston for Tuesday's game against the Bruins, Ramo might have redeemed his status and might be considered the top candidate to back up starting goaltender Mike Smith next season. Though Ramo suffered his first regulation loss in eight starts Sunday against Ottawa, his numbers tell the story of his turnaround. His goals-against average is 2.59 and his save percentage is .916 in his last eight starts. "I feel that I've found the right path, doing a lot of good things right now and following the right road to where I want to go," he said. "I know there have been games where three or four goals go in, so there are still things I need to work on. But when we watch the tape we can see that I have the calmness and confidence in my game, so it's getting there and getting better." Ramo continues to see a bulk of starts in net, but has low-end Fantasy appeal for the lowly Lightning. The Lightning TG also has low-end appeal.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo made 26 saves during a 3-0 loss to the Senators Sunday. Heatley scored his team-high 35th goal of the season on a power play 9:45 into the first period and it was the only goal Ottawa would need. Ramo is 0-1-3 in his last four outings.
Analysis: Ramo hasn't been awful as of late, allowing three or fewer goals in seven straight starts. He has just two wins in that span since Tampa Bay's offensive efforts can be erratic. Ramo continues to see a bulk of starts in net, but has low-end Fantasy appeal for the lowly Lightning. The Lightning TG also has low-end appeal.
News: Tampa Bay G Karri Ramo was able to take the Canadiens into overtime but was unable to get the win as he allowed an overtime goal to Saku Koivu. The loss drops his overall record to 4-7-6 on the season.
Analysis: Ramo has had some back luck in the overtime period as he has nearly as many overtime losses as regulation losses. He continues to get the bulk of the starts with the Lighning but remains only a low-end option. The same goes for the Lightning TG.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo allowed a shootout goal to Slava Kozlov, which was the only goal in the shootout and lost 4-3 to the Thrashers on Saturday. Ramo made 33 saves in the game and also allowed Kozlov to score during regulation 6:22 into the first period.
Analysis: Ramo did a good job hanging in after going down 2-0 in the first period against the Thrashers. However, we are talking about one of the worst teams in the league in the Thrashers, so it's not overly impressive. Ramo has emerged as Tampa's starting goalie with Mike Smith (concussion) still on IR. Ramo has low-end Fantasy appeal and the same goes for the Lightning TG.
News:John Mitchell, who scored the Maple Leafs' first goal in the second period, netted the winner in the shootout past Kari Rammo to lift Toronto to a 4-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday. Mitchell's deciding goal with a low shot past the right skate of Ramo was scored in the sixth round of the shootout and gave the Maple Leafs a win after they had trailed 3-0. In front of a supportive crowd on the road, Toronto forced overtime by scoring the tying goal with 6 minutes left in regulation. Jeff Hamilton, who tied it at 3, scored the first shootout goal. Vincent Lecavalier used a deke move to get the Lightning's only shootout goal past Curtis Joseph to force the extra rounds. Ramo made 36 saves in the loss.
Analysis: Tuesday was a highly-disappointing loss for the rookie goalie since he pretty much had a comfortable lead. He had also won his previous two starts and was set for a three-game win streak. Tough luck. Ramo has emerged as Tampa's starting goalie with Mike Smith (concussion) still on IR. Ramo has low-end Fantasy appeal, as is the Lightning TG.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo stopped Cory Stillman, David Booth and Michael Frolik, securing a 4-3 shootout victory over the Lightning over the Panthers when he stopped Frolik's shot with his blocker. Ramo made 34 saves in overtime and regulation.
Analysis: Ramo is holding down the goalie fort in Tampa Bay along with Mike McKenna. Ramo has won back-to-back games after failing to do so in seven straight outings. He's merely 4-7-3 this season and not a reliable Fantasy option. The Lightning TG is a low-end option as well without Mike Smith.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo was in a similar position Thursday against the Blues -- trailing after the first period -- but the rookie netminder kept his wits and battled back for a 4-1 victory. Ramo fell behind after Lee Stempniak opened the scoring 3:21 into the game. He then stopped the final 19 shots he faced, including 14 over the final two scoreless frames. Ramo made 20 saves overall.
Analysis: Ramo won for the first time in seven outings Thursday. He has won just twice in 12 appearances since taking over in net for the injured Mike Smith (concussion). Despite his troubles in net, the Lightning are getting a long look at Ramo for future evaluation. Consider Ramo nothing more than a low-end Fantasy option. The same goes for the Lightning TG now that Smith is on the sidelines.
News: Lightning G Kari Ramo lost for the sixth straight time on Wednesday against the Senators, falling 3-2 in overtime. It was a better performance from him as he allowed six goals in his last game against the Hurricanes on Saturday. Ramo made 24 saves in the game, allowing three goals.
Analysis: Mike McKenna and Ramo have been asked to hold down the fort with Mike Smith out with a concussion. Neither have done very well, but Ramo seems to be the preferred option in Tampa Bay at the moment. It's likely best to avoid all Tampa Bay goalies down the stretch. Both McKenna and Ramo have low-end appeal and the same goes for the Lightning TG.
News: It was not a pretty night in net for Tampa goalies Mike McKenna and Karri Ramo during a 9-3 loss to the Hurricanes Saturday. McKenna began the game in net, but was pulled after allowed three goals on the first seven shots. Ramo made one save in the first period before being peppered in the second. Ramo allowed six goals on 21 shots before being pulled in the third. McKenna returned to net to stop all eight shots he faced, but by then it was too late. McKenna finished with 12 saves and Ramo had 16.
Analysis: McKenna and Ramo have been holding down the job in net with Mike Smith out with a concussion. McKenna started as coach Rick Tocchet's favorite, but Ramo has seen most of the starts as of late. That isn't expected to change anytime soon, but we can't expect much from either goalie since Tampa will struggle for wins down the stretch. Ramo and McKenna both have low-end Fantasy appeal, as does the Lightning TG.
News:Brad Boyes scored 27 seconds into overtime past Karri Ramo to give the St. Louis Blues a 4-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Friday night. Ramo fell behind 2-0 and 3-1 before Tampa Bay tied the game with 15.7 seconds left in the third. He has lost his last four starts.
Analysis: Despite the losing streak, Tampa Bay is committed to starting Ramo in net while Mike Smith is out with a concussion. He hasn't been awful in net. He just isn't getting much offensive support. Ramo still has low-end Fantasy appeal. The Lightning TG also has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo made 30 saves during a 3-1 loss to the Penguins Tuesday. Chris Kunitz's two goals in the first period were enough to doom Ramo, who lost a third straight start.
Analysis: Ramo has started seven of the last nine games in net for Tampa Bay and the Lightning all of a sudden seem committed to the youngster with Mike Smith on IR. However, the wins could be very scarce down the stretch since Tampa is not in position to compete for a playoff berth. Consider Ramo a low-end Fantasy option. The Lightning TG also has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News:Steve Bernier scored the go-ahead goal midway through the third period past Karri Ramo on a deflection off an opponent's skate, and the Canucks kept Tampa Bay winless in Vancouver with a 2-1 victory Friday. Bernier's wraparound attempt was cut off by defenseman Josef Melichar at the side of the net, so the big forward spun back to the goal line and threw a backhander toward the goal. The puck bounced off Vincent Lecavalier's skate and under goalie Kari Ramo, giving Bernier his first goal in nine games. Ramo made 23 saves as the Lightning.
Analysis: Ramo made a couple of good early saves, including stopping Alexandre Burrows in alone one minute into the game, before Alexander Edler opened the scoring on a power play one-timer from the high slot midway through the first period. Ramo, who faced 40-plus shots in each of his last four starts, was only tested three times in the next 20 minutes, but one was a great glove save on another power play blast through a screen. The fifth shot he saw was a shoulder stop on Henrik Sedin on a 2-on-1, and the sixth a left pad save as the puck was crossing the goal line after Sedin tried to wrap in the rebound on the other side. "He played really well," coach Rick Tocchet said about Ramo. "I think both goalies were the stars of the game. They made the saves when they had to." Ramo has done well in net as of late, but the wins haven't been there since Tampa Bay can't seem to score. Ramo has started six of the last seven games in net for Tampa Bay and the Lightning all of a sudden seem committed to the youngster with Mike Smith on IR. Mike McKenna was their first choice when Smith went down, but since he likely doesn't have a future with the team, Tampa wants to see if Ramo does. Still, he remains more of a stopgap Fantasy option and long-term Fantasy keeper until Smith returns. The Lightning TG at best is a No. 2 option.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo made 40 saves during a 5-3 loss to the Oilers Tuesday. It was back-and-forth for a bit until Edmonton took a two-goal lead 2:20 into the third. Cory Murphy made it a one-goal game again 13:46 into the third with his second goal, but Sheldon Souray iced the win with an empty-net goal with two seconds left. Ramo lost for the fourth time in seven starts.
Analysis: Ramo has started five of the last six games in net for Tampa Bay and the Lightning all of a sudden seem committed to the youngster with Mike Smith on IR. Mike McKenna was their first choice when Smith went down, but since he likely doesn't have a future with the team, Tampa wants to see if Ramo does. Still, he remains more of a stopgap Fantasy option and long-term Fantasy keeper until Smith returns. The Lightning TG at best is a No. 2 option.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo faced 43 shots by Bruins skaters on Sunday and blocked 40 of them to hang on to a 4-3 win over the best team in the Eastern Conference. It was just Ramo's second win of the season as his record improved to 2-3-1 overall.
Analysis: Ramo is only with the Lightning because of Mike Smith's injury. Mike McKenna is splitting starts with Ramo and neither are very useful in Fantasy as they play for the Lightning. Ramo can only be used in leagues that use averages as a flier and nothing more. The Lightning TG at best is a No. 2 option.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo couldn't hold a two-goal lead and the Devils escaped with a 3-2 shootout win Thursday. Ramo allowed power-play goals to Brian Rolston and Zach Parise before Parise and Patrik Elias beat the rookie netminder in the shootout. Ramo finished with 38 saves in the losing effort.
Analysis: Ramo has lost his last four decisions. It will be interesting to see how coach Rick Tocchet treats the goalie situation with Mike Smith (concussion) on IR. It would be beneficial to give Ramo as many starts as possible, but Tocchet is a big fan of Mike McKenna. Ramo is only worth a look in leagues that use average points per game at this time. The Lightning TG is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo couldn't hold a two-goal lead and make Steven Stamkos' first career hat trick stand in a 5-3 loss to the Blackhawks Tuesday. Ramo, in his first start since Feb. 3, made a career-high 44 saves on 49 shots and carried a 3-2 lead into the final frame before Chicago finished out the game with three third-period scores. "Tonight, I took another step (forward)," Ramo said. "I didn't finish well, but you have to be able to pick up the good parts and build on that."
Analysis: Ramo might have done well for the first two periods Tuesday, but he still took the loss and coach Rick Tocchet will likely turn back to Mike McKenna with Mike Smith still out with a concussion. Ramo is only worth a look in leagues that use average points per game at this time. The Lightning TG is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:The St. Petersburg Times reports Lightning G Mike Smith (concussion) skated for 15 minutes before practice Monday. He also spent part of the time practicing his scoring skills as he was shooting the puck with a forward's stick. "He seems all right," goaltenders coach Cap Raeder said. "He's very disappointed, though. He's down because he can't play." Karri Ramo will get his first start in net Tuesday against the Blackhawks since he was pulled Feb. 3 against the Islanders.
Analysis: Ramo is currently in a backup role to Mike McKenna, but this is an important stretch for the 22-year-old Finn as he looks for a new contract. "I think he's overplaying pucks. He has to have a calmness to his game," coach Rick Tocchet said. "If he can harness his game that way, he can be a hell of a goaltender. I think he's one of the best athletic goalies in the game." Ramo is only worth a look in leagues that use average points per game at this time. The Lightning TG is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Tampa Bay G Mike McKenna gave up three first period goals to the Capitals on Saturday and was pulled in favor of Karri Ramo who went on to allow two more goals in a 5-1 loss.
Analysis: The last time Ramo played, he was pulled in favor of McKenna, and he returned the favor on Saturday. He is backing up a player not on the roster on opening day so he is obviously not a player worth owning in Fantasy play.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo started Tuesday's game against the Islanders in place of the injured Mike Smith (upper body), but didn't finish it in a 3-1 loss. Ramo blanked the Islanders on seven shots in the first period before New York scored three times in the first 10 minutes in the second. That was it for Ramo as he was replaced by Mike McKenna. Ramo made 13 saves in the loss while McKenna stopped all 11 shots he faced.
Analysis: The injury to Smith isn't considered serious and he could be back by the weekend. However, the arm injury to Olaf Kolzig is serious and will keep him out the rest of the season. That means Ramo will likely serve as the backup goalie unless Tampa Bay feels more comfortable with McKenna. Ramo might see an appearance every once in a while, so he has little to no Fantasy value outside of long-term keeper leagues. The Lightning TG is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option when Smith is healthy.
News: The Lightning recalled G Riku Helenius from Norfolk (AHL) to replace G Karri Ramo, who was sent back to serve a six-game suspension for leaving the bench during a fight.
Analysis: Ramo is likely going to remain the Lightning's backup goalie the rest of the season with Olaf Kolzig on IR with an arm injury. He needed to get the suspension out of the way, but will be back shortly. Still, Ramo has limited Fantasy appeal outside of long-term keeper leagues.
News: The Tampa Bay Lightning have recalled RW Steve Downie and G Karri Ramo from Norfolk of the AHL.
Analysis: We're not exactly sure why Ramo is up with the Lightning at this point, as they already have Mike Smith and Olaf Kolzig. He has no Fantasy value in seasonal leagues. Downie has some decent keeper value, but also isn't worth owning in seasonal formats until he cements permanent place in the NHL.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo would like to forget Tuesday's 7-1 loss to the Sharks. San Jose came at him early and often on their way to their 32nd win. Ramo fell behind 2-0 heading into the second period and got within one goal before San Jose finished the game scoring the last five tallies. San Jose scored on three power plays while Ramo made 35 saves.
Analysis: Ramo has been backing up Mike Smith the last few weeks while Olaf Kolzig has been injured. He hasn't done a very good job and is ticketed for the AHL as soon as Kolzig is healthy. Ramo has no Fantasy appeal outside of long-term keeper leagues. The Lightning TG is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo, who has been backing up Mike Smith in net the past three weeks while Olaf Kolzig recovers from an undisclosed upper-body injury, made 29 saves in his first start of the season during Friday's 4-3 win against the Ducks. Ramo never trailed in the game, but blew a 3-1 lead in the second period. But he shutout the Ducks in the third period as Tampa Bay secured the win.
Analysis: Ramo was considered the goalie of the future for the Lightning last season, but with the way Smith has played this season, Ramo might no longer have the title. Ramo is likely headed back to the minors shortly, so despite the win, he has minimal Fantasy appeal. The Lightning TG is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Tampa Bay recalled goalie Karri Ramo on an emergency basis from Norfolk of the AHL Thursday. He replaced Olaf Kolzig, who missed Thursday's game due to an upper body injury, as the backup to Mike Smith. Tampa Bay also reassigned center Zenon Konopka to Norfolk.
Analysis: Ramo had seven wins and 11 losses in 22 games last season while posting a 3.03 GAA and .899 save percentage. He was even a starter for a bit in 2007-08, but with Smith and Kolzig on the roster this season, Ramo was sent to the AHL to continue development. He still remains more of a long-term Fantasy keeper.
News: The Lightning reassigned goalie Karri Ramo to Norfolk of the AHL on Tuesday.
Analysis: He has appeared in one game with Tampa Bay this season, allowing two goals in relief of Olaf Kolzig during a 7-3 loss to New Jersey on Sunday. Ramo is still the future in net for Tampa Bay, but remains just a long-term keeper.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo, called up earlier in the day after Mike Smith was diagnosed with a lower-body injury, replaced an ineffective Olaf Kolzig in a 7-3 loss to the Devils on Sunday. Ramo gave up two goals on 17 shots in a no-decision.
Analysis: Ramo logged plenty of playing time last season as the Lightning struggled for an identity, and his bags were pretty much tagged for the minors over the summer when Kolzig came on board. Ramo is still the future in net for Tampa Bay, but remains just a long-term keeper as he will likely only steal a few starts here and there from Kolzig and will return to the minors once Smith is back unless a trade is made.
News: The Lightning sent G Karri Ramo to Norfolk of the AHL on Monday. Tampa Bay is carrying Mike Smith and Olaf Kolzig as the two goalies on the roster.
Analysis: Ramo did log plenty of playing time last season as the Lightning struggled for an identity, and his bags were pretty much tagged for the minors over the summer when Kolzig came on board. Ramo is still the future in net for Tampa Bay, but remains just a long-term keeper.
News: The Tampa Bay Lightning signed veteran goalie Olaf Kolzig to a one-year contract on Tuesday. Kolzig, who signed during the first day of free agency, will likely share time in goal with incumbent starter Mike Smith. The signing could mean Karri Ramo, who served as a backup for part of the 2007-08 season, will start next season in the minors.
Analysis: The Lightning called up their young goalie in late December last season when Johan Holmqvist and Marc Denis failed miserably in net. Ramo saw plenty of starts until the February trade deadline when Smith arrived from Dallas. Ramo was 7-11-3 with a 3.03 GAA and no shutouts. He still has a lot to learn in the NHL and appears to be nothing more than a long-term Fantasy keeper.
News:Karri Ramo made 38 saves to lead the Tampa Bay Lightning past the Southeast Division-leading Carolina Hurricanes 2-1 on Saturday night. Ramo preserved the Lightning's one-goal advantage with an in-close save on Eric Staal with 2:10 remaining in the third period.
Analysis: Ramo might get a couple of more starts even though Mike Smith is back from a bum knee. Ramo has more long-term Fantasy potential than short term. Use him as a stopgap Fantasy option. The Lightning TG is also a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Tomas Fleischmann scored with 2:33 left in overtime to lift the Washington Capitals past the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-3 on Thursday night. Lightning goalie Karri Ramo dived for a loose puck near the net, but couldn't control it. Brooks Laich passed it to Fleischmann in the right circle for the winner. Ramo finished with 28 saves as he lost for the second time in three starts.
Analysis: Ramo might get another start or two in place of the injured Mike Smith, but Fantasy owners at this stage don't really want to rely on a rookie goalie on a bad team. Ramo has more long-term Fantasy potential than short term. Use him as a stopgap Fantasy option. The Lightning TG is also a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Karri Ramo, who got a rare start in place of te injured Mike Smith, made 34 saves for the Lightning and picked up his sixth win in 19 games with a 3-1 result over the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night. Smith hurt his knee in practice on Monday.
Analysis: As a backup and now with Smith injured, Ramo saw just his fourth start in March. He picked up his sixth win of the season. Ramo has been used sparingly by the Lightning this season and remains just a flier in leagues that use average points per game and a long-term keeper. The Lightning TG is a low-end Fantasy option, but neither should be used in Fantasy playoffs.
News: Lightning backup G Karri Ramo will start Tuesday against the Panthers for the injured Mike Smith.
Analysis: Ramo has been used sparingly by the Lightning this season and remains just a flier in leagues that use average points per game and a long-term keeper. The Lightning TG is a low-end Fantasy option, but neither should be used in Fantasy playoffs.
News: Not a good night for Karri Ramo in the Tampa Bay Lightning net considering his team helped to a 4-1 lead after two periods, but then the Buffalo Sabres beat Ramo five times in the third and added an empty net goal for a big 7-4 win on Wednesday. Ramo suffered his 10th loss of the season.
Analysis: This was Ramo's first game since March 11. He does not get a lot of starts in the Tampa Bay net. He didn't with Johan Holmqvist (now with Dallas) as a starter or with Mike Smith as the top goalie after the trade. Ramo remains just a flier in leagues that use average points per game and a long-term keeper. The Lightning TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Karri Ramo turned away 20 shots and even though he allowed four goals he earned the fifth win this season after the Tampa Bay Lightning thrashed the New York Islanders 8-4 on Tuesday night.
Analysis: Ramo does not get a lot of starts in the Tampa Bay net. He didn't with Johan Holmqvist (now with Dallas) as a starter or with Mike Smith as the top goalie after the trade. Ramo remains just a flier in leagues that use average points per game and a long-term keeper. The Lightning TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Karri Ramo was pretty sharp in stopping 31 shots in his first game since a 1-0 loss to the New York Islanders on Feb. 21. But unfortunately for Ramo he lost another close one in overtime, 2-1, to the New Jersey Devils.
Analysis: Ramo does not get a lot of starts in the Tampa Bay net. He didn't with Johan Holmqvist (now with Dallas) as a starter or with Mike Smith as the top goalie after the trade. Ramo remains just a flier in leagues that use average points per game and a long-term keeper. The Lightning TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Karri Ramo started for just the second time in eight games and was locked in a goalies duel with Rick DiPietro on Thursday before the Lightning came up on the losing end of a 1-0 score to the Islanders. Ramo turned aside all 21 Islanders shots in the first two periods before Miroslav Satan scored in the third. Ramo made 27 saves in the loss.
Analysis: Lightning coach John Tortorella gave Ramo the nod one night after Johan Holmqvist couldn't protect a 3-1 lead late in regulation at Buffalo. Ramo remains just a flier in leagues that use average points per game and a long-term keeper. The Lightning TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News: The Lightning turned to rookie goalie Karri Ramo Tuesday against the Canadiens and the move paid off. Ramo stopped 19 shots in a 3-2 win. He has now won two of his last three outings and is 1-1-0 against the Canadiens.
Analysis: Ramo has been able to stick around the NHL despite some rough outings during his rookie season. He is now the backup to Johan Holmqvist, but is seeing about a start per week. Ramo remains just a flier in leagues that use average points per game and a long-term keeper. The Lightning TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Rookie goalie Karri Ramo made 29 saves and lost 3-2 to the Florida Panthers on Saturday. Ramo did stop all 12 shots he faced in the second period when the Lightning built a 2-1 lead. But he could not sustain that advantage in the third period.
Analysis: Ramo has lost his four of his last five starts. The rookie goalie has faded since being recalled in late December. Ramo remains just a flier in leagues that use average points per game and a long-term keeper.
News:Karri Ramo stopped 23 shots against Vancouver and the Lightning won 4-3 on Thursday. Ramo earned just his second win in seven starts in January and third win of the season.
Analysis: Ramo has lost his three previous starts. The rookie goalie has faded since being recalled in late December. Ramo remains just a flier in leagues that use average points per game and a long-term keeper.
News: Lightning G Johan Holmqvist only lasted one period, but rookie Karri Ramo was shouldered with the loss during a 8-4 romp by the Senators Thursday. Holmqvist was done after allowing three goals on 14 shots. Ramo wasn't much better as he allowed five goals on 12 shots.
Analysis: Ramo has now lost three straight outings and four of his last five. He has allowed five or more goals in two of his last six appearances. The rookie started strong, but has quickly faded since his recall in late December. Don't be surprised if he is sent back down to the minors. Ramo remains just a flier in leagues that use average points per game and a long-term keeper.
News: G Karri Ramo made 31 saves in a 5-3 win Tuesday at the New York Rangers to collect his first victory since his NHL debut on December 20. The native of Finland lost six games in a row after beating Toronto in his first game.
Analysis: Ramo has allowed three goals in each of his last three starts. He remains just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game at this time. The Lighting TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option at best.
News: The Montreal Canadiens scored three times in the third period Thursday night for a 6-3 victory over the slumping Tampa Bay Lightning and goalie Karri Ramo. After blowing a pair of two-goal leads, Montreal went up 4-3 at 7:51 of the third when Andrei Kostitsyn put a sharp-angled shot into the net off Ramo's glove for his third goal in two games. Ramo is now winless in his last six appearances (0-4-1) after winning his debut Dec. 20 against the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: Ramo has allowed 13 goals in his last three starts and it is probably about time the Lightning turn to Johan Holmqvist. The team might opt to send Ramo back down to the minors for a little more seasoning if he doesn't improve soon. He remains just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game at this time. The Lighting TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option at best.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo stopped 26 shots and allowed two goals during a shootout during a 4-3 loss Tuesday against the Maple Leafs. He is now winless in his last five appearances after winning his debut against the Maple Leafs on Dec. 20. Ramo has allowed three or more goals in three of his last four outings.
Analysis: Ramo hasn't been awful since joining Tampa Bay, but if he doesn't start picking up wins, the team might opt to send him back down to the minors for a little more seasoning. He remains just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game at this time. The Lighting TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option at best.
News: Lightning rookie Karri Ramo picked up his fourth start since Dec. 20 on Saturday against the Flyers, but he didn't fare so well. He allowed four goals and recorded only 18 saves, taking the third loss of his career.
Analysis: Ramo appears to have the edge as the No. 1 goalie option in Tampa at the moment, but with the way the Lightning are struggling, we wouldn't suggest starting any of their goalies at this point.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo filled in for the ineffective Johan Holmqvist during Tampa Bay's 5-2 loss to the Canadiens on Thursday. Holmqvist started, was pulled early in the second, but then returned with 13 minutes left in the game. Ramo filled in the other 26 minutes after starting on Wednesday night.
Analysis: Ramo appears to have the edge as the No. 1 goalie option in Tampa at the moment, but with the way the Lightning are struggling, we wouldn't suggest starting any of their goalies at this point.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo, the latest attempt at Tampa Bay trying to find an answer to their goaltending issue, allowed three goals on 32 shots in a 3-2 loss to the Capitals on Wednesday night. Ramo is now 1-2 since being called up from Norfolk.
Analysis: The Lightning are not a very good team at the moment, having lost seven of their last nine games, so we would advise avoiding all Tampa goalies for now until they start to find their form. Ramo could end up starting, but he just as easily could find himself back in the minors again in no time.
News: Lightning G Karri Ramo made 33 saves in his second career start during a 4-1 loss Saturday to the Hurricanes. Ramo allowed just two goals and Carolina picked up two empty-net goals in the final minute. Ramo won his first career start Thursday against the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: Ramo has looked pretty strong in net for Tampa and will likely continue to start as long as he stays sharp. Play this by ear, but he remains just a low-end flier and long-term keeper at this time. The Lightning TG is a risky Fantasy option at this time.
News: Rookie Karri Ramo made 31 saves to lead the Tampa Bay Lightning past the Toronto Maple Leafs, 2-1 on Thursday night. Ramo made his first career start one day after he was recalled from Norfolk of the AHL. Lightning starter Johan Holmqvist, pulled from three of his last four starts, is 13-12-3 this season with a 3.02 goals-against-average and .888 save-percentage. Backup Marc Denis has dropped five of six decisions, and has a 4.05 GAA. Ramo was not severely tested during the first half of the game, but did stopped Mats Sundin's shot from the right circle on a late first-period Toronto power play. He made several strong saves, including an in-close try by Boyd Devereaux.
Analysis: In six games for Norfolk, Ramo went 2-4 with a 3.33 GAA. Ramo suffered a high ankle sprain in the season opener, which forced him to miss about a month of action. The Lightning are getting a look at the future in net, but Ramo's stay in the NHL will depend on how well he plays. This could be a ploy by the coaching staff to motivate Holmqvist and Denis, but if Ramo keeps winning, it would be hard to send him back to Norfolk. Play this by ear, but he remains just a low-end flier and long-term keeper at this time. The Lightning TG is a risky Fantasy option at this time.
News: Tampa radio station WDAE 620 The Sports Animal reports that Karri Ramo will start in goal for Tampa Bay Thursday against Toronto. In six games for Norfolk of the AHL, Ramo went 2-4 with a 3.33 GAA. Ramo suffered a high ankle sprain in the season opener, which forced him to miss about a month of action.
Analysis: The goaltending in Tampa Bay has been unreliable and inconsistent. Coming into Tuesday's loss to Atlanta, Johan Holmqvist and Marc Denis had combined to give the Lightning the highest team goals-against average (3.21) and lowest save percentage (.882). Holmqvist was pulled Tuesday in favor of backup Denis for the third time in four starts. Denis started the second period after Holmqvist gave up three goals on nine first-period shots. If Ramo gets hot, he'll get as many starts as he can handle. And with this offense as high-powered as it is, he should be handed plenty of leads. Consider him in larger yearly and keeper leagues.
News: Karri Romo is 2-4-0 with a 3.33 GAA in six games with Norfolk of the AHL.
Analysis: Romo suffered a high ankle sprain in the season opener, which forced him to miss about a month of action. Ramo is the future at goal in Tampa Bay and if Johan Holmqvist remains inconsistent, Ramo could make a second-half appearance this year. Consider him in keeper leagues.
News: The Sports Xchange notes: G prospect Karri Ramo, who hasn't played since spraining his ankle in the season opener for the AHL's Norfolk Admirals, underwent an MRI in Tampa on Wednesday. It was determined that he'll miss another three weeks, but the injury was healing well.
Analysis: Ramo is the future at goal in Tampa Bay and if Johan Holmqvist remains inconsistent, Ramo could make a second-half appearance this year. Consider him in keeper leagues.
News: Lightning goaltending prospect Karri Ramo, who has missed all but one game of the season with Tampa Bay's minor league affiliate in Norfolk, underwent an MRI Wednesday on his left ankle. The results came back negative and his recovery is on schedule for a return to play in 2-3 weeks.
Analysis: Should he return in good shape, Ramo could find his way to Tampa Bay if the Lightning's goaltending falters in the coming weeks. Ramo represents the Lightning's future between the pipes. He's a keeper prospect to consider, but for now, he'll be on the mend in the minors.
News: G Karri Ramo, who injured his ankle with the Lightning's minor-league affiliate in Norfolk, is expected to return to practice for Norfolk this week.
Analysis: Ramo represents the Lightning's future between the pipes. He's a keeper prospect to consider, but for now, he'll be on the mend in the minors.
News: The St. Petersburg Times notes that Karry Ramo was hurt in practice Wednesday with AHL's Norfolk. He will likely be out three to four weeks with a high ankle sprain. "Sprains are tough," general manager of AHL Norfolk Claude Loiselle said. "We have to be careful. Guys come back too quickly, and that's when they get in trouble. So we're doing the right thing. He's off his feet." Ramo rolled his ankle while falling backward and grabbing for a puck after a save.
Analysis: Ramo represents the Lightning's future between the pipes. He's a keeper prospect to consider, but for now, he'll be on the mend in the minors. Morgan Cey was called up from Mississippi of the East Coast Hockey League and he has no Fantasy value.
News: Johan Holmqvist, who appeared to be the favorite for the starting goaltending job in Tampa Bay, is locked in a three-way battle with veteran Marc Denis and Karri Ramo. Coach John Tortorella said he will wait until the night before the team's regular season opener on Oct. 4 against New Jersey before announcing the winner. The team has two more preseason games on Thursday at Detroit and Saturday at Dallas, so the goaltenders can either hurt or help their chances immensely.
Analysis: Well, that spot of news has to be absolutely maddening to Fantasy owners, although we still feel Holmqvist has the upper hand. He is 0-1 during the preseason, but has posted an impressive 2.11 GAA with a .900 save percentage. Denis is 1-0 with a 2.77 GAA and .921 save percentage and Ramo is 1-0 with a 3.00 GAA and .870 save percentage. While the win-loss record doesn't favor Holmqvist, the starter of the majority of Tampa's games last season, the other statistics certainly do.
News: The Tampa Bay Lightning recalled Karri Ramo from Springfield of the AHL. He will serve as the third goaltender behind Marc Denis and Johan Holmqvist.
Analysis: Lightning coach John Tortorella said he wasn't added to the roster to merely watch the team's more experienced goalies. However, Ramo is only worth a look in long-term keeper Fantasy leagues at this time.
News: Lightning G Johan Holmqvist was pulled from net on Saturday in the first period against the Senators after allowing three goals on seven shots. Karri Ramo replaced him and went on to make 16 saves, but did allow two goals. The Lightning lost 5-2.
Analysis: Holmqvist has had two poor outings in a row and might sit the next time the Lightning take the ice. Before that though, he was having a pretty good run, winning four of five starts. He is still a solid No. 2 Fantasy goalie. Ramo shouldn't be owned in Fantasy leagues at this time as he probably will only see limited time in net.
News: The Tampa Bay Lightning have reassigned veteran goaltender Sean Burke to Springfield of the AHL and they recalled G Karri Ramo to replace him on the roster.
Analysis: Ramo might get first crack at serving as the backup to starter Marc Denis, but he is not worth using in any Fantasy leagues right now.
