News:John Erskine (upper body) was activated from the IR Tuesday, the Washington Post reports.
Analysis: With this news, John Erskine is likely to be in the lineup Tuesday against Carolina, though no official word has been given.
News:John Erskine (upper body) is a game-time decision for Tuesday's game, the Washington Post reports.
Analysis:John Erskine has not played since March 9 while dealing with an apparent hand/wrist injury. Should he play Tuesday, Washington would need to make a roster move in order to accommodate him.
News:John Erskine (upper body) skated for about 20 minutes before Thursday's practice, Katie Carrera of The Washington Post reports.
Analysis:John Erskine has missed 10 games with what is thought to be a left hand or wrist injury and Thursday's non-participation at practice suggests that his return is not imminent as Saturday's game against Buffalo approaches.
News: There is no timeline for John Erskine's (upper body) return to action, Katie Carrera of The Washington Post reports.
Analysis: The report adds that John Erskine, who suffered an apparent injury to his left hand or wrist on March 9, still hasn't healed up enough to skate with the team.
News:John Erskine, who is dealing with an injury to his left hand or wrist, has been placed on IR by the Caps, the Washington Post reports.
Analysis:John Erskine is eligible to return as early as Sunday against the Sabres, but the move frees up a roster spot for the recall of fellow blueliner Cam Schilling.
News:John Erskine (upper body) is out for Sunday's game against the Rangers, Katie Carrera of The Washington Post reports.
Analysis:John Erskine suffered an injury to his left hand/wrist Saturday. He warmed up Sunday but was apparently not healthy enough to play. Consider him day-to-day for now.
News:John Erskine left Saturday's game with an upper-body injury and is unlikely to return.
Analysis: Consider him day-to-day until more information is available. John Erskine has three goals and two assists in 16 games this season.
News:John Erskine has inked a two-year extension worth $3.925 million with the Capitals, Katie Carrera of the Washington Post reports.
Analysis:John Erskine, who has two points in 11 games to date, isn't much of a factor on offense, but he does at least help out in leagues that count PIMs. Lifetime, he has 788 penalty minutes in 435 games.
News:John Erskine is expected to be in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Panthers, the Washington Post reports.
Analysis:John Erskine was suspended for three games for elbowing the Flyers' Wayne Simmonds last week. He is not a high scoring defender but he is a solid contributor in other aspects of the game that do not show on the stat sheet.
Capitals' Erskine Gets Three-Game Ban For Elbowing
News:John Erskine has been suspended three games for elbowing the Flyers' Wayne Simmonds on Friday.
Analysis:John Erskine's wayward elbow was missed by officials during the game, but the league office caught the infraction on video review. He's little more than a bit contributor for the Capitals, accruing merely two points and two penalty minutes through five games, so the team shouldn't miss his presence too much.
News: The Capitals placed John Erskine, who recently suffered a lower body injury, on injured reserve according to TSN.ca.
Analysis:John Erskine had missed 28 of the last 29 games, mostly as a healthy scratch, so this isn't really a big loss for anyone.
News:John Erskine (lower body) practiced Friday, Katie Carrera of the Washington Post reports.
Analysis:John Erskine has appeared in 28 games this year, and has recorded just two points (assists). While he seems to be nearing a recovery, there's little chance he lands on fantasy radars anytime soon.
News:John Erskine played over 13 minutes in Thursday's loss to Pittsburgh.
Analysis:John Erskine only has two points (assists) on the season but the shoulder injury that was bothering him last week is now a non-issue.
News:John Erskine (shoulder) practiced Thursday, the Washington Post reports.
Analysis:John Erskine has missed two games with the injury, and though he practiced Thursday, he is no guarantee to return Friday. Erskine remains day-to-day for now.
News:John Erskine (shoulder) is out again Wednesday, The Washington Post reports.
Analysis: He didn't play Monday because of the injury and for now, should be considered day-to-day after taking part in the scratches skate Wednesday morning.
News:John Erskine suffered a shoulder injury Sunday and will be a game-time decision Monday night, Katie Carrera of The Washington Post reports.
Analysis: He was able to play against the Leafs on Saturday night, so this could be a bit of a setback for him following surgery. For what it's worth, the Caps haven't made any other moves Monday to add blue-line depth, but that could happen during the afternoon if needed.
News:John Erskine was on the ice for practice Monday after sitting out against the Devils on Saturday night.
Analysis:John Erskine had an ice pack on his surgically repaired left shoulder Saturday but fully expects to play against the Predators Tuesday. He made his season debut November 1.
News:John Erskine (shoulder) will make his season debut Tuesday, Katie Carrera of the Washington Post reports.
Analysis:John Erskine has been cleared to play after opening the season on the non-roster injury list. With Mike Green (foot) unlikely to play Tuesday and Sean Collins on the way to AHL Hershey, Erskine will likely line up on the third line in his first game back.
News:John Erskine (shoulder) has been placed on the non-roster injury list, Katie Carrera of The Washington Post reports.
Analysis: No word yet regarding a timetable for his return, but the Caps' blue line should be in pretty good shape without him in the short term.
News:John Erskine (shoulder) is not expected to play in any preseason games, The Washington Post reports.
Analysis:John Erskine had shoulder surgery in the offseason and is still recovering. He has resumed skating but is wearing a no-contact jersey. Look for the Capitals to continue to use John Carlson and Roman Hamrlik at the right defense position.
News: Attempting to recover from shoulder surgery performed in May, John Erskine has been limited in offseason workouts, The Washington Post reports.
Analysis: "I've been skating but I haven't been doing a lot of intense skating," John Erskine said. "At home, I've been doing some of the two-on-two, three-on-three things. I felt good out there today, though. And I hit [D.J. King] a couple of times and it felt good."The 31-year-old defender is fresh off his best offensive season in the NHL, though it was one that included just four goals and seven assists. To avoid stepping backward this season, Erskine, a pesky PIM producer, must prove his health in training camp and distinguish himself amongst a deep defensive corps.
News: Erskine scored in his return from an undisclosed injury Tuesday night against the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: This was just his fourth goal (and 11th point) in 71 games this season. Still, it's a career-high total for the stay-at-home defender, who has been in the league since 2001-02.
News: Erskine (undisclosed) will travel with the Capitals for Tuesday's game against Toronto, Washington Post writer Katie Carrera reports.
Analysis: That doesn't necessarily mean he'll play, but it's a good sign nonetheless. Check back Tuesday to confirm his status for the game.
News: Erskine (undisclosed) left Thursday night's 4-3 overtime win over the Blue Jackets after playing just under six minutes, the Washington Times reports.
Analysis: Whatever injury Erskine has doesn't seem to be serious, and you can expect him back in the lineup sooner rather than later. "He's day to day," Caps coach Bruce Boudreau said. "He's fine; it was precautionary with him."
News: Erskine (flu) returned to game ice Tuesday, and logged 14:20 of ice time in a 5-4 shootout win over the Flyers.
Analysis: Erskine is a stay-at-home defenseman as opposed to a scoring type, so he can be left off fantasy rosters.
News: Erskine (flu) practiced again Monday, The Washington Post reports.
Analysis: Erskine, who has missed three games with the flu, believes he'll be ready to go for Tuesday's game against Philadelphia.
News: Erskine (illness) will not play Friday against New Jersey, The Washington Post's Kate Carrera reports.
Analysis: Erskine didn't look fully recovered from the flu in the morning skate and could probably use Washington's upcoming off days to get healthy. Look for a possible return Tuesday against the Flyers.
News: Erskine (illness) will be a game-time decision Friday against New Jersey, the Washington Post's Katie Carrera reports.
Analysis: Erskine has been battling the flu and hasn't been able to eat much all week, so even if he plays, he'll likely be operating at less than 100 percent.
News: Erskine (illness) was not in Tuesday's lineup against the Canadiens, Katie Carrera of The Washington Post reports.
Analysis: Erskine, who has 10 points and 87 PIMs in 65 games to date, is officially day-to-day heading into Wednesday's game against Detroit.
News: The Capitals have signed Erskine to a two-year contract extension worth $3 million, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: Because of the team he plays for and his decent skills as a defender, Erskine is good for a few non-scoring categories, such as plus/minus, a decent share of PIMs, hits, and blocks. He's not much of a scorer, though. Even though he'll hit double digits in points for the first time this season, he's never done that before and his upside looks like about 15-18.
News: Erksine was a healthy scratch Monday, but will be right back in the lineup as the defense continues to struggle with injury, The Washington Post reports.
Analysis: Erskine told reporters that he is healthy and will round out the six defensemen, with Jeff Schultz and Tyler Sloan now out. Erskine will have no fantasy value, but depth on defense helps the Caps.
News: Erskine is averaging over 19 minutes per game and finally got his first point of the season Wednesday. He is more of a goalie's best friend compared to a scorer.
Analysis: The rugged defenseman is the last blueliner to be thought of as an offense minded player. The other five guys, besides Tom Poti who is injured, all have more of a knack offensively than Erskine.
News: Washington D John Erskine (shoulder) returned to the ice on Wednesday at Buffalo.
Analysis: Erskine has been banged up a bit in 2009-10, which is why he has been limited to 41 games. But on a positive note he is carrying a career-high plus-16 rating. Erskine has very few offensive talents and mostly dresses as a checking presence. He has marginal Fantasy appeal in deeper leagues that reward bad behavior and plus/minus.
News:The Sports Xchange reports D John Erskine missed Saturday's game against the Blues with a shoulder injury, but he shouldn't miss any more time. He should play on March 3 at Buffalo, when play resumes following the Olympic break.
Analysis: Erskine played on Thursday against Ottawa despite the injury, but it proved to be too much by Saturday. With the Olympic break on the horizon, Washington felt it was best to give him as much rest as possible. Erskine has been banged up a bit in 2009-10, which is why he has been limited to 41 games. But on a positive note he is carrying a career-high plus-16 rating. Erskine has very few offensive talents and mostly dresses as a checking presence. He has marginal Fantasy appeal in deeper leagues that reward bad behavior and plus/minus.
News: Capitals D John Erskine was able to play on Thursday against the Senators despite dealing with a shoulder injury. He failed to record a point in 16:41 of ice time and finished at plus-1. Erskine has no points in his last eight games.
Analysis: Erskine has been banged up a bit in 2009-10, which is why he has been limited to 41 games. But on a positive note he is carrying a career-high plus-16 rating. Erskine has very few offensive talents and mostly dresses as a checking presence. He has marginal Fantasy appeal in deeper leagues that reward bad behavior and plus/minus.
News: The Washington Post reports that Capitals D John Erskine is dealing with a shoulder injury.
Analysis: Erskine has five points and 60 PIM in 40 games this season. He has marginal Fantasy appeal in deeper leagues that reward bad behavior and plus/minus.
News:The Sports Xchange reports it's been a little while since Capitals D John Erskine scored a goal -- over two calendar years (back in January 2008 was the last one) and 110 games before he scored Tuesday against the Islanders. In addition, his first-period shot was tipped in by Brendan Morrison for the quick 1-0 lead 65 seconds into the game.
Analysis: Erskine went 10 games without a point before netting two on Tuesday. He has missed some time this season with injury, but clearly he is more of a defensive presence when healthy and has marginal Fantasy appeal.
News: Capitals D John Erskine returned to action Saturday after missing six games with an upper-body injury. Erskine finished even in 13:49 as Washington doubled up the Coyotes 4-2.
Analysis: Erskine is merely a defensive presence and has marginal Fantasy appeal when healthy. His 28 points in 305 games should tell you all about his value.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (upper body) was unable to play on Thursday against the Penguins. He has missed the last six games.
Analysis: Erskine has only three points this season and has missed time due to injury. He is a defensive presence and has marginal Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Washington D Brian Pothier (undisclosed) and D John Erskine (upper body) were both scratched on Tuesday for the game against Detroit. Both players are day to day.
Analysis: Erskine doesn't have much Fantasy value when healthy, so don't worry about him in most leagues even while he's out.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (upper body) and D Brian Pothier (undisclosed) both remained out for Sunday's game vs. the Flyers.
Analysis: Erskine doesn't have much Fantasy value when healthy, so don't worry about his status for Fantasy Week 16 (Jan. 18-24). Pothier, meanwhile, has a little more value but is only a flier option in deeper leagues.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (upper body) did not play on Friday against the Maple Leafs. He has missed the last three games and remains day to day.
Analysis: Washington did come off a road trip to play at home on Friday, but Erskine still wasn't healed in time. Erskine has only three points this season and has missed time due to injury. He is a defensive presence and has marginal Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Washington D John Erskine was held out a second straight game on Wednesday against the Panthers because of an upper-body injury.
Analysis: Erskine missed both games of a trip to Florida, but Washington is headed home to play Toronto on Friday, so he could get a chance to dress. That is if he is finally healthy. Erskine has only three points this season and has missed time due to injury. He is a defensive presence and has marginal Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Washington D John Erskine (upper body) was a scratch Tuesday against the Lightning. He is day to day with the injury.
Analysis: Erskine is nothing but a physical presence on the ice and can be ignored in most formats, healthy or not.
News: The Washington Post reports that Capitals D John Erskine is questionable for Tuesday's game at Tampa Bay with an upper-body injury.
Analysis: Erskine is nothing but a physical presence on the ice and can be ignored in most formats, healthy or not.
News: Capitals defenseman John Erskine got a misconduct and a fighting major for going after Avalanche F David Koci on Tuesday. The Capitals were upset with Koci's hit on Mike Green late in the second period that knocked the defenseman out of the game. Koci checked Green into the glass behind the Washington net and received a boarding major and a game misconduct. "You've got to stand up for your teammate," Erskine said.
Analysis: Erskine, who has two assists in his last three games, is no longer a big-time enforcer, but he remembers how to duke it out at times. Erskine doesn't have a lot of offensive talents, so he is best left for leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats and PIM.
News: Capitals D John Erskine came off injured reserve Wednesday to face the Devils. He had missed eight games with a hand injury. Erskine had no points in 16:21 of ice time and finished at even.
Analysis: Erskine has just one point in his first six games, but that's not that big of a shocker. He is more of a defensive presence when healthy. He is best left for leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats and PIM.
News: Capitals D John Erskine has been placed on injured reserve with a hand injury. Erskine hasn't played since Oct. 12.
Analysis: When healthy, Erskine is definitely far more important to the Caps than Fantasy owners. He is best left for leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats and PIM.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Capitals D John Erskine will probably have the enforcer role at some point, with Donald Brashear gone, and he showed his spunk Thursday with a good fight against Boston's Shawn Thornton. The two traded punches for several seconds, and Erskine might have floored the Bruin if his jersey hadn't come up over his face. Erskine is a physical defenseman whose importance is sometimes underestimated.
Analysis: The Capitals have to be very cautious with Erskine since they need him on the ice for his defense. They don't mind his physical play, but he can't always be taking silly penalties and be off the ice. Erskine is definitely far more important to the Caps than Fantasy owners. He is best left for leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats and PIM.
News:The Sports Xchange reports he might be one of the most under-appreciated players in the NHL, but the Capitals certainly love defenseman John Erskine. He keeps getting better with the Caps, giving them the physical presence they so desperately need in the back. Erskine finished with a plus-1 rating during the 2008-09 regular season.
Analysis: While Erskine is a physical presence at 6-4, 215 pounds, his offense is severely lacking. He is also a high-risk injury issue. Erskine is definitely far more important to the Caps than Fantasy owners. He is best left for leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: Capitals D John Erskine returned to the lineup for Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Penguins Friday after missing two games with a leg injury. He didn't have a point in 19:55 of ice time and finished at minus-1. He also spent two minutes in the penalty box.
Analysis: Erskine had just four points -- all assists -- in 52 games this season. He missed plenty of time due to injury and has yet to play a full season in his NHL career. Erskine is more of a defensive force and will have little to no Fantasy value Draft Day 2009. He will be best used in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for PIM and short-handed stats.
News: Capitals D John Erskine was not in the lineup for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Penguins because of a leg injury. It was the second straight game he missed.
Analysis: Erskine had just four points -- all assists -- in 52 games this season. He missed plenty of time due to injury and has yet to play a full season in his NHL career. Erskine is more of a defensive force and will have little to no Fantasy value Draft Day 2009. He will be best used in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for PIM and short-handed stats.
News: Capitals D John Erskine was scratched for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals Monday against the Penguins after taking a shot off his right leg in Game 1. He was replaced by Tyler Sloan, who was called up from Hershey of the AHL earlier Monday and had an assist in his playoff debut.
Analysis: Erskine had just four points -- all assists -- in 52 games this season. He missed plenty of time due to injury and has yet to play a full season in his NHL career. Erskine is more of a defensive force and will have little to no Fantasy value Draft Day 2009. He will be best used in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for PIM and short-handed stats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Capitals D John Erskine, despite his penchant for occasional ill-timed penalties, keeps giving some good efforts. Erskine's second-period fight with Joel Rechlic Wednesday against the Islanders seemed to wake up the team -- as did D Jeff Schultz getting into a physical fight with Tim Jackman. Both of those clearly seemed to get the team rolling.
Analysis: Erskine has missed plenty of time in 2008-09 due to injury and hasn't been able to be as much of a factor. He was never on the ice for his offense, but he provides a nice physical force defensively when healthy. He is best used in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Capitals D John Erskine tallied a pair of assists and finished at plus-2 during Tuesday's game against the Panthers. Erskine came into the game with just two assists all season and had his first point since Nov. 10.
Analysis: Erskine missed 22 games earlier this season with a concussion, but has been a regular to the lineup since mid-January. Look, Erskine has never been an elite offensive player and is definitely more of a defender. He pretty much has little to no Fantasy value outside of leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: D John Erskine returned to the Capitals lineup Tuesday against the Oilers after missing 22 games with a concussion. He didn't have a point in 17:30 of ice time and finished at even.
Analysis: Erskine was logging about 16:30 of ice time per game before going down with the injury, so he was par for the course Tuesday. Erskine is not one of the Capitals' top offensive blue liners and is more of a checking defenseman. Consider Erskine a flier in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: The Washington Post reports that Capitals D John Erskine (concussion) is just waiting for medical clearance to return to action.
Analysis: Erskine plays a lot when healthy, but has little to no Fantasy value since he doesn't contribute a lot offensively. Continue to leave him on the waiver wire.
News: Capitals D John Erskine, who has been out more than a month with a concussion, remained in the stands for Friday night's loss vs. Buffalo. He is eligible to come off long-term IR any time now.
Analysis: Erskine plays a lot when healthy, but has little to no Fantasy value since he doesn't contribute a lot offensively. Continue to leave him on the waiver wire.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (concussion) sat out of Tuesday's game against the Rangers. He remains day-to-day and is considered questionable for Dec. 26 at home against Buffalo.
Analysis: Erskine gets more than enough playing time to be a contributor in Fantasy, he just isn't leave. him on waivers.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (concussion) was not available for Saturday's game in Philadelphia. He remains day-to-day and is considered questionable for Dec. 23 in New York against the Rangers.
Analysis: Erskine plays a lot when healthy, but has little to no Fantasy value since he doesn't contribute a lot offensively. Leave him on the waiver wire.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (concussion) did not return to the lineup Thursday against the Blues. He has been missing since Nov. 24 but is skating.He is questionable for Saturday at Philadelphia.
Analysis: Offensively, Erskine does little to nothing although he does contribute a significant number of minutes.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (concussion) did not return to the lineup Tuesday at the Islanders. He has not played since Nov. 24 but is skating and remains questionable for Thursday against the Blues.
Analysis: Erskine plays a lot when healthy, but has little to no Fantasy value since he doesn't contribute a lot offensively.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (concussion) did not return to the lineup Saturday against the Canadiens. He has not played since Nov. 24 but is skating and remains questionable heading into Tuesday against the Islanders.
Analysis: Erskine plays a lot when healthy, but has little to no Fantasy value since he doesn't contribute a lot offensively.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (concussion) did not return to the lineup Friday against the Senators. He has not played since Nov. 24 but is skating and remains questionable heading into Saturday against the Canadiens.
Analysis: Erskine plays a lot when healthy, but has little to no Fantasy value since he doesn't contribute a lot offensively.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (concussion) did not return to the lineup Wednesday against the Bruins. He has not played since Nov. 24 but is skating and remains questionable heading into Friday against the Senators.
Analysis: Erskine plays a lot when healthy, but has little to no Fantasy value since he doesn't contribute a lot offensively.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (concussion) did not return to the lineup Sunday against the Hurricanes. He has not played since Nov. 24 but is skating and remains questionable heading into Wednesday against the Bruins.
Analysis: Erskine is still a risky start heading into Fantasy Week 10 (Dec. 8-14), but Fantasy owners aren't holding their breath. Erskine plays a lot when healthy, but has little to no Fantasy value since he doesn't contribute a lot offensively.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (mild concussion) skated with the team for the first time since getting hurt in Minnesota, reports the Washington Post before Tuesday's game against the Panthers. Erskine expects to be back shortly. If not on Thursday against the Islanders, he'd likely be back for the weekend.
Analysis: Erskine plays on a regular basis for Washington, but doesn't contribute much offensively and has limited Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (mild concussion) skated with the team for the first time since getting hurt in Minnesota, reports the Washington Post before Tuesday's game against the Panthers. Erskine expects to be back shortly. If not on Thursday against the Islanders, he'd likely be back for the weekend.
Analysis: Erskine plays on a regular basis for Washington, but doesn't contribute much offensively and has limited Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: The Washington Post reports that Capitals D Tom Poti, D Mike Green, D John Erskine, LW Alexander Semin and C Sergei Fedorov are all expected to miss Tuesday's game vs. the Panthers.
Analysis: The Capitals are scheduled for four games this week, so these guys could play three games in Fantasy Week 9 (Dec. 1-7). Semin and Green are must starts in all formats, so they're clearly going to give owners the most headaches about whether to start them or not -- especially as there is no specific timetable for their return. To be honest, you're better off just benching all these guys until they prove to be healthy.
News: Capitals D John Erskine missed a third straight game Saturday against the Blue Jackets because of a concussion. He is likely to be back in uniform Tuesday against Florida.
Analysis: Erskine plays on a regular basis for Washington, but doesn't contribute much offensively and has limited Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Capitals D John Erskine missed a second straight game Friday against the Canadiens because of a concussion. He might return Saturday against the Blue Jackets, but it is more likely he is back in uniform Tuesday against Florida.
Analysis: Erskine plays on a regular basis for Washington, but doesn't contribute much offensively and has limited Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: The Washington Post reports that Capitals D John Erskine (mild concussion) could be back Saturday, but it's more likely to be Tuesday.
Analysis: Erskine missed some time earlier this season with a calf injury, but had been able to recover to stay in the lineup the last few weeks. He plays on a regular basis for Washington, but doesn't contribute much offensively and has limited Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Washington D John Erskine (undisclosed) missed Wednesday's game against Atlanta. He was forced to leave Monday's game against Minnesota early with the injury.
Analysis: Erskine missed some time earlier this season with a calf injury, but had been able to recover to stay in the lineup the last few weeks. He plays on a regular basis for Washington, but doesn't contribute much offensively and has limited Fantasy appeal.
News: Capitals D John Erskine left Monday's game against Minnesota with an undisclosed injury. He is considered day to day.
Analysis: Erskine missed some time earlier this season with a calf injury, but had been able to recover to stay in the lineup the last few weeks. He plays on a regular basis for Washington, but doesn't contribute much offensively and has limited Fantasy appeal.
News: Capitals D John Erskine tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 in 18:33 of ice time Monday against the Lightning. He had a pair of minor penalties as well. The assist was Erskine's first point in eight games.
Analysis: Erskine missed some time earlier this season with a calf injury, but has been able to recover to stay in the lineup the last few weeks. He plays on a regular basis for Washington, but doesn't contribute much offensively and has limited Fantasy appeal.
News: Washington D John Erskine returned from a calf injury in Saturday's win over Dallas. Erskine didn't score any points in the game but did go plus-1 and made one shot on goal.
Analysis: Erskine is one of the top checking defenseman for the Capitals, but doesn't offer much in the way of offensive help. When healthy, he is merely a low-end Fantasy flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (calf) was unable to play Thursday against the Coyotes. Erskine, who just signed a two-year extension Thursday, remains day to day and questionable for Saturday against Dallas.
Analysis: Erskine is one of the top checking defenseman for the Capitals, but doesn't offer much in the way of offensive help. When healthy, he is merely a low-end Fantasy flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: The Washington Post reports that Capitals D John Erskine, who signed a two-year contract extension on Tuesday, limped his way through practice with his injured calf on Thursday and might not play against the Coyotes. "I don't know, it's pretty sore," Erskine said. "When I push, it's really sore. It's kind of like a bad charley horse. But it's not a charley horse. It just gets tight."
Analysis: Erskine is one of the top checking defenseman for the Capitals, but doesn't offer much in the way of offensive help. When healthy, he is merely a low-end Fantasy flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Capitals D John Erskine returned to the lineup Thursday against the Lightning after missing the previous six games with an upper body injury. He did not record a point in 10:55 of ice time and finished at even. He also spent two minutes in the penalty box for hooking.
Analysis: Erskine returned to the lineup and did what he knows best Thursday -- get in trouble. No one will ever mistake Erskine for being an offensive threat and is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy option in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News: Capitals D John Erskine missed practice Wednesday with an undisclosed injury and is doubtful for Friday night's game vs. Atlanta, reports the Washington Post.
Analysis: Erskine is one of the top checking defenseman for the Capitals, but doesn't offer much in the way of offensive help. When healthy, he is merely a low-end Fantasy flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Capitals D John Erskine tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 during Saturday's game against the Canadiens. Erskine, who was also hit with a holding penalty, now has three assists in his last five games.
Analysis: Erskine is one of the top checking defenseman for the Capitals, but doesn't offer much in the way of offensive help. He is merely a low-end Fantasy flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: When Washington assistant coach Jay Leach was asked in a pregame TV interview about the toughness of D John Erskine, he said, "He's kind of old school. I didn't think they make them like that anymore." He had an assist at Toronto Monday.
Analysis: Erskine has now posted assists in back-to-back games. He also has 417 penalty minutes during his career, which is what he is best known for. Avoid him in all but the deepest of Fantasy leagues which heavily reward PIM.
News: Capitals D John Erskine scored a rare goal Friday in the season opener at Atlanta. In the first period, he fired a slap shot from beyond the left circle for an unassisted goal, catching Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen off guard and giving the Capitals a 2-0 lead. He also had two penalty minutes.
Analysis: Erskine has now posted five goals and 13 points in 171 NHL games. He also has 407 penalty minutes during his career, which is what he is best known for. Despite his goal Friday, avoid him in all but the deepest of Fantasy leagues which heavily reward PIM.
News: The Washington Capitals re-signed defenseman John Erskine to a two-year contract on Monday. Erskine, 27, had seven points (one goal and six assists), with a minus-13 rating and 69 penalty minutes in 29 games for the Capitals last season.
Analysis: Erskine has posted four goals and 12 points in 170 NHL games. He also has 405 penalty minutes during his career, which is what he is best known for. Avoid him in all but the deepest of Fantasy leagues which heavily reward PIM.
News: John Erskine (thumb) ended the regular season on the sidelines. He finished with a goal, seven points and a minus-13 rating in 29 games in the injury-filled season.
Analysis: Erskine should be ready to go for the regular season in 2007-08, but his Fantasy value is limited to the largest of formats which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Steve Eminger returned to the Washington lineup Saturday after a one-game absence, taking the place of former Islanders D John Erskine, who will miss the rest of the season after dislocating his thumb Friday.
Analysis: It is now safe to cut Erskine in all seasonal leagues formats. He has very little keeper value as well.
News: John Erskine (foot) returned to the lineup for Thursday's game at Tampa Bay. He was scoreless with two shots on goal in 18:04 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Erskine back into the active Fantasy lineup in all larger leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: The Washington Post reports John Erskine (broken foot) is likely at least three more weeks from returning to the lineup.
Analysis: Keep Erskine reserved in all Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes until he can officially return.
News: The Washington Post reports the lower body injury that John Erskine has is a broken foot and he still needs crutches to get around. "That's not a good sign," coach Glen Hanlon said of the crutches. "If he's still limping around, then he's not playing for the next little while."
Analysis: Erskine is still wearing a cast, so he will be sidelined for at least a few weeks yet. He has missed eight games and should be reserved in all larger Fantasy leagues which reward penalty minutes until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (lower body) was unable to play in Monday's game against the Coyotes.
Analysis: Erskine remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (lower body) was unable to play in Saturday's game against the Rangers.
Analysis: Erskine remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (lower body) was unable to play in Friday's game against the Devils.
Analysis: Erskine remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: John Erskine (lower body) was unable to play in Wednesday's game against the Canadiens.
Analysis: Erskine remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: John Erskine (lower body) was unable to play in Tuesday's game at Buffalo and he is questionable for Wednesday's home game against Montreal.
Analysis: Erskine remains day to day. Lawrence Nycholat played in his absence. When healthy, he is only worth using in Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams.
News: Capitals D John Erskine (lower body) did not play Saturday against Toronto.
Analysis: Erskine is considered day-to-day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy formats.
News: For the Capitals, D Shaone Morrisonn (flu) and D John Erskine (lower body) were scratched from the lineup on Friday against the Devils.
Analysis: Erskine is considered day-to-day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Washington Post reports John Erskine (foot) was unable to practice on Wednesday and he remains questionable for Friday's game against New Jersey.
Analysis: Erskine is nearing a return, but is only worth using in larger Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Erskine (foot) was unable to play in Tuesday's game against Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Erskine remains day to day. When healthy, he is only worth using in the largest of Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: The Washington Post reports John Erskine was hit on the foot while killing a penalty in Saturday's game against the Flyers.
Analysis: Erskine's injury is not considered serious, but you might want to go another way in Fantasy Week 12 (Dec. 18-24) in larger leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: John Erskine was recalled from Hershey of the AHL on Thursday.
Analysis: Erskine is only worth a look in the largest of Fantasy formats which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: The Stars traded John Erskine and a second-round pick in 2006 to the Islanders on Tuesday for Janne Niinimaa and a fifth-round in 2007.
Analysis: Erskine is only worth adding in larger Fantasy leagues which reward penalty minutes.
News: John Erskine was recalled by the Stars on Tuesday.
Analysis: Erskine is replacing Philippe Boucher (finger) on the active roster. He is not worth adding in most Fantasy leagues unless they heavily reward PIM.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that John Erskine (hernia) will undergo surgery Wednesday and will miss the remainder for the season.
Analysis: Erskine will begin rehabilitation in three to four weeks.
News: John Erskine (ankle) was unable to play on Tuesday at Edmonton.
Analysis: Erskine remains day to day. Keep him reserved in larger Fantasy leagues.
News: John Erskine (ankle) remained sidelined for Monday's game at Vancouver.
Analysis: Erskine is doubtful for Tuesday's game at Edmonton. He has no Fantasy value.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that John Erskine has a left ankle injury now to go with his sore right ankle. He was hit by a skate during a game.
Analysis: Erskine is questionable for Saturday's game against Calgary and should be reserved in all leagues.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports John Erskine has an injured ankle and will not be able to skate for a few days.
Analysis: Trevor Daley was recalled from Utah of the AHL to take his roster spot. Neither of the two are useful from a Fantasy perspective.
News: Erskine will have an opportunity to play regularly in 2003-04. According to the Dallas Morning News, he will see the increase in playing time due to the departure of Derian Hatcher to Detroit. Erskine has minimal Fantasy appeal.
Analysis:
News: Erskine received a qualifying offer on Friday, according to the Dallas Morning News. He spent last season between Utah of the AHL and Dallas. He is not a useful Fantasy player.
Analysis:
News: Erskine was recalled from Utah of the AHL on Tuesday. He will not see much playing time in the postseason unless injuries decimate the Stars.
Analysis:
News: Erskine was recalled from Utah of the AHL on Monday. He will replace Richard Matvichuk in the lineup. Erskine is only valuable in leagues which reward PIM.
Analysis:
News: Erskine appears to have recovered from the foot injury that sidelined him for most of March. He has a minus-1 in four games since being activated from injured reserve.
Analysis:
News: The Dallas Stars put Erskine on injured reserve Saturday and called up Dave Manson from the Utah Grizzlies to replace him. Erskine, 21, fractured his foot in Friday's 5-3 loss to the Minnesota Wild. Erskine will be re-evaluated in three weeks. Manson, 35, was scoreless in two games with the Grizzlies this season.
Analysis:
News: Erskine broke a bone in his foot after blocking a shot in the second period of Friday's game against Minnesota. According to Dallas head coach Rick Wilson, Erskine "could be out for a while."
Analysis:
