News:Blake Wheeler notched his 19th goal of the season in Thursday's 4-2 loss to Montreal.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler was one of the hottest players in the league going into the game, notching points in eight of his last nine games. Unfortunately, the loss eliminates the Jets from playoff contention. On the bright side, Wheeler was on pace to set new career highs in goals and points had the season played out as a full 82 game schedule, which is something to keep in mind for your 2013-14 fantasy draft.
News:Blake Wheeler scored his 18th goal of the season in a 5-3 loss to the Capitals on Tuesday night.
Analysis: The goal by Blake Wheeler came just one game after he had a six-game point streak snapped against the Sabres. Although the goal is good for fantasy owners in the finals, it wasn't enough to lead the Jets to a win. That means this Thursday's game against a struggling Montreal team is a must-win. It goes without saying Wheeler should be in your lineup in that light.
News:Blake Wheeler picked up an assist and finished with a plus-1 rating in a 5-4 shootout loss to the Islanders on Saturday.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler has 11 points during his current six-game point streak (3 goals, 8 assists). He's found real chemistry with Bryan Little and Andrew Ladd which has benefited the trio and the team greatly. The Jets are focused on winning each of their final three contests to make the playoffs so there's no doubt Wheeler should be in your lineup to finish the season.
News:Blake Wheeler scored a goal and added two assists in Thursday's 4-3 win over Carolina.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler has three goals and seven assists for 10 points on his current five game point streak. He's on fire and so are his linemates, Bryan Little and Andrew Ladd. Keeping all three of them in your lineup is a must.
News:Blake Wheeler scored a goal, added two assists and went plus-3 Thursday in a 4-3 overtime win over Carolina.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler is just white-hot right now, posting consecutive three-point games and 10 points in his last five contests. Start and enjoy down the stretch.
News:Blake Wheeler scored a goal and assisted on two more in Tuesday's 4-3 shootout win over the Bolts.
Analysis: That's seven points in the last four games for Blake Wheeler on the heels of a six-game scoreless streak. He's heating up at the right time, with the Jets trying to claw their way into one of the final playoff spots in the East.
News:Blake Wheeler had an assist, a plus-1 rating and a minor penalty in Thursday's 7-2 win over the Panthers.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler has points in three straight contests and has a plus-4 rating over that stretch. Bryan Little is centering a line with Wheeler and Evander Kane and it seems the trio are clicking. However, take note of the fact the Jets are now off until April 16th, meaning you'll have to hope to get to the next round of your playoff push without them, at least for now.
News:Blake Wheeler scored into an empty net late in the third period of Tuesday's 4-1 win over the Sabres.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler now has points in back to back games after going scoreless in six games previous to that. He's tied with Andrew Ladd for the team lead in goals (15) and is second in points (31). He's turned into an offensive leader in Winnipeg and the Jets are going to need him to be if they hope to overtake the red-hot Capitals and reclaim the Southeast division lead. His plus-minus rating of minus-9 is not the greatest, but his offensive ability makes him a solid fantasy contributor, particularly in deep leagues.
News:Blake Wheeler scored the game-tying goal and an empty-net goal in Tuesday's 3-1 win over the Bruins.
Analysis: The performance by Blake Wheeler gives him 14 goals on the season and six in his last six games. He could have had a third tally on Tuesday when he beat a defenseman along the outside and flipped the puck over Tuukka Rask, but the rubber clanked off the crossbar and managed to stay out. Wheeler is the hottest Jet on the ice right now, so you're obliged to keep him in your lineup.
News:Blake Wheeler scored twice in Saturday's shootout win over Toronto. The points extended his current scoring streak to three games and five points (four goals, one assist).
Analysis: He has 24 points in 28 games to sit second in team scoring behind captain Andrew Ladd (28). Use him with confidence.
News:Blake Wheeler picked up a pair of goals and finished with a plus-1 rating in Tuesday's 5-2 win over the Leafs.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler now has 10 goals on the year and seven points in his last nine games (three goals, four assists). Although his plus/minus currently sits at a career-low minus-7, he's posting solid offensive numbers, so you've got to take the good with the bad. Continue to start him regularly.
News:Blake Wheeler, who took a hard shot off his leg this past Saturday, saw 9:48 worth of ice time in Tuesday's loss to the Panthers.
Analysis: Wheeeler, who took two shots in Tuesday's game, currently slots in as the Jets' third-leading scorer behind Andrew Ladd and Evander Kane, with 17 points in 22 games.
News:Blake Wheeler (lower leg) practiced Monday and was "feeling fine" when asked about his status, the Winnipeg Free Press reports.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler's injury, a deep bone contusion, is not as bad as it was previously expected to be. Wheeler remains day-to-day, but signs point towards him feeling better and returning soon.
News:Blake Wheeler, who took a hard shot off the leg in Saturday's game, "has probably a heavy-duty bone contusion" on the side of his leg, according to Jets' coach Claude Noel.
Analysis: The injury looked bad -- he slid to block a point shot and buckled to the ice, unable to get up or put weight on his right foot. But he returned to action a few shifts later. He'll be unbelievably sore at this point and depending on the bruising and stiffness, he could miss practice and maybe even a game.
News:Blake Wheeler is currently taking his regular shift in the third period of Saturday's game against Washington after taking a shot off of his right knee in the second frame, Calgary Sun's Ken Wiebe reports.
Analysis: The Jets announced Blake Wheeler would not return to the game and then he promptly took his regular shift in the third period. It looks like he's going to finish the rest of the contest, which is good news for fantasy owners.
Jets' Wheeler Leaves Saturday's Game With Lower-Body Injury
News:Blake Wheeler left Saturday's game with a lower-body injury and will not return, the Calgary Sun's Ken Wiebe reports.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler actually attempted to return to the game, but was ruled out after one quick shift. Consider him day-to-day until more information is available.
News:Blake Wheeler picked up two assists in Sunday's 4-2 win over the Devils.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler's performance on Sunday gives him 16 points on the season. His plus/minus rating of minus-6 could use a little bit of improvement but he is skilled enough to produce on a regular basis. Keep him in your lineup as he's continued to be close to a point-a-game player this season.
News:Blake Wheeler picked up an assist and finished with an even rating in Saturday's 5-3 loss to the Flyers.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler's point was his 14th of the season and represents the first time he's managed points in back-to-back games during the month of February. He's been steadily keeping pace with the production level that he's demonstrated throughout his career, so although he's a top notch fantasy star, having a known quantity on your roster is rarely a bad play, particularly in head-to-head leagues where consistency is of utmost importance.
News:Blake Wheeler scored two goals in Thursday's win over Carolina, including the game-winner late in the third period.
Analysis: That'll elicit a sigh of relief from Blake Wheeler's fantasy owners, who had seen him go three straight games (and six out of eight) without a point.
News:Blake Wheeler picked up two assists and posted a plus-2 rating to go with four shots on goal in Tuesday night's loss to the Flyers.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler also added 10 PIMs in the game, which is a bonus for fantasy owners, as coach Claude Noel was penalized at the end of the game, and the penalty was served by Wheeler. He played an all-around good game on Tuesday and now has 11 points in 12 games this season, making him a solid ongoing fantasy option.
News:Blake Wheeler netted his fourth goal of the season in a 3-2 overtime win over the Panthers on Tuesday night.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler had his five-game point streak come to an end three days earlier against the Panthers, so it's nice to see him get right back on the scoreboard. Continue to start him as long as he keeps producing.
Jet's Wheeler Continues Hot Play In Loss To Panthers
News:Blake Wheeler managed two assists in Thursday's 6-3 loss to the Panthers.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler now has points in five straight games (three goals and five assists for eight points). He's going to be counted on as an offensive leader if the Jets hope to play well enough to earn a playoff spot during this shortened season. He's worth starting while he's hot that's for sure.
News:Blake Wheeler picked up an assist in Sunday night's 5-4 win over the Islanders.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler's helper now gives him five points in the last three games (2G, 3A). He's got speed and size and he's at a point in his career where he knows what's expected of him. He broke out in a leadership role last year with 64 points and there's no question the Jets and your fantasy team need that trend to continue going forward. Wheeler should be a solid play as a secondary option all year and you've got to be happy that he appears to have his mojo going of late.
News:Blake Wheeler posted a goal and an assist for the second consecutive game on Friday, guiding Winnipeg to a win over Pittsburgh.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler is in a productive spot as a part of the Jets' top six forwards and will have several days where he sees his name on the scoresheet. He can be a streaky player, but when he's on a streak, he's quite nice to have on your roster. The trick is to know when he's cresting and when he starts to ebb. Use with caution.
News:Blake Wheeler scored a goal and added an assist to go with a plus-1 rating in Tuesday's 4-2 win over Washington.
Analysis: Although there's no denying Blake Wheeler has talent offensively, it's worth noting that he hasn't scored more than 20 goals in a season since his rookie year. Though he was a key contributor during the Jets' attempt to make the playoffs down the stretch last season, it remains to be seen whether he'll ever be more than a secondary option in Winnipeg -- and, by extension, for fantasy owners.
News:Blake Wheeler, the Jets leading scorer from a year ago, rejoined his teammates at a skate Thursday at MTS Centre and spoke about the lockout and playing in Europe, the Winnipeg Free Press reports.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler was asked if he think he has an advantage from playing during the lockout and he responded, "personally speaking I can't really get into game shape without playing games." We will just see what impact that may have on this compressed season and if this talented young kid can continue to improve he should push toward 30 plus points on the year.
News:Blake Wheeler has agreed to a lockout deal with HC Red Bull of Munich, USA Today reports.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler was one of the Jets' premier offensive talents last season, contributing 64 points in 80 games. He's the fourth NHLer to head over to the top German league, following the path of the Flyers' Claude Giroux and Danny Briere and the Sabres' Christian Ehrhoff.
News:Blake Wheeler passed on an invite to join Team USA at the IIHF's upcoming World Championships, according to Paul Friesen of the Winnipeg Sun.
Analysis: Though Blake Wheeler's dynamic passing would translate well to the Olympic-sized ice, fans of the Red, White, and Blue won't see Wheeler represent his country this May.
News:Blake Wheeler picked up two helpers in Tuesday night's overtime victory against Florida. The former first-round selection is now tied for 15th in assists across the NHL.
Analysis: Though Blake Wheeler put up fairly pedestrian numbers throughout the second half of March, there can be no arguing that 2012 was his best season to date. Expect a strong finish from him in Winnipeg's final two games.
News:Blake Wheeler reached 41 assists on the season with a pair of helpers Wednesday night as Winnipeg bested visiting Dallas by a final score of 5-2.
Analysis: Wednesday was the first contest since February in which Blake Wheeler did not score a goal. Regardless, the multi-point effort only further solidifies his status among the game's best passers.
News:Blake Wheeler buried the second of three Winnipeg goals in Friday night's road loss to the Flames. The former Bruin has now scored in each of his last four contests.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler continues to pay sizable fantasy dividends night after night. Start him without fear on March 14, when the Jets next take to the ice.
News:Blake Wheeler notched one of two Jet goals in Thursday night's road loss to Vancouver. The fourth year veteran has now lit the lamp in his last three contests.
Analysis: At this point, Blake Wheeler makes for an automatic start regardless of matchup. No Jet forward saw more ice-time than the Minnesota native Thursday night, a trend that is likely to continue.
News:Blake Wheeler scored the game-winning goal Monday against Buffalo. He has 15 goals in 65 games.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler has 54 points on the season, and he's scored seven points in his last five games. The Jets are fighting for a playoff spot, and Wheeler is one of their key players on offense.
Winnipeg's Wheeler Picks Up Goal, Assist Versus Florida
News:Blake Wheeler notched a goal and an assist against the Panthers Thursday night as the Jets blanked their divisional foes, 7-0.
Analysis: Now with 17 points in his last 10 games and 53 since the season's onset, "Wheels" does not seem to be losing any steam as the regular season comes into the homestretch. He is as reliable a fantasy option as there is on Winnipeg's roster.
News:Blake Wheeler was the only Jet to score in Saturday's loss to the Blues, lighting the lamp twice in regulation and once in the game's deciding shootout.
Analysis: Now with 13 points in his last six contests, Blake Wheeler is arguably the most prolific offensive weapon on the Jets' roster. As the club pushes to give Winnipeg its first NHL playoff game in 16 years, the young right winger will only be relied upon more.
News:Blake Wheeler collected his 37th and 38th assists of the season Thursday night, helping the Jets to a 4-3 home win over the Lightning.
Analysis: Since overcoming a slow start to the 2011-2012 season, Blake Wheeler has proven himself to be one of the best passers in the league not named Henrik Sedin or Claude Giroux. With line-mate Andrew Ladd playing perhaps the best hockey of his career lately, the chances for assists are likely to keep on rolling in for Wheeler.
News:Blake Wheeler picked up four helpers Sunday against Colorado, giving him 46 points in 59 games.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler has 11 goals and 35 assists, so he has emerged as a fine playmaker this season. He also has 10 points in his last five games, nine of them assists.
News:Blake Wheeler added two assists to his season total Friday night while also finding his 11th goal on the year. The American forward now has 42 points in his 2011-2012 campaign.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler continues to show why he is perhaps the most valuable fantasy piece on Winnipeg's roster. If he can total three points versus a stout Bruins defense, he should see at least an equal number of opportunities versus the Avalanche on Sunday night.
News:Blake Wheeler recorded his 29th assist on the year Thursday night in Minnesota, also converting his second consecutive shootout attempt.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler has several important factors working in his favor with respect to fantasy value: he starts in nearly every game, he regularly totals over 20 minutes of ice-time, and he is utilized heavily in clutch situations. So long as his stock with Jets head coach Claude Noel remains this high, the opportunities for fantasy dividends should keep rolling in.
Jets' Wheeler Puts Four Shots On Net, Scores In Shootout
News:Blake Wheeler recorded four shots in Thursday's win over Washington, also scoring in the game's deciding shootout.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler has proved himself an integral part of the Jets' offensive game plan this season. Though shootout goals do not count towards a player's season total, Wheeler's current count of 36 points is nothing to feel badly about.
News:Blake Wheeler fought for the first time this season Sunday, though he failed to register a shot in Winnipeg's 3-0 loss to the Canadiens.
Analysis: Poor goaltending and an injured Evander Kane left the Jets with little to play for but pride in this one. While head coach Claude Noel would prefer not to see one of his star forwards exchanging blows to the head, especially with a stout blue-liner like P.K. Subban, the American in his fourth season showed Sunday that he is willing to fight if necessary. Moves like that almost always bolster the respect that teammates and coaches have for a player, which can only translate well for Blake Wheeler's fantasy outlook moving forward.
News:Blake Wheeler lit the lamp for the tenth time this season Thursday night, also providing an assist to Kyle Wellwood for the game's winning goal in overtime.
Analysis: Though his production had been painfully slow since returning from his injury, Blake Wheeler returned to form Thursday night and looked once again like the club's points leader. Consider the minor drought an anomaly and roll with him as you normally would.
News: After missing two games with an injury to his throat, Blake Wheeler returned to action Thursday night. The forward recorded two penalty minutes, put two shots on net, and found his 24th assist on the year.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler's missed time was more cautionary than anything else. He showed Thursday night that he was back and able to play at a high level. He demands a spot in your fantasy lineup.
News: After missing two games with a throat injury, Blake Wheeler called himself "a hundred percent ready to go" in comments made after Thursday's morning skate.
Analysis: All signs point to Blake Wheeler making his return to the Jets' lineup Thursday night. Before his departure, he had 11 points in as many games. The forward in his fourth season warrants a fantasy start opposite the floundering Sabres.
News:Blake Wheeler (throat), now having missed two games after taking a puck to the neck, was on hand for Thursday morning's team skate, the Jets' official Twitter feed reports.
Analysis: Earlier reports suggested Blake Wheeler would try to make his comeback in Thursday night's home game versus the struggling Sabres. He is probable for the matchup, but it would be wise to err on the side of caution and make sure that the fourth year winger, who leads the club in assists, has a post-injury game under his belt before inserting him into your starting lineup.
Jets' Wheeler (Throat) Likely To Miss Next Two Games
News:Blake Wheeler (throat) aims to make his return to Winnipeg's lineup Thursday night versus Buffalo, Kirk Penton of the Winnipeg Sun reports.
Analysis: Though Blake Wheeler appears to be recovering well, neck injuries always prompt plenty of precautionary measures. It does not look like he will miss more than a couple of games.
Winnipeg's Wheeler (Throat) Questionable For Monday
News:Blake Wheeler (throat), after taking a puck to the neck in Saturday's loss to New Jersey, is being kept under precautionary observation by doctors and is considered questionable for Monday's contest in Ottawa, Kirk Penton of the Winnipeg Sun reports.
Analysis: All reports point to Blake Wheeler being as fine as one can be upon taking a fast-moving puck to the throat, and his return to action does not seem far off. However, this short observation period jeopardizes his availability for Monday.
News:Blake Wheeler (throat) was released from hospital Saturday night after all tests came back negative, according to a report on CBC's Hockey Night in Canada. The Jets think his long-term prognosis is good.
Analysis: It was a scary moment on the ice and eerily reminiscent of Trent McCleary's career-ending injury in 2000. Both were struck in the throat/neck by hard shots but thankfully, Blake Wheeler didn't suffer McCleary's fate -- that shot collapsed his throat. We're still worried about the early comments about his long-term prognosis which hint that he could be out for a while. But we're glad he's going to be OK.
News:Blake Wheeler left Saturday's game against New Jersey with an upper body injury and will not return, Winnipeg Sun writer Ken Wiebe reports.
Analysis: He suffered the injury by blocking a shot from Petr Sykora. Consider Blake Wheeler day-to-day for now.
News:Blake Wheeler recorded his eighth goal of the year Tuesday night in Boston as the Jets fell to the Bruins, 5-3.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler was among the league's hottest forwards in the month of December and looks poised to continue the trend in January. Even against elite defensive squads like Boston, the right wing has been finding ways to produce.
News:Blake Wheeler, who didn't miss any time following a foot injury Wednesday, scored his eighth goal of the season in Saturday's OT win over Buffalo. It came on the power play.
Analysis: He was slowed by the foot in Thursday's game against the Leafs but looked fine Saturday. He has been on fire since mid November. He has 24 points (eight goals, 16 assists) in 23 games since Nov. 17. He should be active in all formats.
News:Blake Wheeler took a shot to the foot in the late stages of Wednesday's loss to Montreal and is now questionable for Thursday's game in Toronto, Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Sun reports.
Analysis: Winnipeg recalled Patrice Cormier, the organization's top minor league forward, in response to the injury. Though Blake Wheeler was at Thursday's optional morning skate, that is no guarantee that he will take to the ice against the Leafs. Though the 25-year-old has been playing the best hockey of his career, it would be wise to remove him from your starting lineup until the doubt surrounding his availability clears up.
News:Blake Wheeler found the back of the net for the seventh time this season Wednesday, also recording an assist in Winnipeg's loss to Montreal.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler has been on a hot streak for well over a month now, tallying at least one point in 17 of the Jets' last 21 games. Equally important for fantasy purposes, Winnipeg's coaching staff appears to be taking notice; Wheeler saw the second most ice time of any Jets forward Wednesday.
News:Blake Wheeler recorded his sixth goal of the season Saturday, helping the Jets to a 3-2 win over the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: Though injuries have forced the Jets to shuffle around centers as of late, head coach Claude Noel has made sure to keep Blake Wheeler and fellow winger Evander Kane together as linemates. Aside from a strong skill set of his own, being a part of a combination so dynamic has helped Wheeler emerge as a reliable fantasy weapon this year.
News:Blake Wheeler delivered the assist that set up line-mate Evander Kane's game-winning, overtime goal against Los Angeles on Thursday night.
Analysis: Another night, another assist for the American in his fourth season. Blake Wheeler-to-Kane has become a potent formula for the Jets offense as of late, and there is no reason to expect a drop-off in that production anytime soon.
News:Blake Wheeler recorded his 21st assist on the season Tuesday, feeding Evander Kane for the Jets' first goal in a 4-1 win over the Avalanche.
Analysis: While certainly a strong player in his own right, Blake Wheeler benefits greatly from playing with Kane on the Jets' best line. His line-mates are wont to score off of his well-placed passes, and from time to time he will even light the lamp himself. Feel free to roll with him in your lineup for as long he remains a staple of Winnipeg's first unit.
News:Blake Wheeler added an assist to his stat sheet on Friday, giving the right winger 20 on the year.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler continues to help his line-mates score goals. Whether he and Evander Kane are playing alongside Alex Burmistrov or the currently injured Bryan Little, "wheels" seems a sure bet to reach 50 points this season.
News:Blake Wheeler had his best outing of the season on Thursday, notching two goals and an assist.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler continues to benefit from playing on the same line as the Jets' points leader, Evander Kane. While the assist comes as no surprise to his fantasy owners, the right winger now has 19 for the season, Wheeler's two goals versus Montreal were just his fourth and fifth on the year. He has had a strong December and remains on pace to finish the season with 50 to 60 points.
News:Blake Wheeler potted a power-play goal in Saturday's win over Anaheim. It's his first goal in eight games but his 14th point in as many games.
Analysis: The gentle giant appears to be on a mid-50 point pace; that would be a career high but far under what we expect to get from a 25-year-old, fifth overall draft pick. He's a solid mid-range character type for fantasy but don't expect a lot of goals -- Saturday's was just his third of the season.
News:Blake Wheeler picked up his 18th assist of the season Tuesday as the Jets dispatched the Wild 2-1.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler and linemate Bryan Little are tearing it up right now, as Wheeler has 13 points in his last 12 games. Use him with confidence.
News:Blake Wheeler finally scored his first goal as a member of the Jets in Thursday's win over the Caps.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler's goal came on the power play to boot, his first goal with the man advantage since the 2009-10 season. Wheeler is still averaging over two minutes of power play time per game, even though his overall ice time is down about two minutes from his time with the organization last year.
News:Blake Wheeler had two assists in Tuesday's overtime loss to the Sabres, but also committed a costly penalty that led to the Sabres' game-winner in overtime.
Analysis: The Jets took 12 penalties overall, but Blake Wheeler's was the costliest. Ironically, he's not much of a source of PIM -- he had just eight penalty minutes on the season heading into Tuesday night.
News:Blake Wheeler played only 13:25 in ice time in the Jets 3-0 road win over the Islanders.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler has seen a steady dip in his ice time and has been demoted to the team's fourth line. Yet to score this season, it has been a rough start for the former first liner. Fantasy owners are likely growing frustrated with the lack of scoring from Wheeler, but the upside is there so don't go cutting him just yet. Wheeler's value is low, but his upside remains high so stay patient.
News:Blake Wheeler averaged nearly a point per game after being traded to the Jets late last season, the Winnipeg Sun reports.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler should make a big jump in fantasy this season simply because of his projected ice time with skilled players, such as linemate Bryan Little, who told the Winnipeg Sun, "He got more of an opportunity with us, more ice time and he took off with it and almost had a point a game. He's going to get that here and he definitely has the potential to a have a career year."
News:Blake Wheeler scored in Wednesday's 3-1 preseason win over the Hurricanes.
Analysis:Blake Wheeler has built a reputation of being a streaky NHLer. However, he came on strong for the Jets (then Thrashers) at the tail end of the 2010-2011 season, pocketing four points in the last five games while developing a strong rapport with center Bryan Little and winger Andrew Ladd. Wheeler should be a reliable fantasy option this season, though he could afford to afford to elevate his production on the power play after failing to score on the man advantage last year.
News: Wheeler has inked a two-year contract with the Jets, reports Darren Dreger of TSN.
Analysis: Wheeler will make $5.1 million over the life of the deal. He played the first half of last season with the eventual Stanley Cup winners in Boston, scoring 27 points in 58 games. He then played 23 games with the Thrashers, scoring seven goals and adding 10 assists in 23 games. He'll almost certainly play on one of the top two lines all season in Winnipeg.
News: Wheeler scored a goal and added an assist in Sunday's 5-4 shootout win over Ottawa.
Analysis: Wheeler has 13 points (5G, 8A) in 16 games for Atlanta, which acquired him via trade with the Bruins on Feb 18. If Wheeler is somehow available, scoop him up.
News: Wheeler assisted on both goals the Thrashers scored in a 2-1 victory over the New York Islanders on Thursday.
Analysis: Wheeler also finished with a plus-1 rating and now has eight points in his last eight games (3 goals, 5 assists). He's been the most consistent Thrasher over the past month consider how much the team has slipped recently.
News: Wheeler has an assist to go along with the shootout-winning goal in the Thrashers 4-3 win over Philadelphia on Thursday.
Analysis: Wheeler has six points in his last six games and has nine points in 12 games since joining the Thrashers. Consider picking him up if you need someone who's playing hot at the right time and your short on more proven commodities.
Wheeler: Picks Up Assist; Thrashers Bounce 'Canes In OT
News: Wheeler's assist came on the opening goal of the game in the Thrashers 3-2 overtime win over Carolina on Wednesday.
Analysis: Wheeler has eight points in his last 10 games. He is playing consistent at a time when the Thrashers could use it. He's a young player fitting in nicely on a young team fighting for a playoff spot. If you feel like taking a gamble, he may be worth a look.
Thrashers' Wheeler: Busts Out In Win Over Panthers
News: Wheeler scored two goals in a 4-3 overtime win over the Panthers on Saturday night.
Analysis: Wheeler only had one other goal as a Thrasher going into Saturday's game. He's a solid young talent but he's not exactly a fantasy stud that's going to carry your team as the regular season winds down.
Wheeler: First Point With Thrashers; Oilers Steal Victory
News: Wheeler picked up an assist on Andrew Ladd's second period goal Saturday in what turned out to be a 5-3 loss to Edmonton.
Analysis: It's good to see Wheeler get his first point in his debut with the Thrashers. Though a fresh start with a new team could boost his play, for the most part Wheeler should be low on your fantasy depth chart.
News: The Bruins traded Wheeler and Mark Stuart to the Thrashers on Friday for Rich Peverley and Boris Valabik, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.
Analysis: Wheeler had 11 goals and 16 assists in 58 games with the Bruins this season. He's a big body who has some value in deeper leagues, but it's doubtful that this move will give him a significant boost in value. The fresh faces could provide the middling Thrashers with a little spark, however.
News: Wheeler scored the Bruins' lone goal in Sunday's loss to the Thrashers.
Analysis: Wheeler is on a similar pace to last year's output, with nine points in 22 games after scoring 38 points (18g, 20a) in 82 games last year.
News: Wheeler picked up a goal and an assist Saturday against the Kings.
Analysis: His regression seems to be continuing. He hasn't recovered from his sophomore slump; in fact, his pace (seven points in 18 games) has slowed even a bit more. The big man has talent but right now, he shouldn't be rostered unless you have a very deep roster and a whole lot of patience.
News: In the aftermath of David Krejci's concussion, Wheeler was centering the Bruins' No. 2 line (flanked by Mark Recchi and Jordan Caron) at practice Monday, the Boston Globe reports.
Analysis: We'll have to see if that combo sticks, as the Bruins could decide to call up a center from AHL Providence, but either way, in the absence of Krejci (out at least a week and probably longer), the Bruins will need players like Wheeler to step up offensively.
News: Wheeler scored a goal in Wednesday's 5-2 win over Buffalo.
Analysis: The goal was Wheeler's first of the year to go along with two assists and it came on a night where he manned left wing alongside Tyler Seguin and Michael Ryder on the Bruins' No. 3 line. That's a trio with some offensive upside, so don't be surprised if Wheeler (who has been playing with a little more grit this season) starts to take off now that his goal-scoring drought is over.
News: Wheeler is on track to start the season playing left wing on a line centered by Tyler Seguin, the Boston Globe reports.
Analysis: Wheeler saw some action at center in training camp, but for now, he'll continue to man the wing. If additional injuries (on top of Marc Savard's concussion issues) hit the B's down the middle however, he would be an in-house candidate to move to center. "I am comfortable at either spot," said Wheeler. "Wing has been a good thing for two years. It's a little easier mentally, I guess. But I like center, too, and if they want me there, that's fine." Playing on a line with Seguin, probably along with Michael Ryder, comes with some upside, so Wheeler has a shot to see a modest bump up from his 2009-10 totals (18/20/38).
News: Wheeler says that he is benefiting from his recent switch to CCM skates, the Boston Globe reports. "I feel different. I feel a lot better. A lot quicker. A lot more like myself," Wheeler said of the effect his new skate have had "I'm able to make more one-on-one moves and be effective like that."
Analysis: File this one under "whatever works," but coach Claude Julien has noted an improvement in Wheeler's skating as well. "I think the one thing we all notice is that his balance is better," said Julien. "Last year, he fell a lot. Some of that is definitely because of his equipment. The skates he was wearing, he didn't seem to have the same balance. He's changed his skates and he seems to be a little better balanced with the skates he's got on now."
News: The Boston Bruins signed forward Blake Wheeler to a one-year contract on Friday. His agent Matt Keator said the deal is worth $2.2 million, the amount of an arbitrator's award given after a hearing on Tuesday. "The decision came in the range we expected," Keator said. "There were no winners or losers in this case." Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli said in a statement announcing the deal, "It is never a pleasant experience for either side to go to arbitration. However, as a manager, you know that the player will be under contract for the following year either way."
Analysis: In two seasons with Boston, Wheeler has 39 goals and 44 assists in the regular season but just one goal and five assists in 21 postseason games. He was one of two players to participate in all 82 regular-season games for the Bruins last season and finished with 18 goals and 20 assists. Wheeler said he was "anxious" going into the hearing. "It was handled extremely professionally," he said. "I was really happy to be through with that part of the process." Wheeler took a step back in 2009-10 after having a solid rookie campaign in 2008-09. His biggest failures were his plus-minus drop off (from plus-36 to minus-4) and the fact he couldn't be a consistent scorer in the absence of Phil Kessel, who was traded to Toronto. Wheeler is nothing more than a late-round Fantasy draft pick in larger formats.
News: Bruins LW Blake Wheeler scored a goal, added an assist and finished at plus-1 on Monday against the Devils. Wheeler scored for the third consecutive game to cut Boston's deficit to 3-1 at 43 seconds of the middle period. He has four goals and two assists in his last five games.
Analysis: It's encouraging to see Wheeler get on a bit of a hot streak after the Olympic break because it has been a real trying effort for most of the season. Wheeler definitely fell into the sophomore slump category, but if he puts a nice run together at the end of the season, he might carry that momentum into 2010-11. Wheeler has low-end Fantasy appeal until further notice.
News: Bruins LW Blake Wheeler scored a goal during Thursday's game against the Canadiens. The Bruins made it 2-0 when David Krejci carried the puck down the right side and his centering pass hit Jaroslav Halak's pad and went right to Wheeler, who scored his first goal in eight games and 13th of the season.
Analysis: Wheeler got Fantasy owners all excited when he posted four goals and three assists in his first four games of January. It appeared as though he might finally turn the corner, but then Wheeler returned to his slumping ways. He has had a terrible sophomore season, but a lot of it has had to do with the Bruins having plenty of offensive struggles. We need to see a little more consistency from Wheeler before he makes a move up the Fantasy ladder.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins LW Blake Wheeler had a goal and an assist in an 11-second span of the second period Saturday in Los Angeles. He picked up his first points in four games but his fourth multi-point game in the last seven.
Analysis: It's finally nice to see Wheeler put some points on the board after a pretty awful first half. He has been playing again with David Krejci and Michael Ryder, the two linemates he had great success with in 2008-09. Still, we need to see a little more consistency from Wheeler before he makes a move up the Fantasy ladder.
News:Blake Wheeler had two goals and an assist, Tim Thomas extended his winning streak against Ottawa to 11 games, and the Boston Bruins scored four times in the first en route to a 4-1 win over the Senators on Tuesday. Wheeler earned points on Boston's first three goals. He opened the scoring at 1:46 with his ninth goal and gave Boston a 3-0 lead at 11:37 with his 10th score.
Analysis: Wheeler has three goals and two assists in two games to start Fantasy Week 14 (Jan. 4-10). We hate to say it, but this has been his best work of the season. Wheeler is back on a line with David Krejci and Michael Ryder, trying to rekindle his 2008-09 success. While these last two games have been nice for Wheeler, we still need to see some long-term success before Wheeler becomes a must-add.
News: Bruins LW Blake Wheeler scored a goal, tallied an assist and finished at plus-2 on Monday against the Rangers. Wheeler's shot over goalie Henrik Lundqvist's glove tied it at 2 at the 15:59 mark of the third period. It was his first goal since Nov. 27 and first multi-point game since Nov. 14.
Analysis: Now that we have hit the new year, Wheeler is looking to erase memories of a nasty first half. He is having a real down season after storming onto the Fantasy scene in 2008-09 as a rookie. Until Wheeler starts producing on a more regular basis, he has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Bruins LW Blake Wheeler tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 on Wednesday against the Thrashers. He has three assists in his last seven games, but he hasn't scored since Nov. 27.
Analysis: Wheeler probably wishes the 2008-09 season never ended. He stormed onto the scene with 21 goals, 45 points and a plus-36 rating as a rookie. He did most of his damage on a line with Michael Ryder and David Krecji. While the trio are still on the same team, they have been split up and all three players are having down seasons. Wheeler has only 19 points in 39 games and is at minus-9. He has hit a real sophomore slump. The Bruins are more of a defensive team in 2009-10, so if you need the roster spot, then consider cutting Wheeler for someone on the rise.
News: Bruins LW Blake Wheeler scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Friday's game against the Devils. Wheeler scored 12 seconds into the third period for Boston, tying it at 1-all and ending Martin Brodeur's bid to tie Terry Sawchuk's NHL record of 103 shutouts. Wheeler has seven goals on the season and three in his last seven games.
Analysis: While Wheeler has been consistent with his production through the first two months, it's still not at the place Fantasy owners would like it. He has only 13 points in 25 games and is at even after finishing plus-36 in 2008-09. Wheeler is merely a low-end Fantasy option until he gets his act together and goes on a nice run.
News: Bruins LW Blake Wheeler scored and assisted in Saturday's loss to the Penguins, tripling his November point total.
Analysis: Wheeler has 10 points this season and is on pace to get close to his 45-point total from 2008-09. Continue to to think of him as a low-end starting Fantasy forward in deeper formats.
News: Rookie Tuukka Rask turned aside 18 shots for his second shutout in eight NHL starts, and Blake Wheeler and Vladimir Sobotka set each other up for goals to lead the Boston Bruins to a 2-0 victory over the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday. Rask was locked in a scoreless duel with veteran Nikolai Khabibulin until Wheeler converted on Sobotka's hard work 2:47 into the third period. Sobotka finished off a 2-on-1 at 7:02.
Analysis: Wheeler's two points on Saturday now gives him seven on the season. Saturday was his first multi-point effort of the season. Continue to to think of him as a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward.
News: Bruins LW Blake Wheeler scored his second goal of the season Monday in a loss to the Avalanche.
Analysis: Wheeler showed his prowess as a two-way forward last season, and is off to a good start so far in 2009-10. Continue to to think of him as a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins RW Blake Wheeler is adding weight as he looks toward his second season in the NHL. "He's working out like crazy," Wheeler's agent, Matt Keator, told the Boston Globe. "He's packed on another seven pounds, but he's still at five percent body fat. He's feeling pretty darn good."
Analysis: Wheeler seems extra motivated heading into 2009-10 after he spent some time in coach Claude Julien's doghouse late in 2008-09. Wheeler was a surprise addition to the Bruins roster out of training camp last season. He really thrived on a line with Michael Ryder and David Krejci and solidified his role as a top-six forward. He had 21 goals, 45 points and a plus-36 rating in 81 games. Wheeler definitely showed his prowess as a two-way forward. Wheeler is definitely only going to get better, but is going to be a nice No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward Draft Day 2009.
News: Bruins RW Blake Wheeler tallied two assists and finished at plus-2 during Sunday's game against the Islanders. It was his first assists in 11 games and he finished the year with 24 helpers.
Analysis: Whatever the reason, Wheeler struggled down the stretch with just seven points and a plus-3 rating in his last 18 games. It put a damper on what was a standout season for the rookie forward. He had 45 points and a plus-36 rating in 81 games. Not too bad for someone who landed the final roster spot coming out of training camp. Wheeler is going to be a nice No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward Draft Day 2009.
News: Bruins RW Blake Wheeler's goal was the difference Saturday in Boston's 1-0 win over the Rangers.
Analysis: Wheeler now has 21 goals on the season and three in his last five games. Wheeler is a solid two-way player, but remains more of a low-end Fantasy forward for the time being.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins RW Blake Wheeler moved onto the Marc Savard (two assists) line Saturday against the Maple Leafs and scored his second goal in his last 15 games.
Analysis: Wheeler has just three points in 10 March games and has been battling an offensive slump the last few weeks. Coach Claude Julien is trying his best to get Wheeler on track, and putting him with Savard appears to be an avenue. Wheeler is a solid two-way player, but remains more of a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Bruins RW Blake Wheeler scored a goal, tallied an assist and finished at plus-2 during Sunday's game against the Penguins. Wheeler's short-handed goal in the second briefly put Boston up 3-2. However, Wheeler's holding penalty 28 seconds into the third created the power play that led to the first of two Chris Kunitz's goals in the opening 1:01 of the period.
Analysis: Wheeler had his first points in eight games and first goal since Feb. 17 Sunday. He has been mired in a bit of an offensive funk and has seen time in the press box because of it. But coach Claude Julien still has faith in the rookie and dresses him as a top-six forward on most nights. Continue to view Wheeler as a low-end Fantasy forward until he goes on a nice run.
News:Blake Wheeler was a healthy scratch for the first time this season for the Bruins on Saturday against the Blackhawks. He is tied for first in the NHL with a plus-32 rating.
Analysis: The Bruins did pick up Mark Recchi at the trade deadline to add another forward to the mix, but this benching was likely to send a message to the rookie he needs to pick up the scoring. He hasn't scored in seven games and actually has an even rating since Feb. 7. Wheeler will return to the lineup eventually, but he still remains more of a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Bruins RW Blake Wheeler tallied a pair of assists and finished at plus-2 during Thursday's game against the Ducks. He has two goals and three assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Wheeler has had just three two-assist games in his rookie season, but he broke 20 assists Thursday and has an impressive plus-33 rating. he Bruins weren't sure if adding Wheeler to the roster at the beginning of the season was the right move, but they rolled the dice and Wheeler has provided solid play at both ends of the ice. Wheeler still remains more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward to start when he has favorable matchups or is on a roll.
News: Bruins RW Blake Wheeler scored a power-play goal during Tuesday's 5-1 win against the Hurricanes. He notched his 17th goal 17:25 into the first period to tie the game at 1. He has scored in two straight and three of six.
Analysis: Wheeler has totaled 35 points and a plus-33 rating in his first 58 games as a NHLer. The Bruins weren't sure if adding Wheeler to the roster at the beginning of the season was the right move, but they rolled the dice and Wheeler has provided solid play at both ends of the ice. Wheeler still remains more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward to start when he has favorable matchups or is on a roll.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins C David Krejci and LW Blake Wheeler both saw significant time on the bench in the third period Saturday against the Flyers. "You've just got to do the right thing for your team and (Wheeler) wasn't very good for us tonight," coach Claude Julien said. "Krejci wasn't very good for us tonight, either, compared to what we've seen. They're no different than anybody else. I've said all along you earn your ice time, and I didn't feel those guys were good enough to have the amount of ice time they normally have."
Analysis: Wheeler had a two-point night in his previous game and has a plus-32 rating this season, so it's not like he hasn't been productive. This is just Julien's way of showing his players not to get complacent. The rookie has been a great addition to the Boston roster in 2008-09, but Wheeler still remains more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward to start when he has favorable matchups or is on a roll.
News: Boston RW Blake Wheeler opened the scoring in Thursday's game against the Senators on Thursday and added an assist to his stat line. Wheeler also attempted a penalty shot in the shootout period but failed to convert. It's the second night in a row for Wheeler in which he has recorded a point.
Analysis: Wheeler finished off the first half of the season strong and is now beginning to look like that player once again as he has three points in his past two games. He can now be used as a decent No. 4 or 5 option in leagues that run that deep.
News: Boston RW Blake Wheeler had a goal in regulation and also a shootout goal in a 4-3 shootout win over the Maple Leafs on Wednesday.
Analysis: Wheeler has been a solid contributor in Boston this season after barely making the roster heading into the season. He finishes off the first half of the year playing on the Bruins' top line with 14 goals and 16 assists. He is a nice No. 4 or 5 option in deeper leagues.
News: TSN reports that Bruins RW Blake Wheeler played on the top line with Marc Savard and Chuck Kobasew during Monday's loss to the Blues.
Analysis: Wheeler barely made the Bruins' roster out of training camp, but Boston is glad they kept him around. He has totaled 28 points and an outstanding plus-27 in 45 games. He has played most of the season on a line with David Krejci and Michael Ryder, but the trio has been solid. Wheeler is worth a look as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward in larger leagues.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins LW Blake Wheeler has gone 10 straight games without a goal, but does have six assists over that span. Wheeler last scored Dec. 27 against the Hurricanes when he had two goals.
Analysis: Wheeler barely made the Bruins' roster out of training camp, but Boston is glad they kept him around. He has totaled 28 points and an outstanding plus-27 in 45 games. He has played most of the season on a line with David Krejci and Michael Ryder, but the trio has been solid. Wheeler is worth a look as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward in larger leagues.
News: Bruins RW Blake Wheeler assisted twice in Saturday's 5-1 win over the Hurricanes.
Analysis: After a slow start, Wheeler has become a key part of the Bruins' success this season. He remains more of a low-end Fantasy forward for now because of the amount of talent in Boston, but is definitely a nice keeper option.
News: Bruins rookie RW Blake Wheeler scored twice in the second period as the surging Bruins won their seventh straight game, 4-2 over the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday. Wheeler now has a pair of two-goal outings in his last three games.
Analysis: After a slow start, Wheeler now has 19 points in his last 24 games and has become a key part of the Bruins' success this season. He remains more of a low-end Fantasy forward for now because of the amount of talent in Boston, but is definitely a nice keeper option.
News: Bruins RW Blake Wheeler tallied an assist and finished at even in 15:20 of ice time Thursday against the Maple Leafs. The rookie has an assist in three straight games and six points (one goal) in seven December games.
Analysis: Wheeler has managed a point in seven of his last nine games and is playing quite well on the third line with David Krejci and Michael Ryder. Wheeler is a burgeoning talent, but still remains more of a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Boston RW Blake Wheeler scored a goal and added an assist in the Bruins 4-0 win over Florida on Saturday night. Wheeler did his damage in the 3rd period as he assisted Shane Hnidy's first goal of the season and followed that with his ninth for the game's final margin.
Analysis: Wheeler has points in four straight games with six total in that span. Wheeler projects as a solid player, but his rookie season will have its ups-and-downs. Wheeler remains a low-end Fantasy reserve at this time but someone definitely worth picking up in deeper leagues.
News: Bruins RW Blake Wheeler had a goal, assist and plus-3 rating in 11:22 of ice time Friday against the Islanders. Wheeler scored his seventh goal of the season and a wrist shot past Joey MacDonald 6:48 into the third period. It was his first goal since netting a hat trick Nov. 6.
Analysis: Wheeler was a hot Fantasy addition after his three-goal night, but he had just one point in the following nine games. Wheeler still projects as a solid player, but his rookie season will have its ups-and-downs. Wheeler remains a low-end Fantasy reserve at this time.
News: Bruins RW Blake Wheeler tallied an assist and finished at plus-3 in 10:36 of ice time Wednesday against the Sabres. It was his first point since netting a hat trick Nov. 6 against the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: Wheeler was a hot addition after his first career hat trick, but as expected for a player that averages less than 12 minutes per game, it was going to be hard for him to repeat that feat with limited playing time. Wheeler still projects as a solid player, but his rookie season will have its ups-and-downs. Wheeler remains a low-end Fantasy reserve at this time.
News:Blake Wheeler gave Boston fans a new number pay attention to. Hours after changing his uniform number, Wheeler had his first three-goal game in the NHL to help the Bruins beat Toronto 5-2 on Thursday. Wheeler, a rookie from the University of Minnesota, changed from No. 42 to 26. "It's something I just wanted to do," Wheeler said while sitting in his locker with the No. 42 still on a name plate over his head. "I always said I wanted to change it. A couple of days ago they said, 'If you want to change it, go ahead."' He scored Boston's second, third and fifth goals. "I told them I was going to change my number before every game," he said, smiling. "They said, `That's not a good idea. I guess I'll stick with the No. 26, its working for me."
Analysis: Wheeler, originally drafted by Phoenix -- fifth overall -- in 2004, played three years with the Golden Gophers before signing as a free agent with the Bruins on July 1. Wheeler completed his hat trick with 53 seconds left on a shot from the blue line into an empty net after the Maple Leafs pulled Vesa Toskala. The fans then littered the ice with hats, causing a brief delay. "Every time he's on the ice, he seems to make things happen," Boston coach Claude Julien said. "Tonight was a good night for him. He's a smart player. Since training camp he's been getting more and more confidence." Wheeler now has four goals and two assists during a three-game points streak. Boston seems committed to giving him a chance to succeed and the Bruins could use some scoring help on the right side of the ice. Wheeler is a player to keep tabs on in Fantasy, but will need to remain consistent before becoming a must-start player.
News: Bruins RW Blake Wheeler had his first career assist Saturday against the Stars and finished with two helpers during a 5-1 win. He also finished at plus-2 and had one minor penalty. Wheeler has three points (one goal) in his last two games.
Analysis: Wheeler has five points in his first 12 NHL games and is providing a solid presence down on the Ducks' lower lines. He is a former first-rounder, so it's not like he doesn't have offensive talent. But Wheeler still remains more of a low-end Fantasy forward.
News:Blake Wheeler scored 31 seconds after Patrice Bergeron to give Boston a 2-0 lead late in the first period Thursday against the Maple Leafs. Wheeler made it 2-0 when he took a pass at the Bruins' blue line and brought it down the right side, where he backhanded it past Vesa Toskala and off Aaron Stralman's stick into the net. It was his first goal and point since the opener.
Analysis: Wheeler survived the final rounds of cuts to make the Bruins squad, but still remains on the team's lower lines. Being a first-rounder, Wheeler definitely has some untapped potential. However, he remains more of a low-end Fantasy option at this time.
News:Blake Wheeler had a goal in his first NHL game as the Bruins skated past the Avalanche, 5-4 Thursday. Wheeler, a 2004 first-rounder, scored at 10:51 of the first period as he wristed a shot past Peter Budaj. He finished at plus-1 in 12:41 of ice time and even took a two-minute holding penalty.
Analysis: Wheeler survived the final rounds of cuts to make the Bruins squad and it's now easy to see why Boston kept him on board. Being a first-rounder, Wheeler definitely has some untapped potential. However, he remains on the lower lines for Boston right now and has little Fantasy value.
News: The Boston Bruins cut five players from their roster Tuesday and kept promising rookie forward Blake Wheeler, a first-round draft choice in 2004.
Analysis: Wheeler was the fifth choice in the 2004 draft by Phoenix, but played instead with Green Bay of the United States Hockey League for one year and at the University of Minnesota for two. Wheeler had a strong preseason, but will likely the open the season as a lower-line forward. He has little to no Fantasy value at this time.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins RW Blake Wheeler, a 6-foot-5 free agent signee out of the University of Minnesota (drafted as the fifth pick of the 2004 draft by Phoenix but didn't sign), has been impressing in camp. He has one goal and two assists in three preseason games.
Analysis: The Bruins have a lot of good talent on the right side of the ice, so if Wheeler makes the team, he might only be a lower-line forward. It's probably best to leave Wheeler alone in Fantasy until he makes an impact in a game that counts.
