News:Scott Nichol (lower body) will miss his ninth straight game Thursday against the Coyotes, NHL.com's Lou Korac reports.
Analysis: On the plus side, Scott Nichol -- who has not played since April 1 -- practiced in full gear Thursday, which suggests that his return is on the horizon.
News:Scott Nichol (lower body) will miss Tuesday's game as he is not with the team on their current road trip, the Saint Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis:Scott Nichol will miss his fourth straight game Tuesday as he did not accompany the team on their current road trip. There is a possibility Nichol could rejoin the team in Minnesota on Thursday, but may wait until the Blues' next home game Sunday against the Blackhawks.
News:Scott Nichol (general soreness) will not play Sunday against the Red Wings, Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis:Scott Nichol did not accompany the team to Detroit and will miss a second straight game with what coach Ken Hitchcock described as general soreness.
News:Scott Nichol (general soreness) won't play Thursday against the Blackhawks, Lou Korac of NHL.com reports.
Analysis: With just one goal and 25 PIMs in 30 games to date, Scott Nichol isn't really a fantasy factor, with his absence Thursday paving the way for Adam Cracknell to suit up for the Blues.
News:Scott Nichol will not play Wednesday against the Avalanche, Lou Korac of NHL.com reports.
Analysis: Matt D'Agostini will step into the lineup to replace Scott Nichol, who will watch from the press box as a healthy scratch.
News:Scott Nichol will be active for Thursday's game against Nashville, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis:Scott Nichol was a healthy scratch in the Blues' previous game.
News:Scott Nichol was a healthy scratch Tuesday night.
Analysis:Scott Nichol is usually St. Louis' fourth-line center and most nights is the team's best faceoff guy. Other than his success at the dot, he has a penchant for penalty minutes.
News:Scott Nichol has re-signed with St. Louis for a one year contract, the Blues' official site reports.
Analysis:Scott Nichol netted eight points (three goals) in 80 games with the Blues last season, while leading the club with a 57.6 percent face-off win percentage. The 37-year-old center will be playing in his 13th NHL season next year.
News:Scott Nichol, who left a practice earlier this week because of a family emergency, played 11 minutes Friday night in St. Louis' 1-0 win over Los Angeles.
Analysis:Scott Nichol left the team Monday, but thanks to a large break in the Blues' schedule, Nichol did not miss any game action.
News:Scott Nichol was forced to leave Monday's practice early due to a family emergency, Lou Korac of NHL.com reports.
Analysis: Hopefully everything is OK, but for now consider him day-to-day as it's unclear if he'll be ready to roll again for the Blues on Tuesday.
News:Scott Nichol notched St. Louis' only goal in Monday's loss to Detroit.
Analysis: The tally was his second of the season, but the grinder does have 52 penalty minutes on the season. He's a checking forward that will not impact the team's attack much.
News:Scott Nichol is the Blues team leader in faceoff percentage, winning 54.1 percent of his draws, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis: The fourth-line center doesn't get regular shifts, but he is a staple on the team's penalty-kill unit, which had erased 27 of the last 30 power plays faced entering Thursday night's game. Unfortunately, the unit gave up two power play goals and Scott Nichol lost three of his five faceoffs in the Blues' 4-3 win over Edmonton.
News: The NHL did not contact the Blues about Scott Nichol, following the center's game misconduct for spearing in Thursday night's win over Florida, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis: There will be no ramifications for Scott Nichol following Thursday's incident, which drew a five-minute major in addition to getting ejected.
News:Scott Nichol received a five-minute major and a game misconduct Thursday for spearing, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis:Scott Nichol might face an additional disciplinary response from the league for the play.
News:Scott Nichol (head) was able to suit up and play Thursday night in St. Louis' shootout loss to Toronto.
Analysis:Scott Nichol was forced to leave Tuesday night's win over Chicago after taking a blow to the head. He skated 7:52 Thursday and lost all four of his faceoffs.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports Scott Nichols' upper-body injury is an apparent head injury.
Analysis:Scott Nichols didn't practice Wednesday, but head coach Ken Hitchcock said he might be able to play Thursday against Toronto. Our ears always prick up when we hear about injuries to the head, but apparently this one isn't serious.
Blues' Nichols (Upper Body) Expected To Play Thursday
News: Blues coach Ken Hitchcock expects Scott Nichols (upper body) to play against Toronto on Thursday, Lou Korac's of the Alton Telepgrah reports.
Analysis: It doesn't appear Scott Nichols' injury is too severe if Hitchcock expects him to play Thursday. Still, it's not entirely certain he will be on the ice against the Maple Leafs.
News:Scott Nichol left Tuesday's game with an upper body injury and will not return, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis: No word on the severity of the injury or how long Scott Nichol might be out. Consider him day-to-day.
News:Scott Nichol, who entered training camp recovering from offseason shoulder surgery, skated in his second straight preseason game Thursday night. He had one shot on goal and won seven of nine faceoffs in the Blues' 3-1 win over the Avalanche.
Analysis:Scott Nichol, who is slated for fourth-line duty, appears to be ready to start the regular season for the Blues.
News:Scott Nichol, whose shoulder has been cleared by doctors, made his Blues debut Tuesday night and scored a goal in a 4-3 preseason win over Minnesota.
Analysis:Scott Nichol skated 7:35 in primarily a fourth-line role Tuesday. That figures to be his job for the Blues this season, though he's been a good face-off and penalty-kill guy during his career.
News:Scott Nichol (shoulder) has been cleared by doctors and will take the ice Tuesday night against the Wild, according to Lou Korac of the In The Slot blog.
Analysis:Scott Nichol said he plans to play in the final three preseason games.
News:Scott Nichol (shoulder) could appear in a game as early as this week, the St. Louis Post Dispatch reports.
Analysis: "We expect (Scott Nichol) to be ready to go at some point this week," Blues coach Davis Payne said. "We'll wait and see. We'll announce that lineup tomorrow. We'd definitely like to see him in there as soon as possible, tomorrow being as soon as possible." He's been skating with his teammates, but hasn't been cleared by doctors for game action at this time.
News:Scott Nichol (shoulder) has been cleared to practice but is still awaiting the doctor's permission to play in preseason games, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis:Scott Nichol, who underwent offseason surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder, skated Saturday with his new teammates and came away feeling fine. "We're still taking it easy, probably pushed it today more so than ever, so we'll see how it reacts tomorrow," said Nichol.
News:Scott Nichol had his surgically repaired shoulder checked out by the Blues' medical staff, the In The Slot blog reports.
Analysis:Scott Nichol said the healing is on pace and believes he'll be ready for the start of the season, barring any major setback. He's slated to be a fourth-liner with the Blues and was a top faceoff man in terms of percentage with San Jose last season.
News:Scott Nichol, who underwent offseason shoulder surgery, may not be ready to start training camp, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis:Scott Nichol has been skating in St. Louis, but still needs to be medically cleared by the doctor who performed the surgery to repair a torn labrum. "All indications are Scotty is progressing, his rehab is going really well," Blues general manager Doug Armstrong said. "The (last) hurdle he has to go through is he has to go back to San Jose and get signed off by that doctor. If he's not there for the first day of camp, he'll be there sometime in camp. I'm not concerned about that."
News: The Blues have signed Nichol to a one-year, one-way contract, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Nichol played in 56 games for the Sharks this past season, recording seven points (four goals, three assists) to go along with 50 penalty minutes. There's not much offensive upside to be had here, but the veteran pivot can fill a fourth-line role with his energy and faceoff prowess.
News: GM Doug Wilson announced Monday that Nichol (shoulder) will not be returning to the Sharks next season, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: The free agent-to-be is an energy player with faceoff skills, traits that should land him a fourth-line gig elsewhere once free agency kicks in.
News: Nichol will have offseason surgery to fix a torn labrum in his left shoulder, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Nichol played with the torn labrum, but he sat out the final three games of the year with a deep cut above his right knee, so he'll use the time off to get healthy. Nichol will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1.
News: Despite having played all 13 postseason games for the Sharks so far this season, Nichol remains pointless on top of a minus-6 rating.
Analysis: The Sharks have plenty of offensive weapons, but Nichol is not one of them. Instead, we figure he'll continue to be a high-energy role player against the Canucks in the Western Conference finals.
News: Nichol, who missed out on 20 games because of an upper-body injury, was back on the ice for Friday night's eventual 4-3 loss to the Coyotes.
Analysis: He logged 9:39 of ice time with two penalty minutes and a minus-2 rating. He's an energy player with faceoff skills, which figure to play an important role in the Sharks' latest quest for the Cup.
News: Nichol is expected to suit up Friday night against the Coyotes after missing the past 19 games with an upper-body ailment, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Evidently, the Sharks will have a chance to see how Nichol performs following his long injury hiatus. This concerns the team's depth more than it does fantasy owners with leagues that run the entire course of the NHL schedule.
News: Nichol (upper body) did not play Wednesday but could against Phoenix on Friday, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: Nichol previously declared himself ready for Wednesday, so it's difficult to tell what sort of realistic timetable he might actually be on.
News: Nichol (upper body) said he's "ready to go," meaning hockey fans could see him out on the ice Wednesday night against the Ducks, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: The Mercury News has him listed as questionable for Wednesday's game. "I think everybody agrees that there's no way I'm going to hop in and just play in the playoffs," Nichol said. "Just getting the last two or three game in will be huge." The faceoff wizard has been out since Feb. 19, so some degree of rust is to be expected upon his eventual return.
News: Nichol (upper body) could play on the Sharks' upcoming two-game road trip, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: We're not recommending him as someone you should be relying on, but it's good sign for the Sharks' depth heading into the playoffs that Nichol might be able to get in a game or two down the stretch.
News: Nichol (upper body) won't play Saturday, the Sharks' official site reports.
Analysis: He remains out indefinitely with the hope of getting back in action before the start of the playoffs.
News: San Jose is hopeful that Nichol (upper body) can play again this regular season, but it's not clear if he will, CSN Bay Area's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis: There remains no particular timetable for Nichol's potential return.
News: As expected, Nichol will not lace up for Thursday's contest against the Stars, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: An earlier report from the Mercury News indicated that Nichol is making progress. But between his lack of offensive upside and just six games left of Team Teal's schedule, Nichol is certainly a player to avoid for fantasy purposes.
News: Nichol (upper body) is making progress, but is not expected to be in the lineup Thursday against the Stars, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Nichol is getting close to a return, but with just seven points in 54 games, he's not the type of player owners in standard-sized leagues need to track closely.
News: Nichol (upper body) is not likely to face the Flames on Wednesday, despite practicing Monday for the first time since sustaining his injury against the Avalanche on February 19, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: The role player has missed the past 12 games due to the injury, but his return to practice suggests that he may be getting closer to a return.
News: Nichol (upper body) continues to skate on his own but an announcement has yet to be made in regards to when he will return to the lineup, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Nichol has been away from game ice for three weeks. When healthy, he's a gritty centerman with skills in the faceoff circle, but his points are usually few and far between.
News: Nichol (upper body) is not close to rejoining the Sharks despite skating on his own Wednesday, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Nichol is on injured reserve and has not seen game ice since Feb. 19.
News: Nichol (upper body) has been placed on injured reserve by the Sharks, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: The Sharks will miss the forward depth that Nichol provides, but centers who have just seven points in 54 games are normally of little interest to fantasy owners.
News: Nichol (upper body) missed practice Monday and will not draw into the lineup against the Avalanche on Tuesday night, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: As the owner of just seven points in 54 games, Nichol is not someone that you should be depending on if you're taking aim at a fantasy title. The face-off expert's next chance for a return will be Thursday, when the Sharks host the Red Wings.
News: Nichol (upper body) is still missing practices, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Nichol has not seen game ice since sustaining the upper-body ailment against the Avalanche on Feb. 19. He's a grinder with faceoff skills, but the Sharks have managed to win six straight, including the last three without Nichol. It is not known when he will return for the Toothed Teal.
News: Coach Todd McLellan said that Nichol (upper body) will likely miss the Sharks' entire three-game road trip this week, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: The Sharks will miss Nichol, but centers who have seven points in 54 games are of little use to fantasy owners.
News: Nichol was injured in the first period of San Jose's Saturday evening game against Colorado, and did not return to action. He crashed awkwardly into the boards and left the ice cluching his left shoulder.
Analysis: We'll update this when we have more news. For now, you should definitely bench him; he doesn't offer enough offensive upside to justify taking a gamble on a quick return to action.
News: Nichol's suspension has ended, so he will get back to work Wednesday night against the Ducks, CSN's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis: Nichol was handed a four-game suspension for a hit to the head of Coyotes defenseman David Schlemko on January 17. Team Teal undoubtedly will benefit from Nichol's faceoff prowess upon his return.
News: Nichol has been suspended four games for his hit on Phoenix's David Schlemko in Monday's game, the Sharks' official site reports.
Analysis: He'll be eligible to return to action February 2 against the Ducks. Nichol will forfeit just over $16,000 in salary because of the hit.
News: Nichol (eye) will return to the lineup Tuesday against the Red Wings, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Nichol originally sustained the injury in a morning skate last Friday, when a bouncing puck struck his left eye, swelled and required stitches. Especially with four other Sharks hurting, the team will be glad to see the return of their faceoff wizard in Nichol.
News: Nichol (eye) took part in Monday's practice, CSN's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis: Nichol was unable to play in either of the Sharks' two games last weekend after taking a puck to the face during Friday's morning skate. Consider him questionable for Tuesday's game against the Red Wings.
Sharks' Nichol Suffers Eye Injury at Friday's Skate
News: Nichol suffered an apparent left eye injury during Friday morning's skate, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Nichol took a bouncing puck to the eye area and needed stitches to close up the wound. There is a chance Nichol could still play Friday, but considering his eye was swollen and covered by a bandage, it would not be surprising to see him sit out. Nichol will be a game-time decision Friday night.
News: Nichol scored his second goal of the season in a 6-3 win over the Kings on Monday.
Analysis: Nichol has never scored more than 10 goals in a season in his career. Instead, he's a consummate professional whose expertise is chronically shown in the faceoff circle.
Sharks' Nichol: Likely to Lace His Skates Wednesday
News: Nichol (foot) is expected to be in the Sharks' lineup at home against the Devils on Wednesday, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: "A couple nights ago, I wouldn't think I'd be playing but it comes around pretty quick," Nichol said. "Walking barefoot, it's a little painful, but as long as it's good in the skate I'm ready to go." This is great news for Nichol, whose status for Wednesday had been in question after he deflected a puck off his right foot on Sunday, causing him to leave a game against the Flames. He's worth a flier, but only in the deepest of fantasy leagues.
News: Nichol is believed to be dealing with a foot injury originally sustained during the Sharks' 4-0 loss to the Flames on Sunday, leaving him questionable for Wednesday's game against New Jersey, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: The Sharks cannot afford to lose Nichol. He's a defensively responsible forward with top-rate skills in the faceoff circle. He's not someone that will help you win in fantasy leagues, but Nichol is needed to routinely shore up Team Teal's lower lines.
News: Nichol found the nylon Tuesday in a 4-2 win over Colorado. It was his first score of the season.
Analysis: This was a rare goal for the energy player. He has just nine regular-season goals since the start of 2008-09, his last campaign with the Predators.
News: Nichol will play in his 500th career game when he suits up against Carolina on Tuesday.
Analysis: Including the Sharks, Nichol has played on five different teams. He's an energy player who delivers a copious amount of hits and delivers in the faceoff circle.
News: Sharks C Scott Nichol returned from a two-game absence Saturday against the Canucks. He had been out with an upper-body issue.
Analysis: Nichol is having a nice first year with the Sharks, but doesn't see much of the ice as a checking-line forward. Continue to ignore him in all but the deepest of Fantasy leagues that reward PIM.
News: Sharks C Scott Nichol was a scratch for Thursday's game against the Stars due to an upper body injury. It was the second straight game he's missed.
Analysis: Nichol has tied his career high in points (18) though 71 games. While he is having a nice first year with the Sharks, Nichol still isn't making much of a dent in Fantasy. He remains best used in Fantasy formats that reward heavily for short-handed and faceoff stats when healthy.
News: Sharks forward Jed Ortmeyer returned to the lineup on Tuesday against the Wild after missing three games with a lower-body injury. He replaced C Scott Nichol, who was scratched because of an upper-body injury.
Analysis: Nichol has tied his career high in points (18) though 71 games. While he is having a nice first year with the Sharks, Nichol still isn't making much of a dent in Fantasy. He remains best used in Fantasy formats that reward heavily for short-handed and faceoff stats when healthy.
News: Sharks C Scott Nichol had two assists in Thursday's 8-5 win over the Predators. He was plus-3 for the game, won three of four faceoffs, recorded three blocked shots and was credited with one hit.
Analysis: Thursday's performance was a nice contribution, but for the season, Nichol has only three goals and 15 assists. He remains best used in Fantasy formats that reward heavily for short-handed and faceoff stats.
News: Sharks C Scott Nichol is expected to miss several games after injuring his shoulder during Thursday's win over the Canadiens. Montreal C Maxim Lapierre hit Nichol late, driving him into the boards. Nichol left the game clutching his right shoulder and did not return. Lapierre has been suspended four games for the hit. Sharks coach Todd McLellan said Nichol will likely be sidelined for 7 to 10 days.
Analysis: Nichol has only three goals, 13 assists and a +/- of zero on the season. He remains best used in Fantasy formats that reward heavily for short-handed and faceoff stats.
News: Sharks C Scott Nichol scored a goal, tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 on Thursday against the Blues. Nichol's third goal with 4:48 to go gave the Sharks their third two-goal cushion.
Analysis: Nichol has surprisingly produced three multi-point games in his last eight outings. While he is providing San Jose with some quality minutes, it is still lower-line time. Nichol remains best used in Fantasy formats that reward heavily for short-handed and faceoff stats.
News: Sharks C Scott Nichol scored and added two assists in Monday's 9-1 rout of the Flames.
Analysis: When you consider Nichol's best NHL season is an 18-point campaign, then Monday's three-point haul was an absolute monster. Don't expect another night like this from Nichol again this season, as he remains best used in Fantasy formats that reward heavily for short-handed and faceoff stats.
News: Sharks C Scott Nichol, who left with a facial injury in Thursday's win over the Coyotes, returned to action Saturday vs. Edmonton.
Analysis: Nichol is best used in Fantasy formats that reward heavily for short-handed and faceoff stats when healthy.
News: Sharks C Scott Nichol left Thursday's game against the Coyotes briefly in the third period when he was cut by Ed Jovanovski's stick while on his knees just inside the Sharks blue line. "I'll take a broken nose for getting the puck out of the zone," Nichol said.
Analysis: Nichol prides himself with his defensive play, so it's not surprising he was willing to give up his body for the betterment of the team. It seems Nichol will be OK, but his Fantasy value is still limited. Nichol is best used in Fantasy formats that reward heavily for short-handed and faceoff stats.
News: Sharks C Scott Nichol failed to record a point and finished at even in 11:22 of ice time on Wednesday against the Kings. Nichol hasn't scored in nine games and has only one point in that span.
Analysis: Nichol has played on a regular basis for the Sharks since joining the team in the offseason. However, he is not on the ice for his offense. He does his best work in the faceoff circle and as a penalty-killing specialist. Nichol is best used in Fantasy formats that reward heavily for those two stats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Sharks C Scott Nichol got promoted one line on Monday night vs. the Coyotes, moving up from the fourth unit to center the third line, which included wingers Jed Ortmeyer and rookie Benn Ferriero. "I liked the energy that Ortmeyer, Nichol and Ferriero brought the game in the second half," said coach Todd McLellan, referring to Saturday's win over Minnesota. "They're all quick, they get to loose pucks quickly, so we'll try to keep that together for a little bit." Nichol didn't want to make more of the move than a simple adjustment. "They're just changing up," he said. "Benny and Orts, we just had a little chemistry there the second half of the game. That's hockey. You play so many games. Some games you get stymied and then he switches it up. It creates a little bit of offense and a little bit of energy. With our bottom two lines, you can mix and match whatever."
Analysis: Nichol isn't much of an offensive force with the Sharks and can continue to be ignored in all Fantasy formats unless he somehow ends up on the scoring lines.
News:The Sports Xchange reports it doesn't rank as a major move, but general manager Doug Wilson added a new face to the roster for the first time since the end of the season with the signing of veteran forward Scott Nichol. The 34-year-old native of Edmonton is seen as fourth-line center, replacing Marcel Goc, who was no tendered a new contract offer. The 5-foot-8, 170-pound Nichol isn't big in stature, but plays with an edge. "I think I bring a lot of energy and a lot of intangibles to the game," Nichol said. "I love playing, I love the competitive nature of hockey and I enjoy giving it my all on every shift."
Analysis: Nichol has spent the last four seasons with Nashville after playing for three teams -- Buffalo, Calgary and Chicago -- during his first five seasons. The Sharks see Nichol's addition as a move in the right direction. "He is ultra-competitive," Wilson said. "He is a hockey rat. He can skate. He's a good penalty-killer and is good on face-offs. But he will do whatever it takes to win. He knows how we want to play the game and he brings a clear ingredient to our team. Players hate to play against him; our players know him very well. He's the type of guy you want on your team. You don't want to play against him." Nichol had just 10 points in 43 games last season for Nashville and has never managed more than 18 points in a season. He is only worth a look in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for short-handed and faceoff stats.
News: The San Jose Sharks have signed C Scott Nichol, adding veteran depth to their changing lineup. Nichol is likely to play on the Sharks' fourth line.
Analysis: Nichol spent the past four seasons with the Nashville Predators, scoring 10 points in 43 games last season while missing extensive playing time with a concussion. The 34-year-old agitator is entering his eighth full NHL season, previously playing with Buffalo, Calgary and Chicago. He has no Fantasy value heading into the 2009-10 season.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Predators C Scott Nichol has stitches on his face, including his nose, after getting hit with a high stick late in the Chicago game Tuesday night. However, he played against Detroit Thursday. Nichol scored the first goal for the Predators, his fifth of the season.
Analysis: Nichol missed a great deal of time this season with a concussion, but has been active for the last month. He has managed 10 or more points for the sixth time in seven seasons, but he still won't break 20 points for the first time in his career. The 34-year-old forward will be a free agent in the offseason, but no matter where he lands, he will have little to no Fantasy value Draft Day 2009.
News: Nashville center Scott Nichol played in his first game Tuesday against the Capitals since sustaining a concussion Dec. 9 against Vancouver. He didn't record a point in 5:14 of ice time and finished at even.
Analysis: Nichol has always been a solid defensive presence and good faceoff specialist in his career, but he never brought much to the table offensively. He has little to no Fantasy value when healthy.
News: The Tennessean reports that Predators C Scott Nichol, out since mid-December with a concussion, has been riding a stationary bike, but is still a long way from returning to action. "He's not on the ice yet, so it's still weeks away," Coach Barry Trotz said. "We could really use him. He's one of those missing components that can really drive you, that really battles and pushes a lot of intangibles, especially this time of year."
Analysis: Nichol is on the Predators for his defensive abilities and little else. He has no Fantasy appeal at the time and should be left on waivers.
News: The Tennessean reports that Predators C Scott Nichol has suffered a setback in his recovery from a concussion and is now not expected to be back until after the All-Star break.
Analysis: Nichol is on the Predators for his defensive abilities and little else. He has no Fantasy appeal at the time and should be left on waivers.
News: The Tennessean reports that Predators C Scott Nichol, out since suffering a Dec. 9 concussion, could return to practice by the end of next week.
Analysis: Nichol is on the Predators for his defensive abilities and little else. He has no Fantasy appeal at the time and should be left on waivers.
News: Predators C Scott Nichol missed a sixth straight game with a concussion Friday, but the Tennessean reports he is making strides. "In the last three days he’s made a big recovery from where he was," Coach Barry Trotz said. “Hopefully we’ll get him back as soon as possible. He’s one those guys that you don’t really measure his contribution in goals and assists. He brings lot of intangibles to the locker room."
Analysis: Nichol is on the Predators for his defensive abilities and little else. He has no Fantasy appeal at the time and should be left on waivers.
News: Predators C Scott Nichol (upper body) did not return to the lineup Tuesday against the Panthers. He has missed the last five games and remains questionable heading into Friday against Florida.
Analysis: Nichol is on the Predators for his defensive abilities and little else. He has no Fantasy appeal at the time and should be left on waivers.
News: Predators C Scott Nichol (upper body) did not return to the lineup Saturday against the Islanders. He has missed the last four games and remains questionable heading into Tuesday at Florida.
Analysis: Nichol is on the Predators for his defensive abilities and little else. He has no Fantasy appeal at the time and should be left on waivers.
News: Predators C Scott Nichol (upper body) did not return to the lineup Thursday against the Coyotes. He has missed the last three games and remains questionable heading into Saturday against the Islanders.
Analysis: Nichol is primarily a defensive player for the Predators when healthy and has little to no Fantasy appeal.
News: The Predators lost Scott Nichol to an upper-body injury after he was on the ice only 2:34 in Tuesday's loss to Vancouver and has now missed two games including Saturday's contest against the Stars. He remains questionable for Thursday at Phoenix.
Analysis: Nichol has nine points this season for the Predators. His role is mostly as a penalty killer and he's mostly used as a checking center when on the ice. He has little to no Fantasy value, even when healthy.
News: The Predators lost Scott Nichol to an upper-body injury after he was on the ice only 2:34 in Tuesday's loss to Vancouver and he could not return for Thursday's contest against the Blue Jackets. He remains questionable for Saturday against Dallas.
Analysis: Nichol has nine points this season for the Predators. His role is mostly as a penalty killer and he's mostly used as a checking center when on the ice. He has little to no Fantasy value, even when healthy.
News: The Predators lost Scott Nichol to an upper-body injury after he was on the ice only 2:34 in Tuesday's loss to Vancouver.
Analysis: Nichol has nine points this season for the Predators. His role is mostly as a penalty killer and he's mostly used as a checking center when on the ice. He has little to no Fantasy value, even when healthy.
News: Predators C Scott Nichol had a goal and an assist in Friday's game at Atlanta. He has his scored his only two goals of the season over his last three games.
Analysis: Nichol has just six points all season and his role is more as a penalty killer. He is mostly used as a checking center when on the ice and has little to no Fantasy value.
News:Scott Nichol scored one goal and added a pair of assists to help the Nashville Predators edge the Edmonton Oilers 5-4 on Tuesday night. Nichol's one-timer beat Mathieu Garon low to his stick side at 9:27 of the first period.
Analysis: Nichol, whose role is more as a penalty killer, managed to take his goal total to nine. He mostly used as a checking center when on the ice and has little to no Fantasy value.
News:Scott Nichol scored each of his two shorthanded goals in the second period when the Predators broke open a 2-1 game and grabbed a four-goal lead en route to a 5-2 win over the Blues. "It's nice when you can chip in that way because you're not really expecting it, especially with their power play." said Nichol, who has fourth goals this season. Jarred Smithson assisted on both of Nichol's goals.
Analysis: Nichol now has six short-handed goals in his career. He is not counted on to score goals, especially when the Predators center is responsible for killing penalties. Nichol is mostly used as a checking center when on the ice and has little to no Fantasy value.
News: Predators C Scott Nichol managed a rare two-point game Tuesday as Nashville spanked the L.A. Kings 7-0. Nichol scored his second goal of the season and tallied his fourth assist. His last two-goal came on Jan. 13, 2007.
Analysis: Nichol is mostly used as a checking center when on the ice and has little to no Fantasy value.
News: Predators C Scott Nichol was back on the ice Saturday against the Avalanche after missing five games due to a suspension. He got right back into the mix with an assist in 11:11 of ice time. He also finished at even.
Analysis: Nichol's assist was his first point in eight games and just his third in 21 games this season. He is mostly used as a checking center when on the ice and has little to no Fantasy value.
News: The Predators and Avalanche face each other again in Denver on Saturday night. Scott Nichol will return to the Predators lineup Saturday after serving a five-game suspension.
Analysis: Nichol hadn't posted many points in his career and had been a healthy scratch a lot lately anyway, so leave him on the Fantasy free-agent list.
News: Nashville Predators forward Scott Nichol has been suspended five games by the NHL for a blow to the head of Montreal defenseman Patrice Brisebois. Nichol will be eligible to return Dec. 15 at Colorado and will lose $45,732 in salary for Saturday's incident. "The crosscheck by Mr. Nichol to the head area of his opponent was reckless and dangerous," said Colin Campbell, NHL senior executive vice president of hockey operations. "Although no serious injury resulted, the action is unacceptable."
Analysis: Nichol, who was suspended nine games last December, is considered a repeat offender under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Last December, Nichol was suspended nine games for his sucker-punch to the head of Buffalo defenseman Jaroslav Spacek and lost $25,267 in salary. Nichol hadn't posted many points in his career and had been a healthy scratch a lot lately.
News: Predators C Scott Nichol scored an empty-net goal with 31 seconds left to play during Thursday's 3-0 win over the Thrashers. Nichol, who finished with a plus-1 rating, posted his first point in five games Thursday.
Analysis: Nichol hasn't posted many points in his career and has been a healthy scratch plenty ever since arriving in Nashville during the 2005-06 season. Ignore him in Fantasy leagues.
News: C Scott Nichol was a healthy scratch against Dallas Saturday, making room for Darcy Hordichuk, who sat out the season-opener as a healthy scratch.
Analysis: Nichol doesn't do enough to warrant Fantasy consideration.
News: The Nashville Predators have signed F Radek Bonk, D Greg de Vries and F Dan Ortmeier to two-year contracts. In addition, they re-signed F Darcy Hordichuk and D Kevin Klein to one-year deals. F Scott Nichol and D Greg Zanon were also re-signed to two-year deals.
Analysis: Only de Vries and Hordichuk are worth adding in anything more than the deepest of Fantasy leagues at this point, with Hordichuk only being worth adding in leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: The Predators received good news with the return of center Scott Nichol, who had missed 11 games with a broken thumb.
Analysis: Nichol was scoreless in 10:21 of ice time in Tuesday's shootout loss against the Blackhawks. He has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: The Nashville Tennessean is targeting a return to the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Blackhawks.
Analysis: Nichol is only expected to see time on the checking line and penalty kill down the stretch. Avoid him in all Fantasy leagues.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports Scott Nichol suffered a broken thumb in Tuesday's game at Detroit.
Analysis: Nichol was slashed by D Brett Lebda, causing the injury. When healthy, Nichol is a lot more valuable to his real team than to Fantasy owners.
News: Predators C Scott Nichol returned from a nine-game suspension on Saturday against the Blue Jackets. He had two assists and a plus-3 rating in 13:16 of ice time.
Analysis: Nichol had five goals and three assists in 32 games before getting suspended for a sucker-punch to the head of Buffalo defenseman Jaroslav Spacek back in December. He is not of much help to most Fantasy owners, but could be useful in leagues that reward heavily for penalty minutes, seeing how he has already racked up 61 PIM.
News: Nashville Predators forward Scott Nichol was suspended for nine games by the NHL on Friday for his sucker-punch to the head of Buffalo defenseman Jaroslav Spacek. Nichol will be eligible to return Jan. 13 against Columbus and will lose $25,267 in salary. The suspension was issued following a conference-call hearing conducted by Colin Campbell, the NHL's senior executive vice president of hockey operations. "The punch by Mr. Nichol was deliberate, from behind, and it occurred after the referee's whistle had stopped play," Campbell said. The punch came during Buffalo's 7-2 victory Thursday night. Nichol drew a game misconduct for punching Spacek's jaw when he wasn't looking.
Analysis: Nichol has five goals and three assists in 32 games this season. He is not of much help to most Fantasy owners, but could be useful in leagues that reward heavily for penalty minutes, seeing how he has already racked up 61 PIM. Take Nichol out of all Fantasy lineups until he makes his return in January.
News: D Greg Zanon and Fs Scott Nichol and Vernon Fiddler were healthy scratches for the Predators on Thursday night at Chicago.
Analysis: Neither of the three players are recommended Fantasy options right now.
News: Scott Nichol had two goals in Monday's game against the Blues with a plus-2 rating in 14:13 of ice time.
Analysis: Nichol has three goals over the past two games after posting no goals and just one assist in the first 22 games of the season. Despite the recent hot hand, he has no Fantasy appeal.
News: Nichol (concussion) was activated from injured reserve to play in Thursday's game against the Red Wings. He was scoreless with two shots on goal in 10:27 of ice time.
Analysis: Nichol has very minimal Fantasy appeal in all formats except those which reward penalty minutes.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports Scott Nichol (concussion) was able to skate on Monday and he might be able to return on Thursday against the Red Wings.
Analysis: Nichol remains on injured reserve for now. When healthy, he has no Fantasy appeal.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports that Scott Nichol (concussion) left a Dallas hospital Thursday and returned to Nashville in good spirits. "He's a little stiff through the neck and the shoulders where he got a bit banged, but he said he feels no headaches and he was laughing on the phone," head coach Barry Trotz said. "Everything is good. Obviously when a player goes into the boards like that everybody is concerned."
Analysis: Nichol is expected to miss about a week. Keep him reserved in leagues that reward PIM heavily.
News: Scott Nichol was injured in Wednesday's game at Dallas when he crashed headfirst into the boards. He was down for 10 minutes before being taken to a hospital.
Analysis: A team spokesman said he was conscious and had feeling in all of his extremities. It appears like he will be out for a while, but more on his status on Thursday.
News: Scott Nichol (leg) was back in the lineup for Monday's game at Detroit, his first action since suffering a broken leg on Nov. 12.
Analysis: Nichol is only worth Fantasy attention in larger leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports Scott Nichol (foot) is expected to rejoin the team on Sunday after completing a conditioning assignment with Milwaukee of the AHL.
Analysis: Nichol is expected to play in Monday's game at Detroit, but his Fantasy value remains minimal.
News: Scott Nichol will miss at least eight to 10 weeks after suffering a broken leg in Saturday's game against the Blues. "Right now they believe he won't need surgery," coach Barry Trotz told the Nashville Tennessean. "There are two options and one is to have it casted. I think the bones are aligned well. He's had the worst luck."
Analysis: Nichol has had horrible luck trying to avoid the injury bug so far this season. If you still had Nichol on your Fantasy roster, drop him immediately.
News: Scott Nichol (foot) was scoreless in Saturday's game against the Blues. He was scoreless in 5:37 of ice time.
Analysis: Nichol is only worth using in larger Fantasy leagues which reward penalty minutes.
News: Scott Nichol (foot) was unable to play in Thursday's game against the Stars.
Analysis: Nichol remains day to day. When healthy, he has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: Scott Nichol (foot) was unable to play in Tuesday's game against Edmonton.
Analysis: Nichol is considered day to day. When healthy, he only has Fantasy appeal in larger leagues which reward PIM.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports Scott Nichol suffered a foot injury in Saturday's game at Los Angeles.
Analysis: Nichol is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all larger Fantasy leagues for the upcoming scoring period.
News: Scott Nichol (ribs) was able to return to the lineup on Thursday against the Blues.
Analysis: Nichol finished scoreless with a plus-1 rating in 11:33 of ice time. It appears safe to get him back into the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues which allow daily moves.
News: Scott Nichol (ribs) was unable to play in Saturday's game at St. Louis.
Analysis: Nichol is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in the upcoming scoring period in all larger Fantasy leagues which reward PIM.
News: Scott Nichol (groin) was able to return briefly, but he is now out with an injury to his ribs.
Analysis: Nichol is again considered day to day. When healthy, he is only worth using in larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Scott Nichol (groin) was unable to return on Wednesday at Colorado and remains on injured reserve.
Analysis: Nichol should be kept on reserve in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports Scott Nichol (groin) will begin the season on injured reserve. He is expected to miss the first week of action.
Analysis: Nichol is only useful to Fantasy owners in larger leagues which reward PIM. He is eligible to return Oct. 12 in Colorado.
News: The Nashville Tennessean reports Scott Nichol was forced to leave practice early on Wednesday due to a groin injury.
Analysis: Nichol missed Thursday's preseason game against the Thrashers and will not play on Friday in Atlanta. He is questionable for the final preseason game on Sunday at Columbus. Whether he plays in that game will likely give a better idea of his status for the opener.
News: Scott Nichol is expected to move up to the team's third line following the decision by Denis Arkhipov to sign with a team in Russia.
Analysis: Nichol posted career-highs in assists (11), points (18) and games played (75) in 2003-04 with Chicago. He also logged 145 penalty minutes, so he should be a decent center option in leagues which reward the category.
News: The Nashville Predators signed free agent center Scott Nichol on Saturday. The 30-year-old Nichol, who played for Chicago in the 2003-04 season has 45 points and 415 penalty minutes in 208 career NHL games with Buffalo, Calgary, and the Blackhawks.
Analysis: He led Chicago in penalty minutes (145) and face-off win percentage (57.4) and had career highs in games played (75), assists (11), and points (18) in 2003-04. Grab him in leagues that reward PIM heavily.
News: The NHL suspended Scott Nichol for two games Saturday for slashing Filip Kuba on Thursday.
Analysis: Nichol is eligible to return March 30 at Nashville.
News: The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports that the Panthers are inquiring about Scott Nichol. The team feels it needs help on faceoffs.
Analysis: Nichol is only worth owning in larger leagues.
News: Scott Nichol (groin) was able to play almost 17 minutes against Boston Saturday. He had one shot on goal.
Analysis: Nichol is not worth starting in any leagues.
News: Scott Nichol (groin) will not return to the lineup until after the All-Star break due to his injury, according to the Chicago Tribune.
Analysis: Nichol has missed four games, as he continues to mend and shake off the nagging injury.
News: Scott Nichol (groin) missed his second straight game on Thursday.
Analysis: Nichol remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Scott Nichol missed Tuesday's game at Vancouver due to a groin injury.
Analysis: Nichol is considered day to day. Shawn Thornton was recalled from Norfolk of the AHL to replace him for the game against the Canucks.
News: Nichol signed with the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday. He had five goals and five assists in 68 games with Calgary in 2002-03. He also registered 149 PIM. Nichol is a faceoff specialist, who was among the league leaders last season at 59 percent. He is only useful in Fantasy leagues which reward penalty minutes.
Analysis:
News: Nichol was suspended five games by the NHL on Friday. He drew the penalty for hitting an opponent with his stick during Thursday's game in Columbus. Nichol will be eligible to return Jan. 2 against Tampa Bay. He has no Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: The knee injury to Calgary Nichol has been diagnosed as a sprained medial collateral ligament. He is expected to be sidelined for 3-to-4 weeks. Don't bother using him again. Look to your free agent list for relief.
Analysis:
News: Nichol left Tuesday's game with 1:14 left in the second period because of a knee injury and never returned. He will be evaluated on a daily basis.
Analysis:
News: Nichol was suspended by the NHL on Monday for two games for his involvement in a brawl Saturday against Anaheim. He missed Monday's game against Detroit and will sit out Wednesday against Tampa Bay as well.
Analysis:
