News:Sergei Gonchar scored his third goal of the year Thursday on an overtime power play against the Capitals.
Analysis: It was a rare goal for Sergei Gonchar, who hadn't potted one since March 19. He's been a bit warmer offensively of late, collecting four points in his last five games following a nine-game drought.
News:Sergei Gonchar notched two assists and went plus-3 Tuesday in a win over Carolina, snapping a nine-game scoring drought.
Analysis: They were both secondary assists, but Sergei Gonchar owners will take it after nine games of pure misery. Crazily, that pointless streak was preceded by a 10-game points streak, which was in turn preceded by an eight-game scoreless streak. In short, it's been an incredibly streaky season for Gonchar, so maybe Tuesday's performance is the start of another good run.
Ottawa's Gonchar Has Little Fantasy Value Thursday
News:Sergei Gonchar was on the ice for 18:02 Thursday against New York.
Analysis: That's all there was for Sergei Gonchar owners Thursday. Nonetheless, you're playing him. Gonchar would be on a path for a career year in points in a regular length season with 22 points in 31 games, good for fifth among NHL defensemen.
News:Sergei Gonchar tallied two penalty minutes Monday against New Jersey in 25:12 of ice team.
Analysis: Monday's rather slow game for Sergei Gonchar ended a 10-game point streak. He has 15 points and 10 PIM in his last 11 games. But even when Gonchar doesn't score he's putting up some huge minutes. He shouldn't be on anyone's bench.
News:Sergei Gonchar (undisclosed) established a Senators' record with an assist in 10 straight games after tallying a first-period power-play assist in Saturday's win over the Lightning.
Analysis: He's on a 60-plus point pace if it were a regular season -- that would be near his career highs from his days in Pittsburgh and Washington. This could be the last hurrah, though -- he's about to turn 39 so keeper leaguers may want to trade him to a contender if that option still exists.
News:Sergei Gonchar (undisclosed) remains a game-time decision for Saturday's game against Tampa Bay, though the team is optimistic that he'll be available.
Analysis: The Senators stated on Twitter that "It looks positive that [Sergei Gonchar and Marc Methot] will suit up" for Saturday's game. Owners of both players will want to check back closer to the drop of the puck at 2:00 eastern time.
News:Sergei Gonchar, who left Thursday's game with an undisclosed injury, will be a game-time decision for Saturday's game against the Lightning.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar, who notched an assist Thursday, has scored a point in nine straight games and currently leads the Sens with 21 points overall.
News:Sergei Gonchar left Thursday's loss to Boston late in the third period with an undisclosed injury, according to the Associated Press.
Analysis: Coach Paul MacLean didn't sound concerned following the contest, though Sergei Gonchar will be evaluated in the next day ahead of the Sens' Saturday matinee against Tampa Bay. Gonchar leads all Ottawa players - not just the blueliners - with 21 points to date. He had an assist on Ottawa's lone goal Thursday.
News:Sergei Gonchar scored a goal and two assists and went plus-5 in Tuesday's win over the Isles, pushing his point streak to eight games.
Analysis: All the points in the streak before the goal had been assists, as the marker was actually his first since Jan. 29. Even when he's not finding twine, Sergei Gonchar's been plenty productive this year, posting his best scoring rate since 2009-10.
News:Sergei Gonchar extended his point streak to six games and eight points -- all assists -- after he set up two goals in Ottawa's 4-3 overtime win over Buffalo on Saturday afternoon.
Analysis: He had scuffled until the streak -- he had just seven points in 18 games prior to this burst. He looks like the Sergei Gonchar of old. Use him well.
News:Sergei Gonchar assisted on two of Ottawa's three goals in Friday's win over the Rangers, giving him four assists over the last three games.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar, like several other of Ottawa's players, had been quiet the last week or so. However, the veteran puck-mover is starting to get back on the scoresheet as Ottawa is scoring more often. Gonchar has a modest 11 points in 22 games this season but can still be effective in certain situations. Six of his 11 points have come on the power play.
News:Sergei Gonchar (illness) will play Thursday against the Hurricanes.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar, who last suited up Feb. 1, returns to the Sens' lineup after a two-game absence. The Sens' blue line depth Thursday will be further bolstered by Mike Lundin's availability.
News:Sergei Gonchar (illness) is expected to play Thursday against the Hurricanes.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar may not rack up points at the pace he did earlier in his career, but he still produces enough to be of note in most formats. In seven games to date, he has recorded four points, including two on the power play.
News:Sergei Gonchar (illness) will sit out Tuesday against the Sabres, TSN Ottawa reports.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar has been battling the flu over the last few days but coach Paul MacLean was optimistic he'd be available Tuesday. Evidently, Gonchar is still feeling some of the aftereffects of the illness, so he'll set his sights on returning Thursday against the Hurricanes.
News: Coach Paul MacLean said Sergei Gonchar (flu) is expected to play Tuesday against the Sabres, the Ottawa Sun's Bruce Garrioch reports.
Analysis: We'll let you know if that assessment changes, but assuming Sergei Gonchar is a go Tuesday, Mark Borowiecki could be the odd man out on the Sens' blue line.
News:Sergei Gonchar (flu) is questionable for Tuesday's game against the Sabres, the Ottawa Sun reports.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar sat out Monday's practice a day after he was scratched from Sunday's game with the illness. He's proven to be a proficient-scoring blueliner over the course of his career, having already accumulated four points in seven games this season.
News:Sergei Gonchar (flu) will not play Sunday against the Canadiens.
Analysis: The flu bug will keep Sergei Gonchar from playing Sunday, but he's likely no worse than day-to-day and questionable for Tuesday's tilt. Patrick Wiercioch will likely pair up Mark Borowiecki in Gonchar's absence.
News:Sergei Gonchar (lower-body injury) returned from a one-game absence on Friday in the loss to Carolina, playing 26:09.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar put one shot on goal and blocked two shots in the loss. He's not going to score like he did in 12-13 years ago, but Gonchar can still dish the puck and is sitting with a steady four points in seven contests this season.
News:Sergei Gonchar (lower body) will play Friday against the Hurricanes after missing Wednesday's game, the Ottawa Citizen reports.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar was a late scratch Wednesday with a lower body injury. He has totaled a goal and three assists on the season with the second defensive line.
News:Sergei Gonchar, who was a late scratch Wednesday with a lower body injury, is expected to travel to Carolina on Friday, NHL.com reports.
Analysis: Fortunately for the Sens, it does not sound like Sergei Gonchar's injury is too serious. Gonchar potted his first goal of the season against the Caps on Tuesday night and has three points over five games along with a plus-1 rating.
News:Sergei Gonchar (lower body) will not play Wednesday against the Canadiens, Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen reports.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar netted the winning goal in Tuesday's game, but he'll sit Wednesday with what's being called a lower body ailment. The exact nature and extent of the injury are unknown, but consider Gonchar day-to-day for the time being.
News:Sergei Gonchar scored his first goal of the year on a power play with 2:30 remaining in the third period to send the Sens to a 3-2 win over Washington on Tuesday.
Analysis: With four points in six games, the 38-year-old Sergei Gonchar's off to a reasonable start to the season. Three of his four points have come on the man advantage, where he continues to be deployed heavily.
News:Sergei Gonchar notched two assists in Friday's loss to Tampa Bay, giving him three in four games this season.
Analysis: On the flip side, Sergei Gonchar also finished Friday's loss a minus-3, but he is dishing the puck well early in the season. One of his assists came on the power play. His days of being a dominant goal scorer are gone, but he is showing himself to be a crafty playmaker in his advancing age.
News:Sergei Gonchar was able to finish Saturday's game after leaving the contest in the second period. He returned later after undergoing equipment repairs, reported CBC's Hockey Night in Canada.
Analysis: It was a bit of a scare for the Sens -- their D is already depleted with Jared Cowen out for the season and they can't afford to lose another body. Sergei Gonchar's best is behind him, but we can't lose sight of the fact that he delivered at a 0.50 point-per-game pace last season. There's value to that in deep formats.
News:Sergei Gonchar left Saturday's game mid-way through the second period and retreated to the dressing room along with the team trainers, according to an in-game report from CBC's Hockey Night in Canada.
Analysis: The Sens can ill afford to lose another defender, but for most fantasy owners there's not much to lose. It was quickly deemed an equipment issue and he's back on the ice.
News: The Penguins are interested in bringing Sergei Gonchar back to Pittsburgh, either by trade or as a free agent, reports the Calgary Sun. He's on the last year of a three-year, $16.5 million deal.
Analysis: At 38, Sergei Gonchar still has something left in the tank despite not living up to the hype that accompanied his arrival in Ottawa. And it's clear that it was no accident he chose to play this season in the KHL alongside his good friend Evgeni Malkin. He'll struggle to carry top-four ice time, but the offense should still come with power-play time. And his fantasy value would be much higher if a move to the Pens happened. He may be worth moving up your draft list on that speculation alone.
News:Sergei Gonchar was in the lineup for Metallurg Magnitogorsk of the KHL on Thursday.
Analysis: Like many veterans who can't play in the AHL, Sergei Gonchar is taking his services overseas until the NHL sorts out its labor issues. Gonchar, now 38, is coming off a season where he played 74 games and put up 37 points, 10 better than the previous season.
News:Sergei Gonchar, who missed Tuesday's game against Carolina due to a lower body injury, is listed in the lineup for Thursday's game against the Bruins, according to TSN.ca.
Analysis: The injury wasn't expected to be serious, and it looks like he'll get away with just one missed game as the Sens prepare for the playoffs.
News:Sergei Gonchar (lower body) will miss Tuesday's game against Carolina, TSN's Brent Wallace reports.
Analysis: The injury is not believed to be serious. Consider Sergei Gonchar day-to-day going forward.
News:Sergei Gonchar has tallied two assists in five games since returning from a two-game absence due to a head injury.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar has just two goals this season, but his 21 assists are tied for sixth among all NHL defensemen.
News:Sergei Gonchar (head) is questionable for Thursday's game against Tampa Bay, TSN reports.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar missed Monday's game with the same head injury and is still considered day-to-day.
News:Sergei Gonchar (head) was a late scratch from Monday's lineup, missing his second-consecutive game.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar took a puck to the head on Saturday during warmups and was slated to play in Monday's contest against New Jersey before being held out. The injury does not appear serious.
News:Sergei Gonchar (head) will be back in the lineup after missing one game reports the Ottawa Citizen's Wayne Scanlan.
Analysis: He was held out of Saturday's 3-2 shootout win over the Sabres after taking an errant puck to the head during the pre-game warmups. Sergei Gonchar is having a strong year fantasy-wise with 21 points in 33 games, including nine on the power play.
News:Sergei Gonchar did not play against the Sabres on Saturday after being struck in the head by a puck during warmups, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: Not the way Sergei Gonchar wanted to end 2011, but hopefully the team was just taking the safe route given the increased warning over head injuries. Brian Lee took Gonchar's place on the blue line.
News:Sergei Gonchar ended a four-game points drought with an assist in Tuesday's loss to Montreal.
Analysis: The crafty veteran still has a solid 20 points on the season, but has not scored a goal since November 12. He recently returned to the lineup from an upper-body injury and should regain the form he displayed in November, when he notched two goals and eight points over an eight-game span.
News:Sergei Gonchar will be back in Ottawa's lineup for Tuesday's game against Buffalo confirms the Ottawa Sun's Bruce Garrioch.
Analysis: He missed four games with an undisclosed upper body injury, but he has been skating with the rest of the team the last few days at practice. While he's not the elite puck-moving defenseman he used to be, Sergei Gonchar has had a very productive season to date, with two goals and 17 assists in 28 games.
News: After missing the last four games with an upper body injury Sergei Gonchar was on the ice for the team's one hour skate Saturday morning according to the Ottawa Sun.
Analysis: The skate was a move in the right direction and coach Paul MacLean hopes to have Sergei Gonchar back on the ice in time for Tuesday's game against the Sabres. The defenseman has two goals and 17 assists in 28 games this year and remains dead even on the plus/minus scale.
News:Sergei Gonchar (upper body) will not play in Friday's game against the Penguins, according to the Senators' official Twitter page.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar will miss his fourth straight game Friday, but head coach Paul MacLean hopes he will be able to return to the ice for Tuesday's matchup with the Sabres.
News:Sergei Gonchar (upper body) will not play in Wednesday's game against Boston, according to the Bruins' official Twitter page.
Analysis:Sergei Gonchar took part in Wednesday's morning skate, but he will miss his third straight game Wednesday night. Consider Gonchar questionable for Friday's game against the Penguins.
Sens' Gonchar Misses Morning Skate; Likely Out Saturday
News:Sergei Gonchar (upper body) was not on the ice for Saturday's morning skate, Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun reports.
Analysis: Presumably, this means that he won't play against Vancouver on Saturday night. Garrioch and TSN's Brent Wallace report that Sergei Gonchar is considered day-to-day with his injury at this time.
News:Sergei Gonchar (upper body) left Thursday's shootout loss to New Jersey with just 10:10 of ice time, according to Canoe.ca.
Analysis: The injury was early in the game and Sergei Gonchar did not return to the lineup. Stay tuned for word on the veteran's update.
News:Sergei Gonchar had a power-play goal Friday night in Ottawa's 5-1 loss to Buffalo.
Analysis: It was his first goal of the season. Sergei Gonchar has played well to start the year and now has a goal and nine assists through 16 games.
News:Sergei Gonchar missed Ottawa's last game with a bruied foot, but will return to action for Thursday's game against the Jets reports the Ottawa Citizen.
Analysis: He hasn't played very well to start the year so you might be wise to sit him as Erik Karlsson is now the unquestioned No. 1 defenseman on the power play for the Sens.
News:Sergei Gonchar has been diagnosed with a bruised ankle and will not play Tuesday, Brent Wallace of TSN.ca reports.
Analysis: Fortunately, the injury doesn't sound too serious, but owners facing a weekly lineup decision Monday will have to carefully weigh the alternatives given that he'll miss at least one contest this week.
News:Sergei Gonchar (foot) was not on the ice for Monday's practice, Brent Wallace of TSN.ca reports.
Analysis: No word yet regarding his status for Tuesday's game, but it seems like there's a good chance he may not be available barring rapid improvement in the next 24 hours.
News:Sergei Gonchar was forced from Saturday's game after taking a shot off his foot, reports the Associated Press. He did not return.
Analysis: The team says it's just a bruise so that makes him day-to-day. He hasn't exactly been lighting things up in Ottawa so far this season and at times has looked completely disengaged. He's high maintenance and losing won't suit him at all. This could be another long season for his owners.
News: Indications are that Gonchar (concussion) will not play again this season, citytv.com reports.
Analysis: If that's the case, then Gonchar will finish up the season with 27 points and a minus-15 rating in 67 games, which is probably not what the Sens had in mind when they signed him to a three-year, $16.5 million deal this past offseason.
News: Gonchar, who left Saturday's game against Tampa Bay in the second period, suffered a concussion confirms the Ottawa Sun's Bruce Garrioch.
Analysis: It sounds like Gonchar is done for the season with 10 games left on Ottawa's schedule. After starting the season poorly like the rest of the Senators, the veteran blueliner has played much better over his last 15-20 games.
News: Gonchar left Saturday's game in the second period after suffering an upper-body injury, reports the Associated Press.
Analysis: He did not return. There's no word on the severity. This season has been a huge disappointment for Gonchar; this may just seal the frustration.
News: Gonchar scored Ottawa's only goal of the evening Friday in a 4-1 loss to the Rangers.
Analysis: It was only his 7th goal of the season and first since January 25th. Gonchar's had a tough season like the rest of the Senators and his fantasy value this season is almost non-existent.
News: Gonchar suited up for the first time since Feb. 15 in Tuesday's loss to the Bruins. He returned from a lower body injury.
Analysis: It was an uneventful night on the scoresheet for Gonchar in a game where both teams combined for one measly goal. He put two shots on net and everything else was a "zero" for him, though his 21:48 in ice time was third on the team and shows he should be OK to use moving forward.
News: Gonchar (lower body) will return to the Ottawa lineup Tuesday against the Bruins, the Senators' official site reports.
Analysis: Gonchar, who hasn't suited up since Feb. 15, has taken 10 shots without recording a point in three games to date against the Bruins, whom he played with briefly in 2003-04. His offensive output (22 points in 57 games) has been subpar, but the Sens will definitely welcome his puck-moving/power play skills back to their mix.
News: Gonchar (lower body) is expected to play Tuesday against the Bruins, TSN's Brent Wallace reports.
Analysis: Gonchar, who last played Feb. 15, is having a subpar season with just 22 points in 57 games to date, but the Sens could certainly use his puck-making presence against the surging Bruins, who have won five straight.
News: Gonchar is out for the weekend with a lower-body injury, according to TSN.ca.
Analysis: He hasn't played since injuring himself Feb. 15, and it looks like you'll need to sit him out for at least Friday and Saturday. Unless the Sens were urgent to peddle Gonchar at the deadline, there's little reason to rush him back with the season long gone.
Sens' Gonchar Likely To Miss Weekend Games With Injury
News: Gonchar (lower body) was not at practice Wednesday morning and will likely miss Friday's game against Boston and Saturday's game against Toronto reports the Ottawa Sun's Bruce Garrioch.
Analysis: No word yet on who will be recalled from the AHL to fill in for Gonchar. The injury doesn't sound too serious and the veteran blueliner should be back in action relatively soon.
News: Gonchar left in the second period of Tuesday's game withe the Islanders due to a lower-body injury and did not return, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: Gonchar only saw 11:38 of action. The Sens are off until Friday, so if the injury turns out to be minor there's a chance Gonchar won't miss any more action.
News: Gonchar is bruised from blocking a shot, but is expected to be fine for Tuesday's game against the Islanders, Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen reports.
Analysis: No word on where he is dinged up, but perhaps a greater concern for Gonchar owners is his subpar production. He has just 22 points in 56 games overall, including just two helpers over his last 12 games.
News: Gonchar snapped a 23-game goal drought with a power-play goal in the second period of Saturday's loss to Toronto.
Analysis: Where or where has Gonch gone? He's on his worst full-season pace since his early days in Washington in the mid-90s. He's hurting you because of his draft position but there's nothing you can do. You're just going to have to wait it out and hope that he can right the ship.
News: Gonchar's second-period power-play assist in Thursday's win over Minnesota was his 700th career point.
Analysis: It's been a terrific career for Gonchar, but not a very good year this year, as he's scoring at his lowest pace in more than a decade and is minus-17 for the season. The Sens' entire team has struggled, though.
News: Gonchar scored his first goal of the season and added an assist in Tuesday's 3-2 win over Toronto.
Analysis: Despite his two points, Gonchar still managed to finish the game a minus-1. He is still a solid fantasy option, but the days of Gonchar recording 60-plus points in a season are over.
News: The Ottawa Senators made a splash in free agency, signing veteran defenseman Sergei Gonchar to a three-year contract worth $16.5 million. Gonchar spent the last five years playing for the Pittsburgh Penguins and won the Stanley Cup in 2009. His agent J.P. Barry had extensive talks with the Penguins, but couldn't come to terms on a new deal. Gonchar says he's looking forward to a change of scenery. "I'm very happy to be there because I'm going to play in Canada, which is pretty special for me," said Gonchar. "I believe Ottawa has a pretty good team. ... We played against them last year in the playoffs and it's not easy to play against that team."
Analysis: The 36-year-old Gonchar is considered one of the league's top offensive defensemen. He had 11 goals and 50 points in 62 games last season. However, it was also his second straight injury-plagued season, so Ottawa is getting a bit of damaged goods. However, Ottawa coach Cory Clouston loves puck-moving blueliners and Gonchar should make a seamless transition to Ottawa. The Senators are also contenders, as they showed in 2009-10, so it's not like this a big dropoff for Gonchar. He is an injury-risk flier, but clearly one worth the time and patience in Fantasy.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar tallied a pair of assists during Game 1 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals against the Senators. Gonchar now has 51 assists in 106 career playoff games.
Analysis: Gonchar is looking for a huge postseason performance, so he can cash in with a new contract. There is no denying that the Russian blueliner is still one of the best defenseman in the game. However, he has been limited by injuries the last two seasons, so it could keep his market value down. Still, wherever Gonchar signs in 2010-11 -- as long as he doesn't join the KHL (Russia) -- he will be an elite Fantasy blueliner.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar, out for four games with strep throat, returned to action Saturday in a 4-3 OT win over Atlanta. He scored a power play goal with 74 seconds left in regulation to tie the game and also had an assist.
Analysis: Gonchar took a while to get over his strep throat, but he showed no ill effects on Saturday. Get him back active in all leagues for Fantasy Week 25 (April 5-11) as an elite defenseman.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar did was a scratch for Wednesday's game against the Lightning due to strep throat. He's sat out four consecutive games.
Analysis: With 10 goals and 34 assists on the season, Gonchar is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Penguins D Sergei Gonchar (strep throat) and C Evgeni Malkin (foot) will both not play Wednesday at Tampa Bay.
Analysis: The Penguins are currently in second place in the Eastern Conference, but could conceivably be down to fourth in the next day or two. Luckily the Penguins don't play again until Saturday, but if neither of these two must-start Fantasy options are healthy enough for that game they will have put up a big, fat zero in Week 24 (March 29-April 4).
News: The Penguins' official web site reports that D Sergei Gonchar (illness) did some skating and drills for about a half hour at practice on Monday. "I expect Gonch to be getting healthy very soon," head coach Dan Bylsma said. "I can’t predict the future on that one. I expect him to be getting back."
Analysis: Gonchar doesn't play again until Wednesday, so you have to think he should be OK to return for that game vs. the Lightning. Gonchar, a must-start Fantasy play when healthy, looks like a relatively safe start for Fantasy Week 24 (March 29-April 4).
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar (illness) missed his third straight game on Sunday against the Maple Leafs. He is day to day.
Analysis: We can't be totally shocked that Gonchar is still sidelined by an illness since some players miss up to a week with various ailments. We just hope it isn't a lingering issue like mono, which could keep Gonchar out for a long time. Gonchar hasn't been a model of health the last two seasons, but he remains a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Pittsburgh D Sergei Gonchar (illness) missed a second successive game Saturday as the Penguins handled the Flyers.
Analysis: Gonchar hasn't done much offensively lately with just two points in his last eight games, but his presence will be felt in all contending Fantasy teams' lineups. Hopefully the veteran can return to action on Sunday, but even if he doesn't you have to think this illness won't linger for too long. When healthy, Gonchar is a must-start Fantasy option in the majority of leagues.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar tallied a pair of assists and finished at plus-2 on Monday against the Rangers. It was his second straight multi-point game and second time he had two assists in his last four games. He has one goal and five assists in that span.
Analysis: Gonchar's biggest hurdle the last two seasons has been the injury bug. When he has been in the lineup he has been his usual spectacular self. Gonchar is still an elite Fantasy option at the ripe age of 35.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar scored his eighth goal of the season in Sunday's 2-1 win over the Flyers.
Analysis: Gonchar was a combined minus-7 in his previous three games, so the veteran will be glad to get that bad taste out of his mouth with this goal. He remains a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar was active on Thursday against the Capitals despite battling a lower-body injury. The veteran defender had no points in 25:56 of ice time and finished at minus-2. He has two goals and four assists in seven games since returning from a foot injury.
Analysis: Gonchar was a game-time decision on Thursday, but the fact he played for 25 minutes dictates that he is good enough to remain active. Gonchar has looked good since returning from a four-game absence and continues to be one of the Pens' top blueliners. Keep the Russian defenseman active in all Fantasy formats.
News: ESPN reports that Penguins D Sergei Gonchar (lower body) will be a game-time decision for Thursday's game vs. Washington.
Analysis: When healthy, Gonchar has been productive as expected this season, with 29 points in 35 games. He's been a little too banged up for most Fantasy owners' liking, but he remains a must-start option in all formats. This injury shouldn't be anything to worry about.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar scored twice and added an assist as he returned to action following a four-game absence thanks to a foot injury.
Analysis: Gonchar showed on Saturday exactly why he's a must-start Fantasy option when healthy. Get him back in your lineup for Fantasy Week 15 (Jan. 11-17).
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar (foot) sat out a fourth consecutive game on Thursday against the Flyers. He was a game-time decision after returning to practice.
Analysis: It's great to hear that Gonchar was a game-time call on Thursday since that means he is close to returning. Pittsburgh is mired in a serious funk, so getting Gonchar back is a priority. Keep tabs on his progress because there is a good chance Gonchar could be ready for Fantasy use by Week 15 (Jan. 11-17).
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Penguins D Sergei Gonchar (foot) will be a game-time decision for Thursday's game at Philadelphia.
Analysis: Hopefully Gonchar gets back before Monday's lineup deadline for Fantasy Week 15 (Jan. 11-17), as many owners will be desperate for him to return. He's a must-start defenseman when healthy.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar missed a third straight game on Tuesday against the Thrashers because of a foot injury. However, he skated before the team's morning practice and coach Dan Bylsma told NHL.com that the veteran blueliner is doing well in his recovery. "He was much better (Tuesday) and progressed," Bylsma said after the morning practice. "It was much better (Tuesday) and getting on the ice. He was out there for about 40 minutes with us and on his own. He's much better and hopefully tomorrow and the next day he'll be even better yet."
Analysis: There is a chance that Gonchar will return to the lineup on Thrusday against the Flyers, if all goes well. But it is still no guarantee. The good news is that Gonchar could be available for Fantasy owners to start by Week 15 (Jan. 11-17). The Russian blueliner is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar (foot) did not participate in practice Monday.
Analysis: OK, now it's time to start worrying a little about Gonchar's foot. When he left practice on Friday, it didn't look like this would be a serious issue for the Fantasy stud, but he hasn't seen the ice since then and is obviously a super-risky start for Fantasy Week 14 (Jan. 4-10). Gonchar is a high-end Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar did not return to the lineup on Sunday against the Panthers because of a foot injury. He has missed the last two games and remains day to day.
Analysis: It sounds as though the injury is more of a discomfort issue than any structural damage. That's a good thing. The bad news is that Gonchar is still day to day and getting quite injury prone late in his career. Consider him an injury-risk start for Week 14 (Jan. 4-10). Gonchar is a high-end Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar missed Saturday's loss to the Lightning with a foot injury.
Analysis: This foot issue doesn't appear to be anything too serious for Gonchar, but he might also miss Sunday's game at Florida if he's still sore. That would make him a slightly risky start for Fantasy Week 14 (Jan. 4-10), but hopefully we get some more concrete news about his prospects by Monday evening.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Penguins D Sergei Gonchar left practice after 15 minutes Friday with a foot injury. Gonchar hurt the foot blocking a shot on Wednesday night.
Analysis: Hopefully Gonchar hasn't broken anything, but you would have thought the team would have X-rayed him after Wednesday's game if they were worried about that. If Gonchar doesn't return for one of Pittsburgh's two games this weekend, then he'll clearly be a massive injury risk for Week 14 (Jan. 4-10). When healthy, he's a must-start Fantasy blue-liner.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar scored a goal, tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 during Thursday's game against the Canadiens. Gonchar, who recorded his 650th career point on Matt Cooke's goal, scored his fourth goal of the season 6:38 in on a nice feed from Bill Guerin. He has two goals and six assists in his last eight games.
Analysis: Gonchar definitely looks fully recovered from a broken wrist that kept him sidelined 12 games earlier this season. We knew it was only a matter of time before Gonchar settled into a rhythm. He remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar tallied a pair of assists during Saturday's game against the Rangers. He has one goal and three assists during a three-game point streak.
Analysis: Gonchar, who missed 12 games with a broken wrist, has managed a point in his last three games after failing to do so in his first three games back. We knew it was only a matter of time before Gonchar settled into a rhythm. He remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News:Sergei Gonchar returned to the Penguins' injury-depleted defense corps on Thursday against the Senators. Gonchar missed 12 games after he broke his left wrist on Oct. 20. He failed to record a point in 25:30 of ice time and finished at minus-1. He took just one shot.
Analysis: Gonchar returned from a major shoulder injury last season and had little trouble getting into the swing of things. So we are not too worried about his production as he returns from a far less serious injury. Gonchar should provide a huge boost to not only the Penguins but Fantasy lineups. Get him active for Week 8 (Nov. 23-29).
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar is expected to return Thursday night in Ottawa. Gonchar has missed 12 games with a broken left wrist.
Analysis: Gonchar has missed exactly four weeks with his wrist injury, so he's returning early in the 4-6 week timeframe he was supposed to be out. Get the elite Fantasy defenseman active in all formats immediately and just cross your fingers that he can stay healthy for an extended period of time.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Penguins D Sergei Gonchar (wrist) will have his cast removed and an X-ray taken on his broken left wrist after Pittsburgh's road trip that ends Tuesday in Boston. "If everything is fine there, we're going to start thinking about doing more in practice, maybe shooting more," Gonchar said.
Analysis: Gonchar is likely out another few weeks, so just continue to stash the must-start blue-liner away in all formats until he's ready to return. Hopefully he can stay relatively healthy the rest of the way.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Penguins D Sergei Gonchar is going to miss at least another three weeks with a broken left wrist, and despite strong play at the point by D Alex Goligoski, the Penguins' power play looks a bit lost without Gonchar, who runs the show. The Penguins are 3-for-23 on the power play without Gonchar, who has missed five games, and they've failed to score on the advantage in three of four contests.
Analysis: Gonchar has really been hit hard by the injury bug the last two seasons and to some degree has frustrated Fantasy owners. However, how much can be we mad at a guy that racks up serious Fantasy points when healthy? It's unfortunate Gonchar is out a few more weeks, but he is still a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar will be out four to six weeks with a broken left wrist, his third significant injury in slightly more than a year. Gonchar's latest injury occurred during a collision with a St. Louis Blues player during the second period of the Penguins' 5-1 victory Tuesday night.
Analysis: Gonchar, who went into Wednesday's games third in scoring among NHL defensemen with eight points, missed the first 56 games of last season after undergoing left shoulder surgery. The 35-year-old also played the final two rounds of the Stanley Cup playoffs last spring with a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee, although he missed only two games. Gonchar is playing for his next contract this season and will surely do his best to get back on the ice as soon as possible. You'll have to stash him away for the time being.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar didn’t play over the final 27 minutes Tuesday against the Blues because of an undisclosed injury. He will be considered day to day.
Analysis: Gonchar has seven points so far this season with two goals and five assists. He has been tremendous to open the season with seven points in seven games and has again established himself as one of the top offensive blueliners in the game. Gonchar is playing for his next contract and that remains great motivation. Continue to view him as a must-start Fantasy option, when healthy. Hopefully he'll be able to return on Friday against the Panthers.
News: Pittsburgh D Sergei Gonchar had a goal and an assist on Saturday in a 4-1 win over the Lightning. Gonchar's goal proved to be the game-winner, coming 17:10 into the first period on a slap shot. His assist was on a Pascal Dupuis goal in the second period.
Analysis: Gonchar has seven points so far this season with two goals and five assists. He has been tremendous to open the season with seven points in seven games and has again established himself as one of the top offensive blueliners in the game. Gonchar is playing for his next contract and that remains great motivation. Continue to view him as a must-start Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports with gifted players on their power-play unit, the Penguins figured it was only a matter of time before they started to dominate with the man advantage. It finally happened in Toronto. Sidney Crosby scored two power-play goals and Sergei Gonchar added another in the Penguins' 5-2 win Saturday. Gonchar and Evgeni Malkin were given plenty of time to work their magic on the right side of the ice and produced a multitude of scoring opportunities. Gonchar loves setting up Malkin for one-time slap shots, and two goals resulted from such plays. Crosby picked up a bounce off the boards from a Malkin miss and banged home his first power-play goal early in the second period. Later in that period, Crosby deflected a Malkin shot for his second goal.
Analysis: Gonchar's first-period, power-play goal came when he was playing with the second unit. He floated a shot from the point that went in thanks largely to Ruslan Fedotenko's screening of Toronto goalie Vesa Toskala. Gonchar has five points in five games and continues to be an effective offensive blueliner. Gonchar is playing for his next contract and that remains great motivation. Continue to view him as a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar assisted in Tuesday's preseason-opening win over the Blue Jackets. Gonchar played the final two rounds of the Stanley Cup playoffs with a partially torn right medial collateral ligament.
Analysis: Gonchar should be healthy to start the season and remains a must-start blue-line option in all drafts with his potential to easily put up 60-65 points if he can stay healthy. Swipe him in the fourth or fifth round.
News:The Sports Xchange reports defensemen Kris Letang and Sergei Gonchar are engaged in talks with the Penguins for long-term extensions. Letang, 22, can become a restricted free agent on July 1, 2010. Gonchar, 34, is set for unrestricted free agency. The Penguins are optimistic of reaching terms with both players. Gonchar is willing to take a slight pay cut on his annual $5 million salary, but Letang is seeking a four year deal at nearly $4 million per season. The negotiations are in a way tied into one another, as the length offered to Letang could depend on how many years Gonchar demands.
Analysis: Even though Gonchar missed most of the 2008-09 season with a shoulder injury, once he returned to the lineup everyone saw how important he was to the Penguins' Stanley Cup run. Gonchar had 19 points (six goals) in 25 regular-season games and 14 points (three goals) in 22 playoff contests. He did play on a bum knee in the playoffs and injuries seem to be a concern for the 35-year-old blueliner, but Gonchar proved he is definitely worth the risk. Continue to draft Gonchar as a high-end Fantasy defenseman.
News: Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar played the final two rounds of the Stanley Cup playoffs with a partially torn right medial collateral ligament, a major injury that can sideline an athlete for months. Gonchar, playing through the injury because he wanted to win the Stanley Cup for the first time in an NHL career that began during the 1994-95 season, was injured during a knee-to-knee hit by Washington star Alex Ovechkin in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Gonchar missed two games, returned for Game 7 of that series and played in the conference finals against Carolina and the Stanley Cup finals against Detroit without missing another game for the Stanley Cup champion Penguins. "Lots of guys were playing with bruises," Gonchar said Sunday of refusing to be sidelined.
Analysis: Gonchar was initially told after getting hurt May 8 that he might be out a month to six weeks, only to return in a week. A point man on the Penguins' power play, Gonchar wasn't as productive as usual following his second serious injury of the season, getting one goal and four assists in his final 12 games. The goal came during Pittsburgh's 4-2 victory in Game 3 against Detroit. Gonchar missed the first two-thirds of the NHL season with a shoulder injury that occurred during the Penguins' first preseason game. Despite getting hurt again, he told teammates he couldn't sit out during the most important time of the season. "I told the guys they were realizing how important it is now, in the playoffs, it's that time of the year when you have the chance to make your dream come true," Gonchar said. "That's why you're playing through everything, just to get it. It's not only me, everybody sacrificed somehow to get it." The Penguins have talked nothing about what is going to happen to Gonchar now the playoffs are done, but if he needs surgery, then his status for the beginning of 2009-10 could be in serious jeopardy. Gonchar can still be an effective Fantasy defenseman when healthy, but is going to be an injury-risk selection on Draft Day.
News: Pittsburgh D Sergei Gonchar was able to return for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Carolina Hurricanes on Monday. The Penguins won the game as Gonchar, returning from knee issues, played 22 minutes and did not record a point.
Analysis: Gonchar is one of the top defenseman in the league and the Pens certainly need him to get back to the Stanley Cup Finals. He will be a top Fantasy D on Draft Day 2009.
News: Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar has returned to practice and hopes to play in the Eastern Conference finals opener Monday against the Hurricanes. Gonchar sat out Games 5 and 6 of the conference semifinals against Washington after injuring his right knee while being hit by Alex Ovechkin in Game 4. He unexpectedly returned for Game 7 on Wednesday, but his playing time was reduced, and he had not skated until practicing Sunday. "It looks promising," said Gonchar, who missed three-quarters of the regular season due to a shoulder injury.
Analysis: Gonchar is one of the top defenseman in the league and the Pens certainly need him to get back to the Stanley Cup Finals. He will be a top Fantasy D on Draft Day 2009.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar had an assist in his return to the lineup for Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Capitals after being sidelined by a knee injury since a hit by Ovechkin in the first period of Game 4.
Analysis: Gonchar is a top defenseman and the Pens will need him to play well moving forward in the playoffs. Looking ahead to Draft Day 2009, he will remain a high-end D option in all leagues.
News: Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar has practiced for the first time since injuring his right knee during a collision with Alex Ovechkin and hopes to play in Wednesday's Game 7 against Washington. Gonchar says it will be a game-time decision whether he takes the ice for the series finale The defenseman expected to be out for at least the rest of the series after being injured by a knee-to-knee hit instigated by Ovechkin in Game 4 of the Penguins-Capitals series on Friday night.
Analysis: The injury was not as bad as initially feared, and Gonchar was among a handful of Penguins players taking part in an optional skate Tuesday. The Penguins have split the two games with Washington since their top defenseman was hurt. "It's a first step," Penguins coach Dan Bylsma said. "We'll see how he reacts and feels tomorrow (Wednesday) and go from there. A player has to be convinced he wants to be in there. It looked good today. It's promising." The Penguins are not required by NHL rules to disclose the exact nature of Gonchar's injury. Gonchar is not saying if he thought the hit by Ovechkin, his former Russian Olympic teammate, was dirty or designed to injure. "I have my own opinion, but I'm not going to comment on that," Gonchar said. Gonchar is getting up there in years and his durability is getting called into question. Still, he has proven to be a top offensive defenseman when healthy. Gonchar will be a high-end Fantasy option Draft Day 2009.
News: Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar, who endured a knee-to-knee hit from Alex Ovechkin in Game 4, was scratched from Saturday's Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Capitals. Gonchar was injured in the first period of Pittsburgh's 5-3 win on Friday. Ovechkin was assessed a minor penalty on the play, but was not further punished by the league. Coach Dan Bylsma said Gonchar's injury was not as severe as initially thought, but the coach declined to say whether the veteran defenseman will play again in the postseason. "We evaluated him and continue to evaluate him," Bylsma said. "It's more or less how he's going to respond. The swelling has not been significant but it's going to be day-to-day, game-time for Sergei. He's not doing as bad as we thought and it will be game-time as far as our decisions with our lineup."
Analysis: To take Gonchar's spot, the Penguins recalled rookie defenseman Alex Goligoski from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton of the AHL before Saturday's game. Goligoski had six goals and 14 assists in 44 games with the Penguins in the regular season. Assuming Gonchar is healthy to start next season, he will be a high-end option on Draft Day 2009.
News: Pittsburgh defenseman Sergei Gonchar has an undisclosed injury that occurred when he was leveled Friday night by a knee-to-knee hit by Capitals star Alex Ovechkin that several Penguins players called a dirty play. The Penguins revealed no details afterward about the injury, but several of their players believe Ovechkin went out of his way to attempt to hurt his former Russian Olympic teammate. Ovechkin denied that, but also said he is uncertain if he will be fined or suspended. A suspension seems unlikely because Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinal series is Saturday night. As Gonchar was skating out from behind the Pittsburgh net during a Washington power play in the first period, Ovechkin appeared to stick out his right knee a moment before the two collided. Gonchar spent about a minute unsuccessfully trying to get up before play was stopped in the Capitals' end. As Gonchar was assisted off the ice, unable to put any weight on his right leg, Ovechkin was given a minor minute penalty for kneeing.
Analysis: About 10 minutes before he was injured, Gonchar scored the first of the three consecutive goals that gave Pittsburgh a 3-1 lead. The Penguins went on to win 5-3. "I was disappointed, too," Ovechkin said. "I don't want him to get hurt, Gonch, but it's a game and it happens." Gonchar, who played for Washington from 1994-2004 and is annually one of the leading scorers among NHL defensemen, missed three-quarters of the regular season with a shoulder injury that occurred during the preseason. The Penguins didn't begin their late-season surge that carried them into the playoffs until Gonchar returned. "We missed Gonch for a long time, we were forced to play guys in a couple of different positions, and now we've got to use that experience and find a way to still be productive without him," Penguins captain Sidney Crosby said. "There's no choice right now." Gonchar is getting up there in years and his durability is getting called into question. Still, he has proven to be a top offensive defenseman when healthy, and as long as this injury isn't serious, Gonchar will be a high-end Fantasy option Draft Day 2009.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar scored and added three assists in Tuesday's win over the Thrashers.
Analysis: Gonchar has 14 points in 15 games since returning from a serious shoulder injury, and appears to be back to his usual self. Continue to start him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Pittsburgh D Sergei Gonchar scored a power play goal on Sunday in a 4-3 shootout win over the Capitals. He also went to the penalty box in the game twice for cross-checking and roughing.
Analysis: Gonchar was scratched from Thursday's lineup against the Panthers as he returned to Pittsburgh to be with his wife, who gave birth to the couple's second child. He has returned to Pittsburgh to rave reviews and is a high-end Fantasy option now that he's back with the team.
News: NHL.com reports Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar was scratched from Thursday's lineup against the Panthers as he returned to Pittsburgh to be with his wife, who is expected to give birth to the couple's second child. No word yet on if Gonchar will meet up with the team Sunday in Washington. The Penguins recalled Alex Goligoski from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton to replace Gonchar in the lineup.
Analysis: The good news here is that Gonchar is just away on a personal leave and hasn't suffered a setback with his surgically repaired shoulder that kept him out until mid-February. Gonchar has returned in better shape than expected, recording two goals and five assists in his first nine games. He has been a catalyst for Pittsburgh's turnaround and still a high-end Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar tallied a pair of assists and finished at even during Friday's game against the Blackhawks. He has two goals and five assists during a six-game point streak.
Analysis: Gonchar doesn't seem to have missed a beat since returning from his shoulder injury less than two weeks ago. He is going full throttle and should be a lot fresher than most player son the ice on most nights. He has high-end potential and is a player that should be active in most leagues at this point.
News: In a 5-2 loss to the Capitals, Pittsburgh D Sergei Gonchar scored for the Penguins, who have lost six of seven on the road and lost in Washington for the first time since Alex Ovechkin's rookie season in 2006. It was Gonchar's second goal and fourth point of the season which began five games ago on Valentine's Day due to a dislocated right shoulder.
Analysis: Gonchar doesn't seem to have missed a beat since returning from his shoulder injury less than two weeks ago. He is going full throttle and should be a lot fresher than most player son the ice on most nights. He has high-end potential and is a player that should be active in most leagues at this point.
News:Sergei Gonchar's first goal gave Dan Bylsma his first win as an NHL coach. Gonchar, playing only his third game after missing most of the season because of a shoulder injury, scored on a slap shot after Pittsburgh quickly squandered a two-goal lead in the third period and the Penguins beat slumping Montreal 5-4 Thursday. The Penguins had lost three of four before Ruslan Fedotenko fed Gonchar in the high slot, then went down low to screen goalie Carey Price in front to create the fifth goal in the first 7:18 of the third period.
Analysis: Gonchar has two points in his first three games back and is logging well over 20 minutes per contest. He has been thrust right back into the mix despite missing most of the season with a serious shoulder injury. He has high-end Fantasy potential, but we will see if he can live up to expectations.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Penguins D Sergei Gonchar, in his second game back, recorded an assist on Ryan Whitney's power play goal Monday against the Islanders.
Analysis: The Penguins missed Gonchar, particularly on the power play, when he was recovering from shoulder surgery. To see him back producing on the man advantage is a great sign. Gonchar has played more than 43 minutes in his first two games and has been thrust right back into the mix despite missing most of the season with a serious shoulder injury. He has high-end Fantasy potential, but we will see if he can live up to expectations.
News:Sergei Gonchar returned to the Penguins' lineup Saturday night against Toronto, his first game of the season after dislocating his right shoulder in the preseason opener. The 34-year-old Gonchar had 12 goals and 65 points in 78 games last season. He failed to record an offensive stat in the game and played 20 minutes in his season debut.
Analysis: Just because Gonchar is back, it doesn't mean he's completely healthy. He said he may feel pain the rest of the season. He is a solid performer but this has been when healthy. He can once again be inserted into lineups, but owners should use caution with him and still go with other options if they can. Let him play a few games before starting him.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar has been cleared to play after missing the season to date with a dislocated left shoulder, but will not be in uniform against San Jose on Wednesday night. Gonchar, annually one of the NHL's top scorers among defensemen, wants to get into game shape before playing again -- possibly Saturday at Toronto. "I will take it day by day," Gonchar said following the Penguins' morning skate.
Analysis: Gonchar admitted last week he might still feel pain in his shoulder the rest of this season. He has always been a solid passer from the blue line, but that has been when at 100 percent for the most part. Knowing he will be less than that when he returns could have an effect on his game. Gonchar is still worth the flier in most Fantasy leagues based on potential, but you might want to let him get a week or so of action in before you activate him.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports injured Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar, who has been out all season following preseason shoulder surgery, offered an encouraging, but vague assessment of his current condition. Gonchar declined to predict a return to the lineup, but added "it might be sooner than we expected." Before he returns, Gonchar hopes some of the pain in his shoulder subsides, as well as get a bit more acclimated on the ice after such a long layoff. "I have to get my timing back," he said. "When you're out of the game for five months, it's not that easy to jump in and be on the same page with guys who have been playing for five months."
Analysis: Gonchar doesn't expect to be pain-free when he takes the ice, but added "hopefully, it's not going to be major pain, or a major problem." It kinds of sends up a red flag in Fantasy because one hit might put the veteran blue liner back on the injured list. Gonchar has always been a solid passer from the blue line, but he has been at 100 percent for the most part. Knowing he will be less than that when he returns could have an effect on his game. Gonchar is still worth the flier in most Fantasy leagues based on potential, but now is not the time to activate him.
News: According to The Sports Xchange, Penguins D Sergei Gonchar started skating with the team about two weeks ago while wearing the red, non-contact jersey. Gonchar said he hopes to participate in contact drills next week. He'll see a doctor Feb. 4 to get a better idea of when he can return. "So far, we're on schedule and there's really no timetable to get back," he said.
Analysis: Gonchar is supposed to be coming back in late February and the Pens could really use him in the blue line. However, it doesn't sound like they're going to put anything at risk but hopefully he'll be back on time and he won't suffer any setbacks. Keep him stashed because he has high-end potential when healthy.
News: Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar, who hasn't played this season after shoulder surgery in September, is practicing but still not projected to return for at least a month.
Analysis: The Penguins could really use Gonchar's help on the blue line, but it appears they aren't going to risk it since he is coming off a serious injury. Gonchar is on track to make a late February return, so continue to keep him stashed away in larger Fantasy formats. He does have high-end Fantasy potential when healthy.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Penguins D Sergei Gonchar participated in Thursday's optional skate. It's the first time he's skated with his teammates since his shoulder injury. "It was very exciting," said Gonchar, who wore a red non-contact jersey. "It means I'm going in the right direction and everything is going according to plan."
Analysis: Gonchar is still out until February at the earliest, so he still needs to be stashed in Fantasy. Gonchar is a high-end Fantasy defenseman when healthy.
News: NHL.com reports injured Penguins D Sergei Gonchar (shoulder) was on the ice Friday for the first time in three months since undergoing surgery. The All-Star blueliner skated with strength and conditioning coach Mike Kadar prior to Pittsburgh's practice. Gonchar has not played this season since getting injured during a Sept. 20 preseason game. "It's been a while," Gonchar said. "It's been tough for me. To finally step on the ice it's a step forward for me. I feel great about it. It's exciting." Gonchar had arthroscopic surgery Oct. 2 to repair cartilage and ligament damage to his shoulder and needed four to six months to recover. "It's the first step," he said. "We're on the right track and we're doing everything we're supposed to do. The doctors said before the surgery that this was the time where we were going to start skating. It seems like everthing is going along."
Analysis: While it is very positive to see Gonchar on the ice Friday, he still has a lot of hurdles to overcome before practicing with the team. Gonchar is only skating and passing. His shoulder is still a month away from being able to absorb contact or even take a slap shot. "By the books, you're not supposed to have contact for four months," Gonchar said. "The ligaments not going to heal until four months. That's why I'm only skating. There are no slap shots, no one-timers, just passing the puck and that stuff. That's all that I'm doing." The Penguins appear willing to take their time with Gonchar as no timetable for his return has been set. "With injuries you don't want to set up a timetable," he said. "You're going by how you're feeling, how you're recovering. It's going to be up to doctors and my muscles." Gonchar likely won't be back until February at the earliest, so he still needs to be stashed in Fantasy. Gonchar is a high-end Fantasy defenseman when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports D Sergei Gonchar is still expected to be out until at least March following surgery Oct. 2 to correct a dislocated shoulder. He was injured on Sept. 20 in the Penguins' exhibition opener.
Analysis: Gonchar could be back on the ice as soon as late January, but it seems a bit of a stretch at this time. Gonchar might only return in time for the playoffs, so continue to keep him reserved in most Fantasy formats.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar will have arthroscopic surgery on his dislocated left shoulder Thursday and miss four to six months of the upcoming season. Gonchar has cartilage and ligament damage, the team said Tuesday. He was hurt during Pittsburgh's preseason opener against Tampa Bay Sept. 20 and had hoped to avoid surgery. "It is always difficult to lose a very talented player and leader for an extended period of time, but we all believe this is the best decision for Sergei," GM Ray Shero said in a statement.
Analysis: When healthy, Gonchar is one of the NHL's premier offensive defensemen, having accumulated 430 points in 904 career games. He ranked second in the league in scoring at his position last season with 12 goals and 53 assists for 65 points and has had at least 57 points each of the past eight seasons. Gonchar's injury means that Pittsburgh will open the season without their top two defensemen. Ryan Whitney underwent foot surgery last month and is likely out until December. A tough break for the Penguins and Fantasy owners. It still might be worth drafting Gonchar in later rounds of drafts, as he could give you a couple of quality months towards the end of the year.
News:Sergei Gonchar will be kept out of the Pittsburgh Penguins' lineup at least through the regular-season opener in two weeks because of a dislocated left shoulder. Gonchar, who sustained the injury during the first period of the Penguins' preseason opener Saturday, led the reigning Eastern Conference champions in ice time last season and was third on the team in scoring with 12 goals and 53 assists. Pittsburgh general manager Ray Shero said surgery is an option for the 34-year-old defenseman, who is entering his 14th NHL season, but Shero would offer no other timetable. "I think Sergei is at a point right now where he just needs to gather as much information possible through the doctors and make a decision when he's comfortable making a decision," Shero said.
Analysis: Shero said it was too early to speculate on the minimum amount of time Gonchar will miss. During the preseason two years ago, Penguins center Evgeni Malkin sustained a dislocated shoulder during the first preseason game that forced him to miss the first four regular season games. Malkin, however, was only 20 then. If Gonchar ultimately has surgery, he could be out much longer. Gonchar is one of the NHL's premier offensive defensemen, having accumulated 430 points in 904 career games. He ranked second in the league in scoring at his position last season with 12 goals and 53 assists for 65 points and has had at least 57 points each of the past eight seasons. Gonchar's injury means that Pittsburgh will open the season without their top two defensemen. Ryan Whitney underwent foot surgery last month and is likely out until December. A tough break for the Penguins and Fantasy owners. It still might be worth drafting Gonchar as a high-end Fantasy defenseman; just realize there is a lot of risk involved.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that D Sergei Gonchar, the Penguins' top defenseman, left Pittsburgh's preseason game against the Lightning on Saturday after sustaining a shoulder injury in the first period. He did not return to the game and an MRI is scheduled for this week.
Analysis: Gonchar has been one of the best scoring defenseman in all of hockey for eight years now, which tells you how critical this injury is to Fantasy owners and the Penguins. He put up 65 points in 2007-08, which was second among blue-liners behind Nick Lidstrom, and sees a ton of time on the power play with the Pens. Keep an eye on this injury over the next few days, as Gonchar is a Fantasy stud when healthy.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar contributed a goal and an assist Wednesday in a 7-3 win over the Sabres. He now has six points in his last six games.
Analysis: Gonchar has scored between 57 and 68 points for the past six seasons and will fall somewhere in that range again this season, as he already has 57. His value as a must-start defenseman hasn't changed during the seven years.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar tallied an assist and finished at plus-3 during Sunday's game against the Capitals. He now has one assist in four of his last five games and 45 on the season.
Analysis: Gonchar has managed 50-plus points for eight straight seasons and is closing in on making it two straight with 60 points. He's one of the best offensive defenseman in the NHL and is dynamite on the man advantage. Gonchar needs to be starting in all Fantasy formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar received a standing ovation from a sellout crowd at Mellon Arena on Saturday -- deservedly so. Gonchar was honored by the team with a video tribute for recording his 600th career point after scoring a winning goal in Montreal on Thursday. After the tribute on Saturday, Gonchar waved his stick to the crowd.
Analysis: Talk about a change of heart. Penguins fans have made habit of criticizing Gonchar since his arrive in Pittsburgh for the 2005-06 season. Gonchar signed a five-year deal worth $25 million after the NHL lockout, but he started slowly during his first year with the Penguins and is not exactly the physical defenseman fans in Pittsburgh appreciate. This season, though, Gonchar has won over his hockey hometown by scoring 10 goals and 50 points -- second only to Detroit's Nicklas Lidstrom among defensemen. He continues to be a must-start Fantasy option.
News:Sergei Gonchar's power-play goal moments after Evgeni Malkin tied the game at 4 gave the Pittsburgh Penguins a 5-4 win over the Montreal Canadiens. Gonchar beat Cristobal Huet for Pittsburgh's second power-play goal of the game 15 seconds after Montreal's Alexander Kovalev was sent off for interference.
Analysis: Gonchar scored his first goal in five games and has a point ineight of the last 10 games, most of them assists. He is one of the best offensive defenseman in the NHL and remains a must-start Fantasy option. The fact that he is outstanding on the power play also makes him an attractive Fantasy defenseman.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar scored his ninth goal of the season on a power-play advantage 38 seconds into the second period Sunday against the Flyers. It was his fifth power-play goal, but the first time he lit the lamp in 11 games. He did extend his points streak to five games (one goal, five assists).
Analysis: Gonchar now has at least one point in eight of his last nine games, mostly with assists. He has 10 helpers in that span. He is one of the best offensive defenseman in the NHL and remains a must-start Fantasy option. The fact that he is outstanding on the power play also makes him an attractive Fantasy defenseman.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar tallied an assist and finished at even during Monday's game against the Devils. He now has at least one assists in five of his last six games and eight total.
Analysis: Gonchar now has 36 assists on the season and continues to work toward 50-plus assists for the second straight season. Barring any injuries, he definitely will get 40-plus assists for the fifth straight season. He is one of the best offensive defenseman in the NHL and remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar made it five assists in his last three games Tuesday when he helped out in a 4-2 win over the Devils. Gonchar now has 33 assists on the season.
Analysis: Gonchar has alternated solid months this season with nine points in October, 15 in November, six in December and 11 January. His 33 assists rank him up there in defenseman rankings, however, so he remains a must-start No. 1 at his position in all Fantasy formats.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar totaled 30:05 of ice time Monday against the Capitals and contributed with three assists during a 6-5 shootout loss. All three assists came on the power play and he now has 31 assists on the season.
Analysis: Gonchar is one of the best point men on the power play in the NHL. He has more than 20 assists this season on the man advantage and continues to bring smiles to the faces of all Fantasy owners. Continue to start him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar scored a goal, added an assist and finished at plus-1 during Monday's 4-1 win against the Rangers. Pittsburgh made it 3-0 with a goal while on a two-man advantage with 3:12 left in the opening period. Already killing a penalty, New York's Michal Rozsival was assessed an elbowing minor when he blatantly hit Kris Letang in the face after a whistle in front of the net. It took only 11 seconds for Gonchar to blast a slap shot from the point past Henrik Lundqvist.
Analysis: Gonchar's eighth goal of the season came eight games after scoring his seventh. He does have five assists in his last six games and is preparing to pack his bags for the All-Star game (Jan. 27) after getting invited Friday. He continues to be a No. 1 Fantasy defenseman, especially since he does so well on the man advantage. He has 19 assists and four goals on the power play this season.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Penguins D Sergei Gonchar was very surprised but took it in stride when he wasn't listed on the All-Star Game ballot. Now the Penguins defenseman gets to have the last laugh. Gonchar was added to the Eastern Conference roster on Friday three days after the starters were announced. He will join Sidney Crosby as the only two Penguins players on the team. Both will get to know the venue well as the game will be played at Philips Arena on Jan. 27. "It's really special," Gonchar said. "I'm trying to play more defensively and trying to concentrate on that aspect of my game and sometimes people don't recognize that."
Analysis: The 13-year veteran continues to be an offensive force on the ice and is expericing some of the best years of his career since landing in Pittsburgh in 2005. He continues to be a No. 1 Fantasy defenseman, especially since he does so well on the man advantage. He has 18 assists and three goals on the power play this season.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Penguins D Sergei Gonchar continues to lead NHL players is power-play assists. Despite missing five games with a groin injury, Gonchar has 18 power-play assists and 21 power-play points. His points total is tied with Sidney Crosby and eight others for second place, one behind Montreal's Alexei Kovalev.
Analysis: The 13-year veteran continues to be an offensive force on the ice and is expericing some of the best years of his career since landing in Pittsburgh in 2005. He continues to be a No. 1 Fantasy defenseman, especially since he does so well on the man advantage.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar tallied two assists and finished at even during Thursday's game against the Maple Leafs. He also spent two minutes in the penalty box for hooking. He now has one goal and five assists in his last seven games. He has 25 helpers on the season.
Analysis: Gonchar didn't have a point in two games coming into Thursday, but got back on the gravy train. He is one of the top power-play producers in the NHL and a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News:Sergei Gonchar's assist against Boston Sunday was the 400th of his career.
Analysis: Gonchar has an assist in three straight games, and four helpers in their past six games. He is one of the top power-play producers in the NHL and a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News:Sergei Gonchar (illness) played at the Rangers Tuesday for over 24 minutes. He had two shots on goal, but did not record a point.
Analysis: Gonchar is one of the top power-play producers in the NHL and a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports D Sergei Gonchar did not dress against the New York Islanders on Saturday due to illness, and that news was bad for the Penguins. In three previous games without Gonchar, their power-play quarterback, the Penguins were only 2-for-14 with the man-advantage, an efficiency rate of 14.3 percent. The Penguins are 29-for-133 on the power play with Gonchar in the lineup, a rate of 21.2 percent that would rate them sixth in the NHL. Gonchar is sixth in the league and tied for first among defensemen with 18 power-play points.
Analysis: Gonchar recently returned to the lineup after missing a few games because of a groin injury, but has two assists in five games since. He is one of the top power-play producers in the NHL and a must-start Fantasy option when healthy. He is a low-risk start heading into Fantasy Week 12 (Dec. 17-23).
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar returned to the lineup Wednesday against the Oilers after missing three games with a groin injury. He picked up his 19th assist and finished at plus-1 during 20:40 of ice time. Gonchar has two goals and eight assists in his last seven games.
Analysis: Gonchar usually plays for 26 minutes per game, but still logged plenty of PT on Wednesday. The fact that he assisted on a goal is another good sign that he is back in game shape. For all those yearning for Gonchar's return, it appears safe to activate him in Fantasy formats. The 13-year veteran remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Kris Letang was on the power play unit against Phoenix Monday because Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar missed a third consecutive game with a groin injury.
Analysis: Gonchar was injured Wednesday against the Thrashers after totaling three assists. Right now, he is day to day, but has to be considered an injury-risk starter in Fantasy play. He continues to be a solid Fantasy defenseman when healthy.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar, who was leading NHL defensemen with 24 points, sat out for the second straight game with a groin injury on Saturday against the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: Gonchar was injured Wednesday against the Thrashers after totaling three assists. Right now, he is day to day, but has to be considered an injury-risk start for Fantasy Week 9 (Nov. 26-Dec. 2). Gonchar has six goals and 18 assists this season. He continues to be a solid Fantasy defenseman.
News: Pittsburgh defenseman Sergei Gonchar missed Friday's game against the Stars because of a groin injury. He had played in 105 consecutive games for Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Gonchar was injured Wednesday against the Thrashers after totaling three assists. Right now, he is day to day, but could be an injury-risk start for Fantasy Week 9 (Nov. 26-Dec. 2). Gonchar has six goals and 18 assists this season. He continues to be a solid Fantasy defenseman.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar had three assists and a plus-2 rating during Saturday's game against the Thrashers. Gonchar didn't play in the third period because of a sore groin.
Analysis: The Penguins likely opted to rest Gonchar in the third period because the game was already out of hand. They don't seem to concerned about the injury and he remains a low-risk start for Fantasy Week 9 (Nov. 26-Dec. 2). Gonchar has six goals and 18 assists this season. He continues to be a solid Fantasy defenseman.
News:Sergei Gonchar got his seventh goal 7:07 into the third period Thursday as Pittsburgh overcame a two-goal deficit for the second time in the game to tie it at 5 against the Senators. Gonchar also had an assist and a plus-2 rating in the game.
Analysis: Gonchar has been very active in November. He has a point in nine of 11 games and is currently on a seven-game points streak. He has four goals and five assists in that span. He is still one of the best scoring defenders in the NHL and remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar scored through a screen from just inside the blue line with 0.2 seconds left in the second period Saturday against the Flyers. He now has goals in consecutive games and four assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Gonchar is off to a fine start with four goals and 11 assists in 17 games. He is still one of the finest scoring defenders in the NHL and remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Sergei Gonchar picked up a power play goal and two assists in Wednesday's game against the Devils with a minus-1 rating in a game-high 27:36 of ice time.
Analysis: Gonchar had the typical kind of game we've come to expect from the Russian defenseman. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. The Penguins will next be in action on Friday night against the Hurricanes.
News: D Sergei Gonchar will serve as an alternate captain for home games this season. LW Gary Roberts will replace him as an alternate for road games.
Analysis: Gonchar remains one of the top defenseman in the NHL and that makes him a must-start Fantasy option at all times.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar picked up his first point of the 2007-08 season with an assist during Friday's 4-1 loss to the Hurricanes. He finished with a minus-1 rating and spent two minutes in the penalty box.
Analysis: Gonchar remains one of the top defenseman in the NHL and that makes him a must-start Fantasy option at all times.
News: Sergei Gonchar was scoreless with a plus-1 rating with three shots on goal in 26:50 of ice time in Monday's game at N.Y. Rangers.
Analysis: Gonchar has two goals and seven points over the past six games. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Sidney Crosby (10 assists, 11 points) and Evgeni Malkin (seven assists, 10 points) both extended point streaks to seven games by assisting on Pittsburgh's lone goal by Sergei Gonchar on Sunday at Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Gonchar managed to end a 10-game goal drought with the marker. He still has 10 points (1 G, 9 A) during the stretch and remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: D Sergei Gonchar, LW Evgeni Malkin and C Jordan Staal picked up an assist in Monday's afternoon game at N.Y. Islanders.
Analysis: All three players are considered must-starts in all Fantasy formats. The Penguins are 14-1-2 over their past 17 games. Gonchar has managed two goals and 12 points over the past 10 games. He has notched at least one point in eight games during the stretch.
News: D Sergei Gonchar picked up two assists with a plus-1 rating in Sunday's game against the Capitals and C Maxime Talbot lit the lamp for the eighth time this season.
Analysis: Gonchar has managed two goals and 11 points over the past nine games. He has notched at least one point in seven games during the stretch.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar played in his 800th career NHL game on Wednesday. "It goes by quick, then you realize you've been around that long," Gonchar said. "Seems like yesterday you just started playing, and all of a sudden, it's 800 games."
Analysis: Gonchar went into Wednesday's game with nine goals and 37 assists for 46 points and on pace for a career-high 69 points. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Sergei Gonchar scored two goals and added an assist in Thursday's game against the Canadiens. He finished with a minus-1 rating in 28:09 of ice time.
Analysis: Gonchar has two goals and eight points over the past five games and remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Penguins D Sergei Gonchar missed Wednesday's practice with a stomach ailment but did play in Thursday's shootout loss to the Bruins. He played for 24:25 and finished with a plus-1 rating.
Analysis: Gonchar has seven goals and 26 assists on the season. He is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Sergei Gonchar was scoreless with a plus-1 rating in 26:39 of ice time in Tuesday's game against the Hurricanes.
Analysis: Gonchar has gone scoreless in seven of the past eight games with a goal and an assist. He remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues despite the rough stretch.
News: Sergei Gonchar had two goals and three assists in a 8-4 rout of the Flyers on Wednesday. He finished with a plus-2 rating.
Analysis: Gonchar now has five goals and 22 assists on the season. He is one of the stronger Fantasy options as far as defensemen go, so keep him active.
News: Sergei Gonchar was scoreless again in Monday's game at Anaheim, but at least he took three shots on goal and had a plus-1 rating in 26:11 of ice time.
Analysis: Gonchar has gone five straight games without a goal and there is one main reason for that - he has managed just six shots total in those five contests. He has nine points (2 G, 7 A) in 12 games overall. Despite the recent drought, he remains a must-start in all leagues.
News: Sergei Gonchar was scoreless with an even rating and two shots on goal in 23:15 of ice time in Thursday's regular season opener against the Flyers.
Analysis: Gonchar will be just fine and remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite the scoreless start.
News: Sergei Gonchar posted two more assists and a plus-1 rating in a season-high 31:22 of ice time in Tuesday's shootout loss against the Lightning.
Analysis: Gonchar has one goal and 15 assists over the past 11 games, as the Penguins might have seen his stock rise enough to get a decent return at the March 9 NHL trade deadline.
News: Sergei Gonchar picked up an assist with a minus-2 rating in Wednesday's opening game loss against Team Slovakia in the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin.
Analysis: Gonchar has been disappointing for the most part this season, but he now has seven goals, 28 assists and a minus-16 rating through 54 games. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues for the stretch run when play resumes despite his abysmal plus/minus rating.
News: Sergei Gonchar, who had been feeling the effects of a big hit from earlier in the week, had a big fantasy night Saturday, scoring one goal, adding three assists and finishing at plus-2 in a 6-3 win over Washington.
Analysis: Suddenly, Gonchar is looking like the fantasy producer that Fantasy owners remember. Take advantage. His plus-minus (minus-16) will be a bit of drag on your blue line but he's a great player in leagues that count power-play points. Twenty-five of his 35 points this season have come with the man-advantage. Continue to start him in all leagues.
News: Sergei Gonchar missed Wednesday's game against the Bruins after being pasted in Monday's game at Ottawa against the Senators.
Analysis: Gonchar suffered a big hit and was not feeling well enough to go on Wednesday. He is questionable for Friday's game at Carolina. Keep him reserved in all daily Fantasy leagues if you have healthier alternatives.
News: Sergei Gonchar picked up three assists and a plus-1 rating with four shots on goal in Wednesday's game against the Penguins, as he posted his first multi-point game since Dec. 31.
Analysis: Gonchar finally did something positive for his Fantasy owners after a mostly frustrating year. He entered play on Wednesday with just two assists and a minus-4 rating over the past nine games, so hopefully this is a sign of things to come.
News: Sergei Gonchar was scoreless again on Monday at Philadelphia with a minus-1 rating in 21:59 of ice time.
Analysis: Gonchar has been mired in a slump once again, posting just two assists over the past nine games. He has scored just one goal dating back to Nov. 1, a span of 34 games. Avoid using him in all Fantasy leagues right now until he can get back on track and start producing up to his capabilities.
News: Sergei Gonchar had two assists and a minus-2 rating in Tuesday's game against the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: Gonchar continues to be a major Fantasy disappointment. Tuesday's game was just his second all season with more than one point in a game.
News: Sergei Gonchar picked up an assist with a minus-1 rating on four shots on goal in Tuesday's game against Buffalo.
Analysis: Gonchar has been a major disappointment from a Fantasy perspective this season. In a five-game stretch from Oct. 22-Nov. 1, he posted five goals and an assist. Outside of that period, he has no goals and six assists in 17 games.
News: Sergei Gonchar was unable to light the lamp in Sunday's game at Tampa Bay, his ninth consecutive game without a goal.
Analysis: Gonchar, long considered the best offensive defenseman in Fantasy Hockey, has mustered only four assists with a minus-4 rating over the past nine games. Unlike fellow teammates John LeClair and Mark Recchi, who are also struggling, Gonchar is too valuable to consider reserving.
News: Sergei Gonchar returned to action on Tuesday night and played 22 minutes.
Analysis: Gonchar, when healthy, is one of the better offensive defensemen in Fantasy Hockey. It appears safe to return him to the active lineup in all formats.
News: Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar sat out his third consecutive game because of a groin problem and was put on injured reserve yesterday. The move was retroactive to Monday.
Analysis: Because Gonchar was put on IR retroactive to the first game he missed, he will be eligible to come off it in time for Tuesday's game vs. Washington. Keep an eye on his situation before starting him.
News: Sergei Gonchar (groin) missed his second straight game on Wednesday against the Flyers.
Analysis: Gonchar remains day to day. He might be able to return to the lineup on Saturday in the second half of the home-and-home with the Flyers, but keep him reserved in daily leagues.
News: Sergei Gonchar (groin) was unable to play in Monday's game against the Islanders.
Analysis: Gonchar is considered day to day. He might be able to return on Wednesday against the Flyers, but keep him reserved in all daily leagues just to be on the safe side.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports Sergei Gonchar is a gametime decision for Monday's game against the Islanders due to a strained groin.
Analysis: Consider reserving him in all daily Fantasy leagues if you have healthier alternatives.
News: The Penguins signed Sergei Gonchar to a multi-year contract on Wednesday.
Analysis: Gonchar, one of the better offensive defensemen in Fantasy Hockey, has averaged 58 points over the past five seasons with the Capitals and most recently the Bruins. Expect more of the same with the Penguins in 2005-06.
News: Sergei Gonchar scored a power play goal in his first game as a member of the Bruins on Thursday.
Analysis: Gonchar provided a glimpse of what is to come down the stretch if he can remain healthy.
News: Sergei Gonchar was sent to Boston in a trade on Wednesday for defenseman Shaone Morrisonn and a first- and second-round in the 2004 NHL entry draft.
Analysis: Gonchar was arguably the most coveted player on the block at the NHL trading deadline. His Fantasy value will increase slightly with the move to the Bruins.
News: Sergei Gonchar (flu), the most coveted player in the NHL at the trading deadline, missed his third consecutive game on Tuesday.
Analysis: The Capitals are either protecting their most valuable asset by insuring his health or Gonchar is extremely sick. Either way, keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can get back on the ice.
News: The Washington Post reports that Sergei Gonchar (head) will likely play Tuesday against Florida.
Analysis: Gonchar remains a frequent topic among trade rumors and he hopes he will be traded to Toronto by the deadline next week.
News: Sergei Gonchar (flu) missed his second consecutive game on Saturday at Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Gonchar remains day to day. Coach Glen Hanlon said he might be ready to return on Tuesday, although his absence has gotten rumors flying that he is close to being dealt.
News: Sergei Gonchar picked up a pair of assists in Thursday's game against New Jersey.
Analysis: Gonchar has four points (1 G, 3 A) in his past four games since returning from a shoulder injury.
News: Sergei Gonchar (shoulder) was activated off injured reserve by Washington Friday.
Analysis: Gonchar should be immediately returned to all Fantasy starting lineups.
News: Gonchar (shoulder) missed Thursday's game against Carolina.
Analysis: Gonchar might try and return on Friday at Nashville, but keep him reserved until he is officially able to return.
News: The Washington Post reports that Sergei Gonchar (shoulder) expects to return to play at Carolina Thursday. "I can shoot the puck and I'm looking forward to coming back," he said.
Analysis: Gonchar should be a safe start once he returns to play regularly.
News: Gonchar (shoulder) was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday.Washington placed defenseman Sergei Gonchar on the injured reserve list Tuesday and recalled center Graham Mink from Portland. Gonchar injured his shoulder Jan. 23 at Florida.
Analysis: Gonchar has progressed well from injury, but he has yet to be cleared for contact in practice. He least a week or two away from returning.
News: Sergei Gonchar (shoulder) was able to practice for the first time since tearing ligaments in his shoulder on Jan. 23, according to the Washington Post.
Analysis: Gonchar has not been cleared for contact, but he might be ready to return when play resumes after the All-Star break.
News: Sergei Gonchar suffered a shoulder injury in Friday's game and will be sidelined two to four weeks.
Analysis: Keep Gonchar reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and play consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Sergei Gonchar had an assist in Thursday's opener against the Islanders.
Analysis: Gonchar led the Capitals with 26:10 of ice time on Thursday, which was 6:10 more than any other Washington player. He is a must-start in all leagues.
News: Gonchar did not practice on Thursday. According to the Washington Post, he is fatigued. He is averaging over 27 minutes of ice time per game and is still adjusting to the increased playing time. He is not expected to miss any games and should be kept activated in all leagues.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar recovered from a groin injury and played Thursday against Minnesota. He had a goal and an assist in the game, and should be kept active every week in all Fantasy leagues.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar sat out Wednesday's practice with a sore groin. However, the Washington Post reports that he will play Thursday against Minnesota. Gonchar should be kept active every week in all Fantasy leagues.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar missed Wednesday's practice with a sore foot. He is expected to play Thursday against San Jose, but don't be surprised if he misses a game or two down the stretch if this injury flares back up.
Analysis:
News: The Capitals have been using Gonchar and Ken Klee as forwards in a new system while some of their regular forwards have been sidelined, according to The Washington Post. Head Coach Ron Wilson may continue to use them in this system even when their regulars return, which means both players could see a boost to their point totals. Gonchar could be an explosive defenseman if this lasts long.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar plans to return from an undisclosed injury in time for Friday's game against Carolina. Keep him active for the upcoming week unless he suffers a setback.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar missed Wednesday's game against Buffalo due to an undisclosed injury. He is listed as day to day, but could be cleared to play Friday against Carolina. Keep Gonchar active for now.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar has been resting his strained groin whenever the Capitals have a practice, as was the case on Monday. However, he has been playing in games and is expected to play Tuesday against Ottawa. Keep Gonchar active.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar left Saturday's game at St. Louis during the second period with a slight groin strain. He is day to day, but the Capitals don't expect him to miss any games. Keep Gonchar active for now.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar will skate with Joe Reekie to open the regular season. We think Gonchar could see a real boost to his offensive stats with Jaromir Jagr seriously improving this team's power-play unit.
Analysis:
News: The Capitals placed Gonchar on injured reserve with a bruised shoulder on Monday. He will miss two games and can be activated in time for Saturday's game against Montreal. Reserve him until next week.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar was forced to leave Thursday's game against Buffalo after he was hit hard by Erik Rasmussen during the second period. He skated off the ice on his own, but felt a little woozy after the game. The Capitals will further evaluate Gonchar, who has a history of concussions, on Friday. If this is anything serious, get him on your bench next week.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar had been suffering from the flu, but returned to practice yesterday. Considering he had three assists in his last two games, it looks like it had little effect on him.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar scored a goal in Wednesday's game against Atlanta, and he looks ready to start next week. Get him in your lineup; he has a good shot at being the league's highest-scoring defenseman.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar practiced with the Capitals yesterday, and hopes to play in Wednesday's game against Atlanta. Time to get him in your lineup; he's got a good shot at leading all defensemen in goals scored.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar and the Capitals agreed to terms on a four-year deal yesterday. The league's top goal-scoring defenseman over the last two years, Gonchar is expected to once again approach 20 goals. He might take a few days to get back into game shape; if you have the depth on defense, you might want to go with another option the first week.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar recorded his first career hat trick n a 6-1 rout of the Montreal Canadiens. Gonchar, who had three goals in his first 31 games this season, doubled that in the opening 31 minutes. Gonchar, now in his sixth NHL season, had gone 322 games without a hat trick. He also had an assist on a third-period goal.
Analysis:
News: Gonchar is expected to miss Tuesday's home contest against Anaheim after breaking his nose on Saturday while being pushed into San Jose center Ron Sutter by Sharks winger Dave Lowry "The league should see it," Washington coach Ron Wilson said. "We'll call the league. They should have two refs at every game. They missed it."
Analysis:
