Niemi Has Worst Postseason Game This Season In Sharks' Loss
News:Antti Niemi let in four goals on 31 shots Thursday in Los Angeles, posting a .871 save percentage, his worst of the postseason.
Analysis:Antti Niemi let in the first shot of the night, but rebounded well until he let two past in 22 seconds during the closing minutes of the game. A return to San Jose for the next two games could help the Vezina-finalist.
News:Antti Niemi let in two goals on 20 shots Tuesday night in Los Angeles.
Analysis: Los Angeles got two past Antti Niemi, but there's little reason for worry. With a decent .900 save percentage Tuesday, he had his first loss and worst save percentage this postseason. While it's not a great performance, there's no reason to think he's about to start a slide.
News:Antti Niemi will be between the pipes for the Sharks in Game 1 against Los Angeles, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: No surprises here. Antti Niemi was outstanding in the first round, with a .937 save percentage and 1.86 GAA.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 32 of 35 shots Tuesday in an overtime win over the Canucks, finishing off the first-round series sweep.
Analysis: This was actually Antti Niemi's worst game of the series, as he hadn't allowed more than two goals in any of the first three. He'll get a nice rest as the other Western Conference series are resolved.
News:Antti Niemi will start in net Tuesday against Vancouver.
Analysis:Antti Niemi will look to build off his strong performance in Game 3, as he stopped 28 of 30 shots en route to a victory.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 28 of 30 shots in the San Jose win over Vancouver in Game 3 Sunday.
Analysis:Antti Niemi hasn't had a save percentage below .933 in his three straight playoff wins this year. He's often unconventional, but Niemi is getting it done against Vancouver.
News:Antti Niemi will again get the start for San Jose in Game 2 of their series against Vancouver, CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: No surprises here. Antti Niemi, who stopped 29 of 30 shots in Game 1, is likely to take the reins as long as the Sharks are in the hunt.
News:Antti Niemi saved 29 of 30 shots in Vancouver on Wednesday.
Analysis:Antti Niemi looked sharp, finishing with a .967 save percentage. The only goal on him all night was an own-goal by Raffi Torres during a melee in front of the net.
News:Antti Niemi will be in the net for Game 1 of the Sharks' first-round series with the Canucks, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi, who tied for the league-lead in wins with 24, will face off against Roberto Luongo. The Sharks were 3-0-0 during their regular season series against the Canucks, with Niemi registering the victory on each occasion.
News:Antti Niemi allowed three goals on 27 shots (.889 save percentage) as the Sharks lost a heartbreaker to the Kings on Saturday, 3-2. With the loss, the Sharks fall to the Western Conference's sixth seed, and will face Vancouver in the playoffs.
Analysis: Keep Antti Niemi in mind for your playoff pools. The Sharks match up very favorably with the Canucks, having swept the season series, with Niemi winning all three games.
News:Antti Niemi will start in net Tuesday against the Stars, Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: In 41 games this season, Antti Niemi is sporting an impressive record of 23-11-6 with a 2.14 goals-against average and a .925 save percentage, numbers that should have him in the discussion for the Vezina.
News:Antti Niemi saved 24 of 26 shots Tuesday in a win over Dallas, clinching a playoff berth.
Analysis:Antti Niemi owners ought to keep an eye on him now that the Sharks have guaranteed themselves a playoff spot. Coach Todd McLellan may give Niemi a rest before the start of the postseason.
News:Antti Niemi saved 18 of 22 in Sunday's loss to the Blue Jackets.
Analysis:Antti Niemi's .818 save percentage was less than you expect from a goalie whose worst save percentage over the previous three games was .953.
News:Antti Niemi is slated to start Sunday's game against the Blue Jackets, CSN's Kevin Kurz reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi, who will be making his 41st start of the season, has won each of his last three turns, allowing three goals in that span while helping to lift the Sharks into a tie for fourth place in the Western Conference, with 55 points through 44 games.
News:Antti Niemi made 27 saves on 28 shots Thursday against Minnesota, including stuffing Jason Pominville on a breakaway.
Analysis: Owners are getting good bang for their buck with Antti Niemi this season. He's played more minutes than any tender in the league, is fifth overall in save percentage, leads the league with 23 wins, and ranks fourth with four shutouts in the shortened season.
News:Antti Niemi will be between the pipes for Thursday's game against the Wild, CSN's Kevin Kurz reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi continues to shine for the Sharks, winning six of the nine games he has started this month and giving up two goals or fewer in 10 of his last 12 games.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 41 of 43 shots Tuesday on his way to a league leading 22nd win.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has been great the last two nights with a total save percentage of .974 in 125 minutes. He is on his way to the best goal-against average and save percentage of his career.
News:Antti Niemi will start in net Monday against the Coyotes, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has been solid this season, with a .922 save percentage and 2.19 GAA.
News:Antti Niemi stopped all 35 shots he faced in a shutout win over the Coyotes on Monday.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has shouldered the load in net for the Sharks, and he earned his 21st win and fourth shutout of the season in this game.
News:Antti Niemi made 17 saves Saturday in a 2-1 loss to the Stars. It was his 19th straight start.
Analysis: He's the go-to guy in San Jose and he's 20-10-6. His ratios have been solid and the Sharks have been surging. He's a great activation.
News:Antti Niemi will start Saturday against the Stars, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi continues to start nearly every game as the Sharks jockey for decent playoff positioning in the West. He'll get the Stars on the road, where San Jose isn't nearly as good this season compared to at home (7-11-2 on the road), but at least he'll see a Dallas team that had to play a road game Friday at Nashville.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 27 of 29 shots Thursday and triumphed over the Wings in a shootout.
Analysis: After a couple four-goal games that resulted in losses, it's good for the Sharks and fantasy owners alike to see Antti Niemi back in the win column. He continues to start nearly every game for the No. 4 team in the West.
News:Antti Niemi is slated to start Thursday's game against the Red Wings, Kevin Kurz of Comcast SportsNet Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi will get a chance Thursday to bounce back from a tough outing Tuesday, in which he was pulled in the third period after giving up four goals on 26 shots to the Blue Jackets.
News:Antti Niemi was pulled from Tuesday's loss to Columbus in the third period after giving up four goals on 26 shots.
Analysis: Thomas Greiss entered and stopped all four shots he faced. This is consecutive four-goal games for Antti Niemi, but on the heels of a seven-game winning streak, he gets a mulligan or two.
News:Antti Niemi will be in net again Tuesday night against Columbus, according to the Mercury News.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has played 34 of 38 games for the Sharks, with a .924 save percentage and a 2.14 goals against. He should continue to be one of the best goalies in fantasy.
News:Antti Niemi is slated to start Sunday's game against the Stars, Kevin Kurz of Comcast SportsNet Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi and the Sharks are on a seven-game roll, so it's no surprise that the team is sticking with Niemi -- who is 19-8-5 overall -- on Sunday.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 30-of-34 shots in Sunday's 5-4 shootout loss to the Stars.
Analysis: So ends Antti Niemi's seven-game winning streak, with his next chance to get back in nets Tuesday against the Blue Jackets. Backup Thomas Greiss' last start was back on March 6.
News:Antti Niemi and the Sharks won their seventh-consecutive game Friday, topping Calgary 2-1 as he turned away all but one of 24 shots against.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has been the league's hottest netminder the last two weeks, allowing 10 goals over the seven-game winning streak while grabbing two shutouts. He's giving the Sharks a chance to win every night as they look to solidify their playoff positioning.
News:Antti Niemi will start in net Friday, Kevin Kurz of Comcast SportsNet Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is 18-8 with a 2.12 GAA and a .925 save percentage this season for the Sharks.
News:Antti Niemi had 31 saves on 33 shots Wednesday against Minnesota to get his sixth straight win.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is about as hot as a goalie gets right now. Keep playing him every night he's on the ice.
News:Antti Niemi won his fifth decision in a row Monday, turning away 23 of 25 shots to earn his 17th win of the season.
Analysis: There's a lot to like about this sitation, with San Jose climbing the standings and calling on Antti Niemi almost exclusively. The dark cloud looming over the horizon is the schedule: The Sharks don't have a two-day break until April 19-20. Unless he gets a night off soon, Niemi is bound to get weary.
News:Antti Niemi will start in net against the Canucks on Monday, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has only given up five goals in his last four games, including back-to-back shutouts on March 27 and 28.
News:Antti Niemi won his fourth straight decision Saturday as San Jose beat Phoenix in a shootout, 3-2. He allowed two goals on 29 shots (.931) in regulation and overtime.
Analysis: The Sharks' offense still leaves much to be desired (No. 27 in the NHL in goal-scoring), but Antti Niemi's recent strong play has enabled the team to claw its way back into the playoff picture. He'll continue to get the overwhelming majority of starts as the season winds down.
News:Antti Niemi is expected between the pipes Saturday against the Coyotes, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is coming off two consecutive shutout performances againts the Red Wings and Ducks, respectively, so he's about as hot an NHL goalie as you could want right now. Start him with confidence.
News:Antti Niemi is in line to start Wednesday's game against the Ducks, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi catches the 22-6-4 Ducks at a decent juncture, as Anaheim has dropped three straight games by a combined total of 12-5.
News:Antti Niemi stopped all 22 shots he faced in a shutout win over the Ducks on Wednesday night.
Analysis: Anaheim is in a bit of a tailspin recently as the loss Wednesday marks their fourth consecutive defeat. Antti Niemi continues to provide solid, albeit unspectacular play in goal for the Sharks, while the shutout Wednesday is only his second in 27 starts this season.
News:Antti Niemi is slated to start Monday's game against the Ducks, NHL.com's Curtis Zupke reports.
Analysis: Looking forward, it seems plausible that Antti Niemi's next break will come either Wednesday in a rematch against the Ducks, or Thursday, when the Sharks take on the Red Wings.
News:Antti Niemi made 24 saves on 27 shots in a win over the Ducks on Monday.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has struggled a bit recently - he has had a sub-.900 save percentage in four of his last five starts, but on the season he still has a .920 save percentage, which is 10th best in the league.
News:Antti Niemi made 22 saves in a 2-0 loss to Minnesota on Saturday.
Analysis: He's had a great statistical season, but he can't win games on his own -- his mates must find a way to score some goals.
News:Antti Niemi will start Saturday at Minnesota, according to David Pollack of the Mercury News.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has not exactly been lights out lately, with just two wins, a save percentage of .870 and a GAA of 3.84 over his last six games. Meanwhile, the Wild have won four straight and seven of their last 10, so Niemi will have his work cut out for him in this one.
News:Antti Niemi made 24 saves on 27 shots in a shootout win over the Oilers on Wednesday.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has put together four iffy starts in hislast five games, but he still has a .921 save percentage on the season and 12 wins.
News:Antti Niemi will start in net Wednesday against the Oilers, CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has performed well this season, but has given up eight total goals in his last two outings, which resulted in a pair of losses.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 23 shots in a loss to Anaheim on Monday night.
Analysis: The Sharks had a three-minute lapse in the second period where the Ducks took full advantage and lit the lamp three times. Three of the four goals Antti Niemi surrendered Monday came at even strength, and his shaky play of late may lead to a night off in the near future.
News:Antti Niemi will start in goal Monday when the Sharks take on the Ducks, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi was pulled late in the second period Saturday after allowing four goals on 18 shots against the Kings. Even though he's been going through a rough stretch lately, head coach Todd McLellan will put him right back out there Monday to see if he can turn things around.
News: The Kings chased Antti Niemi from the crease Saturday, scoring four times on 18 shots. He left in the 14th minute of the second frame, with San Jose down, 4-1.
Analysis: This is the second time he's been pulled in a week. Here at RotoWire, we call that "a bad sign." His composite numbers still sparkle (2.18, .925) thanks to a strong start to the season. But he's allowed 16 goals in his last five games, going 3.64 over that span, and the Sharks' offense (No. 29 in the league in goal scoring) isn't strong enough to carry him if he struggles.
News:Antti Niemi will be in goal for Saturday's game against the Kings, CSN's Kevin Kurz reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi picked up the win his last time out, but he has given up three goals in each of his last four starts, and will take on a Kings squad that has averaged 3.6 goals over eight games this month.
News:Antti Niemi is slated to start Thursday's game against the Kings, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: Meanwhile, top backup Tomas Greiss skated Thursday morning, but he's still on IR, with Antti Niemi in line to make his 22nd start of the season.
News:Antti Niemi gave up three goals on 42 shots in an overtime loss to the Avalanche on Sunday.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has helped carry the Sharks this season, although he's ended up with a league-leading five overtime losses. However, he's in the top five in both save percentage and GAA in 20 games played, and he is having an excellent season.
News:Antti Niemi will start Sunday's game against the Avs, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi will be making his 20th start of the season on Sunday, with backup Thomas Greiss having started just twice since February 11 and four times overall.
News:Antti Niemi is expected to make the second of back-to-back starts Sunday at Colorado after being flattened by the David Perron during Saturday's 4-3 OT loss to the Blues, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports. The incident happened with about five minutes left in the second period, but Niemi came back out to start the third period. He then allowed two consecutive goals to Vladimir Sobotka to help erase a 3-1 Sharks lead and was promptly given the hook.
Analysis: After the game, Antti Niemi said the hit by Perron had nothing to do with the two subsequent goals by Sobotka and gave no indication he would miss any time. At this point, assume there is no injury here that would keep Niemi out of Sunday's game against the Avs.
News:Antti Niemi was pulled with 14:22 left in the third period of Saturday's game against St. Louis after allowing three goals -- two in an 80-second span -- on 28 shots.
Analysis: Vladamir Sobotka had Antti Niemi's number -- all three of the goals Niemi allowed were snapped by Sobotka. He should rebound from this outing. He's been solid of late.
News:Antti Niemi is set to start Saturday's game against St. Louis, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: After a slow start to the season, Antti Niemi has really picked it up of late. In his last four starts, he has three wins and an OT loss, and he's allowed just two or fewer goals in each of those contests. Considering the quality of his play, Niemi makes for a very solid fantasy start right now.
News:Antti Niemi appears to be on track to start Tuesday's game against the Canucks, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: The Sharks continue to ride Antti Niemi, as backup Thomas Greiss hasn't started since Feb. 11.
News:Antti Niemi saved 36 of 38 shots Tuesday against Vancouver, then stopped three of four in the shootout to take home a 3-2 win.
Analysis:Antti Niemi's been hot of late, allowing just six goals in his last four games. He's an every-game roll in any fantasy format.
News:Antti Niemi padded his already superb composite numbers Saturday by stopping 18 of 19 shots (.947) to collect a 2-1 win over Nashville.
Analysis: If the Sharks could score goals at a decent clip, he'd be in the conversation for the most valuable goalie in the league; his GAA and Sv% are both in the top four in the NHL. But San Jose's anemic offense has limited him to a 9-4-4 record.
News:Antti Niemi will make his eighth straight start Saturday against the Predators, CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: This is a tough call for fantasy owners, as the Sharks went just 2-6-4 in the month of February. Nevertheless, Antti Niemi still ranks fourth among NHL goalies in GAA (1.88) and third in save percentage (.933), and he's also 5-3-3 lifetime against the Preds with a 2.18 GAA. Bottom line, Niemi's personal stats are too good to ignore - you should stick with him as long as he's healthy and playing well.
News:Antti Niemi will start Thursday's game against the Red Wings, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: This will be start No. 16 for Antti Niemi, who stopped a personal two-game skid with a 3-2 shootout win over the Avs on Tuesday.
News:Antti Niemi is slated to face the Avs on Tuesday, CSN's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has dropped two straight starts, but overall he sports a 1.96 GAA and a .931 save percentage. Meanwhile, the Avs have lost twice in a row themselves.
News:Antti Niemi allowed three goals, two on the power play, in Saturday's 3-1 loss to Dallas. He turned away 25 shots (.893) on the night for the reeling Sharks, who are 1-6-3 after starting the season with seven straight wins.
Analysis: His composite numbers remain in elite-netminder territory (1.96, .931). Start him whenever you can, with the sole caveat being that San Jose's offense has been just awful lately, scoring just seven times in the last seven games.
News:Antti Niemi will be in goal Saturday against the Stars, CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: The Sharks' recent offensive downturn has allowed Antti Niemi to reach the win column in only one of his last seven games. Even so, Niemi is in the midst of an excellent season and remains a must-start in nearly all formats, posting a 1.88 GAA and stellar .933 save percentage.
News:Antti Niemi surrendered two goals on 34 shots in Friday's 2-1 loss to Chicago, his second loss in three starts.
Analysis:Antti Niemi and the Sharks have been bitten of late, unable to get their offensive game going. Niemi is keeping the Sharks in most games, but his efforts are being spoiled by the team's anemic offense.
News:Antti Niemi will start Friday's game against the Blackhawks.
Analysis:Antti Niemi will start in goal Friday, and he'll look to avenge the two losses he's already been handed by Chicago this month.
News:Antti Niemi allowed just one goal on 26 shots in Tuesday's win over the Blues, snapping a personal five-game losing streak.
Analysis: To be fair, those five losses include an OT loss and two shootout losses -- and in those three games, Antti Niemi gave up just two goals, total. Obviously, the Sharks haven't been providing Niemi with much offensive backing of late. He was able to make their meager two-goal output stand up in this one, at least. Look for the talented San Jose offense to get back on track and help power the Finnish netminder to more wins.
News:Antti Niemi is slated to square off against Jake Allen and the Blues on Tuesday, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: After winning six straight games in January, Antti Niemi is winless in five February starts, but things figure to pick up for him before too long, as the Sharks' slumping offense is bound to pick up sooner rather than later.
News:Antti Niemi lost his third consecutive start on Friday, surrendering four goals on 33 shots in a loss to Chicago.
Analysis:Antti Niemi and the Sharks have not been playing great hockey of late, but he is still sporting a goals-against average of 1.94. Prior to Friday, his goaltending was not the issue, as the Sharks lost two games in shootouts where Niemi allowed one goal over that span. The Sharks are too talented of a team not to give Niemi goal support, but owners can solace themselves with his solid peripheral stats in the meantime.
News:Antti Niemi will start Friday's game against the Blackhawks.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has allowed just one goal in his last two starts. The last time he faced Chicago, however, Niemi allowed four goals in a loss.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 24 of 25 shots Tuesday against Nashville, but the 25th was Colin Wilson's game-winning goal in overtime.
Analysis: That's three OT losses in four starts for Antti Niemi -- and he lost the other one. He hasn't played badly, though, as the Sharks' offense -- so dominant in January -- has slumped since the turn of the calendar.
News:Antti Niemi is expected to start Tuesday against the Predators, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: After rolling to wins in his first six starts, Antti Niemi has lost in his last three turns, with two of the losses coming in shootouts. Even so, he's been as solid as ever in goal protection, allowing five goals over those three games and saving 93.3 percent of shot attempts.
News:Antti Niemi was the tough-luck loser Saturday in a 21-save, 1-0 shootout loss to the Coyotes. It's his first shutout of the season and 20th of his NHL career.
Analysis: He was out-dueled by Mike Smith who was flat-out brilliant at the other end. After ringing up six straight wins to start the season, the Sharks have stalled a little, losing four straight and three with Antti Niemi between the pipes. He'll rebound soon enough.
News:Antti Niemi took the loss Tuesday as he gave up four goals in a 5-3 defeat to the Blackhawks.
Analysis:Antti Niemi's biggest mistake of the night came in the third period when he blew a power-play opportunity just 11 seconds in by getting a penalty for playing the puck outside the trapezoid. Despite the subpar game, Niemi is still tied for the league lead in wins and is sitting in the top-10 for save percentage as part of a strong start to the season for the Sharks.
News:Antti Niemi will be back in goal Tuesday after serving as the backup Monday, Eric Stephens of the Orange County Register reports.
Analysis: Thomas Greiss has performed well in a couple of starts this season but the netminding duties in San Jose fall to Antti Niemi on most nights.
News:Antti Niemi saved 26 of 28 shots through regulation and OT Thursday, then took home the win after the Oilers missed the net on both their shootout tries, improving to 6-0-0 on the season.
Analysis:Antti Niemi's been unimpeachable in goal, and though the San Jose offense didn't support him as much as it has previously this year, he did enough to take home yet another win, keeping his record perfect and his GAA under 2.00.
News:Antti Niemi will start Thursday against the Oilers, CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has rode excellent glovework and a potent offense to a 5-0-0 record this season, but will face a tough challenge in the 4-2-0 Oilers and their young nucleus of offensive talent.
News:Antti Niemi will start Tuesday against the Ducks, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has been sturdy behind the pipes in his four starts for the Sharks, as his 2.01 GAA is tied for eighth in NHL among qualified goaltenders. With three players ranking in the top five in points, Niemi has cruised to a 4-0-0 record. He would seem poised for another win Tuesday with the unremarkable Jonas Hiller (2-1, 4.00 GAA) in the net for the Ducks.
News:Antti Niemi made 23 saves on 24 shots in a win against the Canucks on Sunday.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has two good starts and two mediocre starts, but he's gotten a win in all four of those games, and the Sharks are looking really good so far, which bodes well for Niemi.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 26 of 29 and got six goals of support in Tuesday's win over Edmonton.
Analysis: Staked to a 6-1 lead after one period, Antti Niemi gave up stat-line-damaging goals in the second and third, but the game was long since in hand for San Jose.
News:Antti Niemi will be in goal Tuesday at Edmonton, CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: Following a 31-save effort during Sunday's victory at Calgary, Antti Niemi will get the starting nod, as he should for much of the season for San Jose. Make sure he's in your lineup Tuesday.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 31 of the 32 shots he faced Sunday in a win over Calgary.
Analysis: This is a good start to the season for Antti Niemi, who was up-and-down last season. He's the clear starter for a San Jose team that should rack up quite a few wins.
News:Antti Niemi made 24 shots in a 3-1 series-ending loss to the Blues on Saturday night. He allowed two goals.
Analysis: He won the first game in the series, but then came out on the losing side of the next four. His teammates just didn't provide him with a lot of support this series -- they were shut out in one of those losses and managed just a single goal in two others.
News:Antti Niemi made 23 saves on 27 shots in a Game 3 loss to St. Louis on Monday.
Analysis: After a great start and a win in Game 1, Antti Niemi has had two progressively worse starts. However, the Blues aren't great on offense, and he has at least two more chances to put up better numbers.
News:Antti Niemi made 29 saves in Saturday's Game 2, 3-0 loss to St. Louis.
Analysis: The loss wasn't Antti Niemi's fault -- the Sharks just couldn't find twine at the other of the rink.
News:Antti Niemi saved 40 of 42 shots Thursday in Game 1 of the Sharks' series with St. Louis and got a double-overtime goal from Martin Havlat to win it.
Analysis:Antti Niemi's certainly had big playoff runs before, and he appears to be geared up for one, but he and the Sharks will have a tough task outdueling the Blues' two amazing goalies. They got the better of Jaroslav Halak, but Brian Elliott, who could be back for the next game, has been unbeatable much of the year.
News:Antti Niemi was pulled from the crease after two periods Saturday, despite having stopped 23 of 25 shots. The Sharks rallied from a 2-0 deficit to hand backup Thomas Greiss an overtime win.
Analysis: If you're big on jumping to conclusions, you might take this as a preview of a Greiss-dominated playoff run. Don't jump to this conclusion; Antti Niemi will be San Jose's go-to goalie in the playoffs.
News:Antti Niemi picked up the win Thursday despite allowing five goals on 36 shots, as the Sharks beat the Kings 6-5 in a shootout.
Analysis:Antti Niemi wasn't great in regulation, giving up those five goals, but was a brick wall when it counted in the shootout as the Sharks gained a crucial point on the Kings. He'll be the starter again as the Sharks host the Kings on Saturday.
News:Antti Niemi will start in a key matchup with the Stars Tuesday, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is 7-2-3 with a 2.10 GAA in 12 outings against the Stars in his career, numbers that are much better than his counterpart with the Stars, Kari Lehtonen (4-5-1, 3.52 GAA in 10 career games against the Sharks).
News:Antti Niemi stopped all 22 shots he faced Saturday against Dallas to pick up his sixth shutout of the season.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has 32 wins in total, and solid numbers overall. He hasn't let in more than two goals in his last four games, and with the Sharks in a heated playoff race, could start every game the rest of the way.
News:Antti Niemi will start Saturday against Dallas, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has been relatively sharp of late, having given up two or fewer goals in four of his last five outings. However, Saturday's game also marks the 18th consecutive start for Niemi since Feb. 28, so you have to wonder whether fatigue will start to become a factor at some point. Regardless, with the ninth-place Sharks currently fighting for a Western Conference playoff spot, you know the Sharks will continue to lean heavily on their No. 1 netminder until their fate has been determined.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 31 of 33 shots Thursday against Phoenix, but Mike Smith spun a shutout on the other end.
Analysis: At this point, it's no longer good enough for Antti Niemi to be merely excellent; he has to be transcendent as the Sharks battle for the playoffs. The bad news is that San Jose's in ninth place; the good news is that they're one point behind third-place Dallas, so continued strong play by Niemi along with some offense could catapult the Sharks from the bubble to home-ice advantage.
News:Antti Niemi took the loss on Wednesday as the Sharks lost to the Ducks 3-1.
Analysis:Antti Niemi had a strong outing, allowing only two goals on 27 shots. With the Sharks in the playoff hunt and four games left against current playoff teams in Dallas and Los Angeles, Niemi will have to be at his best for the Sharks to sneak in.
News:Antti Niemi will once again be in net when the Sharks take on the Ducks on Wednesday, according to Marc Emmons of The San Jose Mercury News.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is a dreadful 1-3 with a 3.19 GAA against the Ducks this season, so he'll have to step up his game as the Sharks make a late push for the Pacific Division title.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 31 of the 32 shots he faced Monday against Colorado to secure his third win in a row.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has had some struggles this season, but he has been the Sharks' best goalie, and with the team still fighting for a playoff spot he's likely to see most, if not all, of San Jose's starts.
News:Antti Niemi will likely be the Sharks' starter in net Monday after leaving the morning skate first, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has 30 victories on the year, and has won his last two games. Still, his play in March has been uneven leading to a mere 5-5-3 mark for a team that is struggling to lock down a playoff spot.
News:Antti Niemi allowed three goals in the first two frames Saturday against Phoenix, but was perfect the rest of the way as San Jose rallied to win in a shootout, 4-3.
Analysis: Here's the deal with Antti Niemi: If you're on anti-anxiety medication, you'd probably better find yourself another netminder. He's usually either brilliant or awful, and there's no good way to predict in advance whether Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde will take the crease on a given night.
News:Antti Niemi will start Saturday against Phoenix, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has been wildly inconsistent the past two months, posting a 7-10-4 record since the start of February along with a 3.63 GAA and .883 save percentage. He will need to really pick up his game in order for the 10th-place Sharks to sneak their way into the playoffs.
News:Antti Niemi carried a shutout deep into the third period Thursday against Boston, but settled for stopping 16 of 17 in an important win.
Analysis: The Sharks are battling for playoff position, so they need Antti Niemi at his best. He bounced back well after surrendering four goals in each of his last two starts.
News: The Sharks will turn back to the inconsistent Antti Niemi Thursday against the Bruins, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is 4-0 in his career against the Bruins, but he's lost his last two games while allowing eight total goals. The Sharks need more consistent netminding if they are going to sneak into the playoffs.
News:Antti Niemi allowed four goals on 41 shots on Tuesday as the Sharks lost to the Kings, 5-2.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is in the bottom half of the league currently for save percentage and has been struggling as of late, performing below his season averages. Until he can get his game going again, he should remain on your bench.
News:Antti Niemi let in four goals on 26 shots Monday against Anaheim. He was pulled after 30:23 and took the loss.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has a .913 save percentage and a 2.45 GAA on the season in 58 games played, and with the Sharks still fighting for the postseason, San Jose will likely rely on him down the stretch. Hopefully he can avoid starts such as this.
News:Antti Niemi will make his 11th straight start in net Monday for the Sharks, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi faces a Ducks club that he's gone a mere 4-4 against in his career. In the last matchup he stopped 26 of 27 shots to earn a victory.
News:Antti Niemi yielded two goals in 63:23 of crease time as San Jose beat the Red Wings in overtime Saturday.
Analysis: Look for the Sharks' coaching staff to go to the well with its ace goalie as often as possible as the regular seaon winds down.
News:Antti Niemi will start Saturday against Detroit, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis: This will make 10 consecutive starts for Antti Niemi as the ninth-place Sharks try desperately to stay alive in the Western Conference playoff race. At 27-18-9, another 30-win season for Niemi seems reasonable at this point.
News:Antti Niemi made 32 saves on 33 shots against Nashville on Thursday night as the Sharks beat the Predators 2-1 in a shootout.
Analysis:Antti Niemi really stepped up his game and only allowed a single goal on a first period penalty kill. He's starting to show the consistency he had at the beginning of the year and should start warranting consideration in your lineup at this point.
News:Antti Niemi will get the start for the Sharks on Thursday as they host the Predators, CSN's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has improved his play as of late although he's not at the level he was at for the beginning of the season. The Sharks as a team have been in a downward spiral as of late and things don't get any easier against the Predators.
News:Antti Niemi made 20 saves on 22 shots against Edmonton on Monday for his first win in six games.
Analysis: The Sharks have been sliding recently, but Antti Niemi hasn't been the issue over the past handful of games. However, San Jose seems like a good bet to turn it around down the stretch.
News:Antti Niemi will start Monday for the Sharks against the Oilers, according to David Pollack of the Mercury News.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has gone five games without a victory in March as the Sharks are floundering like the proverbial fish out of water. Niemi and the Sharks are legitimately in danger of falling out of the playoff picture if they don't tighten things up quickly.
News:Antti Niemi made 26 saves in a 3-0 loss to the Coyotes on Saturday, moving him to 25-18-8 on the season.
Analysis: The loss wasn't his fault -- he can't put the puck in the net at the other end of the ice. He and the Sharks have been in a complete free-fall of late and they are at risk of missing the postseason. He needs to step up and make a statement; he hasn't. Keep him on your bench until such time that he does.
News:Antti Niemi will start Saturday at Phoenix, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis: It's been tough sledding for Antti Niemi lately, who is just 3-7-3 since the start of February. At one point this season, it looked like he was on pace for a 35-40 win season, but now he'll be lucky to get 30. If you have another viable goalie option on your roster, go ahead and use him until Niemi finds a way to turn his game around.
News:Antti Niemi will start against the Stars on Thursday, ccording to David Pollack of the Mercury News.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has a 6-2-2 record against the Stars in his career, and he allowed two goals in his last outing against them to pick up a victory. Niemi simply must show some consistency for a struggling Sharks club.
News:Antti Niemi had a solid outing on Tuesday, stopping 24 of 26 shots, as the Sharks lost to the Oilers 3-2 in a shootout.
Analysis: After a few horrible outings in February, Antti Niemi has righted the ship and played well the past few games despite the 0-3 record during that span.
News:Antti Niemi was the first keeper off the ice Tuesday, signaling that he is likely to start against the Oilers, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is just 4-7-1 since the All-Star break and has dropped his first two outings of March. The Sharks desperately need him to rediscover his lost spark or they could fall out of the playoff race.
News:Antti Niemi allowed three St. Louis tallies Saturday as the Sharks dropped one at home, 3-1. He made 29 saves in the loss.
Analysis: His performances lately have either been torrid or Arctic, so this lukewarm effort is a little hard to classify. The problem is that the Sharks are reeling now, having won just four games in four weeks. Antti Niemi started the season with a (prolonged) bang, but since Christmas, he's 10-11-3, and that kind of run can wreck a fantasy team's fortunes.
News:Antti Niemi is expected to start Saturday against St. Louis, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis: Following a rough patch in the last half of February, Antti Niemi has been solid his last two games, allowing just one goal on a combined 45 shots. However, keep in mind that the Blues are one of the NHL's best defensive teams this year, boasting the league's best goals-against per game record at just 2.00, so run support might be a little tough for Niemi to come by in this one.
News:Antti Niemi played well on Thursday as the Sharks lost to Buffalo 1-0. He stopped 18 of 19 shots.
Analysis:Antti Niemi had been having a stretch of poor play so it's good to see him put up a couple of strong performances back-to-back. The lone goal came off of a Brent Burns turnover as the Sabres were able to capitalize on a 3-on-2 break.
News: The Sharks will turn to Antti Niemi on Thursday night against the Sabres, according to Brodie Brazil of CSN California.
Analysis:Antti Niemi's play has been uneven of late as he has only two victories in seven starts. However, in two of his last three starts he has allowed one and zero goals so perhaps he is nearing a return to the type of play that is expected of him.
News:Antti Niemi stopped all 26 shots he faced Tuesday night to beat the Flyers. It was the Sharks' first game back home after a nine-game road trip.
Analysis: A little home cooking was all it took for Antti Niemi to turn things around, at least for one night. He had been awful on the road trip, where the team went 2-6-1.
News:Antti Niemi will be the starter for Tuesday's game versus Philadelphia, CSN's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has been horrible the past five games for the Sharks as he's allowed 16 GA and been pulled twice during that time period and things don't look to be easy against a very competitive Philadelphia squad.
News:Antti Niemi was pulled from the crease for the second time this week in Saturday's loss at Nashville. He allowed three goals on just seven shots (.571) before being yanked just 16 minutes into the contest.
Analysis: He's obviously a talented goalie, but right now you have to avoid starting him, to the extent that's possible. In his current awful nine-game stretch, he's allowed 29 goals, and that includes two games in which he didn't finish the first period. The Sharks are about to conclude a tough road trip, so perhaps a return home will restore his previous level of play. But we think it's just as likely that backup Thomas Greiss will see more crease time as a result of Antti Niemi's recent play.
News:Antti Niemi made 29 saves on 30 shots in Thursday's victory over Toronto, his first win since Feb. 10.
Analysis: He only got two goals of offensive support, but Antti Niemi made them stand up. He'd lost three starts and been pulled from a fourth since his last victory.
News:Antti Niemi will start Thursday's game against the Leafs, according to James Mirtle of The Globe and Mail.
Analysis:Antti Niemi and the struggling Sharks will get a crack at a Toronto squad Thursday that has lost two straight games by a total of 10-5.
News:Antti Niemi was the first Shark keeper off the ice Tuesday, so he appears likely to start versus the Blue Jackets, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi was solid in his return to the ice, allowing three goals on 28 shots against the Red Wings, but the Sharks are looking at him to be more than "solid." Niemi has only one victory in six starts in February.
News:Antti Niemi allowed three goals on 11 shots in Tuesday's loss to Columbusm, playing 15:18 before being pulled in the first period. The loss was his fourth in as many starts.
Analysis: It was a forgettable night and a forgettable Eastern swing for Antti Niemi, who has lost his last four starts while the Sharks have won just one of their last six games. Niemi hasn't had much help from his teammates, and the Sharks certainly have some questions to answer with the end of the season looming. Niemi's efforts of late are anything but reassuring for his team.
News:Antti Niemi is slated to start in goal for San Jose on Tuesday against Columbus, the Blue Jackets' official site reports.
Analysis: He'll be squaring off against Steve Mason and the Blue Jackets, who currently sit last in the NHL standings with 41 points.
News:Antti Niemi allowed three goals on 28 shots in Sunday's 3-2 loss to Detroit, his third-straight loss.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has fallen on a rough run of play lately for the Sharks, who have lost three straight as well. Niemi's allowed 11 goals over his last three starts and will have to stand on his head down the stretch as he does not receive help from his teammates at times.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 25-of-28 shots in Sunday's loss to the Red Wings.
Analysis: Next up for the Sharks are the last-place Blue Jackets on Tuesday, a matchup that is a far cry from playing a Detroit team that won its record 23rd game in a row at home Sunday.
News:Antti Niemi will start Sunday's game against the Red Wings, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi, who gave way to Thomas Greiss on Friday, will have a chance to get back on track Sunday after giving up six goals to Tampa Bay on Thursday. That said, facing the Red Wings (winners of five straight) at home is a challenge, to say the least.
News:Antti Niemi is expected to start Sunday afternoon at Detroit, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis: This makes for an interesting matchup, as the Sharks have beaten the Wings in five straight regular season games dating back to last season. However, the Wings have been white-hot lately in setting a new NHL record for consecutive wins on home ice (22 and counting). For his part, Antti Niemi has not been entirely sharp lately, going 1-3-1 in his last five games, so we're thinking now might not be the time to be against Detroit's winning streak coming to an end.
News:Antti Niemi was awful Thursday night, giving up six goals on 25 shots, including the game-winner in overtime by the Lightning's Martin St. Louis.
Analysis:Antti Niemi earned the derision from his coach Todd McLellan for his sieve-like performance: "He wasn't any good," McLellan said about Niemi. "I protect him a lot and talk about the team. He has to be better, flat out has to be better. They scored four goals on net play, rebounds, picking up the garbage, wraparounds, jams. That's our D men. That's our low forwards. So everybody has some responsibility, but (Niemi) knows he has to be better."
News:Antti Niemi will be in net for the Sharks in their battle with the Lightning on Thursday, according to David Pollack of The Mercury News.
Analysis: Neimi has been all over the map of late with an eight-game stretch that includes earning two shutouts while allowing four goals in four other contests.
News:Antti Niemi made 25 saves on 27 shots, but still took the loss to St. Louis on Sunday.
Analysis: Aside from missing out on a win, this was still a strong start for Antti Niemi, who has a .917 save percentage and a 2.34 GAA in 42 games played.
News:Antti Niemi was the first goalie off the ice for Sharks on Sunday, which is a good indication that he'll start the team's night game against the Blues, according to Lou Korac of The Jersey County Star & Alton Telegraph.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has given up a total of 11 goals over his last three starts, though his most recent outing resulted in a 5-3 win over Chicago in which he stopped 30 shots.
News:Antti Niemi will be in net to take on his former team, the Blackhawks, Friday according to Brodie Brazil of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis: Look at this odd six game run for Antti Niemi. His last two games he allowed four goals each time. The two previous contests he recorded shutouts. The two games before that he allowed four goals each time. Good luck figuring out which Niemi will appear against his former mates.
News:Antti Niemi will protect the net for the Sharks on Wednesday against the Flames, according to Brodie Brazil of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi allowed four goals in his last outing, but after a month of January that saw him post a 1.96 GAA and three shutouts, you should look at his last outing as a mere blip on the radar screen though he has, oddly, been beaten for four goals in five of his last nine games.
News: As expected, Antti Niemi (middle-body injury) will start between the pipes on Saturday against the Coyotes, the Sharks' Official Twitter reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi should be fine going forward.
News:Antti Niemi, who missed Thursday night's victory over Dallas with a self-described "mid-body" injury after being struck by a puck Wednesday, pronounced himself fit to play after Friday morning's practice, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
"I think so," Niemi answered when asked if he was ready to return. "It's fine now. It's a coaching decision."
Analysis: This is also backed by the fact the team sent Tyson Sexsmith back to Worcester on Friday. The Sharks are off Friday evening, but are back at it Saturday in Phoenix. We'd say the red-hot Antti Niemi is the probable starter.
News:Antti Niemi was dinged up in practice and will not be suited up Thursday versus Dallas, David Pollack of San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: No word yet on how long he'll be out but it appears to be nothing serious and he could be back shortly.
News:Antti Niemi stopped all 30 shots he faced in Tuesday's 6-0 win over Columbus.
Analysis: The schedule gets a lot tougher in the near future, with a nine-game, 15-day road trip coming up in February. This was a nice was to kick off the post-All-Star break stretch.
News:Antti Niemi will start for the Sharks Tuesday against the Blue Jackets, according to Brodie Brazil of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has gone 12-5-2 at home this season, an in his career he has also emerged with a victory in three of four decisions against the Jackets.
News:Antti Niemi registered his third shutout of the season on Tuesday as the Sharks defeated Calgary 1-0.
Analysis:Antti Niemi had 25 saves for the night as he was able to recover from back-to-back poor outings, allowing four goals in each. He'll have a week off as the Sharks enter the All-Star break leading the Pacific Division while playing the least amount of games.
News:Antti Niemi will start in net Tuesday against the Flames, according to Pat Steinberg of Sportsnet Radio FAN 960.
Analysis: Thomas Greiss started for San Jose on Monday against the Oilers, so the Sharks will turn back to their starter in the second of back-to-back outings.
News:Antti Niemi allowed four goals Thursday night as San Jose lost to Ottawa 4-1.
Analysis: He finished with 17 saves to take the loss as the offense was only able to muster one goal on 37 shots.
News:Antti Niemi will start Thursday for the Sharks as they play Ottawa, CSN's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi should continue starting a majority of the games for the Sharks while ceding the occasional start to Thomas Greiss.
News:Antti Niemi made 36 saves on 40 shots in a loss to Chicago on Sunday.
Analysis:Antti Niemi took the loss here, but he still has 19 wins in 33 games played, as well as a .919 save percentage and a 2.31 GAA.
News:Antti Niemi will start Sunday against the Blackhawks, according to Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune.
Analysis: At 19-7-5, Antti Niemi is one of fantasy hockey's surest bets in terms of goalie wins. Furthermore, if your league counts peripheral stats such as GAA and save percentage, Niemi ranks very highly in those categories as well (2.26, .920). Niemi is one of just a handful of 'set-it-and-forget-it' fantasy goalie options out there - just plug him into your lineups and he'll take care of the rest.
News:Antti Niemi picked up his second shutout of the year Thursday against the Jets, stopping all 24 pucks on net.
Analysis:Antti Niemi bounced back nicely from a rough game Tuesday in Minnesota -- he let in four goals and lost in a shootout. He's done as good a job of keeping his team in games as any goalie in the league -- in fact, Niemi's only lost in regulation one time in his last 13 starts.
News:Antti Niemi will be in net for the Sharks Thursday versus the Jets, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi figures to make the vast majority of starts for the Sharks this season, just as he did last year. There's no goalie debate in San Jose - it's Niemi's team.
News:Antti Niemi will take on Josh Harding and the Wild Tuesday, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis: All Antti Niemi does is win. He's emerged with a win in his last three starts and seven of his last nine games for the surging Sharks.
News:Antti Niemi earned his 18th win of the campaign by beating the Caps on Saturday, 5-2. He turned aside 28 shots on the night.
Analysis: His play this season places him somewhere between 10th and 15th overall among NHL goalies. His value in your league accordingly depends on its depth.
News:Antti Niemi will start Saturday's game against the Capitals, according to Katie Carrera of The Washington Post.
Analysis: The streaking Capitals should prove to be a tough test for Antti Niemi, but the Sharks' netminder comes into this matchup with six wins in his last eight games, making him a must-start in all formats.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 26 of 27 shots Wednesday night helping the Sharks to a 3-1 win over the Ducks. It was his sixth win in his last eight starts.
Analysis: He's having a solid season with 17 wins and a 2.29 GAA through 29 games. With a little luck, Antti Niemi should be able to match or better his career-high of 35 wins which he set last year.
News:Antti Niemi will start for the Sharks on Wednesday when they take on the Ducks, according to David Pollack of the San Jose Mercury News.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has five victories in his last seven outings, an over his last six games he's allowed a total of 13 goals as he's locked in and tracking the puck very well.
News:Antti Niemi turned aside 27 of the 29 shots he faced in a shootout win against Vancouver on Monday.
Analysis:Antti Niemi now has 16 wins on the season as well as a .917 save percentage and a 2.34 GAA. Those are fine numbers for any goalie, and the Sharks figure to rack up plenty of victories this year.
News:Antti Niemi will start against the Canucks on Wednesday, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis: With a 15-7-3 record, Antti Niemi is as solid a fantasy goalie play as you could want, and makes for an excellent start in formats that count goalie wins only. For those leagues that reward for peripheral stats, Niemi's GAA (2.34) and save percentage (.917) though not quite good enough for top-ten status, are solid enough to keep you in good standing. Roll Niemi at every opportunity.
News:Antti Niemi made 20 saves on 23 shots in a loss Monday against Anaheim.
Analysis:Antti Niemi had won his four previous starts, and overall he's having a good season playing for one of the best teams in the league, which should mean plenty more victories along the way.
News:Antti Niemi will tend the net for the Sharks on Monday in their matchup with the Ducks, according to David Pollack of the San Jose Mercury News.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is only 3-3 against the Ducks in his career though his GAA of 2.19 speaks to his solid level of play in the matchup with the Sharks' cross-state rivals.
News:Antti Niemi will start for the Sharks in their battle with cross state rivals the Kings, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis: Neimi has owned the Kings in his career with a 1.78 GAA in 10 outings, and he allowed just two goals on 33 shots in his last game against them back on November 28th.
News:Antti Niemi will make his 12th start in 13 games for the Sharks on Wednesday, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has been solid in December with a 2.45 GAA and .905 save percentage, but clearly that save percentage is below expectations for a Sharks club that has Stanley Cup aspirations.
News:Antti Niemi will start Saturday against the Oilers, according to David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News.
Analysis: With just two wins in his last six games, Antti Niemi is scuffling a bit right now. However, the Oilers are just 3-6-1 in his last 10 games, so he has a great opportunity to get back on track against a struggling opponent. For fantasy purposes, Niemi makes for a quality start on any given night.
News:Antti Niemi had an unimpressive game Thursday, allowing four goals on 27 shots, but shut down the Avalanche offense in the third period as his team mounted a comeback to deliver a 5-4 win.
Analysis:Antti Niemi had struggled to win games lately despite playing fairly well, as he'd been just 2-4-2 in his last eight starts, so apparently all he needed to do to get back in the win column was have his worst start in more than a month. He'd gone 13 starts between Nov. 5, the last time he allowed four goals, and Thursday.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 30 of 33 through regulation and OT, but let a pair of shots through in the shootout to take the loss Tuesday against Colorado.
Analysis: He and the Sharks were fortunate to get to the extra period in the first place, as Patrick Marleau's goal with 22 seconds remaining and Antti Niemi sitting on the bench with the net empty sent the game to OT.
News:Antti Niemi will be the starter in net Tuesday against the Avalanche, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is only 2-2-1 in December despite a fantastic 2.16 GAA, as the Sharks' offense simply isn't scoring enough goals right now.
News:Antti Niemi will start the second of back-to-back games Sunday in Chicago, according to ESPN's Jesse Rogers.
Analysis:Antti Niemi will be looking to rebound following a tough 1-0 loss against the Blues on Saturday. As long as he gets some goal support from his teammates, Niemi makes for an excellent fantasy start regardless of his opponent. Start with confidence.
News:Antti Niemi made 31 saves on 34 shots versus Chicago on Sunday, but he took the loss in overtime.
Analysis: Despite the loss, this is a pretty good start, and on the season he has a .920 save percentage and a 2.30 GAA, plus 11 wins. Playing for a team like the Sharks, the victories certainly shouldn't be hard to come by.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 18 of 19 St. Louis shots Saturday (.947), but still lost, 1-0.
Analysis: You know its a forlorn night when you improve your already-solid GAA and save percentage but you lose without even getting to overtime. His season-long numbers are 2.27, .921, enough to make almost any fantasy owner happy.
News:Antti Niemi will start Saturday at St. Louis, according to David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News.
Analysis: In general, this season has been a tough one for fantasy goalie owners thus far, with many so-called "blue chip" starters facing injury issues, bouts of underperformance and time-share situations with their backups. Then there are guys like Antti Niemi. Niemi has pretty much been as advertised, with an 11-5-1 record, 2.34 GAA and .920 save percentage - solid stats that should be serving you well. There aren't very many set-it-and-forget-it fantasy goalie options out there right now, but Niemi is one of them. Sit back and enjoy the results.
News:Antti Niemi will start for the Sharks Thursday against the Stars, according to KeviN Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has been a workhorse in net for the Sharks. With the offense slumping of late, a lot will be on Neimi's shoulders in this tough matchup with their archrivals from Dallas.
News:Antti Niemi will be in net for the Sharks against the Wild Tuesday, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has lowered his GAA to 2.38 after a rough start, an identical match for the mark he posted last season for the Sharks.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 19 of 21 shots Tuesday as the Sharks fell to the Wild 2-1.
Analysis:Antti Niemi let up both goals in the first period, the second coming on a Wild power-play. Unfortunately for him, he was facing the third-stingiest team in the NHL when it comes to goals allowed per game. The loss shouldn't come as a concern to fantasy owners, as Niemi has posted an impressive .943 save percentage in his last five starts.
News:Antti Niemi denied 29 of 32 shots Thursday night in a 4-3 shootout win over the Canadiens.
Analysis:Antti Niemi's perseverance through six rounds of the shootout helped him secure his 10th win of the season. He continues to be one of the most reliable netminders in the NHL.
News:Antti Niemi made 31 saves on 33 shots Monday against Los Angeles, but he still took the loss.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has a .922 save percentage and a 2.35 GAA so far, so even with some early injury issues he's off to an impressive start.
News: The Sharks and Antti Niemi will take on the Kings on Monday night, according to Mark Emmons of the San Jose Mercury.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has owned the Kings in his career going 6-1-2 with a 1.74 GAA. Given how well he has played against everyone this November (5-1-1, 2.13 GAA) you'd be foolish not to have him active.
News:Antti Niemi lost in regulation for the first time in November as the Sharks lost to the Canucks on Saturday, 3-2. He had 24 saves on the night as his five-game winning streak ended.
Analysis: Don't let this loss dissuade you in the slightest; he's still a solid start recommendation whenever he takes the crease.
News:Antti Niemi will start Saturday's game against the Canucks, according to David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is about as consistent as they come between the pipes, with a 9-2-1 record, including five consecutive wins with the last one coming via shutout. His peripheral stats (2.31 GAA, .923 save percentage) are also very solid. Continue to roll him with confidence.
News: Despite a sloppy defense in front of him, Antti Niemi was flawless Wednesday, slamming the door on the visiting Blackhwaks for a 1-0 San Jose victory. He turned aside 34 shots to claim his ninth win of the season.
Analysis: He's won five in a row, allowing just six tallies over that span. There's no reason whatsoever to be shy about starting him.
News:Antti Niemi will start against Chicago on Wednesday, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: He's the clear No. 1 in San Jose and his days off will likely be limited to times where the Sharks are in action on consecutive days. It's a tough matchup for Antti Niemi, but he's 3-1-0 with a 2.84 GAA and .907 save percentage in four career starts against his former club.
News:Antti Niemi will start Saturday at Dallas, according to Kevin Kurz of Comcast Sports Net Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi comes into this matchup against the slumping Stars with three straight wins under his belt, having allowed two or fewer goals in each of those contests. Overall, Niemi is 7-2-1 on the season with a 2.67 GAA and .910 save percentage. He makes for a very reliable fantasy option any given night, so make sure you continue to start him.
News:Antti Niemi will be between the pipes for the Sharks in their battle with the Red Wings on Thursday, according to Kevin Kurz of Comcast Sports Net Bay Area.
Analysis: The Sharks and the Wings are two of the best teams in hockey, and their battles are often epic. Antti Niemi will look to extend his winning streak to three games and to push his home record to 3-1-1 tonight.
News:Antti Niemi faced 22 shots Thursday against Minnesota and turned away 21 of them in a 3-1 victory.
Analysis: Not too much of a challenge for Antti Niemi in this one, as he posted a second strong outing a row on the heels of a very ineffective three-game stretch. Niemi's been able to win so far this year despite not playing up to the kind of numbers he's put up the past two seasons, but it looks like he's getting back on track.
News:Antti Niemi will be the Sharks' starting goalie Monday night versus the Kings, CSN's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis: Despite looking shaky thus far, and with Thomas Greiss standing on his head so far this season, Antti Niemi gets the nod for the matchup. Given his numbers the past two seasons, look for these early season woes to go away and for head coach Todd McLellan to keep putting him in.
News:Antti Niemi made 29 saves on 31 shots and earned a victory Monday against Los Angeles.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has gotten off to a slow start to the season, partially due to injury, but last season seemed to show that he's capable of being a starting goalie in the NHL. He should turn it around eventually, and more games like this are likely.
News:Antti Niemi will start at home against the Predators on Saturday, according to Brodie Brazil.
Analysis:Antti Niemi will look to rebound after getting yanked in Thursday's game against the Penguins. Overall, he is 4-2-0 on the season and should remain a very reliable fantasy starter. Keep him active.
News:Antti Niemi allowed two goals on six shots in 2:04 to start Thursday's game and got a quick hook from coach Todd McLellan, after which backup Thomas Greiss and the Sharks mounted a comeback and won in the shootout.
Analysis: Greiss stopped 29 of 30 in relief, which can't be much of a relief to Antti Niemi owners, who've seen their man struggle mightily in his last two starts while Greiss has come on strong.
News:Antti Niemi and his mates will take on the Penguins on Thursday night, according to CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is 0-1 at home this season, but he went 18-7-3 at the Shark Tank last season. Start him with confidence as the Sharks finished October with five wins in six outings.
News:Antti Niemi surrendered five goals on 31 shots in Monday's loss to the Rangers, his first loss in four starts.
Analysis: The Sharks saw a five-game win streak snapped Monday and Antti Niemi allowed as many goals in this contest as he had in three previous starts. He has led the Sharks since returning to action and should garner the bulk of the starts for one of the league's best teams.
News:Antti Niemi will return from his one-game rest to tend the nets for the Sharks on Monday, according to David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News.
Analysis:Antti Niemi should be well rested to take on the Rangers and that will make it a difficult night for the Blueshirts given that Niemi has allowed a total of just five goals in his last three outings.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 30 of 32 shots in San Jose's 4-2 victory over Detroit on Friday night.
Analysis: He was also named the game's first star. The win was Antti Niemi's fourth in a row.
News:Antti Niemi will start in net for the Sharks on Friday, according to Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is over his early season health woes and continues to build to what most believe will be a top-10 season in net.
News:Antti Niemi set aside 19-of-20 shots from the Predators in the Sharks' 3-1 win Tuesday night.
Analysis: Hopefully patience was practiced with Antti Niemi at the beginning of the season, when he was feeling the effects of having a cyst removed from his knee. Now healthy, the Finnish netminder has rattled off three consecutive wins and is currently working with a sturdy goals-against average of 2.22.
News:Antti Niemi will be in net for the Sharks when they face off against the Predators on Thursday evening, according to David Pollack of the San Jose Mercury News.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has started the year slowly working his way back from a cyst removal in his knee, but he looked like his old sterling self in his last outing against Boston, allowing just two goals on 39 shots. Start him with confidence every time the Sharks send him out.
News:Antti Niemi stopped 37 shots in a 4-2 win over Boston on Saturday night.
Analysis: Team trainers may have a hard time getting all those black rubber marks off his jersey -- Boston snipers were all over the guy. His knee injury is indeed a thing of the past. We have no concerns. Get him back in there.
News:Antti Niemi will be between the pipes Saturday against Boston, David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi, having played Friday against the Devils, apparently sat out Saturday's optional morning skate but is confirmed as the starter against the Bruins. Playing back-to-back games such as these are a good confirmation that the knee problems that kept him out of the first few games of the season are well behind him now. Get him back in your fantasy lineups if you've been holding off doing so.
News:Antti Niemi will start Friday against New Jersey, according to the Bergen Record's Tom Gulitti.
Analysis:Antti Niemi's last start saw him allow three goals on 22 shots Monday against Anaheim. With just four games in the league Friday and the Sharks facing a low-scoring New Jersey squad, Niemi's a solid play for those in daily leagues.
News:Antti Niemi made 19 saves on 22 shots in a loss to Anaheim on Monday.
Analysis: This was Antti Niemi's first start, as he has been dealing with a knee issue. Not a very good opener, but that is no reason to change your opinion on him just yet.
News: It's official, Antti Niemi (knee) will make his first start of the year for the Sharks in their game with the Ducks Monday night, according to Brodie Brazil.
Analysis:Antti Niemi has been dealing with the recovery of a cyst removal from his knee, leading to Thomas Greiss making a couple of starts to open the year. Apparently healthy, Neimi should be counted on as one of the top-10 keepers in the league with a stout Sharks squad in front of him.
News:Antti Niemi (knee) is expected to make his season debut Monday against Anaheim, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Of course, Antti Niemi has to make it through the morning skate and pre-game warmups without a setback, but the table is set for him to get into game action for the first time all season Monday night.
News:Antti Niemi (cyst) will not start in Saturday's game against the Blues, David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: This means Thomas Greiss will prepare for his third start of the season. As for Antti Niemi, the San Jose Mercury News reported Friday that he is expected to play against the Ducks on Monday. We'll let you know if anything changes concerning the status of San Jose's top netminder.
News:Antti Niemi (cyst) completed a full practice on Wednesday, reports CSN's Brodie Brazil.
Analysis: The Sharks got a solid performance out of Thomas Greiss on Saturday but look for Antti Niemi to move back into the starting role as soon as he's healthy.
News:Antti Niemi (knee) is not sure of his availability for Friday's game against Anaheim, Mark Emmons of the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Friday is still four days away, and a lot can change in that span. Still, this is a situation worth monitoring as Antti Niemi is the undisputed No. 1 goalie in San Jose.
News:Antti Niemi's teammate Thomas Greiss will start in the season-opener Saturday against Phoenix, The San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Sharks' head coach Todd McLellan said that Antti Niemi "is very close to being ready." When Niemi returns, Greiss will likely return to the bench.
Sharks' Niemi Skates For Part of Practice Thursday
News:Antti Niemi (cyst) skated for part of Thursday's practice after missing Wednesday's practice entirely, The San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Sharks head coach Todd McLellan said that the decision on whether or not to play Antti Niemi in Saturday's season-opener against Phoenix will be made Friday. Thomas Greiss will get the start between the pipes if Niemi is scratched. Due to Niemi's limited participation in practice, his availability for Saturday is very much in the air.
News:Antti Niemi, who's had a cyst removed from his knee, is "on track" to play in the regular-season opener against the Coyotes, the San Jose Mercury News reports, citing GM Doug Wilson and coach Todd McLellan.
Analysis: "I feel good," Antti Niemi said. "But it's day-by-day. There's good days and worse days. We'll see. I'm not far away, for sure. But it still depends on the day." For the Sharks, the first puck of the new season doesn't drop until this Saturday, so the team still has a few days to make an official determination on Niemi's readiness for the opener. Look for Thomas Greiss to work between the pipes in case Niemi needs more time to heal.
News:Antti Niemi endured a rigorous practice Friday, but despite the apparent progress he's made since having a cyst removed from his leg before training camp, the Sharks have yet to determine if he will be ready for the season opener on October 8, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: The report notes that Antti Niemi has been experiencing pain since undergoing surgery, but Sharks coach Todd McLellan seemed to be pleased with the goalie's progress following Friday's workout. "That's a really good test for the goaltenders, and it's a huge workout for them," McLellan said. "His workload went way up, he played pretty well, and he was smiling when it was all said and done." It should be safe to use a high pick on Niemi in fantasy drafts, but it would be wise to add backup netminder Thomas Greiss as a handcuff, if possible.
News:Antti Niemi, who is recovering from a cyst removal, was on the ice Wednesday, taking shots from his teammates for the second time in as many days, David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: It does not sound like Antti Niemi is in danger of missing the start of the regular season, but we'll fill you in if anything changes with the status of San Jose's top goalie.
News:Antti Niemi faced shots from teammates on Tuesday morning, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: It appears likely that Antti Niemi will be ready for the start of the season, great news for the Sharks and his fantasy owners. With the team's expected improvement on defense, Niemi should be in for a strong season.
News:Antti Niemi still hasn't practiced since having a cyst removed ahead of training camp, but Sharks coach Todd McLellan has indicated that Niemi is on track to be available October 8, when the regular season opens for San Jose, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is getting robbed of valuable practice time which hurts his chances of getting off to a hot start to the season, but this issue is considered minor and should not alter his draft stock by a considerable margin.
News:Antti Niemi (cyst removal) has skated but has not faced shots yet, Comcast SportsNet Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Antti Niemi is not sure if he will be ready when the season begins on October 8th but has disclosed little else. With backup Antero Niittymaki's status also up in the air, the Sharks could struggle between the pipes for the first few weeks of the season. Thomas Greiss is their third option.
News:Antti Niemi has undergone surgery to remove a cyst, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: It's not clear where the cyst had originated, but the good news is that Sharks GM Doug Wilson is reportedly not concerned about the health of the team's top netminder. Antti Niemi is fresh off a 35-win season (60 games played) and could be in line for an heavier workload with the news that backup Antero Niittymaki (groin) could be sidelined for 12 weeks.
News: After a very poor Game 4, Niemi rebounded in Game 5 by stopping 31 of 34 shots before Kevin Bieksa won the game for Vancouver in double overtime.
Analysis: All things considered, Niemi had an average run in the playoffs this year. Nothing like last year when he led to Chicago to the Stanley Cup. But Niemi was outplayed by a better goalie in Roberto Luongo and it shouldn't come as a shock that it's Vancouver who is moving on.
News: Niemi only saw 13 shots in Sunday's Game 4 against the Canucks, but the Sharks still lost, 4-2.
Analysis: Despite outshooting the Canucks by 22 shots, Team Teal was unable to prevent three power-play goals from going behind Niemi in the second period alone. With the Sharks down three games to one in the Western Conference finals, the Finnish backstop will have to quickly forget the ugly loss and focus on Game 5, set for Tuesday.
News: Niemi allowed all seven goals in San Jose's 7-3 loss to Vancouver on Wednesday night.
Analysis: After a strong start in Game 1 of the series, Niemi and the rest of the San Jose squad became completely unglued in the third period of Wednesday night's loss, allowing four goals in the frame.
News: Niemi opened the Western Conference finals by making 35 saves in Sunday's 3-2 loss to the Canucks.
Analysis: It goes in the books as a loss, but Niemi still played well and gave the Sharks a legitimate shot at winning Game 1. Unfortunately for the Finnish netminder, Team Teal managed nine fewer shots on the opposite goal.
News: Niemi made 38 saves on 40 shots by a desperate Red Wings team, including several big saves on tough chances late in the game, to take home the Game 7 victory Thursday.
Analysis: You can hardly blame Niemi for the Wings' comeback from down 3-0 in the series, as he stood on his head all series long and got the payoff with the Game 7 win. He's proved his doubters wrong, backstopping his team to the Western Conference finals for the second straight season to open his career.
News: Niemi stopped 42 of 44 shots in Tuesday's Game 6 loss to Detroit.
Analysis: Niemi did all he could, but it still wasn't enough. It was a very nice bounce-back effort after a very poor Game 5. Niemi will have to be just as good in Game 7 on Thursday night if San Jose is to avoid the ultimate collapse.
News: Niemi only saved 18 of 22 shots in Sunday's 4-3, Game 5 loss to the Red Wings.
Analysis: The Sharks scored the game's first two goals, but Nemo was nowhere to be found in the third period, as Detroit rallied back with three goals to hand Niemi his second consecutive loss in the series.
News: Niemi picked up 36 saves Friday evening, but the Sharks fell short, losing Game 4 by a score of 4-3.
Analysis: Most of the damage against Niemi occurred in the first period, when the Red Wings tucked three goals past him. The Sharks still lead the series 3-1, but the Red Wings have been able to put 81 shots on San Jose's twine tender in the past two games alone.
Niemi Stands Tall In Sharks Overtime Win Wednesday
News: Niemi stopped 38 of 41 shots Wednesday night as San Jose downed Detroit 4-3 in overtime.
Analysis: He's raised his game significantly against Detroit and is now only one win away from going to the Western Conference Finals for the second straight year. Niemi has a 6-2 record in nine appearances for these NHL Playoffs.
News: Niemi put forth a strong outing Sunday against the Red Wings, stopping 33 of 34 shots for a Game 2 win.
Analysis: Despite wavering past the Kings in the opening series, Niemi has been outstanding in two games against Detroit, having allowed just two goals combined in the semifinal series. The series heads to Detroit for Game 3 on Wednesday.
News: Niemi stopped 24 of 25 shots during his victory over the Red Wings in Game One.
Analysis: Niemi had an up and down series versus the Kings, but looked very good on Friday. The Sharks will need Niemi to be at his best in order to send the Wings packing, and Friday had to be a confidence builder for the both the goaltender, and the team.
News: Niemi stopped 26 of 29 shots Monday as the Sharks beat the Kings in overtime to win their first round series.
Analysis: Niemi got pulled twice in this series, but he's still San Jose's starting goaltender and will see most, and perhaps, all of the time in net in the second round.
News: Niemi will start Game 6 for the Sharks on Monday night, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi allowed three goals on four shots in his last outing and has been yanked twice in the Sharks' last three games. With the Kings looking to force a decisive Game 7, Niemi will have to shoulder a heavy load if the Sharks are going to escape.
News: Niemi allowed three goals on the four shots he saw before being pulled from the crease less than nine minutes into Saturday's playoff game against the Kings.
Analysis: If you've counted on him for your playoff goaltending chores, you already know that you're getting pounded. Technically, he's 2-2 in four decisions, but the composite statistics (4.30, .855) tell a much more accurate tale of the level of his play. If you can shift to another netminder while he gets his game straightened out, you would be well-advised to do so.
News: Despite Niemi carrying a hefty 3.63 goals-against average in the playoffs, the Sharks have faith in him being between the pipes, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi put up a dud performance in Game 3, when he allowed four goals on 10 shots, but as the Mercury News points out, he rarely puts up two bad starts in a row. Niemi and the Sharks lead the quarterfinal series 3-1 over the Kings heading into Saturday's Game 5.
News: Niemi set aside 35 shots in Thursday's 6-3 win over the Kings.
Analysis: This was a nice way for Niemi to rebound, as he had been shaky in his previous two starts, including Game 3, when he allowed four goals in 10 shots and was pulled in favor of Antero Niittymaki.
News: Niemi will start in Game 4 against Los Angeles on Thursday, ESPN's Pierre LeBrun reports.
Analysis: Niemi hasn't done well in his last two showings, but he can usually be counted on to do fairly well. It looks like San Jose figures the same.
News: Coach Todd McLellan said he's leaning toward starting Niemi in Game 4 against Los Angeles on Thursday, CSN Bay Area's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis: Despite his embarrassing showings lately, Niemi has yet to fall out of favor, evidently. We'll keep a lookout for San Jose's eventual starter announcement.
News: Niemi was pulled Tuesday night against the Kings after allowing four goals on just 10 shots.
Analysis: Niemi has now allowed eight goals in his last four periods of play. Antero Niittymaki stopped 11 of 12 shots in relief of Niemi on Tuesday. It's likely Niemi will get the call once again in Game 4, but it's a situation to keep an eye on. Either way, the San Jose goaltending situation needs to improve.
News: Niemi followed up Thursday's strong Game 1 performance by laying an egg in Game 2 on Saturday, yielding four Los Angeles goals on just 23 shots as the Sharks fell flat at home.
Analysis: The important thing at this point is how well he bounces back. Since he became the Sharks' primary netminder in late November, he's yielded four or more goals seven times. On those occasions, he allowed a total of 12 goals in the next game, which would indicate that he's fairly resilient in bounce-back situations. A fallible memory can be a real asset in times like this.
News: Niemi, back in the playoffs with San Jose after winning the Stanley Cup with the Blackhawks last year, stopped 33 of 35 shots through regulation and a long overtime to defeat the Kings Thursday in Game 1 of their best-of-seven series.
Analysis: Niemi burst onto the scene last year with a 16-6 record in the playoffs entering the postseason with only 42 NHL games under his belt. This season, he backstopped the Sharks 60 times and had a very fine year, posting a .920 save percentage. San Jose has flown under the radar a bit, but Niemi has played well for them and that, combined with the team's star power on offense, could take them far.
News: Niemi was nearly perfect in San Jose's 3-1 win over Phoenix on Saturday. He stopped 35 shots in pocketing his 35th win of the year.
Analysis: He closed the regular season by going 9-1-1 in his last 11 starts. For the playoffs: Get him. Start him.
News: With a two spot at stake, the San Jose Sharks will have Niemi between the posts in this important regular season final tonight in San Jose.
Analysis: The Phoenix Coyotes will pepper Niemi's '4 by 6' as they try to cop a higher playoff position. You can expect 30+ saves and a big save pct. Antti-cipate the numbers as the Coyotes will be a 'Niemi-cis' throughout the evening.
News: Niemi let four goals past him in Friday's 4-3 loss to the Coyotes.
Analysis: It wasn't the best start from Niemi, but as a fantasy owner, you might forgive him considering he has lost just twice in the past month (13 games).
News: Niemi turned away 31 of the 32 shots he faced Monday in a win over the Kings.
Analysis: After a terrible start that got some fantasy owners worried, Niemi has been really strong down the stretch. He's worth starting in any matchup.
News: Niemi is the expected starter for Monday's game against the Kings, according to CSN Bay Area's Brodie Brazil.
Analysis: Niemi has seven wins in his last eight games, and looks to be heating up nicely with the playoffs now just a week away.
News: Niemi will make his 32nd straight start for the Sharks on Thursday against Dallas, CSN Bay Area's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis: Niemi enters Thursday's contest having won five of his last six starts. He'll be facing a Dallas squad that has lost four straight.
News: Niemi set aside all 29 shots that came his way Thursday against the Stars.
Analysis: This was Niemi's sixth shutout of the season and 12th of his young career. He's only yielded one goal in the past two starts, firmly solidifying his status as one of the most productive netminders in the NHL.
News: The tireless Niemi turned aside 26 shots as the Sharks whipped Phoenix on Saturday, 4-1. It's his 30th victory of the season.
Analysis: All those Ws are terrific, of course, and there's no arguing with his recent success (5-0-1 in his last six games). But we worry that the workload is starting to get to him. Even with Saturday's sparkling outing, his GAA over the past two weeks is 2.93. It's still not a mistake to start him, but use some caution as the final days of the regular season wind down.
News: Niemi was the first goaltender off the ice at Saturday morning's skate, thus he is the likely starter Saturday evening in an important game opposite the hard-charging Coyotes, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: No great surprise as this reportedly will be Niemi's 31st straight start. He gives you a great chance to be rewarded each and every game with respectable stats in wins (30), save percentage (.917) and goals-against average (2.48) categories.
News: Niemi allowed three goals in regulation and was beaten twice in the shootout frame Thursday night against the Kings.
Analysis: Kings forward Dustin Brown accounted for most of the damage against Niemi, as he generated two power-play goals and the winning tally in the shootout. Niemi's record now stands at 30-17-6 with seven games left on Team Teal's schedule.
News: Niemi denied 22 shots in Wednesday's 6-3 win over the Flames.
Analysis: It wasn't the best performance from Niemi, but he had the goal support necessary to effectively lock up his 30th win of the season.
News: Niemi will start against Calgary on Wednesday, CSN Bay Area's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis: With three straight wins featuring save percentages greater than .900, Niemi is looking like a good option right now.
News: Niemi salvaged a 3-1 week, despite a brutal start, by polishing off the Blues on Saturday, 5-3. He collected a whopping 42 assists to claim the W.
Analysis: He's now won three in a row after being yanked midway through Monday's contest at Chicago. He hasn't had a shutout in a month, but there's no arguing with the ultimate stat: He wins games. He's 20-4-3 since mid-January; if you have another goalie who's been better than that, then by all means, sit Niemi. The rest of you, keep the Finn active.
News: Niemi will start against St. Louis on Saturday, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi fell off a bit recently after starting March with two razor-sharp victories, but he's been slowly picking back up in his last two starts. He held Dallas and Minnesota to a combined five goals in San Jose's last two victories. St. Louis has lost six of its last 10, so Niemi has a good shot to build on his two-game winning streak.
News: Niemi made 34 saves in a 6-3 win over the Stars on Tuesday.
Analysis: It was shaping up to be the second straight poor performance from Niemi, as he allowed the game's first two goals. But the Finnish netminder ultimately settled into a groove and the Sharks supplied him with plenty of offense to finish the game. Niemi has now appeared in 50 games this season with a .916 save percentage and a 2.46 goals-against average to show for it.
News: Niemi will start Tuesday's game against the Stars, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi will get a chance Tuesday to bounce back from Monday's shaky effort which saw him yanked after allowing four goals on 18 shots against Chicago.
News: Niemi got the start Monday against his former team, the Blackhawks, but it was not a joyous reunion for him. He let in four goals on 18 shots and got pulled after 27:25.
Analysis: Niemi still has a .916 SV% and a .245 GAA, plus five shutouts. Don't let this poor start change the way you've been using him.
News: Niemi is expected to start Monday night against the Blackhawks, though he might give way to Antero Niittymaki for Tuesday's game against the Stars, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: According to the report, Monday's start against his former team will mark his 25th consecutive start in the crease. He's won all three starts against the Blackhawks this season, with a .933 save percentage and 1.96 goals-against average to boot.
News: Niemi improved his GAA but lost the game as the Sharks stumbled at home in a shootout with the Rangers, 3-2 on Saturday. He made 20 saves in regulation and overtime, but was outdueled by New York's Henrik Lundqvist in a six-round shootout.
Analysis: Both of his last two games have ended in shootout losses, and he's lost three of his last four decisions. If you play the hot hand, he isn't your man right now.
News: Niemi wasn't on top of his game Thursday against Vancouver, allowing four goals on 28 shots through regulation and OT, then losing in the shootout.
Analysis: Niemi hadn't surrendered four goals since Jan. 3, a very impressive span of 25 -- 25! -- starts. Don't let this hiccup stop you from rolling him out again next time.
News: Niemi will start Thursday against Vancouver, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Sharks coach Todd McLellan hinted that Niemi will continue to start every game until a back-to-back set next Monday and Tuesday against Chicago and Dallas, respectively. Expect Antero Niittymaki, who is set to return following a groin injury, to get one of those starts.
News: Niemi allowed two power-play goals to the Predators on Tuesday, but an overtime goal by Patrick Marleau gave the Sharks a 3-2 win.
Analysis: It was just another night at the office for Niemi, who picked up 23 saves in the win and improved his record to 26-16-3 on the season.
News: Niemi will start Tuesday against the Predators, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: With 21 consecutive starts under his belt, look for Niemi to get a night off soon, courtesy of Antero Niittymaki, who is set to return to action following a groin injury. "We're all aware of how much [Niemi] has had to play lately," coach Todd McLellan said. "Get Niitty a few more practices, a few more game situations where he's involved on the bench and then he'll be ready to go play. I think we're going to need both goaltenders. We've said that from the beginning of the year on." Look for Niemi to get the next one or two starts before he gets a breather. In the meantime, continue to roll him as you normally would.
News: Niemi picked up 25 saves against the Stars in Saturday night's 3-2 loss.
Analysis: Niemi allowed a short-handed goal to forward Jamie Benn in the first period, followed by two more at even strength in the final frame. This was his first loss since Feb. 13, though one has to wonder if he'll soon take a night off now that fellow goalie Antero Niittymaki has been taken off injured reserve.
News: Niemi allowed just a goal on 27 shots Thursday against the Red Wings to win his eighth straight start and 12th in his last 14.
Analysis: He's been red-hot and so have the Sharks, so keep rolling Niemi on out there.
Sharks' Niemi Gets New Contract Then Rewards His Employer
News: Niemi, who signed a new four-year, $15.2 million dollar contract this week the Mercury News reports rewarded his employers by stopping 18 of 19 shots in regulation and overtime Tuesday, stoning all three shootout attempts as well as San Jose defeated the Avalanche 2-1 at home.
Analysis: Niemi is on fire and is happy with both his contract and the San Jose area. With the playoff run in full swing, the Sharks have won seven straight with Niemi between the pipes. It is essential to utilize him now and often. The slow recovery by backup netminder Antero Niittymaki just reinforces the need to "finding 'Nemo'" on your roster.
News: Niemi will sign a four-year, $15.2 million contract extension with the Sharks, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Extending Niemi, who has been red-hot of late, gives the Sharks some stability between the pipes, with a duo of Niemi and Antero Niittymaki likely to remain intact for the club in 2011-12 as well, though it's worth noting Niemi has separated himself from Niittymaki this season.
News: Niemi made 21 saves in the Sharks' 4-3 shootout win over Calgary.
Analysis: He now has 15 wins over his last 23 starts, carrying a goals-against average below 2.00 during that span as well. Niemi should have the primary netminder spot sewn up for the Sharks down the stretch as Antero Niittymaki's inability to stay healthy has opened the door for him to lock up the bulk of the starts.
News: Niemi picked up his 22nd win of the season Wednesday night in a 3-2 overtime win over Pittsburgh.
Analysis: It was his fifth win in a row and 13th in his past 17 appearances. With San Jose playing its best hockey of the season, Niemi's fantasy numbers will benefit greatly and makes an easy start right now.
News: Niemi will start against Pittsburgh on Wednesday, CSN's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis: Niemi is on major tear lately, winning eight of his last 10 games. The Penguins are always tough, but Niemi is looking pretty intimidating himself.
News: Niemi made 35 saves in Tuesday's 4-3 win over the Red Wings.
Analysis: Niemi was beaten twice in the second period by Wings forward Danny Cleary, and once more late in the third period by Henrik Zetterberg, before wrapping up the win. The Sharks' top tender has come up with the 'W' in four consecutive starts.
News: Niemi was named the NHL's "First Star" for the week ending Feb. 20, NHL.com reports.
Analysis: Niemi was stellar in three starts last week. He won each game, and posted a .963 save percentage and a 0.98 goals-against average, with one shutout to boot. His unrelenting play has helped the Sharks claw their way into the fourth spot in a very competitive Western Conference. Since Antero Niittymaki is out indefinitely, roll the dice on Niemi. He's hot and should be penciled into the lineup almost every game.
News: Niemi earned his 20th win of the season in impressive fashion Saturday, shutting out the Avalanche with 25 saves.
Analysis: This is his fifth whitewash of the season, placing him in the top five in the league in that category. If your league counts shutouts as a separate scoring category, you already know how rare and doubly valuable they are.
News: Niemi does not seem to be worn out from playing 14 consecutive games, as opined by Mark Emmons of the San Jose Mercury News.
Analysis: "I prefer playing a lot," Niemi said."It's especially fun when you're winning games. I think the main thing is not getting mentally tired. If your body is a little tired, you can work through it if you're mentally alert."Niemi has been getting plenty of overtime hours with fellow goalie teammate Antero Niittymaki on injured reserve because of a lower-body injury.
News: Niemi stopped 23 of 25 shots to beat Washington on Thursday.
Analysis: He's won six of his last eight outings and hasn't surrendered more than three goals since Jan. 3. It's been a very nice run for Niemi behind a sharper San Jose defense lately.
News: Niemi stopped 30 of 31 shots in Tuesday's 2-1 win over Nashville.
Analysis: Niemi had lost two in a row prior to Tuesday, so it was nice to see him get back in the win column. Overall, Niemi has allowed just eight goals in his last six starts, so make sure he's active.
News: Niemi stopped 19 of 22 shots in a 3-2 loss to the Panthers on Sunday.
Analysis: Niemi has now lost two straight starts after winning eight out of his last 10. The Sharks have been playing well as a team though, so continue to roll with Niemi regularly.
News: Niemi will start Wednesday against Columbus, the Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi has two consecutive shutouts under his belt, so it looks like the starting job is his to lose for now. With Antero Niittymaki reportedly re-aggravating a lower-body injury during Tuesday's pre-game warmup, expect Niemi to start every game for the Sharks for the foreseeable future.
News: Niemi stopped 42 of 44 shots Wednesday night as San Jose beat Columbus 3-2.
Analysis: He's been white hot over his past 10 games, winning eight of them. Niemi's a great start right now and San Jose is playing its best hockey of the season.
News: Niemi stopped all 25 shots he faced in Tuesday's 2-0 win over Washington.
Analysis: Niemi has now posted two straight shutouts and he has won seven of his last nine overall. Obviously, make sure he's active.
News: Niemi will make his ninth consecutive start Tuesday against the Capitals, according to Comcast Sportsnet's Kevin Kurz.
Analysis: With Antero Niittymaki still out with a groin injury, Niemi appears to be settling in nicely as the Sharks' top goalie, posting six wins in his last eight games. He should be in your lineup every time he takes to the ice.
News: Niemi stopped all 26 shots he faced Saturday in a 2-0 shutout win over the Bruins.
Analysis: With Antero Niittymaki (groin) suffering a setback during Friday's practice, Niemi has a golden opportunity to solidify his place as the Sharks' No. 1 netminder during the stretch run. All three of Niemi's shutouts this season have come on the road, and that he was able to blank the Bruins in an early Saturday afternoon matinee on the east coast makes the performance even more impressive.
News: Niemi will start Saturday's game against Boston, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: With backup Antero Niittymaki re-injuring his groin in practice Friday, it looks like Niemi is set to carry the starting load for the Sharks over the forseeable future. Furthermore, there are now reports that rookie Alex Stalock (AHL Worcester) was also injured during a minor league game Friday, so the Sharks might be scrambling to find themselves a backup for Niemi going forward.
News: Niemi blocked 27 of the 30 shots that he faced from the Ducks on Wednesday before securing his 14th win on the season.
Analysis: It wasn't the greatest performance from Niemi, but he still got the job done thanks to an extra push by Team Teal's offense.
News: Niemi will start Wednesday against the Ducks, CSN's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis: Niemi was pulled from Tuesday's contest against the Coyotes in favor of Alex Stalock, who went on to record a win in his NHL debut. In his first start against the Ducks this year, Niemi let in just one goal on 28 shots, but still took a loss.
News: Niemi will start Tuesday's game against Phoenix, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi won four of five starts for the Sharks prior to the All-Star break, so coach Todd McLellan will continue to ride the hot hand here, especially with Antero Niittymaki still out with a groin injury.
News: Niemi stopped 18 of 20 shots through regulation and overtime Wednesday against the Kings, but was done in by Jarret Stoll in the shootout frame.
Analysis: Niemi allowed both regulation goals at even strength in his fifth consecutive start. He was able to get plenty of work leading up to the All-Star break because fellow goalie Antero Niittymaki is dealing with a groin injury.
News: Niemi will start Wednesday's game against the Kings, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi is on a nice streak right now, with four consecutive wins under his belt. With Antero Niittymaki out until after the All-Star break with a groin injury, Niemi is making a strong bid to open the second half of the season as the Sharks' official full-time starter. Keep him active.
News: Niemi was a bit wobbly in Saturday's contest against the Wild, allowing three goals on 26 shots (.885). But his teammates found the net four times to enable him to collect his fourth win in a row.
Analysis: Next up is a trip to Los Angeles on Wednesday, and a likely duel with the Kings' Jonathan Quick. But that's the only contest on the slate for the Sharks in the next 10 days, as we approach the All-Star break.
Sharks' Niemi Gets Starting Nod Saturday Against Wild
News: Niemi will start Saturday against the Wild, the Minneapolis Star Tribune's Michael Russo reports.
Analysis: Niemi has been outstanding his past three games, all wins, with a .950 SV% and a 1.67 SV% over that span. Coach Todd McLellan will likely continue to ride Niemi's hot hand for the time being, and so should you.
News: Niemi's teammate Antero Niittymaki, who suffered a groin injury making a save during breakaway drills at Thursday's skate, has been placed on IR and will be out of action for at least a week, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: The Sharks have a very light schedule in the coming days, with just two games until the All-Star break next weekend. It's almost a certainty Niemi will start both of them.
News: Niemi stopped 36 of 37 shots in regulation and OT, then was perfect in the shootout to defeat Roberto Luongo and the Canucks on Thursday.
Analysis: Niemi's now won three straight and has been magnificent in the month of January despite an unimpressive 4-4-0 record, as his 1.88 GAA and .942 save percentage for the month are very impressive numbers. With the Sharks' offense getting back on its feet (er, skates), he could rack up wins in the second half.
News: Niemi's teammate Antero Niittymaki was injured during the morning skate and is unable to start or back up Thursday against the Canucks, according to a Canucks TV report.
Analysis: Niemi may have been in line to start this game anyway, but Niittymaki's injury makes it a lock. If you're one of those Niemi owners who might get a little giddy over Niittymaki's misfortune, you might also want to remember a win Thursday is no slam dunk, as the Sharks are pretty big underdogs on the road against one of the NHL's best teams.
News: Niemi stopped 34 of 36 shots in Monday's win over Phoenix.
Analysis: Niemi's had some hard luck in his starts leading up to this with just two wins in his last six starts, but got a bit of goal support Monday for the win.
News: Niemi will start Monday's game against the Coyotes, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi has won just twice in his last six starts, but he has only given up 12 goals over that span. Niemi will be looking for his second straight win against Phoenix after allowing just one goal against them on December 23.
News: The Sharks ended a six-game losing streak behind Niemi's 28 saves Saturday, beating the Blues, 4-2.
Analysis: The W also ends a personal four-game losing string for Niemi, who has actually played quite well since the calendar turned to 2011 (2.04, .935 in six starts). The toothless San Jose attack has cost him a couple of games he should have won. San Jose has a bit of work to do to turn this season around, but Niemi's recent composite numbers indicate that he may be a reasonable fantasy play, especially if you think (as we do) that the Sharks' offense will awaken.
News: Niemi will start against the Blues on Saturday, CSN's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis: Niemi continues to get the majority of work between the pipes for the Sharks lately, having started eight of the team's last 11 games. However, the team is in a downward spiral at the moment, with six straight losses under their belts as the goal scoring seems to have dried up. Since Evgeni Nabokov left town, owning a Sharks' netminder for fantasy purposes is not the slam-dunk it once was. Keep Niemi on your bench for now, and start looking for other options until the team somehow manages to right the ship.
News: Niemi will make the start for the Sharks against the Blues on Saturday, CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: Niemi opened the month with a 1-0 win over the Kings, but he's suffered four straight losses since then. Overall, the sputtering Sharks are 2-8 in their last 10 contests.
News: Niemi allowed three goals on 25 shots Tuesday in a 4-2 loss to the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: Niemi cruised through the first two periods, but ran into serious trouble in the final frame. Despite solid starts here and there, the Finnish tender is hard to trust for fantasy purposes with the Sharks struggling so much as a whole unit.
News: Niemi looked good Sunday night stopping 27 of 28 in the Sharks' 1-0 loss to the Anaheim Ducks.
Analysis: Normally, giving up one goal would be enough to get yourself a win, but his teammates could not get anything past Ducks goalie Jonas Hiller.
News: Niemi will get the nod between the pipes Saturday against the Predators, reports the Mercury News.
Analysis: Niemi has won three of his last five starts, bettering his overall record which now stands at 9-10-2. However, he is still splitting time with fellow netminder Antero Niittymaki, who started Thursday's game against the Sabres. Coach Todd McLellan has said he will continue with the two-goalie system right up until the playoffs, so unless something changes between now and then, don't expect a full starter's workload from either guy.
News: Niemi swatted away 43 shots against the Canucks on Monday, but the four goals that he allowed proved to be too much as he was the game's losing goalie, 4-3.
Analysis: Under heavy attack all night, the 47 shots that Niemi saw were the most for him all season. Still, it was a decent start from Niemi considering he saved a ton of shots while the team defense let him down a bit.
News: Niemi will start Monday's game against the Canucks, according to the San Jose Mercury News.
Analysis: Niemi is 3-1-0 in his past four games, including a 29-save shutout against the Kings on Jan. 1. Despite coach Todd McLellan's recent insistence that he plans to use a two-goalie system this season, the numbers don't lie - Niemi has started 12 of the past 17 games, effectively relegating Antero Niittymaki to the backup role. As long as Niemi keeps racking up the W's, you should expect him to continue to get the majority of starts going forward.
News: Niemi was perfect in the crease in Saturday's 1-0 win at Los Angeles. He turned aside 29 shots to earn his second shutout and ninth win of the campaign.
Analysis: The Sharks give us a perfect example of a pure platoon system in net, and the weakness of that system for fantasy purposes. Niemi and Antero Niittymaki have each appeared 20 times this season. Niittymaki is the marginally better backstop to own, based on his 12 wins and a noticeably better GAA; but you probably won't fare well in your league's goaltending categories with what amounts to a part-time player.
News: Niemi will be in net for the Sharks on Saturday against the Kings, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi allowed four goals in a home loss to the Kings as recently as Dec. 27, but still played better than the numbers suggest. He's a recommended fantasy starter against the Kings given his .926 goals-against average after four games facing them in this 2010-11 campaign.
News: Niemi will start against the Blackhawks in Chicago on Thursday, ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: We bet you saw this one coming. Niemi will stop pucks in the Windy City for the first time since leading the Blackhawks to a Stanley Cup win last season. He's predictably been getting every start against his former team, having already defeated the Blackhawks twice at the Shark Tank in San Jose and set to take shots from them Thursday.
News: Niemi came back to Chicago for the first time to face his old team, the Blackhawks, and stopped 26 of 29 shots to improve to 3-0-0 against them.
Analysis: Although this wasn't Niemi's finest outing, a win's a win, and he's taken some tough losses lately despite having elevated his game.
News: Niemi gave up four third-period goals to get the loss against the Kings on Monday night.
Analysis: For two periods Niemi was stout, turning aside 30 shots. But the levee broke in the third period, beginning with a goal by Trevor Lewis.
News: Niemi will battle between the pipes Monday for an inter-division contest against the Kings, CSN's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis: Niemi was stubborn in his last start by allowing just one goal to the Coyotes, but facing the Kings figures to be a tougher challenge. Still, the team's decision to start Niemi against a talented club ranked a peg higher than the Sharks in the Pacific Division standings speaks volumes about the apparent confidence that Team Teal's coaches and staff still have in the reigning Stanley Cup-winning tender, following a slow start to the season.
News: Niemi stopped 24 of 25 shots Thursday against Phoenix to pick up his seventh win of the year.
Analysis: Niemi had lost two in a row despite playing well, so it's good to see him be rewarded. After two pretty horrible months to start the season, Niemi's December numbers -- a 2.11 GAA and .926 save percentage in eight starts -- are finally starting to measure up to last year's success.
Sharks' Niemi Gets Starting Nod Thursday Against Phoenix
News: Niemi will start Thursday night against Phoenix, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: And the starting goalie carousel between Niemi and Antero Niittymaki in San Jose continues. Niemi has watched the other half of the Finnish tender tandum (otherwise known as Niittymaki) turn in three consecutive wins. In related news, Niemi is sure to benefit from the return of shutdown defenseman Douglas Murray, who has been out the past five games with a lower-body injury.
Sharks' Niemi Gets Starting Nod Wednesday Against Preds
News: Niemi will start on Wednesday against Nashville, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Despite this being Niemi's fourth consecutive start, and seventh in eight games, coach Todd McLellan is not considering him the team's No. 1 netminder. "[The competition with Antero Niittymaki] is ongoing and I'm sure it will be that way all year," McLellan said. "I'd like to keep the two-man option available to our club all year and that includes playoffs if we're fortunate enough to be competing in that tournament." That said, expect to see Niemi continue to get the majority of starts over the foreseeable future, as long as he continues to play well.
Sharks' Niemi Plays Well Despite Shootout Troubles
News: Niemi played well by stopping 29 of 31 shots in a 3-2 SO loss to the Stars on Monday.
Analysis: Even though Niemi ultimately allowed both of Dallas' goals in the shootout, he was strong in the regulation period and posted a .935 save percentage in the game. Niemi has had his share of ups and downs in goal this season while splitting minutes with alternate goalie Antero Niittymaki, which makes it tough for fantasy owners to depend on him.
News: Niemi will start Monday's game against the Stars, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi has played well of late, posting a 2.19 GAA and .921 SV% in five starts this month, but he will be tested by a Stars team that is currently first in the Pacific Division.
News: Niemi did all the Sharks asked of him Saturday against his former team, turning aside 28 shots as San Jose beat Chicago in overtime Saturday, 2-1.
Analysis: He's splitting time with Antero Niittymaki right now, so a strong outing like this will help ease the pain of Thursday's ugly five-goal loss.
News: Niemi will start in goal Saturday against the Blackhawks, the Chicago Sun-Times' Adam Jahns reports.
Analysis: Niemi has had a tough go of things this season, and his lack of success continued Thursday night when he allowed five goals to Buffalo. We don't have high hopes for him against the potent Blackhawks attack.
News: Niemi allowed five goals on 36 shots in Thursday's loss to the Sabres.
Analysis: In just 13 starts this year, Niemi has allowed four or more goals five times. Antero Niittymaki has outplayed him completely.
News: Niemi will start Thursday against the Sabres in Buffalo, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Not a big shocker as alternate goalie Antero Niittymaki out-dueled Philadelphia in a shootout as recently as Wednesday night. As for Niemi, he has been playing much better as of late, and the opportunities have followed. He's won every other start dating back to Nov. 4, but has never faced Buffalo.
News: Niemi stopped 25 of 27 shots in Monday's 5-2 win over Detroit.
Analysis: Niemi is still in a fierce battle with Antero Niittymaki for playing time, but he has now started three games in a row, and for the moment, he appears to be the number one guy in San Jose. Keep in mind, that can and likely will change again.
News: Niemi will start against the Red Wings on Monday night, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: After the Wings picked apart Antero Niittymaki in their last meeting a week ago, it should come as little surprise that Niemi is getting the call Monday. It is interesting to note, however, that Monday will make three consecutive starts for the Finnish backstop, which is the first time all season that head coach Todd McLellan has rolled him three games in a row.
News: Niemi allowed three goals on 19 shots in Saturday's 3-1 loss to Montreal.
Analysis: Niemi had been playing better recently, including a shutout on Thursday, but he's been highly inconsistent all season long, as evidenced by this performance.
News: The Sharks will ride the hot hand by starting Niemi in a Saturday afternoon contest against the Canadiens, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi generated a shutout, his first with San Jose, against Ottawa on Thursday. Of course, a win over first-place Montreal would do wonders for Niemi's confidence following a relatively slow start to the season. There are much safer fantasy options in goal, but Niemi has looked better as of late.
News: Niemi was on top of his game Thursday in Ottawa, stopping all 28 shots that came at him in the process of securing his first shutout as a member of the Sharks.
Analysis: This awesome individual effort from Niemi essentially balances out his previous performance on November 26, when he let in six goals in a loss to Vancouver. The Sharks supported their tender with four goals against Pascal Leclaire of Ottawa, picking up a big road victory from an out-of-conference team.
News: Niemi allowed six goals to the Canucks on Friday, while the Sharks only managed a single goal in the loss.
Analysis: Niemi was rewarded with the start following his solid performance against his former team Wednesday, but he and the Sharks simply did not have it when facing the Canucks. Considering Niemi has been in goal the last two times, it wouldn't surprise us to see Antero Niittymaki back in goal soon.
News: Niemi will pick up another start Friday when the Sharks take on the Canucks, according to the San Jose Mercury News.
Analysis: This will be his second straight and he's obviously being rewarded for Wednesday's start, where he beat the defending champ Blackhawks while making 30 of 32 saves. The start will be Niemi's ninth of the season to Antero Niittymaki's 12th in what's become a true timeshare.
News: Niemi made 30 saves in Wednesday's 5-2 win over his former team, the Blackhawks.
Analysis: Niemi hasn't seen a tremendous amount of work, but this was a good spot to put him into as he showed flashes of brilliance in stopping his former teammates. This was his third win of the season and is now waiting for any opportunity for sustained playing time.
News: Niemi will start Wednesday against the Blackhawks, Brodie Brazil of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: For an unknown reason, head coach Todd McLellan was keeping his starting goaltender announcement close to the vest until Wednesday afternoon. In any case, Niemi will get a chance to start against the club he backstopped to a Stanley Cup last spring.
News: Will Niemi face the Blackhawks, his former team, on Wednesday? "Potentially," said Sharks coach Todd McLellan in a report by the San Jose Mercury News.
Analysis: As the Mercury News points out, McLellan has been tight-lipped about who will start until the day of each game. Starting a netminder against his former team is usually an interesting proposition. Niemi has to be at least somewhat familiar with the inner workings of the Chicago offense, but similarly, the 'Hawks may be keen on Niemi's vulnerabilities. We'll keep you in the loop as to which goalie - Niemi or Antero Niittymaki - officially gets the call against the defending champs Wednesday.
News: Niemi let in two goals 29 seconds apart late in the third period Thursday, then allowed the winner in overtime.
Analysis: He had a 4-2 lead with three minutes left in the game and couldn't close it out. The game-tying and game-winning goals were Mike Ribeiro's first two of the year, another ugly mark on Niemi's slate.
News: Niemi will start in goal Thursday against Dallas, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi has started six games for the Sharks this season, with poor results overall. He's 2-1-0 with a 2.21 GAA in three career games against the Stars.
News: Niemi won shakily Saturday, escaping with a 4-3 home victory against the Flames. He stopped 28 shots to get the W.
Analysis: He needed a strong performance to hold off teammate Antero Niittymaki, who's proving to be the better choice in the crease for the Sharks this season.
News: Niemi will start Saturday against the Flames, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi will be making his sixth start this season. He lost his last start, November 4 against the Blues, but only allowed two goals in the game. Niemi has been losing playing time to Antero Niittymaki in San Jose, so this will be an important contest as he looks to build some momentum.
News: Making his first start since October 24, Niemi allowed two goals on 29 shots in Thursday's 2-0 loss to the Blues.
Analysis: Niemi suffered his fourth loss of the season, but actually trimmed his goals-against average to 3.90 with the steady performance. Despite his obvious struggles early on this season, Sharks coach Todd McLellan confided in Niemi by starting him against the Blues and Jaroslav Halak, arguably the league's hottest goaltender not named Tim Thomas. Unfortunately for hockey fans in the Bay Area, the Sharks couldn't generate any offense to support Niemi in his quest to get back on track.
News: Niemi will start in goal Thursday against St. Louis, the Alton Telegraph's Louie Korac reports.
Analysis: Antero Niittymaki has been sharper than Niemi this season, and if Niemi struggles again Thursday, his opportunities may be few and far between in the near future. It's probably not time to cut bait on Niemi just yet, but he really needs to turn things around soon.
News: Niemi was pulled from Sunday's game against Calgary after surrendering three goals in the first period. The Sharks ended up losing by a score of 4-0.
Analysis: Niemi only came up with two saves in a little over eight and a half minutes of ice time before head coach Todd McLellan replaced him with Antero Niittymaki. The Sharks struggled mightily as a team, though the Flames certainly deserve credit for playing a quick transition game and scoring on the power play. Niemi may be last season's Stanley Cup hero for Chicago, but he's been terrible in teal. He ranks dead last in goals-against average (4.49) and save percentage (.854) among netminders that have made at least three starts this season.
News: Niemi, who has allowed nine goals in his last two starts, worked on his game Friday with Corey Schwab, the team's goalie development coach, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: The specific nature of the coaching session was not revealed. Niemi carries a hefty 3.71 goals-against average in three starts, so hopefully the additional practice will make a difference in his next scheduled start. At this point, it's unclear when that may be.
News: Niemi allowed five goals Tuesday against the Hurricanes.
Analysis: It will be interesting to see who gets the next start in goal for San Jose. Niemi has received the lion's share of the starts for Team Teal, whereas Antero Niittymaki has only appeared in one game to date.
News: Niemi is expected to block pucks for the Sharks on Tuesday against the Hurricanes, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: In the likely event that Niemi gets the nod, Niemi will have had three starts to Antero Niittymaki's one. Niemi will be looking to rebound from his last start when he let in four goals to the Thrashers.
News: Niemi yielded four goals on 28 shots in Saturday's 4-2 home-opening loss to Atlanta.
Analysis: San Jose jumped out early with two goals in the first period but Niemi let in four unanswered goals -- including a power-play tally from former teammate Dustin Byfuglien -- to suffer his first loss of the season.
News: Niemi will start in goal Saturday for the home opener against the Thrashers, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi will face several of his former teammates from the 2010 Stanley Cup Blackhawks team that were traded to Atlanta in the offseason. Former Hawks players like Dustin Byfuglien and Andrew Ladd, to name a few, will try to slip the puck past Niemi in Saturday's contest. Niemi is good for spot starts in fantasy hockey but to take full advantage of his services, you must carefully track the goalie situation in San Jose to make sure Niemi is starting when you're expecting him to in daily leagues.
News: Niemi will be in net for Saturday's game against the Blackhawks, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Niemi helped lead the 'Hawks to the Stanley Cup title last season, so he will get a chance to face several of his old teammates. The Blackhawks have scored 11 goals in four games this season, so Niemi will face a stiff challenge in his second start of the season.
News: Niemi turned away 30 shots against the Blue Jackets in Friday's 3-2 win in Stockholm, Sweden.
Analysis: All of the damage against Niemi came in the first period, but he was able to rebound and close the door on the Blue Jackets for his first win as a Shark.
News: Niemi will start in goal Friday night against Columbus, the Sharks' official site reports.
Analysis: "Antti Niemi will start tonight," said head coach Todd McLellan. "It's not an indication for the season, it is for today. We'll play tonight's game and see what happens from here." Neither Niemi nor fellow Finn Antero Niittymaki ran away with the starting gig during preseason. Even though Niemi has already won the Stanley Cup, Niittymaki has more NHL experience with 210 games played versus Niemi's 42.
News: Niemi let in three goals on 19 shots in Tuesday's 3-1 loss to the Canucks.
Analysis: Niemi has now recorded 48 saves on 55 shots after three exhibition games. Last season, in Chicago, he successfully fended off Cristobal Huet en route to the Stanley Cup, and now he must do the same with Antero Niittymaki in the Bay Area of California.
News: Niemi surrendered three goals on 14 shots against Anaheim on Friday in his preseason debut with the Sharks, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Neither Niemi nor Antero Niittymaki fared particularly well in their first exhibition starts, but it's probably too early to pass judgment on the new goalies for Team Teal. In Niemi's case, two of the goals came when the Sharks were shorthanded a pair of players. Niemi didn't sound too discouraged from his first start. "The start was pretty hard, giving up two goals before making too many saves," Niemi said. "After a couple shifts, I thought I felt pretty good." It remains unclear as to which goalie in San Jose will get the bulk of the starts.
Antti Niemi: Stiff Competition Expected in Training Camp
News: Sharks head coach Todd McLellan has not been specific about how many starts Niemi will get in goal, rather suggesting that there will be an "open competition" in training camp, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: "Ultimately, a goalie decides his own fate when it comes to how many games he plays," McLellan said. "Whoever is playing well and doing what they're supposed to do is going to get to play." Niemi is the proven winner, but Antero Niittymaki has the most NHL experience (210 games) and Thomas Greiss is the team's top netminder prospect just waiting for his chance. It sounds like the hot hand in training camp will win the job.
News: Niemi has signed a one-year, $2 million contract with the Sharks, Brodie Brazil of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: Antero Niittymaki is far from a lock to hold down the No. 1 job all season, so the Sharks' goaltending situation just became a bit more interesting. Backup Thomas Greiss will almost certainly begin the year in the AHL while Niemi pushes Niittymaki for starts on a talented San Jose club.
News:Marty Turco will replace Stanley Cup hero Antti Niemi as the Blackhawks' top goalie in 2010-11 after signing a one-year contract on Monday. The 26-year-old Niemi helped the Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup this past season after earning $826,875 as a rookie. He was awarded a $2.75 million salary for next season by an arbitrator last week, putting the Blackhawks in a tough spot. Bowman declined to say whether the team could have squeezed Niemi's award under the NHL's salary cap, set at $59.4 million next season. However, Bowman said he made several attempts to sign Niemi to a multi-year contract before the goalie's case went to arbitration. "We exhausted all of our options to make this work," Bowman said. "This is the direction that made the most sense. You have to have flexibility within your roster and this was the best way to defend the Cup."
Analysis: Niemi, a Finn who signed with the Blackhawks in May 2008, becomes an unrestricted free agent. He played all but one period of the Blackhawks postseason run to the championship, going 16-6 with a 2.63 goals-against average, .910 save percentage and two shutouts. Niemi is the eighth player to leave the Blackhawks since the team won its first Stanley Cup in 49 years, joining Andrew Ladd, Ben Eager, Dustin Byfuglien, Brent Sopel, Adam Burish, Colin Fraser and Kris Versteeg. John Madden, a 37-year-old unrestricted free agent, has yet to sign with a team. Niemi's agent, Bill Zito, said he was talking to several NHL teams and expects Niemi to land with a new club before the start of the season. We just aren't sure he will be in as good a situation as he was with Chicago. Only time will tell. Track Niemi's progress before taking a flier on him Draft Day.
News:Brad Stuart scored at 3:11 of overtime past Antti Niemi, as the Detroit Red Wings prevented Chicago from winning the Western Conference by beating the Blackhawks, 3-2, on Sunday. Stuart took a nice pass from Daniel Cleary to beat Niemi, who finished with 18 saves. Niemi had his win streak snapped at six games.
Analysis: It has been quite a season for Niemi, who finished 26-7-4 with a .912 save percentage and 2.25 GAA. After beating out Corey Crawford for the backup role in the preseason, Niemi posted four shutouts in his first 12 appearances and started to show he could be more than a backup goalie. After Cristobal Huet began to struggle in net, Chicago turned to Niemi, who appears to have snaked the starting job toward the end of the season. He proved to be a better fit for the departed Nikolai Khabibulin and could return in 2010-11 as the Blackhawks' top netminder. If that happens, then Niemi will be a popular Fantasy draft pick. The Blackhawks TG should remain a No. 1 option on Draft Day, as Chicago will once again be contenders.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi was spotted a 4-1 lead in the first period Wednesday and survived a late flurry during Chicago's 6-5 victory over the Blues. St. Louis scored three third-period goals to cut it close, the last by Brad Boyes coming at 19:29, but Niemi hung on for the win. He made 26 saves.
Analysis: Niemi gave up five goals on Wednesday, one more than he'd allowed in his previous four starts. He's won five starts in a row, and is peaking at the right time. You might as well keep Niemi active in Fantasy. The Blackhawks TG is a high-end option as well.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi made 26 saves in his sixth straight start during Tuesday's 5-2 win against the Stars. Niemi was handed a three-goal lead before Steve Ott scored on the power play 7:02 into the second. Niemi is 4-2-0 in his last six starts, highlighted by a current four-game winning streak.
Analysis: Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville hasn't officially named Niemi as his playoff starter over Cristobal Huet, but that seems to be the direction in which Quenneville is leaning based on recent starts. And why not? Niemi is peaking at the right time for the Blackhawks and Fantasy owners. You might as well keep Niemi active in Fantasy. The Blackhawks TG is a high-end option as well.
News:Antti Niemi made 25 saves for Chicago during a 4-1 rout of the Flames on Sunday. Niemi held a three-goal lead before Ian White scored 16:34 into the second. He made 10 saves in the first and 11 saves in the third. Niemi also had an assist as he won a third straight contest.
Analysis: Niemi was solid in his fifth straight start and ninth in Chicago's last 11 games. He has allowed only two goals during his recent win streak and has taken the reigns of the starting job in Chicago. Niemi is definitely a Fantasy sleeper for the final week of the season (April 5-11). The Blackhawks TG remains a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi turned away 32 pucks against New Jersey on Friday, as Chicago defeated G Martin Brodeur and the Devils 2-1 in a shootout. Niemi has had the lamp lit against him only once in his last two starts.
Analysis: Niemi continues to play well, allowing only eight goals over his last five starts. He should be viewed as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Blackhawks TG is starting to lose some Fantasy appeal as the Blackhawks slump heading toward the finish line.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi made 21 saves on Wednesday, as Chicago shutout the Wild 4-0. It was his seventh shutout of the season and third in seven games.
Analysis: Despite shutting out the opponent three times in his last six starts, Niemi is only 3-2-1 during that stretch. He should be viewed as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Blackhawks TG is starting to lose some Fantasy appeal as the Blackhawks slump heading toward the finish line.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi made 26 saves during a 4-2 loss to the Blues on Tuesday. Niemi and the Blackhawks jumped out to a 2-1 lead after the first period. Unfortunately, Chicago's offense stalled and St. Louis rallied fore three unanswered goals. Niemi lost a second straight start.
Analysis: Niemi has started five of the last six games ahead of slumping Cristobal Huet. While Niemi hasn't been winning on a frequent basis post-Olympic break, he is still at least playing better than Huet. Consider Niemi a low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Blackhawks TG is starting to lose some Fantasy appeal as the Blackhawks slump heading toward the finish line.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports that Blackhawks G Antti Niemi will start in goal against the Blues on Tuesday night.
Analysis: Niemi has been a little up and down lately with two shutouts in his last four starts, but those were his only wins during that span. Because he's slowed down a bit and could lose starts to Cristobal Huet at any time, consider Niemi a low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie for now. The Blackhawks TG remains a must-start option, while Huet is barely worth using in average-point leagues at this point.
News:Antti Niemi started for the fourth time in five games for the Blackhawks and made 16 saves during a 4-2 loss to the Blue Jackets on Sunday. He held an early 1-0 advantage before Columbus scored three unanswered goals. Chicago cut the deficit to one at 16:47 in the third before Jakub Voracek iced the game with an empty-net score. Niemi is 2-1-1 in his last four starts with two shutouts in that span.
Analysis: While Niemi has been a little hot and cold over the last few weeks, he has still played better hockey for the most part than Cristobal Huet. It appears Chicago is leaning toward choosing Niemi as its goalie for the playoffs. Still, Niemi is more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie since he isn't winning at the pace he was earlier in the season.
News: Blackhawks G Cristobal Huet had a bumpy night during a 8-3 loss to the Blue Jackets on Thursday. Huet was locked in a 2-1 battle until Columbus scored three times during a 10-minute window in the second period. Huet was then pulled in favor of Antti Niemi late in the second period. Huet was put back in to start the third, but he allowed two more goals in the first 3:49. Huet finished with 20 saves, while Niemi stopped four of five shots.
Analysis: Neither Niemi nor Huet have been very impressive coming out of the Olympic break and this was the team's biggest fear at the trade deadline. However, Chicago failed to make a move and are now stuck with the duo. Niemi is likely to share time in net down the stretch, view him as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie.
News:Antti Niemi made 28 saves for his sixth shutout and the Chicago Blackhawks took over the points lead in the Western Conference by ending the Phoenix Coyotes' nine-game winning streak with a 2-0 victory Tuesday. Niemi stopped a point-blank rebound shot by Petteri Nokelainen to preserve the two-goal cushion and later reached around behind his back to thwart a tuck attempt by Taylor Pyatt. In the final period with the Coyotes on a power play, Niemi again turned away a close-in shot from Pyatt.
Analysis: Niemi recorded his 20th win Tuesday and really has exceeded expectations during his rookie season. Unfortunately, he hasn't been able to separate himself from Cristobal Huet in net. The two will continue to share time down the stretch, so view Niemi as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Blackhawks TG remains a No. 1 option.
News: The Blackhawks' official Twitter feed reports that G Antti Niemi will start on Tuesday vs. Phoenix.
Analysis: Niemi has had some mixed results lately, but Cristobal Huet has been sick, which has limited his action. You have to think the Blackhawks are looking for one of their goalies to step up before the Stanley Cup playoffs, and maybe Niemi has the edge at the moment. Because he's not guaranteed a certain amount of starts, he can only really be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie in deeper leagues at best. Don't use Huet in Fantasy Week 23 (March 22-28). The Blackhawks TG remains a No. 1 option.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi made 31 saves Saturday in a 5-4 shootout loss to the Coyotes.
Analysis: Niemi has been keeping Cristobal Huet out of net lately with his performances, but he has now allowed four goals in two of his last three starts. Both Blackhawks goalies are capable, but you never know who is going to get the most outings on a week to week basis. Continue to use Niemi as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Blackhawks TG is a must-start option.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi didn't face a lot of pucks Thursday against the Kings, but he stopped every one he did face, leading Chicago to a 3-0 win. He made 17 saves in his fifth shutout of the season.
Analysis: Niemi has played well since the Olympic break, allowing 10 goals in four starts (two going into overtime) and 28 minutes of mop-up duty in another game. But splitting starts with Cristobal Huet, he's no more than a a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Blackhawks TG is a must-start option.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi experienced Sunday how potent an offense the Washington Capitals possess. Up 3-0 heading into the third period, Washington scored three times in the third against Niemi and stole a win 3:10 into overtime on Nicklas Backstrom's 28th goal. Niemi, in a battle with Cristobal Huet to determine the team's No. 1 goalie before the playoffs, made 26 saves.
Analysis: Niemi has only one win in his last four appearances after winning four times before the Olympic break. He was even pulled once during his latest four-game stretch. It looked as though Niemi was starting to pull away from Huet in the goalie race, but his recent slide has evened it up again. Niemi is more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Blackhawks TG is a must-start option.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi made 28 saves during Wednesday's 3-2 overtime win against the Kings. He's won four of his last five decisions.
Analysis: Niemi improves to 18-5-1 on the year, but has started only three of the 'Hawks last five games. Stay tuned to how this situation shakes out. Niemi is worth a look as a No. 2 option in deeper leagues. The Blackhawks TG remains a must-start option.
News: Chicago G Cristobal Huet cruised through the first period on Sunday against the Red Wings, stopping all nine shots he faced in the opening period. Things got dicey in the second, however. Huet coughed up four goals on just eight shot attempts by the Red Wings in the second period and was removed before the period was out in favor of Antti Niemi, who wasn't much better in the second. Niemi allowed a goal of his own in the second before the nightmare was over. Chicago scored twice in the third to make it a game but lost 5-4. Huet made 13 saves and Niemi just seven.
Analysis: Huet gets saddled with the loss Sunday and his record falls to 26-13-4 on the year. He'd won his previous two starts before Sunday so there is no reason to panic just yet. Niemi remains 17-4-1 on the year. Niemi remains, at least at this time, the top goalie in Chicago, but he hasn't been getting the starts lately. Stay tuned to how this situation shakes out. Niemi is worth a look as a No. 2 option in deeper leagues. Huet shouldn't be used just yet outside of average-point leagues, while the Blackhawks TG remains a must-start option.
News: Chicago G Antti Niemi allowed three goals on just 12 shots Tuesday before getting pulled in favor of Cristobal Huet against the Islanders in New York. Niemi made just nine saves in the game and Huet wasn't much better. Huet stopped nine shots as well on 11 attempts and allowed two goals to score in the 5-3 win for the Islanders.
Analysis: Niemi takes the loss for this abysmal performance. He came into the game on fire before the Olympic break as he'd won four straight. His record falls to 17-5-1 on the year. Huet remains at 24-11-4. Theses two goalies have been neck-in-neck to earn the full-time starters job in Chicago and its seems that Tuesday's game did little to separate the two. Niemi is worth a look as a No. 2 option in deeper leagues. Huet shouldn't be used just yet outside of average-point leagues, while the Blackhawks TG remains a must-start option.
News: The Blackhawks' official Twitter feed reports that G Antti Niemi will start in goal on Tuesday at the Islanders.
Analysis: Chicago plays four times in Fantasy Week 20 (March 1-7) with no games on back-to-back days. So, conceivably, Niemi could play all four games in the scoring period, but he could also play as few as one if he struggles on Tuesday. With Cristobal Huet breathing down his neck, Niemi is clearly a little bit of a risk in the scoring period, but with the way he was playing before the break, he is certainly worth a look as a No. 2 option in deeper leagues. Huet shouldn't be used just yet outside of average-point leagues, while the Blackhawks TG remains a must-start option.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi stopped three of the four skaters he faced in a shootout, and Chicago prevailed with a 5-4 win against the Blue Jackets on Sunday. Niemi rallied from a 2-0 first-period deficit to take a 4-2 lead 13:59 into the second. Columbus then rallied to tie the game at 7:58 of the third period on Fedor Tyutin's fifth goal. Niemi then allowed Kristian Huselius to score in the shootout but eventually walked away with his 17th victory after Troy Brouwer's forehand beat Mathieu Garon on the stick side for the clincher. "I got a move where I come down on [teammate Antti Niemi] in practice and I shoot low glove, so I figured ... it might work as well," Brouwer said.
Analysis: Niemi has won four straight starts and six of seven. He has started the last four games for Chicago since returning from an illness and appears to have the No. 1 job over Cristobal Huet. We aren't sure how Chicago is going to come out of the Olympic break, but Fantasy owners might want to start scooping up Niemi since he seems to be the flavor of month. Another wrinkle is that Chicago could look to trade for a netminder. Niemi is no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie as long as he keeps starting and winning. The Blackhawks TG remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi made 23 saves Saturday in a 5-4 shootout win over the Thrashers.
Analysis: Niemi heads into the break with a 16-4-1 record and clearly the hotter goalie in Chicago, despite Saturday's four goals allowed. Niemi could be in for a nice stretch run if he stays hot and the Blackhawks look to him as their top option heading into the playoffs. Pick him up in all 12-team leagues right now as a potential sleeper. The Blackhawks TG remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Blackhawks are closing in on the Olympic break with their goaltending dilemma still very much in evidence. Antti Niemi performed well in his second chance at getting back-to-back starts and could play three in a row when the Hawks face the Atlanta Thrashers on Saturday in their last home game before the break. They conclude their pre-Olympics play on Sunday at Columbus, so Cristobal Huet, the top netminder most of the season, will get action in at least one of the weekend games.
Analysis: After the break the Hawks have 21 games to conclude the regular season. The should have their goaltending in place for the postseason by then, and a trade for a veteran like Tim Thomas of Boston or Marty Turco of Dallas might shore up the netminding for the playoff run. However, it does seem Chicago is beginning to sour on Huet, who just continues to be inconsistent in net. Huet is at best a No. 2 Fantasy netminder, but could stand to lose a lot in the next few weeks. Huet owners might want to add Niemi as insurance. The Blackhawks TG is still a high-end option.
News: Chicago G Antti Niemi stopped five Dallas shootout attempts on Tuesday night and held off the Stars, 4-3, in shootout fashion. Niemi allowed three goals to score through regulation and overtime and stopped 24 shots.
Analysis: Niemi improves to 15-4-1 on the season and has won four of his last five starts. Niemi has been playing great hockey this season, but hasn't been able to unseat Cristobal Huet just yet. There is an opening there though, as Huet has been getting shelled lately. This one may have done the trick so pay special attention to this situation. Combined with his solid form, that could be enough for you to use Niemi as a sleeper No. 2 Fantasy goalie in deeper leagues. The Blackhawks TG remains a must-start option.
News: ESPN reports that Blackhawks G Antti Niemi will start on Tuesday vs. Dallas.
Analysis: Niemi has been playing great hockey this season, but hasn't been able to unseat Cristobal Huet just yet. There is an opening there though, as Huet has been getting shelled lately while Niemi's 1.93 GAA leads the league. With Chicago's second and third game in Fantasy Week 19 (Feb. 8-14) coming on back-to-back days, there's a good chance Niemi will get at least two starts in the scoring period. Combined with his solid form, that could be enough for you to use him as a sleeper No. 2 Fantasy goalie in deeper leagues. Huet should probably be avoided this week, while the Blackhawks TG remains a must-start option.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi made 34 saves Saturday in a 2-1 win over the Blues.
Analysis: Niemi's numbers continues to be stellar in 2010, as his GAA is now down to an NHL-best 1.93. Still, he remains the No. 2 option in Chicago while Cristobal Huet is around. Things could certainly change though, so continue to stash Niemi in 12-team leagues or larger. He's only worth starting in average-point leagues really, while the Blackhawks TG is a must-start option.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi was back in uniform on Friday against the Coyotes after missing one game with an illness. Unfortunately, the start went to Cristobal Huet and Niemi dressed as the backup goalie.
Analysis: Chicago is back in action on Saturday against the Blues, so don't be surprised if Niemi is ready for action. Niemi is going to play down the stretch, so Chicago doesn't wear out Huet. Niemi remains a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game. Keep him active heading into Week 19 (Feb. 8-14).
News: The Chicago Tribune reports Blackhawks goalie Antti Niemi missed Thursday's practice after sitting out Wednesday's game against the Blues with an illness. However, he is expected to return to the bench on Friday against the Coyotes to back up Cristobal Huet. Coach Joel Quenneville said Niemi "is doing much better. He should be ready to back up (Huet)."
Analysis: The Blackhawks reassigned Joe Fallon to the minors on Thursday, so it does seem Niemi is getting better. He definitely could be back in net on Saturday since Chicago has a back-to-back slate. Niemi is going to play down the stretch, so Chicago doesn't wear out Huet. Niemi remains a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game. Keep him active heading into Week 19 (Feb. 8-14).
News: The Chicago Daily Herald reports that Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville still has faith in his No. 1 G Cristobal Huet, despite his struggles of late. "I just think the last number of games (Carolina and St. Louis), you look at the number of shots we’ve had one way (75) and the number against us (43),” Quenneville said Thursday. "Whether they’re tipped or deflected, they’re tough saves. We’re not blaming the goaltending at all, but we know the importance of it. We know it’s a key position for us and we’re going to rely on it as we go along here."
Analysis: Huet has been outplayed by Antti Niemi lately, although Niemi's numbers have been slipping a little, too, so maybe Quenneville has a point. Huet remains a decent No. 2 goalie for now simply because he plays for one of the best teams in hockey, while the Blackhawks TG is an elite Fantasy option.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi was not able to play on Wednesday against the Blues because of an illness. He is day to day.
Analysis: With a back-to-back slate this weekend, Chicago is hoping Niemi recovers quickly so he can get in at least one start. Niemi is going to play down the stretch, so Chicago doesn't wear out Cristobal Huet. Niemi remains a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News: The Blackhawks' official Twitter feed reports that G Antti Niemi has been scratched from his scheduled Wednesday start because he's under the weather. Cristobal Huet will get the start instead.
Analysis: Wednesday was supposed to be Niemi's first start since Jan. 23, but now he'll have to wait a little bit longer. Hopefully he'll be feeling better later this week, as Chicago faces back-to-back games on Friday and Saturday. Continue to view Niemi as a No. 3 option in deeper leagues or as a handcuff to Huet, while the Blackhawks TG remains a must-start choice.
News: The Daily Herald reports that Blackhawks G Antti Niemi will get his first start since Jan. 23 when Chicago hosts St. Louis on Wednesday. “Antti hasn’t played in a while,” said coach Joel Quenneville. “He had a tough period at Vancouver and this is a chance for him to get back in the net.”
Analysis: As long he plays OK on Wednesday, Niemi should be line for a pair of starts in Fantasy Week 18 (Feb. 1-8), as Chicago's second two games of the scoring period come on back-to-back nights. Unfortunately, he's one of those guys who is really too risky to play in most Fantasy weeks as he's stuck behind Cristobal Huet and isn't guaranteed to get any specific amount of starts. Continue to view him as a No. 3 option in deeper leagues or as a handcuff to Huet, while the Blackhawks TG remains a must-start choice.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports that Blackhawks G Cristobal Huet will get the start Tuesday against Edmonton. Antti Niemi has started the previous two games for Chicago. "It's a big game (Tuesday) and I'll try to get back on track," Huet said. "There are probably a few things I want to achieve to be successful. I try to do my part and the team I'm sure will all respond to the task. As a goaltender I want to be a little more aggressive and battle a little more and see the puck and be calm and focused. I just want to have a good game and we'll see after that."
Analysis: The Blackhawks play three times in Fantasy Week 17 (Jan. 25-31) with no back-to-back contests. That means that if Huet plays well on Tuesday, he will probably get at least two starts in the scoring period. One could be against the tough Sharks, but Huet is 2-1 against San Jose this season. Start him as a solid low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie in all formats. The Blackhawks TG remains a No. 1 option, while Niemi should only be started in average-point leagues, if you must use him.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi was pulled after the first period Saturday after allowing three goals on 12 shots in a 5-1 loss to Vancouver. He was replaced by Cristobal Huet.
Analysis: Despite this loss, Niemi is still a superb 13-5-1 on the season. This outing was the second half of his first back-to-back starts of the campaign, but he remains the backup to Huet. Niemi is just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Blackhawks TG remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News:Antti Niemi made 19 saves in the Chicago Blackhawks' 3-1 victory over the reeling Calgary Flames on Thursday night. Niemi allowed his only goal to Jamie Lundmark on the power play 18:31 into the second. He never faced more than eight shots in a period. Niemi has won two straight starts.
Analysis: Niemi has won 13 of his 17 appearances for Chicago in 2009-10. He has exceeded everyone's expectations and Chicago is finally comfortable with throwing him regular starts, so Cristobal Huet is rested for the playoffs. Niemi remains a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Blackhawks TG remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi made 35 saves Sunday in a 4-3 shootout win over the Red Wings.
Analysis: Niemi is now a stellar 12-3-1 on the season with a GAA of 1.90. Still, he continues to sit behind Cristobal Huet on the Chicago depth chart, a fact that limits his Fantasy value a little. Continue to use him in average-point leagues as a No. 3 option. The Blackhawks TG remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi made only nine saves during a 3-1 loss to the Ducks on Sunday. Corey Perry opened the scoring on a power play 7:29 into the game. He checked Brent Seabrook off the puck behind the net, went in front and pushed a shot past Niemi. The Ducks made it 2-0 with 3:21 left in the first period when Saku Koivu, unchecked in the left faceoff circle, had time to skate in two strides and load up a slap shot that he put over Niemi's shoulder. Chicago cut the deficit to one late in the third before Teemu Selanne iced it with an empty-net score.
Analysis: Once the Ducks jumped out to an early two-goal lead, they stopped pressing and focused more on keeping Chicago out of the offensive end. That is largely why Niemi faced so few shots. Despite the loss, he still has allowed more than two goals only twice in his last 10 appearances. Niemi is seeing a few more starts since December, but he remains a nice a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Blackhawks TG remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News:Antti Niemi made 19 saves to help Chicago beat the Bruins, 5-2, on Thursday. Niemi trailed 2-0 within 8:02 before denying Boston the rest of the way. He made 13 saves over the final two scoreless periods. Niemi has won eight of his last nine starts.
Analysis: It seems every time Niemi gets into net, the Blackhawks produce a win. It's probably a big reason why he has made eight appearances since early December. Coach Joel Quenneville still leans heavily on Cristobal Huet, but he is definitely trust Niemi a bit more. Niemi remains a nice a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Blackhawks TG remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Blackhawks backup goalie Antti Niemi was good again, just not quite perfect. Marian Hossa scored twice and Niemi stopped 22 shots, but lost his shutout bid late in the third period of Chicago's 5-2 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday night. With Chicago ahead 5-0, Niemi was seeking his fifth shutout in 11 starts this season, but Petteri Nokelainen scored the first of his two goals with 3:21 left. He connected again 1:19 later. Niemi, however, stopped several tough chances before Chicago built its lead. The Ducks also misfired or hit the post on others as they lost their third straight and fell for the fifth time in six games. "The first 10-15 minutes, Antti made several key stops, high-quality saves that kept us in the game," coach Joel Quenneville said.
Analysis: Had Niemi held on for the shutout, he would have tied Phoenix's Ilya Bryzgalov -- who has played in 37 games -- for the NHL lead. Niemi has been in 13 games overall, including two stints in relief of No. 1 starter Cristobal Huet. "I know he's been playing unbelievable," Nokelainen said. "He's a good goalie and a great story. He's like any other big guy these days, they cover so much of the net." Niemi has been better than expected in his first full season in the NHL. It's just unfortunate he plays behind Huet, who is making too much money to be sitting. Niemi remains a nice a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Blackhawks TG remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Chicago G Cristobal Huet had a rough outing at Dallas on Tuesday, allowing four goals on only 10 shots before getting pulled in favor of Antti Niemi. The Blackhawks managed to tie the game with Niemi in net, but he allowed a Steve Ott goal in the third period that proved to be the game-winner. Niemi ended up with the loss, making 13 saves in the game.
Analysis: Huet has been tremendous this season, so this was definitely one of his worst performances. Huet's Fantasy owners were fortunate to avoid the loss, but Niemi owners felt the burn. Despite this one bad game, Huet remains a must-start Fantasy option. Niemi remains just a No. 3 option and handcuff for Huet. The Blackhawks TG is an elite Fantasy unit.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi allowed four goals on just 20 shots Sunday but still came away with the win as Chicago edged Nashville 5-4.
Analysis: Niemi is now 9-1-1 on the season, with two of his last three wins coming despite him allowing four goals in each. He continues to back up Cristobal Huet, and remains just a Fantasy reserve or flier in leagues that use average points per game until something long-term happens to Huet. The Blackhawks TG remains a high-end option.
News: Chicago G Antti Niemi was fantastic between the pipes on Wednesday night in a 3-0 shutout win over the Red Wings. The Blackhawks netminder stopped all 33 shots he faced in the win.
Analysis: Niemi has been ridiculously good of late and has now won five straight starts with three shutouts over that span. He has four shutouts on the year already and his record improves to 8-1-1. Chicago is very pleased with Niemi's performance in 2009-10. But he is still more of a Fantasy reserve or flier in leagues that use average points per game until something long-term happens to Cristobal Huet. The Blackhawks TG remains a high-end option.
News: Chicago goalie Antti Niemi, who had allowed only one goal in his previous three starts, wasn't as sharp this time during a 5-4 shootout win on Friday against the Bruins. Still, he stopped Patrice Bergeron's attempt to start the shootout and then denied Blake Wheeler as Chicago squeaked out a victory. Niemi made 25 saves despite blowing three one-goal leads.
Analysis: Niemi has won his last four appearances, which includes two shutouts. He might have looked off on Friday, but he still managed to secure a win. Chicago is very pleased with Niemi's performance in 2009-10. But he is still more of a Fantasy reserve or flier in leagues that use average points per game until something long-term happens to Cristobal Huet. The Blackhawks TG remains a high-end option.
News: Blackhawks backup goalie Antti Niemi made 18 saves for his third shutout in seven starts this season, and Marian Hossa had a goal and an assist to lead Chicago past the slumping Tampa Bay Lightning 4-0 on Sunday night. Niemi made two close-in saves on Tampa Bay's James Wright 4:15 into the second. About eight minutes into the period, the Lightning's Steven Stamkos hit the post with a shot. Niemi has won his last three starts.
Analysis: Niemi, who made his eighth appearance, has started three times since Nov. 7. He allowed only one goal and posted two shutouts in those games. Niemi has been spectacular in a backup role for the Blackhawks this season. Starter Cristobal Huet has struggled as of late, so don't be surprised if Niemi gets a start during Week 11 (Dec. 14-20). But he is still more of a Fantasy reserve or flier in leagues that use average points per game until something long-term happens to Huet. The Blackhawks TG remains a high-end option.
News: Blackhawks G Antii Niemi made 32 saves on Saturday as Chicago edged the Sidney Crosby-less Penguins 2-1.
Analysis: Niemi has been superb this season in filling in for Chicago's No. 1, Cristobal Huet, but Niemi just doesn't see enough action to be worth starting in the majority of Fantasy leagues. His real value lies as a bench stashee in deeper leagues. The Blackhawks TG remains a high-end option.
News:Bryan Bickell scored his first goal of the season 1:12 into the third period, and Antii Niemi made 30 saves to lead the Chicago Blackhawks to a 1-0 victory over the Vancouver Canucks on Sunday night. Niemi made several great saves to keep it scoreless through two periods, defenseman Brian Campbell helped set up the only goal early in the third, skating in from the point, eluding a check on the boards, and cutting into the crease. He lost the puck in a crowd in front but it squirted right to Bickell at the far side for a tap-in goal behind sprawled goalie Roberto Luongo. Niemi did the rest, making a couple more brilliant stops as the Blackhawks won their seventh straight game despite playing the night before in Edmonton. He got a glove on Henrik Sedin's wide-open shot from the slot, robbed Alexandre Burrows with his left pad, and got a break when Alexander Edler hit the post with 6:19 left.
Analysis: The Canucks welcomed top goal-scorer Daniel Sedin back to the top line after missing more than six weeks and 18 games with a broken foot. But it wasn't enough to solve Niemi, who got a rare start after watching Cristobal Huet play his sixth straight during Saturday night's 5-2 win in Edmonton. Niemi was 3-1-1 with a shutout in five appearances this season, but the lone regulation loss was against the Canucks and the 26-year-old Finn hadn't played in 2 1/2 weeks. Despite that, there wasn't any rust in his game. Niemi has been more than solid as the Blackhawks' backup goalie and has two shutouts to show for it. If only Huet wasn't around, then Niemi might be more than a handcuff Fantasy option or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Blackhawks TG has definitely moved to being a high-end option.
News:Chris Stewart scored in the eighth round of the shootout past Antti Niemi, helping the NHL-leading Colorado Avalanche remain unbeaten at home with a 4-3 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday. Chicago had two quality cracks at knocking in the winner in the final minute of regulation, but John Madden's shot sailed just wide of the net and Tomas Kopecky sent one over the goal. Niemi had a chance to preserve the win in the shootout, only to have Colorado's final shooter, Marek Svatos, score high on him to force extra rounds. Niemi finished with 19 saves.
Analysis: Niemi is winless in his last two outings after winning his first three. He hasn't played much the last few weeks since Cristobal Huet is finally living up to expectations. Still, Niemi has done enough to instill faith in the coaching staff as the team's top backup. Niemi is a decent No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Blackhawks TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:Michael Grabner scored the tying goal with 7:44 to play and Mikael Samuelsson followed with the winner 3:02 later past Antti Niemi on Wednesday as the Vancouver Canucks rallied for their first road victory of the season, 3-2 over the Chicago Blackhawks. Niemi, starting in place of struggling Chicago goalie Cristobal Huet, was sensational most of the night and finished with 28 saves but couldn't survive some sloppy play in front of him late. Grabner made it 2-2 with a power-play goal from the top of the left circle, his first career goal in his fourth NHL game. After the Blackhawks killed off another power play, Samuelsson intercepted Brian Campbell's attempted pass to Patrick Kane in the Chicago zone. Samuelsson skated into the left circle and snapped a wrist shot that beat Niemi low to the far side.
Analysis: Niemi lost for the first time in four appearances on Wednesday. Despite the late-game collapse, he played pretty well and continues to give the Blackhawks confidence in his play. Huet has been kind of iffy to start the season, but Chicago remains committed to him as their top netminder. However, we do expect Niemi to see possibly a start a week. Niemi is a decent No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News: The Blackhawks official team site reports that G Anti Niemi will start in goal on Wednesday vs. Vancouver.
Analysis: Niemi has undoubtedly outplayed No. 1 Cristobal Huet this season and Chicago is going to give Niemi as many starts as they can without knocking down Huet's confidence too much. For now, Niemi is only worth starting in leagues that use average points per game, while the Blackhawks TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Blackhawks G Antti Niemi made just 16 saves Wednesday against the Oilers, but he still managed to escape with a 4-3 win. Niemi almost finished with a two-goal cushion but Denis Grebeshkov completed the scoring with 48 seconds left on a power play with Nikolai Khabibulin off for an extra attacker.
Analysis: Niemi has won all three of his appearances to begin the season and is giving the Chicago organization great faith in his skills. However, the Blackhawks are still standing behind Cristobal Huet, will start in goal Thursday at Nashville. Huet was pulled after giving up three early goals Monday. Consider Niemi a decent No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Blackhawks TG is a No. 2 option until Huet settles into a rhythm.
News: Chicago matched the biggest comeback in NHL history, rallying from the five-goal deficit and beating the Flames 6-5 on Brent Seabrook's goal 26 seconds into overtime. The Flames blistered Chicago goaltender Cristobal Huet with first-period goals by Dustin Boyd, Eric Nystrom and Jarome Iginla in a span of 53 seconds, prompting head coach Joel Quenneville to pull Huet for Antti Niemi. "We weren't very good in front of him. We know our goaltending has got to be better," Quenneville said. But Niemi didn't fare much better early on, giving up two more quick goals as the Flames built a 5-0 lead. Calgary's five-goal rampage came on only six shots and took only 5:29. But the Blackhawks regrouped. They got second-period goals from Patrick Kane, Dustin Bfuglien and Dave Bolland to rally within 5-4. Patrick Sharp's goal, when he deflected in a shot by teammate Duncan Keith, tied the game at 5 five minutes into the final period and sent the United Center into a frenzy. The Flames were shut out in the final two periods and the overtime as Niemi made 10 saves in that span. He finished with 13 saves, while Huet had two.
Analysis: Niemi now has a win in each of his first two appearances, including a shutout of Florida. He has three wins in five NHL appearances and the Blackhawks coaching staff seems to be gaining confidence every time he takes the ice. Niemi isn't close to supplanting Huet as the Blackhawks' starter, but he could get a few more starts thanks to his solid play. Consider Niemi a decent No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News:Antti Niemi and the Chicago Blackhawks made the best of their opportunities against the Florida Panthers. The Blackhawks had three power-play goals and the Finnish goalie stopped 23 shots in a 4-0 victory against the Panthers before 12,000 of his countrymen on Saturday. A day after losing the season opener in a shootout, Chicago started Niemi in goal in place of Cristobal Huet. "It was a good opportunity to play him in front of his own countrymen," Chicago coach Joel Quenneville said. "He got a good challenge and we loved the response. You can give him a lot of credit to stand up during two barrages early in the second period and with a couple of cutthroat situations when he makes spectacular saves in the third." Niemi was playing in just his fourth NHL game. "Niemi showed us that he is a NHL-level goalie," Blackhawks defenseman Brian Campbell said.
Analysis: The 25-year-old Niemi made his NHL debut last season with Chicago, posting a 1-1-1 mark with a 3.40 goals-against average and a .846 save percentage. His run included recording his first NHL win in his first start March 1 against the Kings. Niemi, who signed with Chicago in May 2008 after a successful career in the Finnish Elite League, posted a 18-14-3 record with 2.43 GAA and .913 save percentage in 38 games with Rockford (AHL) last season. We will probably see Niemi at different points in 2009-10, but he has minimal Fantasy appeal until he gets regular work. He certainly looked good on Saturday, though. The TG Blackhawks are high-end No. 2 Fantasy options.
News:The Sports Xchange reports G Antti Niemi, in a battle for the backup goaltender's job, is the only Blackhawk from Finland, so he'd like to stick with the team for at least the first two regular season games against the Florida Panthers in Helsinki. However, Corey Crawford is considered the frontrunner for the backup job to Cristobal Huet.
Analysis: The 25-year-old Niemi made his NHL debut last season with Chicago, posting a 1-1-1 mark with a 3.40 goals-against average and a .846 save percentage. His run included recording his first NHL win in his first start March 1 against the Kings. Niemi, who signed with Chicago in May 2008 after a successful career in the Finnish Elite League, posted a 18-14-3 record with 2.43 GAA and .913 save percentage in 38 games with Rockford (AHL) last season. We will probably see Niemi at different points in 2009-10, but he has minimal Fantasy appeal until he gets regular work.
News: The Blackhawks reached agreements Tuesday with restricted free agents Jacob Dowell (two years) and Antti Niemi (one year), who both spent most of the season in the minors.
Analysis: The 25-year-old Niemi made his NHL debut last season with Chicago, posting a 1-1-1 mark with a 3.40 goals-against average and a .846 save percentage. His run included recording his first NHL win in his first start March 1 against the Kings. Niemi, who signed with Chicago in May 2008 after a successful career in the Finnish Elite League, posted a 18-14-3 record with 2.43 GAA and .913 save percentage in 38 games with Rockford (AHL) last season. If Chicago doesn't re-sign Nikolai Khabibulin, then Niemi could very well be a backup to Cristobal Huet in 2009-10. If that happens, Niemi might become a low-end Fantasy reserve for the deepest of formats. Stay tuned.
News: The Blackhawks have activated goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin from injured reserve and sent goalie Antti Niemi to Rockford of the AHL. Niemi made his NHL debut in three appearances with the Blackhawks since being recalled from the IceHogs on Feb. 12.
Analysis: Niemi was 1-1-1 with a 3.40 GAA and a .846 save percentage in his three appearances with the Blackhawks. He is not worth owning in Fantasy now that Khabibulin is back in action.
News: Blackhawks G Antii Niemi allowed five goals on 29 shots Sunday in a 5-1 loss to the Avalanche. The start was his second in the NHL.
Analysis: Niemi is only up with the team while Nikolai Khabibulin gets healthy and is merely organizational depth and a possible long-term Fantasy keeper. He will be back in the minors pretty soon. The Blackhawks TG is an OK No. 2 option, although they're struggling right now, having lost five of seven.
News: Chicago rookie goalie Antti Niemi made 22 saves in his first NHL start to give the Blackhawks a 4-2 win over the Kings on Sunday. Niemi made his NHL debut on Friday, when he relieved Cristobal Huet to start the third period of an overtime loss to Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Niemi got this start following eight straight by Huet. Nikolai Khabibulin, who usually alternates with Huet, is on injured reserve. "I was nervous, but not too bad," Niemi said. "I was able to feel pretty good and nervous at the same time." Niemi is only up with the team while Khabibulin gets healthy and is merely organizational depth and a possible long-term Fantasy keeper.
News: Blackhawks rookie goalie Antti Niemi picked up his first career loss in relief of Cristobal Huet during Friday's 5-4 overtime defeat at the hands of Pittsburgh. Huet was pulled heading into the third period after allowing four goals on 22 shots. Niemi finished the game with five saves, but allowed the winner to Evgeni Malkin in overtime.
Analysis: It appears Niemi will stick with the team for at least another week as Nikolai Khabibulin isn't ready to return from a lower-body injury. He might even get a start to give Huet a rest. Still, Niemi is nothing more than organizational depth and a possible long-term Fantasy keeper.
News: The Chicago Daily Herald reports Blackhawks goalie Nikolai Khabibulin, who has been battling a lower-body injury, won't travel with the team on their three-game road trip Tampa Bay, Florida and Dallas, coach Joel Quenneville said Monday. It was decided after Khabibulin couldn't make it through Monday's practice, and Quenneville added that his starting goalie could have re-aggravated a lower-body injury from November that kept him out six games. Cristobal Huet is expected to make most of the starts in Khabibulin's absence, but Antti Niemi a start in one of the back-to-back games this weekend.
Analysis: Niemi is considered third on the Blackhawks' depth chart in net, but he would need another injury to Huet before he becomes a constant fixture in Chicago. He is nothing more than organizational depth and a possible long-term Fantasy keeper.
News: The Chicago Daily Herald reports the Blackhawks have diagnosed Nikolai Khabibulin's lower body injury, which he suffered Wednesday against the Thrashers, as "minor." Khabibulin, who missed six games in November with a lower-body injury, finished Wednesday's 3-1 win and earned his 17th victory. However, Antti Niemi was recalled from Rockford (AHL) Thursday just in case Khabibulin won't be in uniform Friday against the Blues. Cristobal Huet is likely to start against St. Louis.
Analysis: Niemi is considered third on the Blackhawks' depth chart in net, but he would need another injury to Huet before he becomes a constant fixture in Chicago. He is nothing more than organizational depth and a possible long-term Fantasy keeper.
News: Blackhawks goalie prospect Antti Niemi continues to split time in net for Rockford of the AHL with Corey Crawford. Niemi is 2-2-0 in five January appearances with a 3.77 GAA and .876 save percentage. For the season, he is 10-11-2 with a 2.64 GAA and .906 save percentage in 25 games.
Analysis: Niemi continues to jockey with Crawford for third place on the Blackhawks' depth chart. The former Finnish League star will only get a call-up to the NHL in the event Nikolai Khabibulin or Cristobal Huet is injured or traded. Niemi remains just a long-term Fantasy keeper.
News: The Chicago Blackhawks sent G Antti Niemi to Rockford of the AHL on Tuesday.
Analysis: When Nikolai Khabibulin was waived, it looked like Niemi might get the backup job behind Cristobal Huet, but now it appears Khabibulin might be retained. Continue to ignore Niemi in all formats, but keep an eye on the whole goaltending situation in Chicago.
