News: Niedermayer has decided to sign a contract with HC Lugano in the Swiss league, TSN's Darren Dreger reports.
Analysis: The Sabres chose not to make a push to re-sign Niedermayer, so the 36-year-old forward will head to his fourth different team in the last four years. The details of Niedermayer's contract are not yet available, but don't rule out a return to the NHL at some point if he experiences success in Switzerland.
News: Buffalo does not appear to be interested in re-signing Niedermayer, and the 13-year veteran will enter the free agent market on Friday, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: Niedermayer had a relatively unproductive regular season for the Sabres last year (5 G, 14 A), but was one of the best players on the ice for Buffalo in the playoffs.
News: Niedermayer was a healthy scratch for the first time all season Friday. Youngster Paul Byron took his place in the lineup.
Analysis: Niedermayer has never been a huge scorer, but his numbers through 47 games are downright pathetic during his first season in Buffalo -- no goals, 12 points, minus-3 rating and just 25 hits. We think it's safe to say he earned the healthy scratch.
News: Niedermayer opened Monday's game in Derek Roy's spot between Thomas Vanek and Tyler Ennis, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: Niedermayer skated only 11:21 and as usual didn't register in the scoring columns, as he's still looking for his first goal as a Sabre after 26 games. We imagine Niedermayer will have more responsibility with fellow center Roy out for the season, but remember Tim Connolly is due back soon from a broken nose, plus Niedermayer hasn't done anything yet this season to merit ownership.
News: Niedermayer (knee) will play in Wednesday's game against the Bruins, the Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: Niedermayer will see his first action Wednesday since November 20. Expect him to reclaim his centering role on one of the Sabres' reserve lines.
News: Niedermayer (knee) has been cleared to play and is probable to suit up for Wednesday night's game against the Bruins, according to WGR550.com.
Analysis: Even more interesting is that Niedermayer, who has not scored a goal all season for the Sabres, centered Derek Roy and Thomas Vanek in practice.
News: Niedermayer, recovering from minor knee surgery November 22, is close to a return to action, The Buffalo News reports. "Skating-wise, this was his first battle day in one-on-one situations," coach Lindy Ruff said after Monday's practice. "Most of the swelling [in the knee] is gone. I'd say he's close."
Analysis: Niedermayer. Not dead! While he doesn't have much offensive pop, that's good news for the Sabres, who still have some climbing to do to get into a playoff position. The impending return of Niedermayer (who's actual return date is still up in the air), Tim Connolly and Drew Stafford will help matters as they try to get on another hot streak.
News: Niedermayer is taking longer to recover from knee surgery than he has expected, and has no idea when he will return to game action, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: Niedermayer elected to have surgery after a poor start to the season in which he only earned six assists through 21 games.
Sabres' Niedermayer Experiences Some Pain While Skating
News: Niedermayer, who underwent minor knee surgery on November 22, experienced mild pain when attempting to skate on his own Wednesday, the Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: This obviously doesn't bode well for Niedermayer's chances of a quick return. As a result, it's best to leave him alone in the majority of fantasy leagues.
News: Niedermayer underwent knee surgery Monday and is out indefinitely, WGR550.com reports.
Analysis: He's been bothered by knee pain throughout the season, so this will hopefully serve as a more long-term solution than getting rest. Niedermayer is expected return this season, but it's unclear just how long he'll be on the shelf.
News: Niedermayer returned to practice Wednesday after missing Tuesday's game for the birth of his daughter, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: The reason for his absence Tuesday wasn't previously known, so Niedermayer is ready to roll for Friday's game against Atlanta as the Sabres' third-line center.
News: Niedermayer (undisclosed) is not with the team on the trip to Philadelphia for Tuesday's game against the Flyers, WGR550.com reports.
Analysis: Prospect Luke Adam was called up to presumably make his NHL debut on Tuesday night, while there's currently no injury being reported for the 35-year-old veteran center. His production has been very limited so far with just two points in nine games along with a minus-3 rating.
News:The Sports Xchange reports despite two games that have produced 14 points by the Devils' top line, don't expect Dainius Zubrus to be on the right wing with Zach Parise and Travis Zajac on Tuesday night at Toronto. "I need him at center," coach Jacques Lemaire said of Zubrus, noting that 35-year-old Rob Niedermayer is playing too much. "I use him too much," the coach said of Niedermayer. "He'll be 60 years old at the end of the season. I have to slow down."
Analysis: Niedermayer has one goal in 20 games, earning four assists over that span. It's not because a lack of offense Niedermayer needs some time away from center. Lemaire just wants to make sure he is still able to play by season's end. Niedermayer is far more important to the Devils than Fantasy owners.
News: Devils C Rob Niedermayer failed to record a point and finished at minus-1 on Monday against the Islanders. He has one goal, one assist and a minus-2 rating in eight January games.
Analysis: Niedermayer is averaging 18 minutes per game, but he just isn't producing like a player that earns that much of playing time. We don't expect that to change since Niedermayer is mostly a lower-line presence. Niedermayer has marginal Fantasy appeal.
News: New Jersey C Rob Niedermayer scored his fourth goal of the season on Wednesday in a 4-2 win over the Hurricanes. The shorthanded goal came with just one second left in the game on an empty net. It was his fourth goal of the season and 10th overall point.
Analysis: Niedermayer's goal may not have meant much to his team, but it sure does a lot for Fantasy owners in deeper formats. Unless Niedermayer can pick up his production in a major way, he remains just a low-end Fantasy option.
News: The Devils, ravaged this season by injuries, got Rob Niedermayer back on Wednesday against the Canucks after he missed 11 games due to an upper body injury. The Devils activated Niedermayer from the injured list and assigned C Tom Sestito to Lowell (AHL). Niedermayer had no points and a minus-2 rating in 14:55 of ice time.
Analysis: Niedermayer has had some success under first-year coach Jacques Lemaire, but we still don't see him winning you a Fantasy championship anytime soon. Niedermayer has minimal Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: The Bergen Record reports that Devils C Rob Niedermayer (upper body) returned to practice on Monday.
Analysis: Niedermayer could return to action some time in Fantasy Week 9 (Nov. 30-Dec. 6), but he's barely worth owning in any leagues, so just leave him alone.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that Devils C Rob Niedermayer might return from his upper-body injury next week.
Analysis: Niedermayer is off to a nice start with seven points in his first 13 games, but we still don't seem him rekindling his 50-60-point level. Niedermayer still has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy. Don't risk him for Fantasy Week 8 (Nov. 23-29).
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that Devils C Rob Niedermayer (upper body) will not play in either of this weekend's two games.
Analysis: Niedermayer is off to a nice start with seven points in his first 13 games, but we still don't seem him rekindling his 50-60-point level. Niedermayer still has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: The Devils have placed D Johnny Oduya (lower body) and C Rob Niedermayer (upper body) on injured reserve.
Analysis: Oduya has no points and a minus-5 rating in his first 11 games as he's really struggled to transition under first-year coach Jacques Lemaire. Oduya is a 30-point threat when healthy, but he is going to have trouble reaching that plateau after this slow start. Stash him away in deeper leagues if you have the room. Niedermayer's days as a Fantasy-viable option are pretty much over, so don't worry about him outside of the deepest of leagues.
News: Devils C Rob Niedermayer left with an undisclosed injury during Wednesday's game against the Capitals. He will be evaluated Thursday. He had an assist and plus-1 rating in 12:05 of ice time. It was his first point in five games.
Analysis: Niedermayer is off to a nice start with seven points in his first 13 games, but we still don't seem him rekindling his 50-60-point level. Niedermayer still has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Devils C Rob Niedermayer scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Monday's 3-2 loss against the Rangers. The Devils had several scoring chances early and took advantage 1:10 in when Niedermayer scored from the right circle off a pass from Jay Pandolfo. It was Niedermayer's first goal with the Devils.
Analysis: The 34-year-old Niedemayer is in his 16th NHL season. He spent the last six with the Ducks before they chose not to re-sign him. Niedermayer will be a nice veteran presence for New Jersey. However, he will spend most of his time on the lower lines and he has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: The New Jersey Devils have signed veteran center Rob Niedermayer to a one-year contract. The team announced the deal on Friday, adding depth to a squad that lost John Madden to free agency over the summer.
Analysis: The 34-year-old Niedemayer is entering his 16th NHL season. He had 14 goals in 79 games with Anaheim last season. He has 171 career goals and 257 assists in 1,011 regular-season games with Florida, Calgary, and Anaheim. Niedermayer spent five-plus seasons with the Ducks, and was a member of their 2006-07 Stanley Cup championship team along with his brother Scott. Niedermayer will be a nice lower-line presence for New Jersey, but still has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News:The Sports Xchange reports while most Canucks followers fretted over the future of top-line identical twins Daniel and Henrik Sedin as impending unrestricted free agents, the possibility of another talented, high-profile brother act playing in Vancouver next season has been raised by a player agent. According to their Vancouver-based agent, Rob and Scott Niedermayer might be interested in winding down their careers in their home province. "Before they signed in Anaheim (Scott joined Rob in 2005-06, right after the lockout) that was definitely a big discussion," agent Kevin Epp said. "But at that time, it was difficult because Rob was still one year away from being an unrestricted free agent, so he still had a year left in Anaheim. In Scott's case, he was unrestricted, and considered very much playing in Canada for the Canucks or Calgary or somewhere near his off-season home and staying out West. I think everyone dreams of playing near your hometown or in Canada or in British Columbia."
Analysis: Winning a Stanley Cup together in Anaheim satisfies one of the Niedermayer's goals in playing together. As for their desire to do so in Vancouver, that may be little more than an agent bargaining, especially since Scott has indicated he'd retire or return to Anaheim. Of course, if Scott, a four-time Stanley Cup Champion who already owns a Norris and Conn Smythe Trophy, does choose to keep playing, one reason will be a chance to represent Canada at another Winter Olympics, which just happen to be taking place in Vancouver in February, 2010. "It obviously depends on the Canucks and their situation and where they're at financially, so they're going to have some decisions from their end," Epp said. Scott had 14 goals and 59 points last season in Anaheim, and the smooth skater would be a significant upgrade as a puck-moving defenseman and power-play specialist. Younger brother Rob, 34, had 14 goals and 21 points in an injury plagued season and would need to take a pay cut from the expiring four-year, $8 million contract to fit into the Canucks third or fourth lines. "Now it's about each of them doing what's best for themselves and for their families," Epp said. Scott will likely be a high-end Fantasy defenseman no matter where he plays in 2009-10, if he chooses to skate another season, but Rob still won't have much Fantasy appeal.
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer scored twice and finished at plus-1 during Tuesday's game against the Oilers. Anaheim looked to have put the game out of reach late in the second when Scott Niedermayer dished the puck to Rob at the top of the circle, and his high shot seemed to catch Dwayne Roloson off guard to make it 4-1 after 40 minutes. Edmonton called for a stick measurement late in the game, but received a penalty themselves when it was deemed legal, leading to a power-play, empty-net goal by Niedermayer. It was his first two-goal game since Nov. 30.
Analysis: Coach Randy Carlyle has prodded Niedermayer at times to be a more offensive force from the third line, but he has failed to heed the call. He hit 20 points Tuesday, but still has a career-worst minus-16 rating. Niedermayer is just a low-end Fantasy forward and flier in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: Anaheim RW Rob Niedermayer scored a goal on Wednesday against the Avalanche in a 7-2 win. It was his 12th goal of the season.
Analysis: This is the most goals that Niedermayer has scored in the last three seasons, but it doesn't do enough to make him relevant in Fantasy. Continue ignoring him down the stretch.
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer tallied his 11th goal of the season in Tuesday's win over the Coyotes.
Analysis: Niedermayer's 11 goals are his most in three seasons, but he only has five assists and is known more for his checking than anything else. He remains just barely worth using in Fantasy play.
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer scored his ninth goal of the season in Friday's shootout loss to the Flyers.
Analysis: Niedermayer has been on a goal tear this season after scoring only 13 over his previous two campaigns. He isn't shooting much more, just finding the net, as his 23.1 shot percentage ranks him fifth in the league. Don't expect him to match this output in the second half, so continue to ignore the checking-line forward in most formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer scored his eighth goal of the season Sunday against the Blues, matching last year's total less than halfway through the 82-game campaign. A fixture on the checking line, Niedermayer has 11 points, after having finished with 16 last season.
Analysis: Coach Randy Carlyle has challenged Nidermayer at times this season to be a more aggressive offensive force. He is doing well for a third-line forward, but we can't expect the world from Niedermayer. He still remains a low-end Fantasy reserve.
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer had a goal in Friday's game in Edmonton. It was his first point in four games and his seventh goal of the season. He has seven goals and three assists.
Analysis: Niedermayer he is more of a checking-line forward than anything with the Ducks, and barely has any Fantasy value. Continue to ignore him in all formats.
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer scored for the sixth time this season Sunday in a win over the Blue Jackets.
Analysis: Niedermayer only had 13 goals over the previous two seasons, so he's finding the net at a pretty good clip so far in 2008-09. Still, he is more of a checking-line forward than anything with the Ducks, and barely has any Fantasy value. Continue to ignore him in all formats.
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer scored twice Sunday in a win over the Hurricanes. He now has five goals and two assists on the season.
Analysis: Niedermayer is more of a checking-line forward than anything with the Ducks, and barely has any Fantasy value. Continue to ignore him in all formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer, a checking-line mainstay the past three-plus seasons, was a healthy scratch Sunday against the Kings. Coach Randy Carlyle said that Niedermayer has "more to give." Niedermayer has three goals, five points and is minus-1 in 17 games.
Analysis: Niedermayer scored twice in his first three games this season, but has since netted just one goal in 14 games. We knew Niedermayer's hot start wouldn't last and we were right. However, the Ducks feel he can be a more consistent contributor. Until that happens, he has little to no Fantasy value.
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer scored his third goal of the season during Wednesday's 5-2 win against the Blues. Niedermayer opened the scoring when he took a feed behind the defense from Samuel Pahlsson and scored a breakaway goal just 36 seconds after the opening faceoff. It was his first goal since Oct. 15.
Analysis: Niedermayer opened the season with two goals in three games and four points in four. He then went without a point in nine games before getting back on the board Wednesday. We knew Niedermayer's hot start wouldn't last and we were right. He still has limited Fantasy appeal.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Ducks D Francois Beauchemin (three goals), checking-line wing Rob Niedermayer (two goals) and fourth-line wing George Parros (two goals) have helped fill in for the struggling top-line guys in Anahiem early this season.
Analysis: Beauchemin probably has the most potential of this group because he showed potential with a 36-point season a few years ago and goals from the blue line can be very valuable in Fantasy play. He could turn into a decent low-end starting D in most Fantasy formats by midseason. As for Niedermayer and Parros, you can probably ignore them in most leagues because these goals won't flow for long.
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer returned to the lineup Wednesday against the Oilers after missing one game with a foot injury. He scored his second goal of the season and finished at even in 17:14 of ice time. Niedermayer put the Ducks ahead 2-1 in the second period, whisking in a backhander from the high slot after Travis Moen and Scott Niedermayer fought to keep the puck alive along the right boards in the Oilers zone.
Analysis: Niedermayer has shown a lot of offensive push early in the season despite playing on the third line. He won't move up unless injury befalls Corey Perry or Teemu Selanne, and he likely won't keep up this offensive pace. Continue to treat Niedermayer as a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer left in the first period Sunday against the Coyotes after taking a shot from his brother, Scott, off his foot. X-rays were negative and Niedermayer apparently suffered only a bruise, but he still missed Tuesday's game in Los Angeles.
Analysis: Niedermayer continues to play on the Ducks' third-line and won't move up unless injury befalls Corey Perry or Teemu Selanne. He is not a big-time offensive player and has little to no Fantasy value.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer left in the first period Sunday against the Coyotes after taking a shot from his brother, Scott, off his foot. X-rays were negative and Niedermayer apparently suffered only a bruise, but his status for Tuesday's game at Los Angeles was in doubt.
Analysis: Niedermayer continues to play on the Ducks' third-line and won't move up unless injury befalls Corey Perry or Teemu Selanne. He is not a big-time offensive player and has little to no Fantasy value. Keep him reserved Week 2 (Oct. 13-19).
News: Anaheim center Rob Niedermayer left Sunday's game against the Coyotes with a bruised leg in the first period and didn't return. He played just 3:42 and didn't record a point. Niedermayer had a goal in the opener Thursday.
Analysis: Niedermayer continues to play on the Ducks' third-line and won't move up unless injury befalls Corey Perry or Teemu Selanne. He is not a big-time offensive player and has little to no Fantasy value. Keep him reserved Week 2 (Oct. 13-19).
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer scored with 5:25 left in Thursday's opener against the Sharks to finally beat Evgeni Nabokov, who made 28 save, in a San Jose 4-1 win. Niedermayer finished at minus-1 in 16:22 of ice time.
Analysis: Niedermayer continues to play on the Ducks' third-line and won't move up unless injury befalls Corey Perry or Teemu Selanne. He is not a big-time offensive player and has little to no Fantasy value.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer was a full participant during the opening week of training camp and appeared to be completely recovered from a concussion that shelved him for the final four games of last year's opening-round Stanley Cup playoff series against the Dallas Stars.
Analysis: Niedermayer is expected to help anchor the checking line with Travis Moen and Samuel Pahlsson. Niedermayer is nowhere nearly as gifted as his brother Scott and not as good as a Fantasy option either. You can likely do without Niedermayer in Fantasy leagues at this time.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer picked up his 400th career point with an assist on a first-period goal by rookie C Ryan Carter Sunday against the Red Wings.
Analysis: Niedermayer has played his 14-year career with Florida, Calgary and has been with Anaheim since 2002-03. Niedermayer has managed 50-plus points just twice in his career and is a very low-end flier in larger Fantasy leagues. His career is on the back nine.
News:Rob Niedermayer scored his first goal in two months (since Nov. 29) to prevent a shutout loss to Los Angeles on Thursday. Anaheim lost the game 3-1. It was Niedermayer's first point in January.
Analysis: Niedermayer has only six points ( 4 goals, 3 assists) in 49 games this season, which tells you all you need to know about his Fantasy value. Ignore him in all formats.
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer was back on the ice after missing Tuesday's game versus Dallas with a groin injury. Obviously the injury was not all that serious. Niedermayer played 16 minutes.
Analysis: Niedermayer has only six points ( 3 goals, 3 assists) in 45 games this season, which tells you all you need to know about his Fantasy value. Ignore him in all formats.
News: Ducks G Rob Niedermayer won't play in Tuesday night's game against the Stars, reports the Orange County Register, after injuring his groin in Sunday's win over the Sharks. Niedermayer tried to skate Tuesday morning, but had trouble. However, he expressed hope he will be ready to play Thursday against the Nashville Predators.
Analysis: Niedermayer has only six points in 44 games this season, which tells you all you need to know about his Fantasy value. Ignore him in all formats.
News: Anaheim's Rob Niedermayer capped the scoring at Los Angeles Thursday with a long, bouncing shot into an empty net with 42 seconds remaining. He also added an assist earlier in the game.
Analysis: The 14-year veteran likely will produce 20-40 points this season, but is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Rob Niedermayer (groin) broke a scoreless tie 13 seconds into the third period against Columbus on Friday. Niedermayer, who missed three games because of a groin injury, put the Ducks ahead with a fine individual effort. Skating down the right boards, he swerved to his left across the crease and got off a shot that Fredrik Norrena blocked. But the goalie couldn't control the puck and Niedermayer, who angled toward the left post, poked it in as Norrena tried to block it with his right foot. The goal was Niedermayer's first of the season.
Analysis: The 14-year veteran likely will produce 20-40 points this season, but is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer (groin) returned to action Thursday against the Blue Jackets. He had missed the previous three games.
Analysis: The 14-year veteran has just two assists on the season. He likely will produce 20-40 points this season, but is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy forward when healthy. It appears safe to activate him in Fantasy formats.
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer (groin) did not return to action Sunday against the Oilers. It was the third straight game he missed.
Analysis: The 14-year veteran has just two assists on the season. He likely will produce 20-40 points this season, but is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy forward when healthy. He is day to day and an injury-risk start for Fantasy Week 5 (Oct. 29-Nov. 4).
News: Ducks RW Rob Niedermayer (groin) did not return to action Thursday against the Coyotes. It was the second straight game he missed.
Analysis: The 14-year veteran has just two assists on the season. He likely will produce 20-40 points this season, but is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy forward when healthy. He is day to day.
News: Niedermayer was unable to play in Tuesday's game at St. Louis due to a groin strain.
Analysis: Brad May, Mark Mowers and George Parros saw a little more time than they might normally get. Niedermayer is considered day to day. When healthy, he has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: D Joe DiPenta and C Rob Niedermayer each picked up assists in Monday's game against the Red Wings.
Analysis: Despite the point, DiPenta and Niedermayer do not contribute enough offensively to be considered in anything more than the deepest of Fantasy formats.
News: D Joe DiPenta, D Kent Huskins, C Todd Marchant and C Rob Niedermayer each posted an assist and plus-1 rating in Sunday's game against the Kings in London. Each of the players bounced back from a scoreless contest in Saturday's regular season opener.
Analysis: Marchant and Niedermayer are worth a look as a No. 5 or 6 Fantasy forward in the deepest of leagues only. DiPenta and Huskins should be treated as nothing more than a No. 5 or 6 option in leagues of 12 teams or more.
News: Niedermayer scored a goal and added two assists with a plus-4 rating in Tuesday's game at San Jose in 16:34 of ice time.
Analysis: Niedermayer had just three points (2 G, 1 A) in his past 29 games dating back to Nov. 24, so don't look too much into Tuesday's game and drop a more consistent member for the 'other' Niedermayer.
News: Niedermayer has just one goal over the past nine games and he has eight scoreless games during the stretch.
Analysis: Niedermayer is not worth using in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Rob Niedermayer scored in his 800th NHL game, and the Anaheim Ducks held off a late rally to beat the Los Angeles Kings 4-3 on Saturday for their fifth straight victory.
Analysis: Congrats to Niedermayer on achieving an NHL milestone. However, he is not a strong Fantasy option and should only be used in the largest of leagues.
News: Niedermayer has managed six points (1 G, 5 A) and a plus-5 rating in 14 games this season.
Analysis: Niedermayer is only worth Fantasy consideration in larger leagues at this point. On a positive note, he has posted a negative plus/minus rating in just one game this season.
News: Niedermayer was scoreless in Wednesday's game at Detroit with a minus-2 rating in 12:30 of ice time with two shots on goal.
Analysis: Niedermayer has two goals and two assists over the past two starts, but that also followed up a seven-game scoreless streak. Avoid using him in all but the largest of Fantasy leagues.
News: Rob Niedermayer (concussion) was able to play in Saturday's game against the Panthers. Like most other players in the 1-0 win, he was scoreless with one shot on goal in 16:18 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to get the veteran back into the active Fantasy lineup in all larger leagues.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Niedermayer (concussion) is nearing a return to off-ice activities, but he missed his fifth straight game on Monday at Boston. "Each day is getting better so hopefully I'm not very far off," Niedermayer said. "I was hoping to be back a lot sooner than this. It's just something that you can't rush."
Analysis: Niedermayer added that headaches have not been a problem, but he continues to feel "off balance." As long as those symptoms continue, it will be some time before he can return. There is a chance he could return from the road trip at Ottawa on Thursday, but don't count on him playing until late January at the earliest.
News: According to the Los Angeles Times, Rob Niedermayer (concussion) could be ready to resume workouts now that his post-concussion symptombs are fading. There is still no date for his return.
Analysis: Consider him day-to-day, but don't expect him to be ready until sometime next week. Even when healhty, he is not the Niedermayer brother who should be starting in Fantasy leagues these days.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Niedermayer (concussion) continues to experience symptoms of a concussion suffered on Jan. 1 and the effects have not subsided.
Analysis: General manager Brian Burke added that the veteran might have to go on injured reserve. To make up for Niedermayer's absence and the trade of Petr Sykora, the team recalled prospects Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry from Portland of the AHL on Monday.
News: Niedermayer will miss the next two games on Friday at Dallas and Saturday at Minnesota due to a concussion. "If he's symptom-free for 48 hours from [Tuesday], then he'll start to work out," Carlyle told the Los Angeles Times. "I would say at day five or six, we'll allow him to skate."
Analysis: Niedermayer should be kept reserved in all daily Fantasy leagues immediately.
News: Rob Niedermayer had an assist in 19:20 of ice time in Saturday's game against Thrashers.
Analysis: After posting 11 points (3 G, 8 A) in his first 11 games, Niedermayer has come back down to Earth. He has six points (2 G, 4 A) over the past 16 games. He has strung together a three-game point streak, so perhaps he is ready for a resurgence, but don't bet on it.
News: The Ducks re-signed Rob Niedermayer to a four-year contract on Thursday, the same day they brought in his brother Scott, formerly of New Jersey.
Analysis: Niedermayer has settled into the 25-35 point range over the past five seasons. He is a decent pickup late on Draft Day.
News: Niedermayer (groin) returned to the lineup on Wednesday. He was scoreless in 16:31 of ice time.
Analysis: Niedermayer missed the past 14 games due to the injury. Let him play at least one more game before activating him in larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Rob Niedermayer (groin) was unable to go for Wednesday's game and according to the Los Angeles Times, he is not expected back "for some time."
Analysis: That is not very specific, however, it definitely means you should keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he is able to officially return to the lineup and play consecutive games.
News: Rob Niedermayer (groin) missed another game on Wednesday.
Analysis: Niedermayer has missed four straight games. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can play consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Niedermayer (groin) missed his third straight game on Wednesday against the Hurricanes.
Analysis: Niedermayer is considered day to day. He might be ready to go after the All-Star break.
News: Niedermayer (groin) missed his second consecutive game on Monday.
Analysis: Niedermayer remains day to day. Keep him reserved until after the All-Star break.
News: Niedermayer aggravated his groin injury in Wednesday's game and was unable to play Friday against Colorado.
Analysis: Niedermayer is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Rob Niedermayer (groin) missed another game on Saturday.
Analysis: Niedermayer might return on Monday at Tampa Bay, but keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Niedermayer (groin) missed his ninth straight game on Monday at San Jose.
Analysis: Niedermayer might return against his former team, the Florida Panthers, on Saturday night. Keep him reserved until he can officially play at least two games without pain.
News: Rob Niedermayer (groin) remained sidelined on Sunday against the Sharks.
Analysis: Niedermayer should be reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and play consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Rob Niedermayer (groin) tried skating on Wednesday and he suffered a setback.
Analysis: Niedermayer has missed seven games and he is doubtful for Friday's contest against the Avalanche. Keep him reserved in all leagues.
News: Niedermayer (groin) missed both Saturday and Sunday's games.
Analysis: Niedermayer is still considered day to day. He might return Friday against Colorado. Keep him reserved if you have healthier options.
News: Niedermayer (groin) is not expected to play Saturday in San Jose, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Analysis: Niedermayer has minimal Fantasy value when healthy.
News: As expected, Niedermayer (groin) missed Wednesday's game against San Jose.
Analysis: Niedermayer might return on Saturday for the second half of a home-and-home at San Jose.
News: Niedermayer (groin) skated briefly during Tuesday's practice but will not play Wednesday against San Jose, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Analysis: Niedermayer warrants minimal Fantasy attention when healthy.
News: Niedermayer (groin) will miss his third straight game Friday in Atlanta, according to the Los Angeles Times. He probably won't play Sunday against Dallas, either.
Analysis: Niedermayer warrants minimal Fantasy attention when healthy.
News: Niedermayer missed his second straight game on Wednesday due to a groin injury.
Analysis: Keep Niedermayer reserved until he is able to officially return and play consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Niedermayer didn't skate Monday due to a groin injury he suffered late in Sunday's game, according to the Los Angeles Times. He is doubtful for Tuesday's game in Columbus.
Analysis: Niedermayer has minimal Fantasy value when healthy.
News: Rob Niedermayer scored for the second time in as many nights on Thursday at Nashville.
Analysis: Niedermayer is off to a good start with the Ducks. He has the potential to be a good player in the NHL, but he has failed to live up to expectations.
News: Niedermayer made his debut Wednesday with Anaheim. He is skating on a line with Petr Sykora and Adam Oates. Niedermayer is not a useful Fantasy player.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer was traded to the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim on Tuesday. Goaltender Jean-Francois Damphousse and defenseman Mike Commodore were sent to Calgary. Niedermayer is best used as a reserve in larger leagues.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer returned from a knee injury Saturday against Minnesota. He was scoreless in the game, and is best used as a Fantasy reserve in a larger league.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer (knee) has been cleared to take full-contact practice. According to the Calgary Sun, he is expected to play Saturday against Minnesota. Niedermayer has minimal Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer (knee) participated in Sunday's entire morning skate. According to the Calgary Sun, he hopes to be cleared to skate in Monday's practice before joining full-contact sessions later this week. Niedermayer is likely out one more week, and he has only minimal Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer (knee) might be out two weeks. According to the Calgary Herald, he has been diagnosed with a first-degree sprain of the medial collateral ligament in his right knee. Niedermayer has minimal Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer was scratched from Sunday's preseason game with a charley horse. He is day to day, but isn't a very useful Fantasy player anyway.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer could return to the ice Monday, according to the Calgary Sun. He resumed practicing with the team Wednesday. It was the first time he had participated since injuring his knee and ankle on Jan. 14. Wait and see how he performs before using him on your team. Consider reserving him next week.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer is expected to miss eight weeks due to a medial collateral ligament sprain in his right knee. Drop him if he was on your roster.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer sustained an apparent right knee injury when he collided with Eric Cairns with 2:46 left in the first period of Tuesday's game. He did not return and will be re-evaluated on Wednesday. Niedermayer was forced to use crutches.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer is expected to return to the lineup Tuesday against Los Angeles. He missed Sunday's game in Minnesota due to a charley horse.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer is still icing a charley horse on his right thigh which he suffered during Thursday's game against Chicago. He is day to day, and you should probably reserve him for now since he's not a big-impact Fantasy player.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer returned to the lineup Thursday against Nashville after missing four games with a bruised hip. Get him back into your lineup in deeper leagues.
Analysis:
News: The Flames placed Niedermayer on injured reserve on Tuesday due to a hip injury that has sidelined him for four games. He is eligible to return Thursday against Nashville, but is unlikely to play. Keep Niedermayer reserved until he is officially activated.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer remains day to day with a bruised hip. "His hip's not progressing like we thought it would be," Flames Head Coach Greg Gilbert told the Calgary Sun. Keep Niedermayer reserved for this week.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer practiced only briefly Wednesday after not skating at all Tuesday due to a hip injury, according to the Calgary Herald. He is listed as day to day but is expected to play Thursday against Florida.
Analysis:
News: The Flames are using a second line of Niedermayer, Dean McAmmond and rookie Chuck Kobasew to open the season. All three players are marginal Fantasy players, but keep your eye on them in case they get off to good starts. Kobasew has the highest potential of the trio.
Analysis:
News: Niedermayer missed Thursday's game in Ottawa because he felt "woozy" after hitting the boards hard during Wednesday's game in Pittsburgh. It is unclear whether he suffered a concussion, as he was examined late Thursday and a diagnosis is expected soon. It might be a wise move to bench Niedermayer for the upcoming week, especially considering he hasn't been an overly solid Fantasy player this season.
Analysis:
