News:Martin Erat will not require surgery on his dislocated elbow, the Washington Times reports. Instead, he plans on the rehabbing the injury on his own.
Analysis: Of course, with the Capitals eliminated following Monday's Game 7 loss to the Rangers, Martin Erat will have all offseason to rehab the injury, though he's expected to be fully recovered within a few weeks. Erat said he would have been available to play through the pain had the Capitals advanced to the second round.
News:Martin Erat (arm) won't play Monday against the Rangers, the Winnipeg Sun's Ken Wiebe reports.
Analysis: Neither will Brooks Laich, as the Caps try to advance to the second round of the playoffs Monday, with their series with the Rangers currently deadlocked at three games apiece.
News:Martin Erat (arm) was not at Saturday's practice, the Winnipeg Sun's Ken Wiebe reports.
Analysis:Martin Erat sat out Friday's Game 5 and looks highly questionable for Game 6 on Sunday. He appeared to injure his forearm or wrist in Game 4.
News: Caps coach Adam Oates told the media Martin Erat will not be available for Friday's Game 5 against the Rangers after suffering an apparent wrist or forearm injury Wednesday.
Analysis:Martin Erat left Game 4 in the first period and did not return after falling hard on his left wrist. The Caps are calling it an upper-body injury but Erat was visibly nursing his left wrist after the fall. No word yet on when Erat could return. Consider him day-to-day for now.
News:Martin Erat left Wednesday's game after a collision with an upper-body injury and did not return, NHL.com reports.
Analysis: More details regarding Martin Erat's status for Game 5 will likely come Thursday when the team returns to D.C. and he's evaluated again by the team's medical staff.
News:Martin Erat (leg) will return to the lineup for Saturday's game against the Lightning, Mike Vogel of the Capitals' official website reports.
Analysis:Martin Erat only played two games with the Capitals before suffering the injury that kept him out of the past three contests. There shouldn't be anything to worry about going forward, so long as he makes it through Saturday's game without incident. The former Predator only has four goals this season, which is a rather disappointing number after eight consecutive years with at least 16 goals.
News:Martin Erat (leg) was able to practice for the fourth consecutive day, Katie Carrera of the Washington Post reports.
Analysis:Martin Erat has missed the past three games after he was injured April 6 after being hit against the boards. Coach Adam Oates said it was "possible" that Erat could return Saturday against Tampa Bay. If Erat takes part in the team's morning skate Saturday with no setbacks, it sounds as if there is a good chance he will crack the lineup.
News:Martin Erat (leg) won't play Thursday against the Hurricanes, Katie Carrera of The Washington Post reports.
Analysis:Martin Erat was on the ice for the third straight day Thursday morning, but he isn't ready to suit up at this point after suffering an apparent left leg injury on April 6.
News:Martin Erat (leg) is still "a ways away" according to coach Adam Oates, Katie Carrera of The Washington Post reports.
Analysis: Though not specifically ruling him out for the contest, the report implies that Martin Erat won't play Thursday against the Hurricanes.
News:Martin Erat (leg) won't play Tuesday against the Canadiens, Katie Carrera of The Washington Post reports.
Analysis:Martin Erat, who suffered an apparent left leg injury on Saturday, traveled with the Caps to Montreal, as did Joel Ward, but neither forward will be able to suit up for Tuesday's road contest.
News:Martin Erat (unspecified injury) won't play in Sunday's game against the Lightning, Katie Carrera of the Washington Post reports.
Analysis: Carrera further notes that Martin Erat did not suffer a concussion Saturday, but suggests that he may be dealing with a left leg issue.
Capitals' Erat Leaves Saturday After Slamming Into Boards
News:Martin Erat suffered an apparent injury or injuries during Saturday's game against the Panthers and his return is questionable, Katie Carrera of the Washington Post reports.
Analysis: Not only did Martin Erat's head hit the boards hard, his left leg or ankle also appeared to contort unnaturally. If he can't return to Saturday's game, consider Erat day-to-day until the Caps elaborate.
News: The Capitals have acquired Martin Erat and Michael Latta from Nashville for Filip Forsberg, reports Washington's official site.
Analysis: This is the end of an era for Nashville, as the Preds drafted Martin Erat in 1999 and this was his 12th season in a Predators uniform. It's also his worst year in the league since breaking in for good, as he's totaled just four goals and 21 points in 36 games. He'll likely slot in on Washington's third line, and could be in the power-play mix.
News:Martin Erat had two helpers against the Oilers on Monday, giving him 16 assists on the season.
Analysis:Martin Erat has picked up two assists in three consecutive games, and has a goal in one of them as well. However, he only has four goals on the season.
News:Martin Erat registered two power-play helpers in Nashville's 5-2 win over Columbus on Saturday. The two assists give him the team lead in that category with 14.
Analysis: This was a study in efficiency, as he was only on the ice with the man advantage for 1:05 in the contest. His fantasy value this season has come almost entirely in the assists column, as his shooting percentage is well off his career norms.
News:Martin Erat is currently in the midst of a 16-game goal-scoring drought. His last goal came on Feb. 5 against St. Louis, and he's only managed six assists since then.
Analysis:Martin Erat's power outage this season comes as somewhat of a surprise, given that he's arguably been the most consistent scorer on the Predators' roster the past eight seasons. Then again, Erat hasn't had much help either, as the Preds as a team are struggling to score this season, currently ranking dead last in the NHL with 2.08 goals per game. Bottom line, until Erat and the Preds find a way to turn things around, feel free to use a more dependable fantasy scoring option on your roster if you have one.
News:Martin Erat ended a four-game pointless streak with two assists Thursday in a win over Phoenix.
Analysis: It's been an all-or-nothing start to the year for Martin Erat, who opened the season with a three-game points streak, went scoreless for four games, picked up three points in a game, then went scoreless for another four games before Thursday. While his consistency's been lacking, he has provided a fairly useful combo of nine points and 20 PIM in 13 games to start the year.
Preds' Erat Misses Practice Wednesday, Should Play Thursday
News:Martin Erat took a maintenance day Wednesday but is expected to be ready for Thursday's game against Phoenix, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis:Martin Erat, who has zero points in his last four games, could still be hampered by a sore foot following an injury at practice earlier this month. Keep an eye on his output and don't be afraid to bench him in favour of a more consistent scoring option.
News:Martin Erat (foot) not only played Tuesday night, but tallied three points on a goal and two assists.
Analysis: This output was generated despite Martin Erat playing only 15:12 in his return from the injury. The Predators as a whole broke out Tuesday night, scoring six goals.
News:Martin Erat (foot) said he will play in Tuesday's game against the Blues, The Tennessean's Joshua Cooper reports.
Analysis:Martin Erat initially suffered the injury in practice Friday. The injury wasn't expected to keep him out long, and he should be fine going forward, barring any setbacks.
News:Martin Erat (foot) is not expected to be out for an extended period, the Tennessean reports. According to coach Barry Trotz, he just needs to wait for some swelling to subside before he can resume skating.
Analysis:Martin Erat originally suffered the injury after taking a puck off his foot in practice Friday. He remains day-to-day for the time being.
News: The Preds scratched Martin Erat for Saturday's contest against the Sharks due to a foot injury.
Analysis: He's still day-to-day, but if you set weekly lineups and you have little risk tolerance, you may want to find another skater until he can lace 'em up, especially as Nashville has a tough schedule next week.
Preds' Erat (Foot) Game-Time Decision Saturday Vs. Sharks
News:Martin Erat (foot) will be a game-time decision against the Sharks on Saturday, the Tennessean's Joshua Cooper reports.
Analysis: We'd expect Martin Erat to play, but fantasy owners who have another option lined up and want to play it safe may want to check back before the opening face-off.
Preds' Erat Leaves Friday's Practice Early But Will Be "Fine"
News:Martin Erat left Friday's practice early after taking a shot off the foot or ankle, but coach Barry Trotz said, "he'll be fine," the Tennessean reports.
Analysis:Martin Erat led the Predators in scoring last season with 58 points (19G, 39A) and he's tied for first on the club with four points (2G, 2A) so far this year. The incident in practice caused a bit of a scare, but it doesn't sound like Erat will miss any time.
News:Martin Erat was collared for the second straight game in Saturday's loss at Anaheim, posting a single shot and a minus-1 rating.
Analysis: After breaking cleanly from the gate (2-2-4 in his first three games), he's gravitated toward his career norms. He'll likely post solid offensive numbers, but he's never been a point-per-game guy, and this season will be no exception.
News:Martin Erat (upper body) practiced Thursday and is expected to play Friday against Detroit, The Tennessean reports.
Analysis:Martin Erat has been true to form this year - he's never played a full 82-game schedule in his 10 years with the Preds, however when healthy he's usually quite productive. With 57 points in 67 games thus far, he's already tied his career high and has a good chance of topping 60 points for the first time. Feel free to get him back into your lineups.
News:Martin Erat (upper body) is questionable for Tuesday's game against St. Louis, Joshua Cooper of The Tennessean reports.
Analysis: He missed Sunday's game against Chicago and is day-to-day at the present time. It's likely that his status will be revealed Tuesday after the morning skate.
News:Martin Erat contributed a power-play goal and an assist in Saturday's 4-2 loss at Los Angeles, upping his point total to 55 on the season.
Analysis: He continues to pace all Nashville skaters at 18-37-55, despite missing nine games over the course of the season. Nashville isn't the place you look to find elite scorers, but Martin Erat is the closest there is on this roster.
News:Martin Erat lit the lamp for his 17th goal of the season, and tallied two assists, Monday against Phoenix. He skated for 19:19 and put two shots on net.
Analysis:Martin Erat has 52 points in 61 games and has six points in his last five games.
News:Martin Erat bagged a goal and an assist in Nashville's 6-2 win over San Jose on Saturday.
Analysis: The marker ends a six-game goalless drought. He continues to lead the team in scoring (14-32-46 in 54 games), but his previous flirtation with the point-per-game plateau is probably over.
News:Martin Erat scored a goal and added two assists in Saturday's win over the Blues. He now has nine points (two goals, seven assists) in his last seven games.
Analysis: Slowly but surely, he's creeping up on a point-per-game pace. But he could well be on the wire in your league, depending on its depth. Check him out -- he can help.
News:Martin Erat tallied a goal and an assist in Thursday's win over Columbus, giving him four points in the last three games.
Analysis:Martin Erat has been one of the team's most consistent offensive players on a team that is not known for scoring much. The veteran winger has a healthy 32 points in 39 games.
News:Martin Erat notched an assist in Monday's win over the Islanders, giving him seven points in the last five games.
Analysis:Martin Erat has a healthy 30 points in 37 games and is on his way to a quietly productive season. The points-per-game may fall off a little bit, but Erat is a nice player to own in deeper leagues.
News:Martin Erat recorded his third two-point game in his last four contests when he scored a goal and added an assist in Saturday's win over the Flyers.
Analysis: The goal came on the power play. He has two goals and four assists in those four games; three of those points (one goal, two helpers) have come with the man advantage. Martin Erat has been streaky so use him to full advantage while he's hot.
News:Martin Erat made good on his only shot of the night as the Predators beat the Blues in a shootout on Saturday, 2-1.
Analysis: He's posted six points (1G, 5A) during the Predators' current five-game win streak. While his 20 points on the season may seem modest, he's collected those in just 24 starts after missing time with an injury in October. If he's gone unnoticed in your league, you should consider grabbing him.
News:Martin Erat recorded two assists Thursday night as the Preds downed the Blue Jackets 4-3 in overtime.
Analysis: Though he didn't earn a star of the game nomination, Martin Erat was arguably the game's MVP as he assisted on both Sergei Kostitsyn's game-tying goal with 12 seconds remaining in the third, as well as Colin Wilson's game-winner 1:45 into the extra frame. Erat is having another one of his steady-eddie seasons with 16 points in 20 games thus far. That puts him on pace for a 65-70 point season which would be a career-high for him.
News:Martin Erat picked up two helpers for the Predators in their one goal victory over Vancouver on Thursday.
Analysis:Martin Erat hasn't scored a goal since Nov. 17 but has a handful of assists for those fantasy teams that own him in deeper leagues.
News:Martin Erat scored a pair of goals Thursday against the Leafs, his second straight two-point game.
Analysis: He also went plus-3 for the second consecutive game, pulling his plus-minus from an unsatisfactory minus-4 to a solid plus-2 in a span of three days. With nine points in ten games, Martin Erat's scoring even a little more than he normally does when healthy.
Preds' Erat Rebounding Nicely Following October Injury
News:Martin Erat has seven points (3G, 4A) in eight games since returning from an upper-body injury last month.
Analysis:Martin Erat, who missed three weeks and eight games with the injury, is back to skating his usual 18-20 minutes per night on the Preds' first line with Mike Fisher and Sergei Kostitsyn. He does represent an injury risk almost every season, but he's a very reliable point producer when healthy. Erat has posted between 49 and 57 points in each of the last six seasons, so you know what you're getting when you draft him.
Preds' Erat Due Back Saturday From Upper Body Ailment
News:Martin Erat (upper body) will be activated from injured reserve in time for Saturday's game against Anaheim, The Tennessean reports.
Analysis: According to Preds GM David Poile, Martin Erat's impending return was the primary reason why the team traded Cal O'Reilly to Phoenix on Friday. Erat should return to his usual top-six role once he's back in the lineup.
News:Martin Erat (upper body) will not be activated for Thursday's game against the Lightning, The Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Though Martin Erat will miss Thursday's game, head coach Barry Trotz is optimistic that he will be able to return for Saturday's game against the Ducks. Erat has scored at least 49 points each of the last seven seasons - including a 50-point effort in just 64 games last year - so it could be worth checking his availability if you are looking for some forward help on the waiver wire.
News:Martin Erat (upper body) was present at Tuesday's morning skate, Josh Cooper of The Tennessean reports.
Analysis: The report mentioned that Martin Erat is using a new helmet, so it appears he is dealing with some sort of head injury. Erat will not play Tuesday, but it appears he is close to returning to the ice.
News:Martin Erat (upper body) is unlikely to join his teammates on their current road trip, according to the Tennessean.
Analysis: The Preds return home next Tuesday to face the Sharks, so don't expect Martin Erat's return to the lineup before then. Until you see his name in a boxscore, consider him out indefinitely.
News: Coach Barry Trotz says Martin Erat (upper body) could join the team midway through its upcoming road trip, reports the Tennessean.
Analysis:Martin Erat, who has missed the last three games with the injury, is likely out for Monday's game against Edmonton, but look for a possible return Thursday in Vancouver.
News:Martin Erat (upper body) will not play Saturday against New Jersey, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: This fits the pattern Martin Erat has established the past few seasons. The last time he came close to playing a full season was 2005-06, when he played 80 games. There is still no timetable for his return, so keep him stashed on your bench.
News: The Predators placed Martin Erat (upper body) on injured reserve Thursday, The Tennessean reports.
Analysis: It's not clear how long Martin Erat will remain out, but he won't play Thursday and is unlikely to play in Saturday's game as well. Erat will be replaced on the roster by Brian McGrattan.
News:Martin Erat (upper body) will not play Thursday, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: His status for Saturday's game is also in question, but the only good news here is that Martin Erat's injury isn't related to the back injury that knocked him out for 18 games last season.
Preds' Erat (Upper Body) Could Miss Home Opener Thursday
News:Martin Erat (upper body) could miss the Preds' home opener Thursday against Phoenix, The Tennessean reports.
Analysis:Martin Erat was not on the ice for the second consecutive day Tuesday after suffering an upper-body injury in last Friday's win at Columbus.
"[Erat] was evaluated and he didn't skate," coach Barry Trotz said. "And if he doesn't practice [Wednesday], then I would say that he will miss the home opener." Erat has been no stranger to the trainers' room over the years, having missed 57 games due to injury over the last five seasons. Hopefully, fantasy owners factored this into their decision to select him this season. Either way, best to keep him on your bench for now, until he gets the green light to return.
News: Coach Barry Trotz says Martin Erat's upper-body issue is not related to his back injury that kept him out 18 games last season. Erat will be evaluated Monday, The Tennessean reports.
Analysis: The Preds are off until Thursday, so we suppose there's time for Martin Erat to heal and not miss any more action following Saturday's win. Monday's tests will tell us more.
News:Martin Erat (back) is inactive for the Predators on Saturday, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis:Martin Erat has suffered from recurring back injuries for the past few seasons. He spent the offseason working to strengthen his back to try and improve his health coming into this season, but it appears he's still having issues with it.
News:Martin Erat worked on strengthening his core over the summer in order to reduce the risk of back injury this season, according to The Tennessean.
Analysis:Martin Erat has been plagued by a recurring back injury the past few seasons, and believes his new workout regimen will reduce the risk of further problems this season. Last season, Erat led the Preds with 50 points and had the highest points-per-game average on the team. If he can stay healthy this season, he has upside for 60-65 points.
News: Erat left Saturday's game against Vancouver after the puck hit him in the head on a deflection. He returned shortly thereafter, with no apparent ill-effects.
Analysis: He skated 42 shifts and whistled six shots at Vancouver goaltender Roberto Luongo in the double-overtime win, so fear not for his availability for Game 3.
News: Erat returned to the Nashville lineup Thursday night as the Predators dropped Game 1 to the Canucks.
Analysis: Erat did not record a point or shot on goal in 18:42, but returned after missing the Predators' final two games against the Ducks. He'll be available going forward.
News: Coach Barry Trotz said Erat (upper body) will be ready to go for Game 1 against Vancouver in the second round, Tennessean writer Joshua Cooper reports.
Analysis: This news is not surprising, as it sounds like Erat was available to help in the first round had it been necessary.
News: Erat practiced Tuesday for the first time since sustaining an upper-body injury last Wednesday in Game 4 against the Ducks, Bryan Mullen of The Tennessean reports.
Analysis: The Predators finished off Anaheim this past Sunday, but coach Barry Trotz said Erat would have played had the series required a Game 7. He's one of the better point producers on a team that relies heavily on solid defense and goaltending.
News: Erat (upper body) did not travel with the Predators for Game 5 against Anaheim on Friday, Tennessean writer Bryan Mullen reports.
Analysis: The Orange County Register reports that Erat suffered the injury on a Jarkko Ruutu hit during the second period of Game 4. Until a team official comments on the issue, Erat should probably be considered day-to-day heading out of Friday.
News: Erat (back) is listed as probable for Wednesday's playoff opener against the Ducks, Bryan Mullen of The Tennessean reports.
Analysis: The Predators boast an excellent defensive corps, but not an overwhelming number of scorers skate for Nashville's hockey team. Erat is an exception as he and Sergei Kostitsyn shared the team lead with 50 points apiece.
News: Coach Barry Trotz said that Erat (shoulder) "should be good to go" for Wednesday's playoff opener against the Ducks, according to The Tennessean's Joshua Cooper.
Analysis: Erat, who missed the Preds' final two regular season games, is practicing and looks good to go for the postseason, barring a setback with his back.
News: Erat (back) won't play Saturday against the Blues, according to The Tennessean's Joshua Cooper.
Analysis: Erat might have been able to play if it was absolutely necessary, but now that Nashville has locked up a playoff spot, he'll rest to be as healthy as possible for the playoffs.
News: Erat (back) won't play Friday against the Blue Jackets, according to The Tennessean.
Analysis: Make your lineup switch ahead of Friday's games, as Erat has moved from questionable to out. The injury is considered more nagging than serious, and Erat might even be able to play in Saturday's finale against St. Louis.
News: Erat is listed as questionable for Friday's game against Columbus with an apparent back injury, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Erat, who sat out the third period of Tuesday's contest against the Thrashers, has not been on the ice for the past two days. Steve Sullivan may return to the lineup Friday if Erat can't play.
News: Erat, who sat out the third period of Tuesday's game against Atlanta, did not practice Wednesday, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Coach Barry Trotz said Erat was simply taking a maintenance day Wednesday, and did not play late in the game Tuesday against the Thrashers due to the Preds' big lead (5-0 at the time, with the Preds eventually winning 6-3). Still, you have to wonder whether Erat might be nursing some sort of injury. The Preds' next game is Friday against Columbus, so check back for his official status prior to game time.
News: Erat's assist Thursday night against the Bruins gives him 10 points (3G, 7A) in his last seven games, and 43 (13, 30) on the season.
Analysis: At his current pace, Erat would be on target for a career-high 64-point season were it not for a back injury earlier this season that forced him to miss nine games. When healthy, Erat is one of the more consistent scorers in the Preds' lineup.
News: Erat notched his fourth straight two-point game Saturday as the Predators beat the Avalanche, 4-2. He had an early assist and capped the scoring with an empty-netter as the clock wound down.
Analysis: March isn't even two weeks old, and he already has nine points this month. Ride this streak while you can.
News: Erat picked up two assists Saturday in a loss to the Coyotes.
Analysis: Erat has been consistently effective since his return from injury in mid-January. He has 15 points in those 16 games, including seven points in his last four games. Take full advantage of this hot streak. It won't last forever but he does have the skill to sustain it for a little while longer.
News: Erat had a goal and two assists in Saturday's win over Colorado.
Analysis: He's been producing well since his mid-January return from injury. He has 11 points in his last 13 games and is worthy of activation. Make sure you get him in there.
News: Erat has rebounded nicely after an injury-riddled first half of the season, with five points in his last eight games.
Analysis: Despite playing in only 35 of the Preds' first 51 games, Erat is still tied for fifth on the team in points, with 22. He sat out a nine-game stretch after suffering an upper-body injury against Ottawa on Dec. 23, but prior to the injury had accumulated 11 points in 11 games. He makes for a decent pickup in medium to deeper fantasy formats - just beware his injury history.
News: Erat returned to the Nashville lineup for Saturday's shootout win over Chicago. He'd been out since December 23 with an upper-body injury.
Analysis: Erat didn't do a whole lot, skating 16:10 and not recording a point with just two shots on goal, but he looks OK to use for future lineups. The Preds are right back at it Sunday, again against the Hawks.
News: Coach Barry Trotz says that Erat (upper body) is in for Saturday's game against Chicago, Joshua Cooper of the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Erat, who has 17 points in 27 games thus far, has had a hard time staying healthy this season, but it looks safe to roll with him again, at least until the next time he gets banged up.
News: Erat (upper body) won't play against the Panthers on Thursday, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: He's expected to return for either Saturday or Sunday's match against Chicago.
News: Erat (upper body) skated on his own before practice Monday and could return for Thursday's game against the Panthers, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Erat has been plagued by injuries this season, and has just 17 points (5G, 12A) in 27 games. At this rate, he will be hard-pressed to hit the 50-point plateau, which is where he usually finishes up. Either way, it sounds like he's getting close to a return, so be ready to get him back into your fantasy lineups as soon as he gets the green light.
News: Erat (upper body) could return to the lineup within the week, the Nashville Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Erat has been off skates since Christmas, but clearly he is making progress in his recovery. Be sure to monitor his status in the coming days for word on his return.
Preds' Erat Hoping To Return Soon From Upper Body Injury
News: Erat (upper body) hopes to return to the lineup Jan. 11 against Minnesota, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Erat has not skated since crashing back-first into the boards during the Preds' loss to Ottawa on Dec. 23. At the time of the injury, Erat had 11 points in his previous 10 games. "It always feels bad when I'm playing well and something like that happens," Erat said. "You just have to take it how it is and get back to doing stuff and hope I can get back as soon as I can."
News: While Erat (upper body) has not been skating with the team, he's "shown some progress," according to Predators coach Barry Trotz, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Nashville plays three times in the weekly fantasy hockey scoring period beginning Monday, January 3, but Erat being held off the ice is obviously not a good sign despite his reported progress. He's a gamble for the new week's scoring period.
News: Erat (upper body) is now listed as doubtful for Friday's game against the Wild per coach Trotz's admission, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Erat reportedly missed practice Wednesday. Trotz was hoping he would be ready to play on New Years Eve, but that appears to be a long shot at this point.
Preds' Coach Trotz Hopes Erat Can Play On New Years Eve
News: Predators coach Barry Trotz is hopeful that Erat( upper body) can return Friday against Minnesota, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: With Erat on the mend, the Predators have added depth at his position by claiming Marek Svatos off waivers. He's never played an entire 82-game schedule, but Erat usually falls around the 50-point mark by season's end.
News: Erat (upper-body injury) has been placed on IR by the Predators, according to the Sports Network.
Analysis: Erat was thought to have a shot of playing Tuesday, but that won't be happening now. Chris Mueller has been recalled by the Preds to provide some forward depth.
News: Erat (upper body) will miss Sunday's game against St. Louis, the Nashville Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Coach Barry Trotz is hopeful that Erat can return Tuesday against the Stars. Linus Klasen, who was recalled from the AHL on Sunday, will slide into Erat's spot in the lineup.
News: Erat (upper body) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Blues, the Nashville Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Erat should be a game-time decision, so be sure to be check back when inactives are released if you need him in your fantasy lineup.
News: Erat left Thursday's loss to Ottawa with an upper-body injury.
Analysis: He came in on a breakaway, took a shot, then went down to the ice and was hurt somehow. Erat has had a decent year so far for Nshville, putting up 17 points in 27 games.
News: Erat scored twice Friday as the Predators topped New Jersey 3-1, giving him five points over the last five contests.
Analysis: Erat's enjoying December as he has three multi-point games and 10 points in eight contests. He's never going to lead the league in scoring nor be a top-round pick, but players like Erat, when taken late in drafts, provide excellent value. His goal totals leave a bit to be desired, but he'll provide production at an acceptable rate.
News: Erat left Wednesday's game in the second period after taking an accidental stick to the face, but not before he scored his third of the season.
Analysis: Erat has been on a tear over his last four games scoring once and chipping in with five assists. Stay tuned to see if he misses any games because of this injury.
News: Erat set up three goals in Nashville's win Saturday night.
Analysis: He also finished at plus-3. He had a slow start but now has five points in his last two games. Get him in there if you were sitting on him.
News: Erat recorded two assists in Nashville's 4-3 overtime win against Columbus on Wednesday.
Analysis: He's struggled to find the score sheet this season, having netted only two goals and six assists in 17 games. Until he shows signs of more consistent offense, Erat should be considered a short-term solution for your team's scoring needs.
News: Erat has just one goal in his last seven games.
Analysis: Erat is usually one of the Preds' most consistent scorers, but he has really been struggling this season, with just six points (2 G, 4 A) in 16 games. However, he continues to see a ton of ice time each game, averaging roughly 19 minutes a night over the past few contests. As long as Erat continues to log quality minutes on one of the Preds' top two scoring lines, fantasy owners should just keep him rolling and hope the bounces start going his way.
News: Erat scored his first goal of the season in Tuesday's loss to Toronto.
Analysis: Erat has been injured for much of the season, as Tuesday was just his ninth game of the year. He's worthy of a roster spot in most leagues, but keep him reserved until he gets his act together.
News: Erat returned to action Saturday against the Blackhawks following a four-game absence due to an upper-body injury.
Analysis: Erat skated 15:19 of ice time in the contest and recorded an assist. Consider it safe to get him back in your fantasy lineups.
News: Erat (upper body) will play Saturday night against Chicago, Joshua Cooper of the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: After a four-game absence, Erat will rejoin the Preds' lineup. With just seven games played so far, Erat is still looking for his first goal of the young campaign.
News: Erat (upper body) is considered probable for Saturday's game against the Blackhawks, The Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Erat has missed the Predators' last four games with an undisclosed injury, but expect to see him back on the ice Saturday.
News: Erat (upper body) will not play in Thursday's game against the Blues, Joshua Cooper of the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Erat will miss his fourth straight game Thursday night. It remains to be seen if he will be able to get back on the ice for Saturday's game against the Blackhawks.
News: Erat (upper body) participated in Wednesday's practice with a non-contact jersey, Joshua Cooper of the Nashville Tenneseean reports.
Analysis: It's another small step for Erat, but his status for Thursday's game against the Blues still appears to be in doubt despite the recent progress.
News: Erat (upper body) practiced with the team Tuesday, according to the Tennessean.
Analysis: "They're getting closer," coach Barry Trotz said, referring to Erat and injured defenseman Ryan Suter. "Until they're in the lineup, they're not in the lineup." Keep an eye on Erat's status in case he is well enough to play either Thursday against the Blues or Friday against the Blackhawks.
News: Erat (upper body) will not travel with the team on this week's road trip, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Sounds like you can safely leave him on your bench for this week and use a healthier alternative if you have one.
News: Erat (upper body) will miss Nashville's upcoming road trip, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: The Preds will travel to Phoenix for Wednesday's game against the Coyotes, then fly to the west coast for back-to-back games against the Kings and Ducks on Saturday and Sunday. Put Erat on your bench for the remainder of this week in the hopes he will be ready for next Thursday's matchup against the Blues.
News: Erat is day-to-day with an upper body injury, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: There is no exact word on the nature of the injury, but it may be related to the back spasms Erat was suffering from at the start of the season. Consider him questionable for Wednesday's game against Phoenix. You may want to use a healthy alternative if you have one.
Preds' Erat Gets on the Board With Two Helpers Thursday
News: Erat pocketed a pair of assists in Thursday's loss to Pittsburgh.
Analysis: The points were his first in three games since coming back from back spasms. Erat will quietly put up about 50 points if he can stay healthy. He's totaled between 49 and 57 points in each of his last six seasons.
News: Erat (back) returned to the Nashville lineup on Tuesday after missing the team's previous three games.
Analysis: Erat played 14:34 in the contest and finished the game a minus-1. Activate him if needed.
News: Erat (back spasms) will play Tuesday against Calgary, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Although coach Barry Trotz indicated Erat is good to go following Tuesday's morning skate, it sounds like Erat is still apprehensive. "I'm getting closer and trying to skate with the guys," Erat said. "We'll see what happens." This doesn't sound like a guy you want to put back in your fantasy lineup just yet. Keep him on your bench for the time being.
News: Erat (back spasms) could return Tuesday against Calgary, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Erat has missed the past three games, but coach Barry Trotz indicated he skated on Saturday and was feeling better. Keep him on your bench until he gets a game or two under his belt.
News: Erat (back spasams) will not play Thursday, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: He was seen skating Thursday morning, so it seems like he is close to returning. Erat will aim to play Saturday against the Capitals.
News: Erat (back spasms) will not play Wednesday against the Blackhawks, the Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Erat did not accompany the team to Chicago, however he is scheduled to skate on his own in Nashville. The team is hopeful he will be ready to suit up on Thursday against the Blues.
Preds' Erat Misses Another Practice With Sore Back
News: Erat (back) did not practice with the team Monday, according to the Tennessean.
Analysis: "He's day to day right now," coach Barry Trotz said. "We'll see where he is tomorrow...it's one of those things you're better maintaining it and getting it back rather than trying to push through it because it aggravates you more." Keep Erat planted firmly on your fantasy bench for the time being.
News: Erat left Monday's practice early with a bad back, according to the Tennessean.
Analysis: Erat, who reportedly first suffered the injury during a preseason game against Washington last Sunday, began practice with the team on Monday but left early. "[Erat] started with us, and just the different twists and turns, he had some back spasms," coach Barry Trotz said. "We still have some time so I'm pretty confident he will play on the weekend." Consider him day-to-day for now.
News: Predators RW Martin Erat returned to the lineup on Tuesday against the Kings after missing Monday's game with a lower-body injury. He had no points in 18:37 of ice time and finished at minus-1. Erat has been held without a point in his last four games.
Analysis: Erat is just two points shy of managing a fourth straight season with at least 50 points. He has played pretty much par for the course. Erat is a solid, yet unspectacular player. He will have his stretches where he is a must-start Fantasy option, but he soon cools off and needs to be immediately removed from lineups.
News: Predators RW Martin Erat was held out of Monday's game against the Panthers with a lower-body injury. He was hurt on Saturday against Detroit and is day to day.
Analysis: Erat is just two points shy of managing a fourth straight season with at least 50 points. He has played pretty much par for the course. Erat is a solid, yet unspectacular player. He will have his stretches where he is a must-start Fantasy option, but he soon cools off and needs to be immediately removed from lineups. Erat has one goals and 12 points in 15 March games, so this is one of those times he is a decent Fantasy play when healthy.
News: Predators RW Martin Erat scored a goal and finished at minus-2 on Sunday against the Penguins. Nashville tied it at one 34 seconds into the second period when Erat -- who will represent the Czech Republic at the Olympic Games -- scored a power-play goal, his 19th. It was also his first score in seven games.
Analysis: Erat probably wishes he never got hurt in late December because he hasn't been the same player since returning. Erat has only five goals and nine points in his last 17 games after totaling 10 goals and 18 points in 14 December appearances. We didn't think Erat's hot streak would last, but it wasn't because of an injury. Just because his track record never suggested he could produce like a Alex Ovechkin on a regular basis. Erat remains a low-end Fantasy start.
News: Predators RW Martin Erat scored, assisted and finished plus-3 in Saturday's win over Atlanta. He now has five points in his last five games.
Analysis: Erat had a monster December with 18 points, but had just one point in his first five games of 2010 before getting back on track. He's certainly worth a look in deeper leagues right now.
News: Nashville winger Martin Erat recorded a goal and an assist in the 3-2 loss to Columbus on Tuesday night. The Predators didn't score their first goal in the game until 10:06 in the third period when Erat notched his 17th of the season. Erat assisted on Patric Hornqvist's tally moments later.
Analysis: Erat came into the game with just two points in January and doubled that figure. He now has 31 points on the season. He returned from a knee injury on Jan. 9 and may just now be getting back in rhythm. Erat has a few good stretches in the arsenal, but he still projects more as a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Predators RW Martin Erat scored a goal and finished at plus-1 on Thursday against the Coyotes. Erat gave the Predators a 2-1 lead, taking control of the puck after Ed Jovanovski mishandled a pass from his defensive partner Zbynek Michalek to the right of the net and beating Ilya Bryzgalov on a wrist shot from the left doorstep. It was his 16th goal and second in six games.
Analysis: Erat has 20 points (12 goals, eight assists) in his last 20 games, but he has cooled off considerably since returning from a knee injury on Jan. 9. He has just the two goals in six games. We figured Erat would cool off after his hot stretch in December and he has. Erat has a few good stretches in the arsenal, but he still projects more as a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Predators RW Martin Erat, who had been out since Dec. 29 with an knee injury, scored in his return to action Saturday as Nashville fell to the Ducks.
Analysis: Erat had an outstanding December with 10 goals and 18 points in 14 games. His numbers might take a hit with Jason Arnott out, but he looked OK with a goal on Saturday. Use him in deeper leagues for Week 15 (Jan. 11-17).
News:The Tennessean reports Predators RW Martin Erat (knee) practiced on Friday and could play on Saturday against the Ducks, if he feels good following the morning skate. Erat has been out since Dec. 29.
Analysis: Nashville is eager to get Erat back in the lineup after an outstanding December from the veteran forward. Erat had 10 goals and 18 points in 14 games. He really enjoyed a move to the team's top line with Jason Arnott and Steve Sullivan, who are now also battling injuries. Keep tabs on Erat's progress because he could be ready for Fantasy use in Week 15 (Jan. 11-17).
News: Predators RW Martin Erat (knee) will miss 7-10 days of action.
Analysis: Erat had a great December, but his 2010 isn't starting very well. Hopefully this issue doesn't knock his season off track. Stash Erat in deeper formats for Fantasy Week 14 (Jan. 4-10).
News: Nashville RW Martin Erat (undisclosed) did not play on Thursday against the Blue Jackets. He is questionable for Saturday's game against the Ducks.
Analysis: Erat has played so well in December that he might be up for Player of the Month honors. He has been rock solid since moving to the top line with Jason Arnott and Steve Sullivan. Coach Barry Trotz is likely to keep the trio together as long as it provides results. But how long can he afford to keep J.P. Dumont on the second line? Keep tabs on Erat's progress leading up to Week 14 (Jan. 4-10).
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Predators probably will be playing without right wing Martin Erat, who has scored 10 goals in December, and defenseman Kevin Klein when they end their road trip on New Year's Eve in Columbus. Both left during the first period of the win over St. Louis on Tuesday. The status of the injuries was unknown.
Analysis: Erat has played so well in December that he might be up for Player of the Month honors. He has been rock solid since moving to the top line with Jason Arnott and Steve Sullivan. Coach Barry Trotz is likely to keep the trio together as long as it provides results. But how long can he afford to keep J.P. Dumont on the second line? Keep tabs on Erat's progress leading up to Week 14 (Dec. 4-10).
News:The Sports Xchange reports Predators RW Martin Erat scored a goal on Sunday against the Blackhawks, his 10th in the month of December. With two games left in the month he has tied the franchise record for goals in December, set by C Jason Arnott.
Analysis: Erat has erupted with 10 goals and 17 points in 13 December games. Ever since coach Barry Trotz elevated Erat to the top line with Arnott and Steve Sullivan, he has been Nashville's hottest player. Trotz is likely to keep the trio together as long as it provides results. But how long can he afford to keep J.P. Dumont on the second line? Erat is a nice Fantasy start while he is on a roll.
News: Nashville winger Martin Erat had a monster game on Tuesday night as the Predators defeated the Vancouver Canucks, 4-2. Erat had a hand in every goal scored by Nashville as he picked up the hat trick with three goals and an assist. Erat opened the game with a goal in the 1st period and later made it 2-0 early in the 2nd. He finished the scoring with his 9th tally of the season in the 3rd period and mixed in an assist to begin the final frame.
Analysis: Erat now has points in four straight games with five goals and three assists over that span. He has 17 points on the year for the Predators. If Erat, known as a streak scorer, can sustain this kind of production, he'd be worth adding in a lot of Fantasy leagues. He'd been just a low-end option until this point.
News: Nashville RW Martin Erat scored his 5th goal of the season in the 2nd period of Friday's 4-1 win over Chicago. Erat added an assist on Jordin Tootoo's goal in the 3rd period and finished with two points in the win.
Analysis: Erat now has 12 points on the season for the Predators and three of those points have come in his last two games. His points seem to come in bunches and then disappear for some time. Still, Erat has always been a streaky scorer, so view him as a low-end Fantasy forward.
News:Martin Erat scored two goals and the Nashville Predators beat the Detroit Red Wings 3-1 Monday for their sixth straight victory. Erat made it 2-0 at 1:41 of the second when Joel Ward found him at the back of the left circle, and Erat's slap shot beat Chris Osgood for another power-play goal. Erat padded the lead with his fourth goal on a wrister at 17:40 of the third period to help seal the victory.
Analysis: Erat has three goals and four points in his last two games after getting one goal and four points in his first 17 games. Nashville has been waiting for Erat to find his groove after a slow start and it appears the veteran forward could be ready to go on a run. Still, Erat has always been a streaky scorer, so view him as a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Predators RW Martin Erat scored a goal and tallied an assist during Saturday's game against the Blue Jackets. Erat gave Nashville its first lead two minutes later with a power-play goal when he redirected Shea Weber's slap shot from the left point. The Predators are 10-0 this season when they score a power-play goal.
Analysis: The two-point night was nice to see from Erat, who has had a very rocky start to the season. He has just six points in 18 games and a minus-9 rating to boot. He has been Mr. Reliable through the years for Nashville, and this slow start is very disappointing. Erat has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Predators RW Martin Erat, who missed the last three games with a lower-body injury, returned to action Saturday and assisted twice in a 3-1 win over the Kings.
Analysis: Erat isn't a Fantasy stud by any means, but should be inserted into lineups in deeper leagues for Fantasy Week 6 (Nov. 9-15) as he has 60-point potential.
News: Predators RW Martin Erat was held out again on Thursday against the Ducks because of a lower-body injury. He has missed the last three games and remains day to day.
Analysis: Erat is out the the Preds on their road trip and is hoping to play by Saturday against the Kings. Erat has had some offensive troubles to begin the season and remains more of a low-end Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Predators RW Martin Erat was scratched on Saturday against the Stars because of a lower-body injury. He is considered questionable for Thursday at Anaheim.
Analysis: Erat has no points in five games and just one goal in 11 outings. He is also at minus-9. The Predators coaching staff has been very upset with Erat's performance since he is usually a reliable forward. Erat can be a nice No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward when healthy, but is clearly a risky option for Fantasy Week 5 (Nov. 2-8).
News: Predators RW Martin Erat was scratched on Thursday against the Blackhawks because of a lower-body injury. He is day to day.
Analysis: Erat has no points in five games and just one goal in 11 outings. He is also at minus-9. The Predators coaching staff has been very upset with Erat's performance since he is usually a reliable forward. Erat can be a nice No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward when healthy, but is clearly a risky option until further notice.
News: The Tennessean reports that Predators coach Barry Trotz tweaked the lines at practice on Tuesday. The lines were RW Steve Sullivan, C Colin Wilson and RW Patric Hornqvist; C David Legwand, RW J.P. Dumont and C Dave Scatchard; and RW Martin Erat, C Mike Santorelli and RW Joel Ward. "We're trying to get on something that maybe works," Trotz said. "Not that you don't have a game plan, but sometimes you throw things together."
Analysis: With the offensive struggles in Nashville right now, it's really not clear which two lines are the scoring lines and which is the checking line, so it's a little difficult to predict any change in Fantasy value for these guys just yet. Dumont remains the most Fantasy-viable member of the group as a low-end starting forward in 12-team leagues, while Sullivan is definitely worth using in deeper leagues. Hornqvist, Erat, Legwand and Wilson are stashable bench options in larger formats. The other three have minimal value.
News: Nashville RW Martin Erat scored his first goal and earned his first point of the season on Thursday in a 3-1 loss to the Blackhawks. His goal 3:36 into the third period was the only goal the team would score in the game.
Analysis: Erat looked like he was rough and ready to go to open the season but came out flat out of the gate, failing to record a point in his first five games. Hopefully this tally will get the ball rolling for him, but he remains just a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Predators RW Martin Erat (leg) was able to play in Friday's preseason game against the Hurricanes. He had a pair of assists and finished at plus-2 in 16:44 of ice time.
Analysis: Erat missed the last six games of the 2008-09 season with a broken leg. He had a good summer of rehab and looks ready for the 2009-10 season. Erat finished fourth on the Predators in '08-09 with 50 points (17 goals) in 71 games. Unfortunately, his biggest issue was consistency. He would go on many hot-and-cold streaks. Still, Erat has given Nashville great returns for being a seventh-round draft pick in 1999. He has managed 50-plus points for three straight seasons and 40-plus for five straight. He will probably deliver much of the same in '09-10, so consider him a low-end Fantasy flier for deeper formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Predators RW Martin Erat (broken left leg), who missed the last six games, will have to undergo some summer rehab work but should be ready to go for training camp.
Analysis: Erat finished fourth on the Predators in 2008-09 with 50 points (17 goals) in 71 games. Unfortunately, his biggest issue was consistency. He would go in many hot-and-cold streaks. Still, Erat has given Nashville great returns for being a seventh-round draft pick in 1999. He has managed 50-plus points for three straight seasons and 40-plus for five straight. He will probably deliver much of the same in 2009-10, so consider him a low-end Fantasy flier for deeper formats.
News: Predators RW Martin Erat was helped off the ice Sunday against the Red Wings after getting hit in the left leg by teammate Shea Weber's slap shot a little less than 1:30 into the second period. Coach Barry Trotz said Erat likely had a fractured leg and would be out for at least four weeks. Erat, who recorded four assists Saturday against the Kings, had no points in 6:34 of ice time.
Analysis: The injury comes at a bad time for Erat, who has 15 points (three goals) in his last 13 games. He couldn't put any weight on his leg Sunday as he was helped to the ice and now becomes a risky Fantasy option the rest of the season. Erat passed as a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward before the injury, but it appears safe to release him if you need the roster space.
News:The Sports Xchange reports RW Martin Erat had an assist on each of the Predators' four goals Saturday against the Kings. He has shattered both the 300-point mark and the 200-assist mark for his career. He has assists in his last three games and 15 points (three goals, 12 assists) in his last 13 games.
Analysis: Erat has really played at a high level the last few weeks, but we have seen this before. He has been as hot-and-cold as any skater in the NHL. Now is the time to start the veteran forwward, but he still passes more as a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward because of his inconsistency.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat scored and assisted in Thursday's win over the Sharks.
Analysis: Erat has been hot and cold with his offense all season, which has prevented Erat from being anything more than a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat returned to the lineup Tuesday against the Blue Jackets after missing two games with a groin injury. He immediately contributed with a goal in a 4-2 win. Erat padded the lead when he tipped in a shot from Ryan Suter from the blue line at 4:24 of the third.
Analysis: Erat's goal was the 100th of his career and his first since Feb. 5. He has five points during a three-game point streak and 40 on the season. He has been hot and cold with his offense all season, which has prevented Erat from being anything more than a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Predators forward Martin Erat missed a second successive game Tuesday against the Oilers with a strained groin. He remains questionable heading into Thursday against the Blue Jackets.
Analysis: Erat has four assists in his last two games, but hasn't scored in 11 games. He has been hot and cold with his offense all season, which has prevented Erat from being anything more than a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat, who had zero points and a minus-7 rating in his previous nine games, broke out of his slump in a big way Tuesday with three assists and a plus-2 rating in a win over the Blackhawks.
Analysis: Nashville has been one of the worst offensive teams in the NHL this season, so this five-goal outing is a rarity. Erat is worth looking at in deeper leagues when he's playing well, but wait until he puts together an extended run of good play before activating him.
News: After putting up 10 points in January, Predators LW Martin Erat was turning some heads in deeper leagues like he did earlier this season when he was starting in 58 percent of leagues. But a new month has meant a big drought for the winger, as he has zero points and a minus-7 rating in his last nine contests.
Analysis: It doesn’t help that the Preds are the worst offensive team in the league, but we expect more out of Erat than this. Bench him in all formats for now.
News:Ryan Jones, Jason Arnott, Martin Erat and Vernon Fiddler scored in the Nashville Predators' 4-2 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Thursday. The Predators made it 3-1 when Erat beat Jean-Sebastien Giguere with a wrist shot at 11:22 of the second. Erat has three goals in his last five games.
Analysis: Erat had his best month of the season in January with 10 points in 12 games. He is not an overly impressive scorer, but is a steady option for the Predators. Erat remains more of a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward to start when there is favorable matchups.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat scored his 13th goal of the season in Sunday's win over the Oilers. He now has 10 points in his last 10 games.
Analysis: Erat has been a pretty decent offensive weapon for the Predators in 2008-09 and has been a stable option for years. However, he is just not going to blow away Fantasy owners since he is not an explosive scorer. Erat remains more of a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat scored a goal and tallied an assist during Wednesday's game against the Canucks. Erat scored on that power play with four minutes left, tapping a rebound into an empty net after a deflected point shot. He has three goals and six assists in his last eight games.
Analysis: Erat has been a pretty decent offensive weapon for the Predators in 2008-09 and has been a stable option for years. However, he is just not going to blow away Fantasy owners since he is not an explosive scorer. Erat remains more of a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat assisted twice in Tuesday's win over the Maple Leafs to reach 30 points on the season. He has 11 points in his last 12 games.
Analysis: Erat was a productive scorer for the Predators in October with five goals and stayed hot through the first two months with 17 points in 20 games. But he cooled down in December (six points in 13 games) and is only starting to get hot again. Erat will have his moments where he is worth starting, but he still remains more of a low-end starting Fantasy option.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat scored the team's lone goal during a 3-1 loss to the Blackhawks Sunday. Although Erat seemed to be covered by Chicago's Brent Seabrook, he managed to deflect in Jordan Tootoo's pinpoint pass across the front of the crease 11:03 into the first period. Erat has two goals and three assists in his last five games.
Analysis: Erat was a productive scorer for the Predators in October with five goals and stayed hot through the first two months with 17 points in 20 games. But he cooled down in December (six points in 13 games) and is only starting to get hot again. Erat will have his moments where he is worth starting, but he still remains more of a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat scored and assisted in Thursday's win over the Penguins.
Analysis: Erat has had a pretty consistent season so far and should finish in the 50s for a third straight season. That kind of production makes him useful as a low-end Fantasy forward in deeper formats.
News: The Tennessean reports that Predators LW Martin Erat, who went through an offensive funk earlier this month, has four points (1G, 3A) in his last five games. "He's going more north-south, using his speed, relying on his instincts and work ethic, and that's when his skills come out," Coach Barry Trotz said. "When he was going through a tough spell, I think he was trying to think too much and trying to be too creative."
Analysis: He has been playing better as of late, so there is hope Erat is about to go on a nice run. Still, he is more of a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward to start with favorable matchups.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Predators RW Martin Erat has three points in his last two games. The goal against Edmonton Sunday was his first since Dec. 11. He is only two goals away from tying Scott Walker for second on the all-time goals scored list (96).
Analysis: Erat has stalled a bit offensively in December after getting 17 points in his first 20 games. He has just six points and a minus-4 rating in his last 12 outings. He has been playing better as of late, so there is hope Erat is about to go on a nice run. Still, he is more of a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward to start with favorable matchups.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Predators RW Martin Erat earned an assist Saturday against the Wild, but he still remains one goal short of tying Greg Johnson and Scott Hartnell for third on the franchise's all-time goals list (93) and four goals short of Scott Walker, who is in second place.
Analysis: Erat doesn't have a goal in eight games and has just four assists in that span. His offense has come to a screeching halt after starting off the season extremely well. Erat still has what it takes to be a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward, but should probably be kept reserved until further notice.
News: Nashville LW Martin Erat got back on the ice on Saturday night against the Kings after missing three games with an upper body injury. Erat immediately contributed with an assist on the game's first goal in the 2nd period. He assisted Jason Arnott's goal to make it 1-0 Nashville.
Analysis: Erat has been one of the Thrashers' top scorers to start the season and has 14 points. He is a viable No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward and he appears healthy enough to have starting in Fantasy Week 7 (Nov. 17-23).
News: Nashville RW Martin Erat missed his third straight game because of an upper body injury Friday against the Ducks. He remains questionable heading into Saturday against the Kings.
Analysis: Erat has been one of the Thrashers' top scorers to start the season, so you know Nashville wants him back on the ice as soon as possible. He is a viable No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy, so keep an eye on Erat's status heading into Saturday. If he is not available, he remains an injury-risk start Week 7 (Nov. 17-23).
News: Predators LW Martin Erat missed practice Monday and was unable to play in Tuesday's game at San Jose with an upper-body injury.
Analysis: Erat was listed as a healthy scratch on Saturday, but maybe he was actually injured after all. He is a viable No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy, so keep an eye on Erat's status as the week progresses.
News: The Tennessean reports that Predators LW Martin Erat missed practice Monday with an upper-body injury and might not play Tuesday at San Jose.
Analysis: Erat was listed as a healthy scratch on Saturday, but maybe he was actually injured after all. He is a viable No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy, so keep an eye on Erat's status as the week progresses.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Predators RW Martin Erat is only one goal away from tying Greg Johnson and Scott Walker for third on the franchise's all-time goal list (93). But he was a healthy scratch against the Avalanche on Saturday as coach Barry Trotz continues to shift forwards around looking for the right combinations against certain opponents.
Analysis: This might be one of the most baffling moves in NHL history. Erat is tied for the team lead with seven goals and has 13 points in 13 games. He is not the season why Nashville has struggled in the early season. At this point, we rather be told Erat is out with injury because it makes a lot more sense. Erat should jump back into the lineup shortly and still remains a viable No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News:Martin Erat has come of age with the Nashville Predators. Selected in the seventh round in the 1999 draft, Erat has developed into a top scorer. He netted his sixth goal of the season against the Florida Panthers to tie the game and then had the only goal in the shootout in a 3-2 win Saturday. Erat, disappointed that the Predators lost a shootout Tuesday night at Washington, spent a couple of days thinking of ways to be better in the tiebreaker. He shot second for Nashville and beat Craig Anderson inside the left post for the winner. "Marty is a very creative guy," Predators coach Barry Trotz said. "He always has a lot of ideas, and sometimes in a shootout he gets a lot of those ideas going. He has two or three key moves. When he does them I don't think that have a chance of stopping him. He really focused and realized we needed those two points."
Analysis: Erat's six goals lead the Predators. "I'm just trying to do the same things all of the time," Erat said. "Right now, everything is working. But it's a long season. There are going to be bumps in the road." Trotz has called upon a number of players to step forward and take their games to a higher level. Erat has responded. "Marty has a little more ownership," Trotz said. "He has emerged into a leader. That was mandated by us for Marty this year. Anytime he has the chance to shoot in those prime scoring areas we want him to shoot. Sometimes he will double clutch and try to make a play, but he is best when he is shooting the puck and keeping it simple." Erat has scored in two straight games and four of six. He has three goals and one assist during a four-game points streak. He has been a consistent scorer the last few seasons for Nashville, but with Alexander Radulov out of the picture, he is coming into his own. Who knows if this will last, but Erat is worth using as a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat has five points in his last five games after he scored his fourth goal of the season in a win over the Kings on Saturday.
Analysis: Erat is one of the Predators' top offensive weapons early on this season. He had a career-high 23 goals last season and has 57 points the last two seasons. He remains a decent No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat tallied two points for the third time in six games this season as Nashville defeated the Blue Jackets on Saturday. Erat finished with two goals and now has three on the year.
Analysis: Erat is one of the Predators' top offensive weapons early on this season. He had a career-high 23 goals last season and has 57 points the last two seasons. He remains a decent No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat scored a goal, added an assist and finished at minus-2 during Wednesday's 6-4 loss to the Stars. Erat tied it at 4 for Nashville with 9:01 left in the third period on a goal upheld on video review. Marty Turco stopped Erat's rebound attempt, but replays showed the puck was over the goal line when Turco controlled it.
Analysis: Erat now has four points in his first four games and has become one of the Predators' top offensive weapons. He had a career-high 23 goals last season and has 57 points the last two seasons. He remains a decent No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat had a pair of assists during Saturday's 3-1 win against the Stars. He finished at even and took four shots in 16:08 of ice time.
Analysis: The 26-year-old Czech Republic native has averaged 53 points over the past four seasons with Nashville and had a career-high 23 goals in the 2007-08 season. He is a solid yet unspectacular player. Consider him a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward.
News: The Nashville Predators have signed forward Martin Erat to a seven-year, $31.5 million contract. Erat ranks third on the team in career scoring (253). He joined Nashville in the 2001-02 season after being selected in the 1999 draft.
Analysis: The 26-year-old Czech Republic native has averaged 53 points over the past four seasons with Nashville and had a career-high 23 goals in the 2007-08 season. Erat has played more than 400 NHL games, all with Nashville, including 20 of the club's 22 playoff games. He is a solid yet unspectacular player. Consider him a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward on Draft Day.
News:Martin Erat scored his 23rd goal of the season in the 400th career NHL game, but the Nashville Predators lost 6-3 to the Detroit Red Wings for a franchise record-tying sixth consecutive home game. Erat has played all 400 games with the Predators.
Analysis: The goal gives Erat five goals in 10 games in March. Consider Erat as a viable No. 4 forward in Fantasy leagues.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat tallied a goal and an assist Sunday in a 4-3 loss to the Red Wings. He now has six points in his last four games.
Analysis: Erat has re-emerged as a viable No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward as it looks like his awful December slump is a thing of the past.
News:Martin Erat scored his first career three-goal game as the Nashville Predators beat the Edmonton Oilers for the eighth straight time with a 5-1 win Tuesday night. It was a natural hat trick for Erat, who scored two goals in the first period and one in the second.
Analysis: The goals were the first for Erat in seven games. He now has 21 for the season. Erat was a big Fantasy help in November when he posted eight goals and 10 assists in 12 games. He slumped in December with just two points in 11 games. In January he had matching goals and assists with six each. Then in February he dipped to three goals and five assists. Erat has re-emerged as a viable No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat scored a goal and added an assist during Sunday's game against the Wild. It was the third time in seven February games that he has scored a goal and added an assist.
Analysis: Erat was a big Fantasy help in November when he posted eight goals and 10 assists in 12 games. He slumped in December with just two points in 11 games, but seems to be playing better in 2008. He has nine goals and nine assists in his last 21 games. He has re-emerged as a viable No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat returned to the lineup Tuesday against the Red Wings after missing two games with an upper body injury. Erat scored a goal, tallied an assist and finished at plus-2 during 13:12 of ice time. He now has three goals and three assists in his last seven games.
Analysis: Erat now has 17 goals on the season and is three shy of tying his career high which he set in 2005-06. He is now 12 points shy of tying his career high in points (57) which he set last season. He hasn't played a whole season because of injuries, but when healthy, he serves a viable No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat missed his second straight game Sunday against the Coyotes because of an upper body injury. He remains questionable heading into Tuesday against the Red Wings.
Analysis: Erat has 16 goals and 24 assists this season. The 16 goals match his total from the 2003-04 and 2006-07 seasons, but he is still lagging behind in the assist department this season. Continue to view him as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Nashville forward Martin Erat did not play for the Predators on Saturday against San Jose. Erat was kept out after he sustained an upper-body injury in Thursday's game versus Tampa Bay. He remains questionable for Sunday's game at Phoenix.
Analysis: Erat has 16 goals and 24 assists this season. The 16 goals match his total from the 2003-04 and 2006-07 seasons, but he is still lagging behind in the assist department this season. Continue to view him as a No. 4 Fantasy forward for now.
News: Nashville forward Martin Erat left Thursday's game against Tampa Bay in the second period with an upper-body injury. He will be questionable for Saturday's game at San Jose.
Analysis: Erat has 16 goals and 24 assists this season. The 16 goals match his total from the 2003-04 and 2006-07 seasons, but he is still lagging behind in the assist department this season. Continue to view him as a No. 4 Fantasy forward for now.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat recorded a goal and an assist Saturday in a 3-2 win over the Coyotes to get to 40 points for a fourth straight season.
Analysis: Erat's 16 goals matches his total from the 2003-04 and 2006-07 seasons, but he is still lagging behind in the assist department this season. Continue to view him as a No. 4 Fantasy forward for now.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat made it back-to-back two-point nights Tuesday when he scored twice in a 4-0 win over the Colorado Avalanche. Erat had two assists Monday night in a win over the Blues.
Analysis: Erat has been a real enigma this season. He had six points in October, 18 points in November, two points in December and now has 10 points in 11 January games. Maybe he just likes odd months, but that doesn't seem like a legitimate excuse for his roller coaster play. Continue to view him as a No. 4 Fantasy forward for now, but a No. 2 forward in odd months. Roll on March!
News: Predators LW Martin Erat tallied two assists and finished at even during Monday's game against the Blues. He now has two goals and three assists in his last seven games. He is also at plus-4 in that span.
Analysis: Erat is quietly having another superb season. He has 34 points in 44 games and appears headed for a fourth straight season of 40-plus points. He has earned your trust as a No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat tallied a goal and an assist Tuesday as Nashville routed the L.A. Kings 7-0 on their own ice. Erat now has at least 30 points for a fourth straight season.
Analysis: Despite missing a few games in December, Erat is still on pace for a 57-point season which would tie his career high set in 2006. After totaling only two points last month, Erat now has four in his first four games on 2008. Consider him a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat scored a goal during Saturday's 4-1 win against the Wild. Erat gave the Predators a 4-1 advantage in the third. He took control of the puck and skated alone down the left side to set up a slap shot from the center of the left circle that caught Josh Harding several feet out of the net at 7:26. He now has a point (1 G, 1 A) in his last two games.
Analysis: Erat missed a few games in December with a neck problem and virus, and he has been slow to recover. However, he finally appears at 100 percent in the new year and producing. He has developed into a nice No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat returned to action in Wednesday night's loss to the Chicago Blackhawks after missing two games with a virus. He finished with a minus-1 rating and three shots on goal.
Analysis: Erat is nearly averaging a point per game this season and is on track to shatter his old points record (57) if he can remain healthy. He has developed into a nice No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News: Predators RW Martin Erat, the team's second leading scorer with 26 points, missed his second consecutive game because of a virus Sunday against the Blue Jackets.
Analysis: Erat recently returned to the lineup Tuesday after missing a few games because of a neck strain and now he is out with a virus. Let's hope he is not becoming an injury-prone player. Erat is nearly averaging a point per game and is on track to shatter his old points record (57). He has developed into a nice No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat returned to the lineup Tuesday against the Wild after sitting out two games with a neck strain. He tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 in 20:23 of ice time.
Analysis: Despite sitting out a few games, Erat was right back in the mix Tuesday. Erat is nearly averaging a point per game and is on track to shatter his old points record (57). He has developed into a nice No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat missed a second straight game Saturday against the Avalanche with a neck strain. However, he is expected to join the team Tuesday in Minnesota.
Analysis: Erat has just one goal in his last five games, but nine this season. His career high is 20. Erat is nearly averaging a point per game and is on track to shatter his old points record (57). He has developed into a nice No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy. He is a low-risk injury start Fantasy Week 12 (Dec. 17-23).
News:Martin Erat, the Predators' leader in points and assists, missed Thursday's game against the Avalanche with a neck injury. He had played in 28 games prior to Thursday.
Analysis: Erat has just one goal in his last five games, but nine this season. His career high is 20. Erat is nearly averaging a point per game and is on track to shatter his old points record (57). He has developed into a nice No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News:Martin Erat’s goal gave the Predators a brief 2-1 lead, but in the end it came in a losing effort against the Canucks on Thursday.
Analysis: Erat continues to play well lately. He has four goals in the last six games and seven goals in the last 10. Those are pretty good numbers by any standard. Erat is on pace for 28 goals, which would be a career high. Continue to use him as a No. 3 of 4 Fantasy forward on a regular basis while he's consistent.
News:Martin Erat scored with 22.2 seconds left to give Nashville a 6-5 victory over the slumping Ottawa Senators on Thursday.
Analysis: Erat has been very sharp as of late. He has four goals and five assists in his last six games to go along with a plus-4 rating. If he keeps his current points pace up, Erat will be in a for a career year. Treat him as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time.
News:Martin Erat and the Nashville Predators have learned a thing or two from Detroit. Erat scored one goal and assisted on two others, including Radek Bonk's game winner in the third period, to lead Nashville past the Red Wings 3-2 on Thursday night. "The key to beating Detroit is having the right mentality," Predators coach Barry Trotz said. "They are so skilled."
Analysis: Erat has been very sharp as of late. He has four goals and five assists in his last five games to go along with a plus-8 rating. If he keeps his current points pace up, Erat will be in a for a career year. Treat him as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: LW Martin Erat was named NHL Third Star of the Week for the past week with two game-winning goals and six points.
Analysis: Erat has tallied 49-57 points in his last three seasons. He will likely finish around that mark in 2007-08, which makes him worth using as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News:J.P. Dumont and Martin Erat scored two goals apiece, Erat's second one into an empty net, as the Predators swept a home-and-home series against Columbus.
Analysis: Erat not only scored two goals, he assisted on the other two Predators goals in their win at Columbus. "He just outskated everybody on the ice," Dumont said. "He was by far the best skater on the ice." He established a career high with his four-point night. Erat has tallied 49-57 points in his last three seasons. He will likely finish around that mark in 2007-08, which makes him worth using as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: C Jason Arnott score for the third-straight game Sunday against Chicago. He also added and assist. Arnott, C David Legwand and LW Martin Erat each have points in their last three games. Each scored on Sunday.
Analysis: Erat scored his second goal Sunday and he has tallied 49-57 points in his last three seasons. He will likely finish around that mark in 2007-08. He is worth using as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat assisted on two goals and finished with a plus-2 rating during Friday's 4-1 win against the Oilers. He now has one goal and three assists in his last two games after being held scoreless in his previous six games.
Analysis: Erat has tallied 49-57 points in his last three seasons and will likely finish around that mark in 2007-08. He is worth using as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: David Legwand and Martin Erat scored on Nashville's first two shots of the game at Vancouver Thursday. Legwand opened the scoring on a power play 6:16 in, circling at the top of the faceoff circle to G Roberto Luongo's left before firing a shot through his legs. It was the Predators' first lead on the road this season, and Erat doubled it on a breakaway two minutes later, sliding a backhand through Luongo's legs. "It's seldom you're going to get two shots and score twice on a guy like Luongo," Nashville coach Barry Trotz said. "Louie, I know him from Team Canada and I think he's the best goaltender in the National Hockey League."
Analysis: Erat has just one goal and seven assists so far this season, which makes him someone to consider in larger leagues for now.
News: Martin Erat (groin) was sidelined on Wednesday night at Anaheim in 17:19 of ice time. He did not attempt a shot on goal.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Erat back into the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues of 12 or more teams despite the poor game.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports Martin Erat is nursing a minor groin strain which forced him to leave practice on Sunday.
Analysis: Head coach Barry Trotz said Erat should be in the lineup for Wednesday's game at Anaheim. If you already have him in the lineup, it appears safe to keep him active in all deeper Fantasy leagues.
News: C David Legwand scored his third goal with 59 seconds left to play against Dallas Saturday for the hat trick, the second in his career. LW Martin Erat had an assist on all three goals.
Analysis: Erat is a solid No. 4 or 5 Fantasy wing in leagues of 12 or more teams heading into the regular season.
News: Martin Erat is expected have a much bigger role with the Predators this season. "He has to step up to a bigger role not only on the ice in terms of production, but also in the dressing room as a leader, because I think that's the growth of a player," coach Barry Trotz told the Nashville Tennessean. "Hopefully that is something he accepts, and if he does accept that I think he will grow in that role and be good at it."
Analysis: Erat is likely to skate on the team's No. 2 scoring line, perhaps along with David Legwand and Alexander Radulov. He is a solid No. 4 or 5 Fantasy wing in leagues of 12 or more teams heading into the regular season.
News: Martin Erat (leg) was able to play in Sunday's preseason game against the Blue Jackets, but he lasted just 4:56 and was scoreless with no shots on goal. He picked up an interference major penalty and a 10-minute game misconduct.
Analysis: Erat was a little feisty in the preseason opener. At least his leg injury appears to be behind him. The Nashville forward is slotted for the team's second scoring line and is a solid middle- to late-round pick in all Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams heading into 2007-08.
News: Martin Erat (leg) missed the final two games of the playoffs against the Sharks, a series which saw the Predators eliminated in five games. Ramzi Abid replaced him in the lineup.
Analysis: Erat is likely to be back for training camp in September. He is a decent middle-round selection heading into Draft Day 2007.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat (leg) missed Game 5 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals Friday against the Sharks.
Analysis: The Sharks did away with the Predators in five games and that means Erat won't take the ice again this season.
News: Martin Erat (leg) was forced to miss Wednesday's Game 4 at San Jose after aggravating his injury. According to the Nashville Tennessean, he tried to practice on Wednesday morning, but he had to depart early. That prompted the team to recall Ramzi Abid from Milwaukee of the AHL to play in his absence.
Analysis: Erat is once again day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy Hockey postseason pools and consider Abid if you need an emergency replacement.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports Martin Erat suffered a right leg injury in Monday's Game 3 loss at San Jose when he was knocked into the boards in the second period.
Analysis: Erat was seen wearing a large leg brace after the game. He will be re-evaluated and his status is considered questionable for Wednesday's Game 4 back in San Jose.
News: Martin Erat (knee) picked up an assist with one shot on goal in 18:23 of ice time in the 5-4 double overtime loss in Game 1 against San Jose in the Western Conference Quarterfinals.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Erat back into the active Fantasy lineup in all postseason pools.
News: Coach Barry Trotz told the Nashville Tennessean that he feels Martin Erat (knee) is healthy enough to play in Game 1 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals against the Sharks, but the decision is up to the player. "It's a possibility, but it depends how I am going to feel in the morning," said Erat. "If not (Wednesday), then Friday. It's just one of those things you don't want to rush."
Analysis: From Erat's quote, it sounds like he'll be a game-time decision. If you are playing in a postseason Fantasy Hockey pool, it sounds like he'll be able to contribute for most, if not all, of the first-round against the Sharks.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports Martin Erat suffered a sprained knee in Tuesday's game against the Red Wings. He was injured in a collision in the third period with teammate Jason Arnott and he will be sidelined at least four weeks.
Analysis: Erat is likely out for the remainder of the regular season at this point. Consider dropping him in all Fantasy leagues which do not allow keepers, as the team will likely want to rest him until the playoffs and not risk aggravating the injury with a hasty return.
News: Martin Erat was scoreless with a shot on goal and an even rating in 18:02 of ice time on Monday against the Coyotes.
Analysis: Peter Forsberg has been skating on the top scoring line with Martin Erat and Paul Kariya, replacing David Legwand. If Forsberg gets it going, that would be a major boost for Erat's Fantasy value.
News: Martin Erat and Steve Sullivan scored two goals apiece to lead the Nashville Predators to a 6-3 victory over the St. Louis Blues on Saturday night.
Analysis: Erat now has five goals and five assists in his last seven games. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, especially while he is playing well.
News: Martin Erat has managed 10 points, 42 points and a plus-14 rating with 38 penalty minutes through 46 games at the All-Star break.
Analysis: Erat has posted three goals, nine points and a plus-8 rating over the past seven games. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, especially while he is playing well.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat scored a goal on Thursday giving him six points (two goals, four assists) in his last six games.
Analysis: Erat already has 39 points (9 G, 30 A) this season and will likely surpass his career-high of 49 points set the last two seasons. He is definitely coming into his own, with this being his fifth pro season. He remains a solid middle of the road Fantasy forward.
News: C Jason Arnott, LW Martin Erat, RW Scott Hartnell and D Ryan Suter all scored goals in Monday's game against the Flames. Arnott had a minus-3 rating, while Erat also had an assist and plus-2 and the other two had a plus-1 rating.
Analysis: Erat broke an eight-game scoreless streak with the goal on Monday. He still has a goal and seven points over the past eight games and remains a solid No. 4 or 5 Fantasy forward in most formats.
News: Martin Erat (hip) posted two assists with a plus-3 rating in 21:51 of ice time in Tuesday's game against the Ducks.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Erat back into the active lineup for Fantasy Week 16 (Jan. 15-21) in all leagues.
News: Nashville LW Martin Erat (hip) did not play on Saturday against the Blues.
Analysis: Erat is considere day-to-day and questionable for Tuesday's game against the Ducks. When healthy, he is a solid Fantasy forward.
News: Nashville LW Martin Erat missed the game against the Blackhawks on Friday with a hip flexor injury.
Analysis: Erat is considere day-to-day and questionable for Saturday's game against the Blues. When healthy, he is a solid Fantasy forward.
News: Predators LW Martin Erat earned the first assist of Wednesday's game on Paul Kariya's power play goal, his second of the game. Erat has eight assists in his last seven games.
Analysis: Erat now has 24 assists on the season to go with six goals, a plus-9 rating and 32 penalty minutes. If you are looking for a Fantasy forward who gets a lot of assists, Erat is your guy.
News: Martin Erat has posted four assists in his past two games against the Oilers and that is who the Predators will face on Tuesday night in Nashville.
Analysis: Erat has been a steady Fantasy contributor and he might be off to a big start to the week with Edmonton rolling into town.
News: Martin Erat picked up an assist with a plus-1 rating in Saturday's game at San Jose in 18:21 of ice time.
Analysis: Erat has managed nine points (1 G, 8 A) over the past nine games. He has emerged as a solid No. 3 or 4 Fantasy wing in most formats this season.
News: Martin Erat is third on the Nashville roster in scoring with six goals and 22 points through 25 games. He also has a respectable plus-5 rating and six points have come on the power play.
Analysis: Erat is worth a look in most Fantasy leagues if he is available, as he continues to produce at near a point-per-game clip.
News: Martin Erat has managed a goal and eight points with a plus-2 rating over the past seven games.
Analysis: Erat has posted 20 points in 21 games overall and continues to produce well when healthy. If he is available in your league and you need scoring consistency, grab him immediately.
News: Nashville LW Martin Erat returned to the lineup on Saturday after missing Wednesday's game with a bruised rib. He had one assist.
Analysis: Erat is a solid Fantasy forward in most formats because he sees a lot of time on the power play when healthy.
News: Martin Erat (ribs) was unable to play against the Oilers on Wednesday.
Analysis: Erat is a solid Fantasy forward in most formats because he sees a lot of time on the power play when healthy.
News: Martin Erat was scoreless with a minus-1 rating in Tuesday's game at Vancouver in 18:54 of ice time. To add insult to injury, he was injured while blocking a shot in the final seconds.
Analysis: Erat appeared to take a shot in the ribs on a blast from one of the Canucks in a mad flurry at the end of the game. Let's consider him day to day. If he doesn't play Wednesday at Edmonton, you'll know why.
News: Winger Martin Erat has taken over the scoring lead for the Predators with nine points (four goals and five assists).
Analysis: Erat has six points (3 goals, 3 assists) in five of his past six games. Erat is a solid Fantasy forward in most formats because he sees a lot of time on the power play. If he is available, scoop him up immediately.
News: Martin Erat has lit the lamp in two straight games and he has at least one point in three straight (2 G, 2 A) for the Nashville Predators.
Analysis: Erat is a solid Fantasy forward in most formats because he sees a lot of time on the power play. If he is available, scoop him up immediately. He has eight points (4 G, 4 A) in eight games so far this season.
News: Martin Erat had a goal and assist and Paul Kariya added two assists in Thursday's shootout win at New Jersey. In fact, Erat was the only player on either side to break through in the shootout.
Analysis: Erat has seven points (3 G, 4 A) in seven games and Kariya has managed six points (1 G, 5 A) during the same span. Each of the two players are must-starts in all Fantasy leagues.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports Jason Arnott was the center on the team's top scoring line with Martin Erat and Paul Kariya in Saturday's game against the Coyotes. The team ended up winning 4-1.
Analysis: Each of the players mentioned above are must-starts in all leagues for Fantasy Week 3 (Oct. 16-22).
News: Martin Erat and Ryan Suter had two assists and a plus-1 rating in Thursday's loss against the Blackhawks in the regular season opener.
Analysis: Erat and Suter are two players to watch among forwards and defensemen, as they have plenty of upside and seem to fly under the Fantasy radar.
News: Martin Erat scored a goal and added an assist with a plus-2 rating in 13:43 of ice time in Tuesday's game at Phoenix.
Analysis: Erat has posted seven points (2 G, 5 A) over the past six games. With a favorable schedule including two games at Chicago, one against Columbus and one against St. Louis, he might be a decent addition in larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Martin Erat has posted 15 goals, 20 assists and a minus-5 rating through 56 games at the Olympic Games break.
Analysis: Erat is on pace for 49 points this season, which would tie a career-high set back in 2003-04. He is consistent and he is also worth adding in Fantasy leagues of 10 or more teams if you need offensive assistance from the wing spot.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Martin Erat (hip flexor) is out for Thursday's game against Minnesota.
Analysis: Scottie Upshall was called up to take Erat's place in the lineup. Erat's only worth holding onto in larger leagues.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports Martin Erat suffered a strained hip in Monday's game at Detroit and he is out for Tuesday's game back at the Joe.
Analysis: It is uncertain how serious the injury is, so let's consider him day to day for now. Scottie Upshall was recalled from Milwaukee of the AHL to take his place.
News: Martin Erat has been bumped off of the scoring line with Yanic Perreault and Steve Sullivan, as coach Barry Trotz plugged Scott Walker (abdominal) back in there after returning from injury.
Analysis: Erat's status is uncertain, as he might take quite a tumble in Fantasy value skating with lesser players. It would be hard for Trotz to consider sliding Vern Fiddler off of the second line as well as he played, so Erat might be back to a checking line for a while. If so, keep Erat reserved in all Fantasy leagues until further notice.
News: Martin Erat had a three-point performance on Saturday against the Flyers, but he has just two assists in 10 other games dating back to Nov. 10.
Analysis: Five points in nearly a month is not good for Fantasy owners. He continues to get 14-17 minutes per game, so coach Barry Trotz is letting him play through his troubles. Hopefully he can get back on track soon for his Fantasy owners.
News: Martin Erat scored a goal in Thursday's game against Dallas, lighting the lamp for the fourth consecutive game.
Analysis: Erat should be scooped up immediately in all Fantasy leagues, as he is making the most of his opportunity on the team's top scoring line.
News: Martin Erat will remain on the top scoring line in Nashville alongside Paul Kariya and David Legwand for the time being.
Analysis: Erat was likely gone as soon as Scott Walker (abdominal) was set to return, but he will now undergo sports hernia surgery and is out until at least February. Erat is a decent addition in most leagues if you need help at wing.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports Martin Erat has been moved back up to the top scoring line alongside Paul Kariya and David Legwand.
Analysis: Erat scored a goal in the first period on Wednesday. It is expected to be a temporary promotion, as it is likely Scott Walker (abdominal) will take his place when he is healthy enough to return. Erat might be a nice play in the upcoming scoring week, however, if you are desperate for a Fantasy forward.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports Martin Erat has been playing on a line with Paul Kariya and David Legwand.
Analysis: Erat would see a huge jump in Fantasy value if he can remain on this talented scoring line.
News: Martin Erat (shoulder) was in the lineup for Tuesday's game. He was scoreless in 14:10 of ice time.
Analysis: Erat is best used as a reserve in larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Martin Erat missed Saturday's game due to a shoulder injury.
Analysis: Erat is considered day to day. He will be re-evaluated on Sunday. He is best used as a reserve in larger Fantasy leagues when healthy.
News: Erat was sent to Milwaukee of the AHL by the Predators Friday. He had been a major disappointment this season, and isn't worth keeping on a Fantasy roster even in a keeper league.
Analysis:
