News:Willie Mitchell had a second surgery on his knee and will not return this season, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: The Kings and Willie Mitchell had gone to great lengths to put him back together, but it didn't take. This might spur the Kings to add another blueliner before Wednesday's trade deadline.
News:Willie Mitchell underwent platelet-rich plasma therapy on his knee Tuesday, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis:Willie Mitchell's injury situation remains about as murky as it gets, with player, coach and team trainers each seemingly having their own opinion on the extent of the injury. At this point, it's probably best not to count on Mitchell making much of an impact, if any, this season.
News:Willie Mitchell (knee) could miss the rest of the season, Lisa Dillman of the Los Angeles Times reports. Head coach Dean Lombardi said, "Right now we have to operate on the premise Willie (Mitchell) is done for the year."
Analysis:Willie Mitchell will continue rehabbing his injured knee and depending upon his recovery, there is still a chance he plays again this year. He has already suffered one setback in his rehab, so he will have to avoid that if he looks to return at all this season. For now the Kings will have to proceed without him and fellow defenseman Matt Greene.
Kings' Mitchell (Knee) May Have Endured Setback In Rehab
News:Willie Mitchell's agent, Mike Luit, said that his client began practicing too soon while rehabbing his knee, resulting in swelling and irritation that has delayed his recovery, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis: Luit's comments would seem to contradict the results of Willie Mitchell's recent MRI, which revealed no structural damage or setback. Mitchell's lengthy recovery has drawn the ire of coach Darryl Sutter, but Mitchell is at least practicing. Once he returns to game action, any contention between Sutter and Mitchell should gradually dissipate.
News:Willie Mitchell (knee) underwent an MRI on Monday that did not reveal any structural damage, the Los Angeles Times reports. "There was no structural damage and no setback," general manager Dean Lombardi said.
Analysis:Willie Mitchell, who was medically cleared last week but still hasn't returned, has not skated since Saturday.
Kings' Mitchell (Knee) Doesn't Take Part In Morning Skate
News:Willie Mitchell (knee) wasn't on the ice for Monday's morning skate, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis: Coach Daryl Sutter remains uncertain about Willie Mitchell's status for Monday's game against the Canucks, but his absence during the morning session doesn't make it seem as though he'll be available to play. Mitchell has missed all four of the Kings' contests thus far in the young season.
News:Willie Mitchell (knee) did not skate Sunday, Helene Elliott of the Los Angeles Times reports. Coach Darryl Sutter said he is waiting for Mitchell to declare himself ready.
Analysis: Despite being cleared to play, it seems Willie Mitchell doesn't feel comfortable on the knee just yet. At this point, Mitchell looks like a long shot to be in action Monday against Canucks.
Mitchell Remains Sidelined By Knee Injury For Kings
News:Willie Mitchell (knee) participated in the morning skate Saturday but still is not ready to return, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis:Willie Mitchell's been cleared to return but still hasn't laced up the skates for a game thus far.
Kings' Mitchell (Knee) Cleared To Play, But Not Ready To Return
News:Willie Mitchell (knee) has been cleared to play, but he isn't ready to return to the Kings' lineup yet, the Los Angeles Times reports. "You know what, he's got doctor's clearance," Kings coach Darryl Sutter said. "He's got trainers' clearance. Coaches want him to clear himself. So do it."
Analysis:Willie Mitchell is concerned about coming back too quickly and aggravating the injury and also wants to make sure he is properly conditioned for his return. As of right now, he should be seen as doubtful for Thursday's game.
News:Willie Mitchell (knee) was a full participant in Monday's practice and will travel with the team on its upcoming three-game road trip, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis: The Kings could use a healthy Willie Mitchell after what appears to be a season-ending injury to Matt Greene in the season opener . He'll likely rejoin the lineup at some point during the road trip.
News:Willie Mitchell (knee) skated for the first time since knee surgery following Friday's practice, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Analysis: It was a positive first step for Willie Mitchell but he's likely at least another week from a possible return to the lineup.
News:Willie Mitchell (knee) has still been unable to return to the ice following offseason surgery, the Los Angeles Times reports. "He's progressing to the point where he's doing all his rehab, he's doing all his off-ice [work], he's on his therapy part of it. He's almost two months or seven weeks post-surgery and so you'd think that at some point we'd be getting closer, but you're asking me the same question that I'm asking," head coach Daryl Sutter said.
Analysis:Willie Mitchell provides the Kings' with a strong defensive presence on a nightly basis but doesn't provide much of a fantasy impact. It doesn't sound like he's close to returning in any event.
Kings' Mitchell Behind Schedule After Offseason Surgery
News:Willie Mitchell (knee) is behind schedule from offseason surgery to remove cartilage, the Los Angeles Times reports. "He [Mitchell] is way behind what he should have been," head coach Darryl Sutter said.
Analysis:Willie Mitchell's setback occurred during the rehab program following his surgery when he tried to ramp up too quickly and it's now landed him behind schedule as the season nears. It would seem unlikely that he'll be ready to open the season with the Kings.
Kings' Mitchell Still Not Skating Due To Knee Injury
News:Willie Mitchell (knee) still hasn't been able to resume skating, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis: The Kings figure to have a better read on his timetable once he's able to be examined by team doctors when training camp opens. He's not much of a fantasy factor but is a key part of the Kings' defensive effort most nights.
News:Willie Mitchell tweaked his knee about a month ago, the LA Times' Lisa Dillman reports.
Analysis: The Kings plan to evaluate his injury once he can meet with team trainers. No word whether the injury would force him to miss any time if the CBA gets ratified in the coming days.
News:Willie Mitchell picked up three assists against the Sharks on Thursday in a losing effort.
Analysis:Willie Mitchell quietly has picked up points in three of his last five games, but still has just 23 points (five goals, 18 assists) for the season.
News:Willie Mitchell scored and added an assist Saturday as Los Angeles crushed Chicago, 4-0. He was whistled for two minor penalties in the contest.
Analysis: His offensive totals are modest (4-10-14 in 56 games) even for a blueliner. At 34, he's not exactly a developing prospect.
News:Willie Mitchell (groin) is expected to rejoin the lineup Monday, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis:Willie Mitchell's missed five of the last six games with his groin injury but he'll lace up the skates Monday barring a setback from the morning skate.
News:Willie Mitchell (groin) took part in Saturday's morning skate, LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis: Though Willie Mitchell was able to take the ice, he will not play in Saturday's game against the Red Wings. However, he is expecting to return to the ice for Monday's game against the Maple Leafs.
News:Willie Mitchell (groin) practiced Friday but is doubtful for Saturday's game, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis: "He's doubtful. We're progressing with him. The concern with him is that he comes back too soon and has a setback. He felt really good today. He's felt better and better every day, so it's obviously an encouraging sign that he will be back soon, but I doubt he will be back for tomorrow," interim head coach John Stevens said. Willie Mitchell will likely be out of the lineup for the fifth time in the last six games.
News:Willie Mitchell (lower body) will not play in Thursday's game against the Blue Jackets, according to the Kings' official Twitter page.
Analysis:Willie Mitchell took part in Thursday's morning skate, but he is not yet ready to return to game action. Still, given the fact he was able to skate Thursday, consider him questionable for the Kings' next game Saturday.
News:Analysis:Willie Mitchell missed Tuesday's game with the same lower body injury and has been listed as day-to-day. Davis Drewiske will most likely fill in for Mitchell if he is forced to miss Thursday's game.
News:Willie Mitchell (lower body) is out for Tuesday's game, the Kings Insider's Rich Hammond reports.
Analysis: Davis Drewiske will replace Willie Mitchell in the lineup. Mitchell is listed as day-to-day.
News:Willie Mitchell will be scratched from Tuesday's game at Boston due to a lower body injury, according to the Kings' official Twitter feed.
Analysis:Willie Mitchell is listed as day-to-day, though he did just return from a DL stint due to a groin injury. Mitchell is actually ahead of his normal scoring pace when he's playing, but with six points and hardly any power-play time this season, we imagine you can do just fine with an alternative.
News:Willie Mitchell (groin) will be back in the lineup Saturday, the Kings' official Twitter feed reports.
Analysis: If the 10-15 points he'll contribute over the course of the season are beneficial in your league, it's safe to roll Willie Mitchell again after his brief absence.
News:Willie Mitchell (groin) is expected to return Saturday, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis: The Kings simply put Willie Mitchell on IR to delay the necessary roster move to activate Alec Martinez for Thursday's game. They'll need to make a roster move to activate Mitchell but he's fully expected to return for Saturday's contest.
News:Willie Mitchell's groin injury isn't responding as first hoped, so the Kings put him on IR, according to Dennis Bernstein of The Fourth Period.
Analysis: The Kings will activate Alec Martinez to replace Willie Mitchell, who had practiced Wednesday.
News:Willie Mitchell (groin) was another full participant at Wednesday's practice and could return Thursday, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis: The Kings are expecting both Willie Mitchell and Alec Martinez back on their blue line in the coming days and deciding on how to insert them both back in the lineup seems to be the determining factor on exactly when Mitchell will rejoin the lineup.
News:Willie Mitchell (groin) could return to the lineup as soon as Thursday, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis:Willie Mitchell was able to practice again Tuesday and is getting closer but keep in mind that groin injuries can tend to linger. He's not much of a fantasy impact but does help the Kings' defensive efforts so owners of Jonathan Quick should be anticipating his return.
News:Willie Mitchell (groin) is back skating but his return date is still uncertain, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis:Willie Mitchell estimated that he skated at about 75 percent after Tuesday's practice which is encouraging but not enough to get him back into the lineup at the moment.
News:Willie Mitchell will miss a few games after suffering a lower body injury in Thursday's game against the Panthers, ESPN.com reports.
Analysis:Willie Mitchell left Thursday's game early in the first period and did not return. He will not play Saturday, but it's too early to tell exactly how many games he will miss moving forward.
News:Willie Mitchell left Thursday's game with a lower body injury, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis:Willie Mitchell took one shift in the first period and never returned. He doesn't make much of a fantasy impact but his absence would certainly hurt the Kings' defensive efforts most nights.
News: Mitchell scored the go-ahead goal for the Kings in Wednesday's 3-2 win over the Ducks.
Analysis: The goal was a pretty rare event - his last tally had come on Oct. 28.
News: Mitchell (lower body) is expected to play Saturday against Columbus, the Kings' official site reports.
Analysis: Mitchell has been ramping up his practice participation this week and should be ready to go Saturday. He last played Dec. 16.
News: Mitchell (lower body) participated in Thursday's morning skate and is getting closer to a return, LAKingsInsider.com reports.
Analysis: Coach Terry Murray described Mitchell as "real close" and said he would probably consider the blueliner day-to-day.
News: Mitchell (lower body) was able to skate Friday but remains out, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Expect him to be out another week or so. Mitchell's been limited to just 14 games this season due to a variety of injuries.
News: Mitchell (lower body) will not play in Saturday's game against the Predators, the LA Times reports.
Analysis: Mitchell is considered "week-to-week" after being examined by doctors in Nashville, so don't expect to see him on the ice for a while.
News: Mitchell left Thursday's loss to St. Louis in the second period with a lower-body injury and did not return, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: Mitchell has been limited to just 14 games this season due to a fractured left hand and only played in 48 last season due to back/concussion issues. Mitchell only played 7:07 in this one and didn't register a point.
News: Mitchell played 27:10 Monday in his return to action, leading all skaters in ice time during the win over Detroit.
Analysis: Mitchell showed no ill effects from the fractured hand that sidelined him five weeks. He's an integral piece to the Kings' defensive success, but won't light up the scoresheet. He has more value to Los Angeles than your roster.
News: Mitchell will play Monday against Detroit, his first game since he fractured his left hand on Nov. 6, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis: Mitchell will be paired with Jack Johnson on what looks to be LA's second blue line pairing. Mitchell's minutes may be watched for a bit until he gets back into game shape, but it also looks like he's finally healed after a tough injury. He has five points in 13 games in his first season with the Kings.
News: Mitchell (wrist) has been medically cleared to return and could rejoin the lineup Monday, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis: He won't make much of a fantasy impact but should help out the team's overall defensive effort.
News: Mitchell participated in full-team practice Wednesday for the first time since breaking his wrist, the Kings' official website reports.
Analysis: Mitchell will meet with a team doctor Thursday in hopes of being cleared to play as soon as Monday in Detroit. Expect him to re-join one of the Kings' top two defensive lines.
News: Mitchell (wrist) hopes to be medically cleared to return in the next few days, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: He'll still need a few full practices after receiving clearance and isn't likely to return until next week as a result.
News: Mitchell (wrist) skated briefly Sunday and will undergo X-rays next week, the LA Times reports.
Analysis: The earliest estimate had Mitchell out until the first week of December but we'll have a better idea on his timeframe after the X-rays next week.
News: Mitchell will miss four-to-six weeks with a fractured wrist, the Kings' official site reports.
Analysis: Previous reports were all of the board regarding the severity of Mitchell's injury and when the test results would be available, but the team revealed Monday afternoon that Mitchell is going to be out until December. A corresponding roster move will be made soon as Mitchell is going to be placed on IR.
News: Mitchell (arm) will undergo an MRI Monday but initial X-rays did not reveal a break or fracture, the LA Times reports.
Analysis: The Kings don't play again until Thursday but we'll have a better read on his status once the MRI results come back.
News: Mitchell left Saturday's game after a couple shifts in the second period with an upper-body injury, according to a report on CBC's Hockey Night in Canada.
Analysis: Mitchell and upper body, and the thought of a concussion immediately comes to mind. But Kings brass were quick to tell CBC it wasn't a head injury and replays suggest it may be an arm.
News: The Kings signed Mitchell (concussion) to a two-year, $7-million deal on Wednesday, Sportsnet.ca reports.
Analysis: Mitchell has recently shown signs that he's over the post-concussion syndromes that have plagued him since taking a hit from Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin on Jan. 17. While the 33-year-old will provide help to the Kings' young back end, he has eclipsed 20 points just once in his NHL career, limiting his fantasy impact to only the deepest of leagues.
News: Mitchell has made it through physicals for four teams without showing any of the post-concussion symptoms that ended his 2009-10 campaign, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: The front runners for Mitchell's services appear to be San Jose, Los Angeles, Vancouver and Washington. Mitchell is expected to make a final decision in the next week.
News: 1040AM out of Vancouver reports that Canucks D Willie Mitchell (concussion) hasn't resumed workouts and won't be back until after the Olympic break.
Analysis: Concussion recovery times vary from player to player, so owners in deeper leagues should just stash Mitchell away until he's ready to return. Mitchell is a solid all-around NHL blueliner, but he just doesn't put up a ton of points. He has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Sportsnet reports that Canucks D Willie Mitchell is making progress with his concussion. "I think he's doing much better," said coach Alain Vigneault. "(Monday) was his best day, so hopefully he'll be able to do more in the next little while. The headaches are gone, but I'm no doctor."
Analysis: Mitchell is a solid all-around NHL blueliner, but he just doesn't put up a ton of points. He has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy. Keep him reserved in deeper leagues until he's ready to return.
News:The Sports Xchange reports D Willie Mitchell is still experiencing post-concussion symptoms and won't accompany the Canucks to start an eight-game, 18-day pre-Olympic road trip that begins Saturday in Toronto. Mitchell, who banged his head after being checked dangerously into the boards by Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin on Jan. 16, was already suffering from neck and back pain from a big check the previous game. He could return later in the trip. "With concussions you never know how those things are going to turn around," coach Alain Vigneault said. "Obviously, we are not going to take any chances."
Analysis: The approach in today's NHL is to take a cautious approach with concussions and that is exactly what is happening with Mitchell. Mitchell is a solid all-around NHL blueliner, but he just doesn't put up a ton of points. He has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy. Keep him reserved for Week 18 (Feb. 1-7).
News: NHL.com reports Canucks coach Alain Vigneault announced on Monday that defenseman Willie Mitchell has been diagnosed with a concussion. He suffered the injury on Jan. 16. While Mitchell, who has missed four games, is being listed as day-to-day, it's still unknown if he will join the team on a road trip that begins Saturday against Toronto.
Analysis: Vigneault said Mitchell is getting close to symptom-free, so Vancouver is hoping he returns within the week. Mitchell is a solid all-around NHL blueliner, but he just doesn't put up a ton of points. He has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell (upper body) missed a third straight game Saturday as Vancouver handled the Blackhawks 5-1.
Analysis: The Canucks are calling Mitchell's injury of the upper-body variety but don't want to call it a concussion because then they would have to sit him for at least a week. He is also trying to recover from a back ailment at the same time. Mitchell is a solid NHL blueliner, but he has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell missed a second straight game on Thursday against the Stars after being knocked head first into the boards by Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin late in Saturday's 6-2 win over the Penguins.
Analysis: The Canucks are calling Mitchell's injury of the upper-body variety but don't want to call it a concussion because then they would have to sit him for at least a week. He is also trying to recover from a back ailment at the same time. Mitchell is a solid NHL blueliner, but he has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell was not in the lineup on Wednesday against the Oilers after re-aggravating a back injury on Saturday.
Analysis: Mitchell has been a pretty durable player through the years, so it will be interesting to see how long it takes for him to bounce back. Mitchell has played some of the best hockey of his career since last season. However, he is still not lighting up the scoreboard. Mitchell is a solid NHL blueliner, but he has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: The Vancouver Sun reports that Canucks D Willie Mitchell (back) will not play Wednesday night in Edmonton.
Analysis: Mitchell is a solid NHL blueliner with the capability of scoring in the 20s, but he has low-end Fantasy appeal in only deeper leagues when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Canucks D Willie Mitchell hurt his back after being nailed by oversized Minnesota enforcer Derek Boogaard on Wednesday, but was able to suit up against Pittsburgh on Saturday. Mitchell paired with Sami Salo to shut down the Penguins top line anchored by Sidney Crosby, and even managed to set a new single season career high by scoring his fourth goal in the 6-2 romp. However, Mitchell left after being hit from behind head first into the board by Evgeni Malkin with four minutes left in the game and did not return. "I told (trainer Mike Burnstein) to keep him in," coach Alain Vigneault said of Mitchell, adding he hadn't received any update on the severity of any injury. "I couldn't tell you at this time."
Analysis: The good news for Mitchell is that Vancouver doesn't play again until Wednesday against the Oilers. The bad news is that he is still injured and could be forced to miss time. Mitchell has played some of the best hockey of his career since last season. However, he is still not lighting up the scoreboard. Mitchell is a solid NHL blueliner, but he has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Vancouver D Willie Mitchell has struggled to get points lately, picking up just two assists in his past 10 starts.
Analysis: Mitchell is only one goal behind his single-season career high of three, so he's clearly getting more involved in the offensive zone this year. Keep a close eye on his stats in deeper formats but don't expect much out of him.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell scored his second goal of the season in Sunday's win over the Stars.
Analysis: Mitchell is now only one goal behind his single-season career high of three, so he's clearly getting more involved in the offensive zone this year. Keep a close eye on his stats in deeper formats.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell scored a goal, tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 during Monday's game against the Blue Jackets. Mitchell pulled the Canucks within a goal 7:37 into the third period. He scored his first in 42 games on a point shot through traffic that went off the post and in.
Analysis: Mitchell has three points in three games. He has really taken off offensively since Vancouver paired him with Kevin Bieksa last season. Still, we can't expect Mitchell to keep up this offensive pace. He is still one of the Canucks' best defenders and remains more of a low-end Fantasy option. He is also a flier in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats and PIM.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell was able to play during Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Blackhawks Thursday despite suffering a lower-body injury in the first round. Mitchell had no points in 18:15 of ice time and finished at plus-1.
Analysis: Mitchell had two assists in the clinching win in the first-round sweep of the Blues, his only two points of the series. Mitchell had a career-high 20 assists, 23 points and a plus-29 rating in 2008-09. He really benefited playing alongside Kevin Bieksa. Mitchell remains one of the premier defenders in the NHL, and while he had a nice offensive season, we aren't counting on a repeat performance in 2009-10. Mitchell will remain a low-end Fantasy defenseman and flier in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats and PIM.
News: Canucks center Mats Sundin, who missed the final two games of the first round against St. Louis, was back at practice Friday as the team preps for the Western Conference semifinals. But defensemen Sami Salo, who also missed Game 4 in St. Louis on Tuesday with a lower-body injury, and Willie Mitchell, who was limping noticeably after the series-clinching overtime win, both missed practice. Salo isn't expected back at practice until Monday, but insisted he would be ready for the start of the second round. Sundin, though, didn't sound nearly as certain about his return. "I don't know at this point," said the 38-year-old, refusing to offer any details on his unidentified lower-body injury. "Hopefully I can keep skating and working the way I did today and we'll make a decision as we go on."
Analysis: Mitchell had two assists in the clinching win against the Blues, his only two points of the first round. Mitchell had a career-high 20 assists, 23 points and a plus-29 rating in 2008-09. He really benefited playing alongside Kevin Bieksa. Mitchell remains one of the premier defenders in the NHL, and while he had a nice offensive season, we aren't counting on a repeat performance in 2009-10. Mitchell will remain a low-end Fantasy defenseman and flier in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats and PIM.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Canucks D Willie Mitchell continues to build on a career high in points, adding an assist in Colorado to push the total to a modest 22, still eight more than any previous season. But the stay-at-home defenseman's performance is truly measured by a different statistic, a plus-32 rating that ranks sixth in the entire NHL, and second only to Boston's Dennis Wideman (plus-33) on the league's blue line.
Analysis: Mitchell passed Chicago's Duncan Keith on Sunday when both were on the ice for the first goal scored by Daniel Sedin, raising Mitchell's total while Keith, who got caught fishing for the puck between Henrik Sedin and his brother, dropped to plus-30. More impressive was the fact Mitchell stayed on the plus side of the ledger on a night when he was going head-to-head with one of the hottest lines in the league, led by the ever-dangerous speedster Martin Havlat, who had four-straight multiple-point games (five goals, four assists) before being shutdown by Mitchell and partner Sami Salo. Mitchell hasn't had a minus-game since Jan. 20. It's great that Mitchell is in the midst of a career season, but since he still isn't an elite offensive player, he has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Canucks no longer have a checking line, but they still have a good option for shutting down an opponent's top forward line. His name is Willie Mitchell. The stay-at-home defenseman has a career-best 21 points, long ago obliterating his old mark of 14, but more impressive for a player who prides himself more on keeping pucks out of his own net than putting them in at the other end was his plus-30 rating, good for seventh in the NHL -- second only to Boston's Dennis Wideman (plus-32) among defensemen, and two better than Detroit's perennial Norris Trophy candidate Nicklas Lidstrom -- heading into Saturday's game in Phoenix. "I think it's probably been the most consistent hockey of my career," Mitchell said. "If I can be out against the best players and keep them off the scoresheet and we're also scoring while I'm out there against them, we are going to have a pretty good chance to win games. That's what I do, that's what I take pride in and I feel that my reads and stuff like that this year are even getting better."
Analysis: Despite going up against the opposition's best forwards every night, and with no checking line support since Alex Burrows and Ryan Kesler were split up and moved up into top-six roles, Mitchell hasn't had a "minus" game in more than two months. He even managed to escape Saturday's 5-1 loss in Phoenix with an even rating, though Mitchell needed a great glove save by Jason LaBarbera after his giveaway gave Milkel Boedker a breakaway. It hasn't gone unnoticed by head coach Alain Vigneault, especially since splitting up his top shutdown line with Burrows and Kesler, and going away from matching forward lines in favor of a more balanced attack up front "I think since the All-Star break he has been really effective," Vigneault said of Mitchell. "And not just at defending the rush or the play. He's taking the hit to make that short little pass so that we can get out of our end clean and go on the attack. He has really done a good job for us at that level." It's great that Mitchell is in the midst of a career season, but since he still isn't an elite offensive player, he has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell tallied an assist and finished at plus-2 during Friday's game against the Kings. He has three assists in his last five games and 18 on the season.
Analysis: Mitchell continues to add onto his career-high in points, which now stands at 21. The 18 assists are also a career-best. He has done well playing alongside Kevin Bieksa, Alexander Edler and Sami Salo, but Mitchell is still more on the ice for his defensive presence. He is a low-end Fantasy defenseman, but also has viability in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats and plus/minus ratings.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell tallied an assist and finished at even 24:32 during Tuesday's game against the Flames. It was his 15th assist of the season and second in five games.
Analysis: Mitchell has a career-high 18 points in 2008-09 and will likely hit 20 points for the first time in his career. He has done well playing alongside Kevin Bieksa, but Mitchell is still more on the ice for his defensive presence. He is a low-end Fantasy defenseman, but also has viability in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats and plus/minus ratings.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell scored twice and added an assist in Friday's 6-4 loss to the Blues. Mitchell now has 14 points on the season, which matches his career high.
Analysis: Mitchell has really come on offensively this season and has emerged as a useful low-end option in deeper Fantasy leagues. Don't rely on him to produce games like this very often, though.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell failed to record a point and finished at minus-1 in 24:10 of ice time Sunday against the Panthers. He did spend two minutes in the penalty box. Mitchell has just one goal and three assists in his last 20 games.
Analysis: Mitchell has always been known more as a defensive player, but was gaining some Fantasy momentum early on with a plus-14 rating through 24 games. He has a minus-6 rating in December and is starting to come back down to earth. Mitchell is still best used in leagues that reward heavily for PIM and short-handed stats.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell, who has scored one or two goals a season every year since 2002-03, claimed his first tally of this season in a win over the Maple Leafs on Saturday night.
Analysis: Mitchell is good for about 10-15 points and a favorable plus/minus rating every season. He is also a very good penalty killer. Mitchell has little Fantasy value in standard formats, but is good in leagues that reward for penalty killers or heavily for plus/minus ratings.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Canucks defenseman Kevin Bieksa's defense partner, Willie Mitchell, is getting in on the offense now. Known more for his role shutting down the opposition's top forwards, Mitchell takes more pride in a team-leading plus-8 rating. But he also has six assists in 14 games, not bad for a guy with a previous single-season high is 14 points.
Analysis: Mitchell is good for about 10-15 points and a favorable plus/minus rating every season. He is also a very good penalty killer. Mitchell has little Fantasy value in standard formats, but is good in leagues that reward for penalty killers or heavily for plus/minus ratings.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell tallied a pair of assists and finished at plus-1 during Thursday's game against the Red Wings. He is now at plus-4 in four games.
Analysis: Mitchell is good for about 10-15 points and a favorable plus/minus rating every season. He is also a very good penalty killer. Mitchell has little Fantasy value in standard formats, but is good in leagues that reward for penalty killers or heavily for plus/minus ratings.
News:Willie Mitchell, who missed 10 games with a stress fracture in a vertebra, played for the Canucks against the Wild on Thursday. Mitchell has only one goal and six assists in 47 games, but has a plus-7 rating despite being matched regularly against the opponent's top lines.
Analysis: Mitchell was minus-4 in the nine games he played with the bad back, and is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy flier or option in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Canucks D Willie Mitchell, out 10 games now with a stress fracture in a vertebra, skated on Sunday and could return Thursday as the Canucks four-game homestand continues against Minnesota.
Analysis: Mitchell has only one goal and six assists in 47 games, but has a plus-7 rating despite being matched regularly against the opponent's top lines. He was minus-4 in the nine games he played with the injury, and is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy flier or option in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell is out indefinitely with a broken vertebra in his back. Vancouver recalled defenseman Nathan McIver from the AHL on Tuesday to take Mitchell's place. Mitchell missed the last three games before the All-Star break, won't play Tuesday night against Dallas and will not travel with the team to Tampa Bay for the start of four-game road trip Thursday. But Mitchell, who played with the injury for nine games before sitting out, has skated on his own the last two days and could return during the trip.Mitchell has one goal and six assists in 47 games, but has a plus-7 rating despite being matched regularly against the opponent's top lines. He was minus-4 in the nine games he played with the injury.
Analysis: Mitchell has only one goal and six assists in 47 games, but has a plus-7 rating despite being matched regularly against the opponent's top lines. He was minus-4 in the nine games he played with the injury, and is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy flier or option in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell (back) was held out of Wednesday's game against the Blues. He has now missed the last three contests and remains questionable for the game against Dallas after the All-Star weekend.
Analysis: Mitchell has seven points this season, including one goal, but is pretty much on the ice to be one of the Canucks' top checking defenseman. He is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy flier or option in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell (back) was held out of Monday's game against the Wild. He has now missed the last two contests and is questionable for Wednesday's game against the Blues.
Analysis: Mitchell has seven points this season, including one goal, but is pretty much on the ice to be one of the Canucks' top checking defenseman. He is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy flier or option in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News: D Willie Mitchell missed his first game of the year for the Canucks with a sore back. Mitchell is day-to-day.
Analysis: Mitchell, who has just one goal and six assists, has value in larger leagues that reward heavily for penalty minutes.
News:Willie Mitchell had two shots on goal in 21 minutes of play against New Jersey Tuesday. He also posted a plus-2 rating.
Analysis: Mitchell has value in larger leagues that reward heavily for penalty minutes.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell (foot) was able to play Saturday against the Avalanche. He did not record a point in 21:54 and finished with a plus-1 rating.
Analysis: Mitchell has little to no Fantasy value when healthy. He really has value only in leagues that reward heavily for penalty minutes.
News:The Sports Xchange notes: Defenseman Willie Mitchell survived both hurt feelings after coach Alain Vigneault singled him out on Sunday and a slap shot from teammate Kevin Bieksa in practice Wednesday that required an X-ray for his foot.
Analysis: Mitchell played Thursday against Nashville despite the shot off the ankle and being forced to leave practice early on Wednesday. He is a solid Fantasy option in the deepest of leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes at this point of his career.
News: Willie Mitchell (groin) was back in the lineup for Wednesday's preseason game against the Sharks. We went scoreless in 19:53 of ice time with a plus-1 rating.
Analysis: Mitchell's groin injury was apparently not serious. He is a solid Fantasy option in the deepest of leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes at this point of his career.
News: Willie Mitchell is expected back at practice on Tuesday and he might return for Wednesday's preseason game against the Sharks. "If the coach allows me, hopefully I'll play Wednesday," Mitchell told the Vancouver Sun. "I was just trying to be cautious this time of year. I had some groin issues last year, so I don't want to press the envelope."
Analysis: Mitchell and the Canucks are just being cautious. Mitchell is only worth a look in the deepest of Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes heading into the regular season.
News: Willie Mitchell (leg) was able to suit up for Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals on Sunday night.
Analysis: Mitchell was scoreless with one shot on goal in 21:07 of ice time with two PIM and four hits. It appears he is safe to play in all Fantasy Hockey postseason pools.
News: TSN.ca is reporting Willie Mitchell missed practice on Saturday, but he is expected to be in the lineup for Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Ducks. He suffered the injury in the first period of Game 2 after a check from Francois Beauchemin.
Analysis: Mitchell is not at 100 percent, but appears to be a safe play for all Fantasy owners in postseason pools.
News: Willie Mitchell (groin) was able to play in Sunday's shootout loss against the Avalanche. He was scoreless with a minus-1 rating in the return.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Mitchell back into the active Fantasy lineup in all larger leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell (groin) did not play Wednesday against the Predators.
Analysis: Mitchell is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all larger Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Willie Mitchell (groin) missed his fourth consecutive game on Monday at Edmonton.
Analysis: Mitchell is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all larger Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Alexander Edler was recalled from Manitoba of the AHL with Willie Mitchell (groin) and Sami Salo (groin) both nursing injuries.
Analysis: Mitchell is expected to miss his fourth straight game on Monday at Edmonto. Keep him reserved in all leagues for Fantasy Week 25 (March 19-25).
News: Willie Mitchell (groin) missed his third consecutive game on Saturday against the Red Wings.
Analysis: Mitchell is considered day to day. Keep him reserved for Fantasy Week 25 (March 19-25) if you have healthier alternatives in larger leagues which reward penalty minutes.
News: Willie Mitchell (groin) was unable to play in Thursday's game against the Wild, missing his second straight game.
Analysis: Willie remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all leagues for Fantasy Week 25 (March 19-25) if he is unable to go on Saturday against the Red Wings.
News: TSN.ca is reporting Willie Mitchell has been ruled OUT for Tuesday's game against the Wild. he is expected to miss at least one or two games due to a groin injury.
Analysis: Mitchell has managed just one goal and 11 points in 54 games, so this only affects Fantasy owners in larger leagues which allow daily transactions.
News: Willie Mitchell (groin) returned on Thursday against the Oilers after missing six games with a groin injury. D Yannick Tremblay was sent to Manitoba of the AHL.
Analysis: Mitchell was scoreless with a plus-1 rating in 19:04 of ice time. He is only worth using in all larger Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Willie Mitchell (groin) is hopeful of a Thursday return against the Oilers. He was able to practice on Tuesday for the second time and said that his groin feels a lot better. "I felt a little rusty with a few things out there as far as timing and passing, but the groin felt good," Mitchell told the Vancouver Sun. "So, hopefully I can skate again (Wednesday) with the team and, with permission of the staff and what not, get a crack at it against Edmonton."
Analysis: Keep Mitchell reserved in all larger Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health in consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell (groin) is out another week and was replaced by call-up Yannick Tremblay Friday against the Kings.
Analysis: Mitchell is having a hard time staying healthy this season. Continue to keep him out of active Fantasy lineups. He is expected back in early February.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell (groin) did not play on Friday against the Sabres.
Analysis: Mitchell is having a hard time staying healthy this season. Continue to keep him out of active Fantasy lineups and he might even miss some games after the All-Star break.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell returned in Ottawa Thursday after missing two games with a minor groin injury, but left early in the second period and almost certainly won't play in Buffalo on Friday night. D Alexander Edler will likely take his spot.
Analysis: Mitchell is having a hard time staying healthy this season. Continue to keep him out of active Fantasy lineups and it is likely he will be out until after the All-Star break.
News: Willie Mitchell (groin) missed his second straight game on Tuesday at Montreal.
Analysis: Mitchell remains day to day. When healthy, he is only worth using in larger Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: D Willie Mitchell was scratched Saturday because of a minor groin injury and is day-to-day. Mitchell, who registered his first goal of the season on Thursday against Minnesota, was replaced in the lineup by D Rory Fitzpatrick.
Analysis: Keep Mitchell reserved in all Fantasy leagues for one more game until he play in consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury. When healthy, he should only get a look in the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News: Willie Mitchell (concussion) was able to play in Tuesday's game against the Red Wings, going scoreless in 22:53 of ice time.
Analysis: Keep Mitchell reserved in all Fantasy leagues for one more game until he play in consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell (concussion) did not play Saturday against the Flames.
Analysis: Keep Mitchell reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially prove his health and play in consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Sami Salo (knee sprain) and Willie Mitchell (post-concussion symptoms) are sidelined, leaving Vancouver with a young, inexperienced defense for its game Thursday night against Anaheim.
Analysis: Keep Mitchell and Salo reserved in all formats until he returns and proves his health.
News: According to televised reports, Willie Mitchell (concussion) has skated in practice on Tuesday but he is doubtful for Thursday's game against the Ducks.
Analysis: Keep Mitchell reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially prove his health and play in consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Willie Mitchell (concussion), who was doubtful for Tuesday's game against Predators, might try extra hard to get ready for Thursday's game at Minnesota.
Analysis: Mitchell is likely to do anything in his power to get back for the game against his former team. However, keep him reserved in all daily Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Canucks D Willie Mitchell missed his third straight game on Friday because of a concussion.
Analysis: Mitchell is considered day-to-day. Keep him reserved in larger Fantasy formats. D Luc Bourdon took Willie Mitchell's place in the lineup.
News: D Willie Mitchell missed a second straight game after suffering a concussion in Nashville on Saturday and will likely miss Friday's home game against Washington.
Analysis: Mitchell is considered day-to-day. Keep him reserved in larger Fantasy formats. D Luc Bourdon took Willie Mitchell's place in the lineup.
News: Vancouver D Willie Mitchell missed his second game with a concussion on Wednesday against the Blackhawks.
Analysis: Mitchell is considered day-to-day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy formats.
News: Lukas Krajicek and Willie Mitchell posted assists and plus-2 ratings in Sunday's game at Colorado.
Analysis: The defensive duo are solid No. 5 or 6 Fantasy defensemen in most leagues, especially those which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Mitchell signed a four-year contract with the Vancouver Canucks over the weekend.
Analysis: Mitchell managed two goals and 10 points while playing for Minnesota and Dallas in 2005-06. He is only worth Fantasy consideration in leagues for his plus/minus rating and penalty minutes.
News: Mitchell (upper body injury) was back in the lineup for Saturday's game against Minnesota.
Analysis: Mitchell was scoreless with a minus-1 rating in 20:42 against his former team.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Mitchell (upper body injury) might be ready to play on Saturday against Minnesota.
Analysis: Mitchell is a solid Fantasy defenseman who will do all he can to play against his former mates.
News: Mitchell (upper body injury) was out for his second consecutive game on Tuesday against Columbus.
Analysis: Mitchell and the Stars will have until Saturday to rest. We'll find out if his injury is a minor one or not, as the next game will be against his former teammates from Minnesota.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Mitchell was unable to play in Sunday's game at San Jose due to an upper body injury.
Analysis: The Stars have been resting some of their veterans, so keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues for the final scoring period.
News: Willie Mitchell picked up an assist and plus-1 rating with three shots on goal in 17:41 of ice time in Wednesday's game against the Wild.
Analysis: Mitchell was skating with a purpose against his former team, trying to show them they were incorrect in not giving him an extension and instead dealing him.
News: Willie Mitchell was traded to the Dallas Stars on Thursday along with a second-round pick in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft for veteran defenseman Martin Skoula and minor-leaguer Shawn Belle.
Analysis: Mitchell is a tough guy who will see his Fantasy appeal remain generally the same despite the change in scenery. He is only worth using in larger leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Willie Mitchell has managed just two goals, five assists and a team-best plus-18 rating in 59 games through the Olympic Games break. He is one of only three Minnesota players to appear in every game.
Analysis: Mitchell is another player way more valuable to his real team than to a Fantasy squad, although that plus/minus rating can be helpful in Roto leagues.
News: Mitchell was scoreless for Monday's game at N.Y. Rangers in 22:17 of ice time.
Analysis: Mitchell is a low-scoring defenseman who has best been used in leagues which reward PIM. He has not even done a very good job picking up penalties in 2005-06, so avoid him in all leagues.
News: Mitchell re-signed with the Wild for one season on Wednesday.
Analysis: Mitchell posted 14 points in a career-high 70 games with the Wild in 2003-04. He has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: Willie Mitchell re-signed for one season with the Wild over the weekend.
Analysis: Mitchell posted only 14 points in 70 games, so consider him only in larger Fantasy leagues when filling out your roster on Draft Day.
News: Mitchell (knee) picked up a point in his second game back in the lineup on Wednesday at Colorado.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Mitchell back into the lineup in larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Mitchell (knee) skated on his own Thursday and told the Minneapolis Star Tribune that he is ready for full-out practice. He hopes to play as soon as Saturday against Buffalo, but might have to wait until Monday at Phoenix.
Analysis: When healthy, Mitchell is best used as a Fantasy reserve in larger leagues.
News: An MRI on Mitchell's left knee revealed a torn medial collateral ligament, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. He will miss two to three weeks. "He's just starting to ride the bike," Wild general manager Doug Risebrough said. "How it responds will determine two weeks or three weeks."
Analysis: Mitchell should be reserved for at least the upcoming week.
News: Willie Mitchell left Thursday's game in the second period with a knee injury, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. He said the injury was more severe than the one he suffered earlier in the season.
Analysis: Mitchell missed a few games with the previous injury, so he should be reserved for at least the upcoming week.
News: Willie Mitchell (knee) returned to the lineup on Friday at Florida. He was scoreless in 22:47 of ice time.
Analysis: Mitchell has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: Willie Mitchell (knee) might play Friday in Florida if he feels healthy, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
Analysis: Mitchell's Fantasy owners should allow him to play a few games before considering activating him.
News: An MRI exam on Willie Mitchell's right knee revealed a small tear in his medial collateral ligament, according to the St. Paul Pioneer Press. However, he was able to skate on Tuesday and traveled to Florida with his teammates.
Analysis: Keep Mitchell reserved until he officially returns to the lineup.
News: As expected, Willie Mitchell (knee) did not play on Tuesday.
Analysis: Mitchell is still considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all formats.
News: An MRI performed Monday on Willie Mitchell's right knee revealed a mild sprain of the medial collateral ligament, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. He will miss Tuesday's game against Calgary.
Analysis: Mitchell should be reserved for now in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Willie Mitchell sprained his right knee Sunday in Dallas when he was checked hard along the boards by Steve Ott, according to the St. Paul Pioneer Press. He will be re-evaluated on Monday.
Analysis: Mitchell might be sidelined for an extended period, and he's not a strong enough Fantasy option to warrant using this week.
News: Mitchell will have offseason surgery, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. He will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his right wrist, which bothered him most of the season. He is expected to be ready for training camp in September.
Analysis:
News: Mitchell left Friday's Game 4 with an arm injury. Mitchell might miss the remainder of the series against Vancouver. He is doubtful for Monday's game 5 at Vancouver. left last night's game with an arm injury. It is being speculated that Mitchell hurt his wrist and will miss the rest of the series with Vancouver. For now he is day-to-day.
Analysis:
News: Mitchell (concussion) missed his seventh straight game Thursday in Chicago. According to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, he hopes to return Saturday. Mitchell has no Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Mitchell (concussion) traveled with the Wild to Chicago. According to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, he is not expected to play Thursday in Chicago. Mitchell has no Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Mitchell (concussion) returned to practice on Sunday. However, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports that it is unclear when he will be cleared to return to the lineup. Mitchell hopes to return Thursday in Chicago or Saturday in Buffalo, but he's not a useful Fantasy player.
Analysis:
News: The Wild placed Mitchell (concussion) on injured reserve Sunday. The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that he was able to ride a stationary bike Sunday, but still doesn't feel quite right. Mitchell has no Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Mitchell left Thursday's game in Detroit with a concussion. He was hit hard into the boards by Sergei Federov late in the game, and will be re-evaluated Friday. Mitchell shouldn't be on anyone's Fantasy roster.
Analysis:
News: The Wild placed Mitchell on injured reserve Monday with a rib injury. "I can skate all right, but the problem now is with twisting and turning and shooting," he told the Minneapolis Star Tribune. "It's getting better and it shouldn't be too long, but I still haven't taken a slapshot yet. Plus, my game is wrestling in front and along the boards, and I don't think I'm ready for that yet." Mitchell is not a useful Fantasy player.
Analysis:
News: Mitchell (groin) told the St. Paul Pioneer Press that he was 100 percent after practicing on Wednesday. He is expected to play in Friday's season opener against Boston, but still doesn't warrant any Fantasy consideration.
Analysis:
News: Mitchell practiced Monday, but The Pioneer Press reports that he had trouble holding the stick, because of a bruised wrist. He will undergo an MRI on the wrist if discomfort in the joint continues.
Analysis:
News: Mitchell's status is uncertain, after suffering a wrist injury in Saturday's game. He had X-rays taken on his left wrist. They proved to be negative, but The Pioneer Press reports that he will undergo more tests this week. Reserve him in your lineup.
Analysis:
News: Mitchell practiced Thursday for the first time since suffering a separated shoulder. He is likely out until Sunday at the earliest, but keep him reserved for the upcoming week as a precaution.
Analysis:
News: Mitchell hopes to return from a separated shoulder either Saturday in Calgary or Tuesday in Nashville, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. This news probably doesn't affect many Fantasy owners.
Analysis:
News: The Wild lost Mitchell for at least a week after he suffered a mild separation of his right shoulder during a collision with San Jose's Owen Nolan during the second period of Wednesday's game. Mitchell isn't worth holding on to in a Fantasy league as a result.
Analysis:
