News:Eric Belanger (groin) is planning to play in Monday's game against Ducks, Dan Tencer of CHED Edmonton reports.
Analysis:Eric Belanger has appeared in just two games since Mar. 8 due to the lingering groin injury, but it looks like he will be back on the ice Monday night. Belanger will boost the Oilers' depth, but don't expect him to make much of a fantasy impact over the season's final four games.
News:Eric Belanger (groin) has been placed on IR by the Oilers.
Analysis: With three assists and 10 PIM in 23 games to date, Eric Belanger's fantasy impact has been limited thus far. His absence will likely result in a forward being called up by the Oilers in short order.
News:Eric Belanger (groin) will not return to Monday's game against the Predators.
Analysis: It seems Eric Belanger may have aggravated the groin injury that forced him to miss more than two weeks earlier this month. His status for Tuesday's game against St. Louis is uncertain.
News:Eric Belanger is expected to return to the lineup Saturday after dealing with a groin injury the last couple weeks.
Analysis:Eric Belanger hasn't played since March 8. He went on IR with the groin injury and then returned to practice about a week ago.
News:Eric Belanger (groin) left practice Tuesday unable to skate on his injured groin, the Edmonton Journal reports.
Analysis: Groin injuries are especially tricky in hockey, so it's tough to know when Eric Belanger will be ready to rejoin the team. He has totaled three assists in 21 games while playing a depth-line role for Edmonton this year.
News:Eric Belanger (groin) has returned to practice and is expected to return to action Wednesday, according to the Edmonton Journal.
Analysis:Eric Belanger hasn't played since March 8. He believes a wonky back is what led to the groin injury he is dealing with. He appears to be over both and should be safe to activate if you normally would do so.
News:Eric Belanger (groin) has been placed on IR, the Oilers' official site reports.
Analysis: Though Eric Belanger -- who has three assists in 21 games -- is now sidelined, the Oilers will get some help up front Sunday, with the return to action of Shawn Horcoff, Teemu Hartikainen and Ales Hemsky.
News:Eric Belanger (toe) will play Sunday against the Blue Jackets, Dan Kamal of FOX Sports Ohio reports.
Analysis: The team sent Chris VandeVelde back down in anticipation of Eric Belanger's return. Belanger reportedly has two broken toes, but look him to be lifted from IR prior to Sunday's tilt.
News:Eric Belanger practiced Thursday and could play Sunday after breaking two toes, the 630 CHED reports.
Analysis:Eric Belanger has been unproductive this season, averaging 13:08 minutes per game in eight games, yet no points to attest to that.
News:Eric Belanger was placed on injured reserve Sunday as a result of two broken toes, the Edmonton Journal reports.
Analysis: The team had previously called the ailment an "unspecified injury," so now we officially know what he's dealing with. Eric Belanger is expected to miss at least a week as a result of the injury.
News: The Oilers have placed Eric Belanger (unspecified injury) on injured reserve, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: To replace Eric Belanger up front, the Oilers have recalled Magnus Paajarvi from AHL Oklahoma City. With no points in eight games this season, however, Belanger's absence shouldn't affect too many fantasy owners.
News:Eric Belanger (leg) will return to the lineup Saturday, according to the Oilers web site.
Analysis:Eric Belanger has been out of action for about a week but should return for the battle of Alberta on Saturday. Belanger is far from the best fantasy player unless you're in a league that rewards face-off wins.
News:Eric Belanger (leg) wasn't out for warm-ups and isn't expected to play Sunday, 630 CHED reports.
Analysis:Eric Belanger sustained a leg injury Friday. He's day-to-day. The Oilers were hopeful he'd be ready to play Sunday, but it appears he still needs to rest the injury.
News:Eric Belanger is day-to-day with a leg injury, Oilers Radio Network's Dan Tencer reports.
Analysis: The team is hopeful that he'll be able to play against the Kings on Sunday.
News:Eric Belanger has lived up to his hype as a face-off specialist this season, according to the Edmonton Journal.
Analysis:Eric Belanger has won an impressive 55.7% of his draws which places him just outside of the top 10 in the league, problem is he only has one goal to go with those draws which makes him a risky fantasy play even in leagues that count face-off percentage as a category.
News: The Oilers signed Belanger on Friday, according to the Edmonton Journal.
Analysis: Belanger signed a three-year deal for $5.25 million. He's a faceoff specialist, something the Oilers were looking for, so keep that in mind if you're in a league that has faceoffs won as a stat.
News: Belanger has been given important minutes in Martin Hanzal's (lower body) absence, according to the Arizona Republic.
Analysis: Belanger has been called on to step up and take more responsibility defensively by facing the opposition's top lines. He has definitely responded to the challenge so far. Belanger has a plus-2 rating and has generated two goals and two assists in the last two games.
News: Belanger had a goal and two assists in Tuesday's overtime loss to Vancouver.
Analysis: The three points on Tuesday were Belanger's first in his previous six games. He has just 10 goals and 30 points on the season in 68 games.
News: In the last 12 games, Belanger has only recorded two assists and he scored his last goal Nov. 10 against Chicago.
Analysis: Belanger has not been effective for the past month. Even though he is not typically a 20-goal scorer, he is expected to at least chip in and help the Coyotes' scoring-by-committee approach. So far he has been non-existent. Belanger does lead the team in face-off wins at 55%.
News: Belanger scored his fourth Wednesday to steal a 2-1 decision in Chicago.
Analysis: Belanger tallied only 25 seconds after youngster Kyle Turris recorded his fourth of the season as well. Belanger is providing veteran leadership to a team in need of it and is still productive enough to warrant fantasy consideration in most leagues.
News: Belanger scored a goal and added an assist in Saturday's shootout loss to Pittsburgh.
Analysis: He has quietly put up eight points in 13 games. And while that isn't gold-star worthy, it does make him valuable in deep formats with no position designations.
News: Belanger will play center on a line with Shane Doan and Wojtek Wolski, according to the Arizona Republic.
Analysis: The nine-year veteran didn't take long to get in sync with his new linemates. In 77 games last season with Minnesota and Washington, he scored 15 goals and had 26 assists. With that type of production, he does have the ability to set up skillful players like Wolski and Doan.
News: Belanger signed a one-year deal with the Coyotes on Tuesday, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Belanger was expected to stick with the Capitals, but he'll instead join Phoenix, where his fantasy prospects don't seem drastically brighter.
News: Capitals center Eric Belanger really is putting his -- well, his employer's -- money where his mouth is after losing a half-dozen or so teeth in a run-in with an opponent's stick. Belanger says Saturday he "felt my teeth shatter, right away," when Canadiens defenseman Marc-Andre Bergeron's stick hit him in the mouth in the first period of Montreal's 2-1 victory at Washington in Game 5 of their playoff series Friday night. Belanger needed some serious dental work at the arena, getting exposed tooth roots trimmed -- then returned to the ice midway through the third period. Explains Belanger: "I knew I was in trouble, but what are you going to do? It's the playoffs." He expects to play in Game 6 at Montreal on Monday.
Analysis: Belanger has no goals and one assist in five playoff games. While he finished with a career-high 41 points in 2009-10, spending time between Minnesota and Washington, offense is not the only part of Belanger's game. He continued to be a solid presence up the middle of the ice in '09-10, but he was still more of a two-way player than strictly offensive option. Belanger is a free agent after the season, but regardless of where he signs, he will remain a low-end Fantasy flier.
News: Capitals C Eric Belanger scored a goal and finished at plus-1 on Sunday against the Bruins. It was his 15th goal of the season and first scored since March 6.
Analysis: Belanger arrived in Washington at the trade deadline. He produced two goals and six points in 17 games with the Capitals. The best part for Washington is that he finished below even just twice in 17 games. Belanger totaled a career-high 41 points in 77 games between Washington and Minnesota. He continued to be a solid presence up the middle of the ice in 2009-10, but he was still more of a two-way player than strictly offensive option. Belanger is a free agent after the season, but regardless of where he signs, he will remain a low-end Fantasy flier.
News: Capitals C Eric Belanger, acquired at the trade deadline, scored in his second game for his new team Saturday in a 2-0 win over the Rangers.
Analysis: Belanger has slotted in on Washington's second line with Brooks Laich and Alexander Semin for the time being, and his Fantasy value could jump quite a bit if he manages to stay on the scoring lines. Add him in deeper leagues if you have the room.
News: The Wild have traded C Eric Belanger to the Capitals for a second-round pick.
Analysis: Belanger has been a 35-40 point guy for most of his career, but could see a boost in production with this move. He won't be on the scoring lines though, so remains just an option in deeper Fantasy leagues for the time being.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger scored a goal, tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 on Monday against the Penguins. Guillaume Latendresse led a rush and fed Belanger for his 12th goal, one off Andrew Brunette's team lead. Belanger's shot took a funny bounce, as if it were a grounder to shortstop on artificial baseball grass, and glanced off Marc-Andre Fleury and into the net to tie it at 1.
Analysis: Belanger has six goals and five assists in his last 10 games. He looks like the player that burst out of the gate with 12 points in his first 14 games. Unfortunately, Belanger then went cold for several weeks before heating up again in late December. Belanger has 27 points in 45 games and appears on his way to his first 40-point season. Still, all this inconsistency worries us. Belanger remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger scored twice in Wednesday's win over the Flames.
Analysis: After really struggling in November and the first half of December, Belanger is starting to come alive lately with eight points in his last eight games. He's definitely worth a look in deeper leagues right now.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Eric Belanger does so many things for the Wild, if the team let him go via free agency next summer, it might have to acquire a few players to replace him. He's one of the Wild's top penalty killers, top faceoff men and top defensive forwards and even plays on the second power-play unit. "As a player, you want security, and this is a place I want to play," Belanger said. "I'd like to see if we can get something done before July 1. You never like to talk about yourself, but I can kill penalties, play the power play, my faceoff percentage has been good this year. Little things are important to the game, and as a player, you like to have those responsibilities. I have a chance to do it here and I want to keep doing it here for a few more years if we can get something done."
Analysis: In training camp, before Pierre-Marc Bouchard was injured, Belanger was worried about his role. It looked as if he was being positioned as the fourth-line center, and he told coach Todd Richards, "I feel I can be your No. 2 center. As soon as I had the opportunity to do it, I think I grabbed on it and I don't want to let it go." Belanger has scored eight goals and 21 points in 38 games and is third in the NHL with a .602 faceoff winning percentage. "I lean on him a lot in all situations, whether it's a big penalty kill, a big faceoff or the power play," Richards said. "He's been very valuable." Belanger started off strong before going cold in November and December. He has two goals and three assists in his last four appearances, but Belanger still has low-end Fantasy appeal because his game is on the defensive end.
News:Eric Belanger had two goals and an assist, including the go-ahead score with 2:25 left in the third period, and the Minnesota Wild beat the Los Angeles Kings 4-3 on Monday night for their third consecutive victory. Trailing by two goals after two periods, the Kings tied the score at 3 with 2:37 to play when Scott Parse converted a pass from Brad Richardson with a slap shot from the right circle that beat Niklas Backstrom to the stick side. But the Kings' euphoria lasted just 12 seconds, as Belanger responded with a slap shot from the right circle that regained the lead for the Wild. Belanger also made it 3-1 just 62 seconds before the second intermission, converting a pass from behind the net by Owen Nolan. Belanger has three goals in nine games against Los Angeles, the team he spent his first five NHL seasons with.
Analysis: Belanger was one of the most surprising players in Fantasy in October when he broke out with four goals and 12 points in 14 games. He was one of the few players to really benefit from coach Todd Richards' offensive scheme. However, as soon as the rest of the Wild got on board in November, Belanger once again became more of a defensive presence. While he had a nice game on Monday, he still has marginal Fantasy appeal.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Saturday's game against the Avalanche. Belanger scored 57 seconds into the second period as he beat Craig Anderson on a wrister. It was his fifth goal and first in 11 November games.
Analysis: Belanger had a great October with four goals and 12 points in 14 games. He really surprised everyone since he wasn't that good of an offensive player. With just three points in November, he is back to the flaky offensive player we have come to know. Belanger does his best work in the faceoff circle and on defense. He is best used in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for those two categories.
News: Minnesota C Eric Belanger was active on Saturday against the Stars after leaving Thursday's game with an upper body injury. He recorded two penalty minutes in the game and took four shots on net but failed to record a point.
Analysis: Belanger remains off to a strong start to the season, which is surprising to us considering how much of a non-factor the 31-year-old has been for most of his career. He is worth using as a low-end option and is safe to use for Week 6 (Nov. 9-15).
News: Minnesota C Eric Belanger returned from a facial injury on Thursday against Vancouver but ended up leaving the game with an upper body injury. Belanger left the team's previous game after taking a high-stick to the face. He is considered questionable for Saturday against the Stars.
Analysis: Belanger remains off to a strong start to the season, which is surprising to us considering how much of a non-factor the 31-year-old has been for most of his career. He is worth using as a low-end option when healthy, but see if he plays on Saturday before making a decision on him for Week 6 (Nov. 9=15).
News: Minnesota C Eric Belanger recorded a game-winning goal with one second remaining in the first period of a 2-1 win over the Penguins Saturday. His goal came on a wrist shot, with assists from Martin Havlat and Greg Zanon. It was his fourth goal of the year and 12th total point. He did leave with 1:34 to play after a high stick to the face that drew blood.
Analysis: Belanger remains off to a strong start to the season, which is surprising to us considering how much of a non-factor the 31-year-old has been for most of his career. He is worth using as a low-end option as long as he continues to put up points at this level. Don't expect the face issue to keep him out of any games however.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger has eight points in seven games this season. Belanger has averaged just 36 points over his last three campaigns.
Analysis: The 31-year-old Belanger has pretty much been a non-factor in Fantasy play during his career, which has us being a little speculative of this quick start. Keep an eye on him over the next few scoring periods.
News: Minnesota C Eric Belanger managed two points on Wednesday in a 3-2 loss to the Ducks. He scored a goal and added an assist in the game, increasing his points total on the season to seven.
Analysis: Belanger is off to a surprisingly hot start with the Wild, putting up seven points in the team's first five games. He is a decent offensive contributor with the team but remains just a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger sent Tuesday's game against the Ducks into overtime with his first goal of the season. Belanger tied the game at 3 17:47 into the third when he beat Jean-Sebastien Giguere on the power play with a shot through his legs. Belanger added two assists and finished at plus-1.
Analysis: Belanger moved up to the second line Tuesday when Pierre-Marc Bouchard was scratched due to headaches. Belanger seemed right at home between Petr Sykora and Owen Nolan. He was also instrumental on the power play. Belanger has always been one of those players that contributes on offense, but has never been anything spectacular. Belanger has low-end Fantasy appeal outside of leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Saturday's game against the Kings. Minnesota's Andrew Brunette got his second assist of the game when he fed the puck to Belanger at the right of the net and the former Kings forward banked his 12th goal off Jonathan Quick's left skate with 15:17 remaining to trim Los Angeles' lead to 4-3. It was his first score in 12 games.
Analysis: Belanger is just two assists shy of having his fourth 10-20 season of his career. He did hit 30 points Saturday for the sixth straight season. Belanger is pretty much having a season par for the course, but that isn't a great thing since he has marginal offensive skills. Belanger has low-end Fantasy appeal outside of leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger scored a goal and was stuffed on a breakaway with 51 seconds left in overtime during Sunday's 3-2 shootout win against the Oilers. Belanger tied the score at 1 with his 11th score 18:19 into the first period. Belanger has two goals and three assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Belanger has had his sixth straight 10-10 season in 2008-09 and is now setting his sights on a fourth career 10-20 campaign. He he has never been an elite scorer, but has always been a solid, reliable presence in his NHL career. Belanger has low-end Fantasy appeal outside of leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger scored his 10th goal of the season in Saturday's win over the Canucks.
Analysis: Belanger has 24 points on the season and appears on track to finish in the 30s for a sixth straight season. Unless you're in a league that rewards heavily for short-handed stats, leave him on waivers.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger assisted twice in Tuesday's win over the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: Belanger has 23 points on the season and appears on track to finish in the 30s for a sixth straight season. Unless you're in a league that rewards heavily for short-handed stats, leave him on waivers.
News: Minnesota C Eric Bellanger scored one of the Wild's five goals against the Oilers in a 5-1 win on Thursday. He now has 21 points on the season with nine goals and 12 assists.
Analysis: Belanger had a decent November with four goals and five assists in 12 games but failed to replicate those numbers in December. Thursday's goal snapped a seven-game goalless streak so he isn't likely to get to those numbers in January either. Unless you're in a league that rewards heavily for short-handed stats, leave him on waivers.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger has one goal and four assists in his last 16 games. He didn't record a point Saturday against the Blue Jackets and has not points in his last six games.
Analysis: Belanger was at his best this season in November when he posted four goals and five assists in 12 games. He has just two goals and five assists in his last 17 games and is struggling to find his offensive rhythm. Belanger has never been a top offensive player, so this is not shocking. Belanger has limited Fantasy appeal and can also be used in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Wild C Eric Belanger returned to practice Monday after missing two games and will play Tuesday against the Hurricanes.
Analysis: The 31-year-old forward has posted 18 points in 29 games this season. He has five of those points in eight December outings. He gives the Wild quality play up the middle, but he has limited Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Wild center Eric Belanger sat out Friday's game against the Islanders due to illness and did not travel with the team for Saturday's game against the Blues. He is out until at least Tuesday against the Hurricanes.
Analysis: The 31-year-old forward has posted 18 points in 29 games this season. He has five of those points in eight December outings. He gives the Wild quality play up the middle, but he has limited Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger recorded a goal and an assist Sunday in a loss to the Ducks. He now has 18 points on the season.
Analysis: Belanger has been consistently around the 35-point mark in his career, but he's on pace to exceed that mark this season. He remains just a low-end Fantasy forward in deeper formats.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger tallied a goal, added an assist and finished at plus-2 in 15:57 of ice time Wednesday against the Blues. Belanger added his 100th NHL goal when he opened the scoring midway through the second period. He took a pass from Pierre-Marc Bouchard, fought off Alexander Steen and lifted a backhander over goalie Chris Mason's left shoulder.
Analysis: Belanger recently avoided a serious lower-body injury and has managed to score three times in four games. He has 15 points this season and seven goals. He has impressed coach Jacques Lemaire early in the season, but he still has limited offensive upside. Until he remains a consistent scorer, Belanger has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Wild center Eric Belanger returned from a lower body injury that kept him out one game and skated in his 500th contest Monday against the Avalanche. He didn't have a point in 15:11 of ice time and finished at minus-2. He took just one shot on net.
Analysis: Belanger had two goals and two assists during a three-game point streak that ended Monday. He has 13 points this season and six goals. He has impressed coach Jacques Lemaire early in the season, but he still has limited offensive upside. Until he remains a consistent scorer, Belanger has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Minnesota lost the Stars on Wednesday 4-3 as center Eric Belanger scored a goal and added an assist. Belanger scored his fifth goal of the year in the 1st period to tie the game at one.
Analysis: Belanger's two points give him 12 for the year and three in his last two games. Belanger has never cracked 40 points in his career and has limited offensive upside. Until he remains a consistent scorer, he has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger had a power-play goal and an assist during Thursday's 4-0 win against the Coyotes. Belanger scored early in the third, converting a perfect cross-crease pass from Owen Nolan. It was his fourth goal of the season and second in five games.
Analysis: Minnesota switched up their lines Thursday and had Belanger centering Brent Burns and Andrew Brunette. It seems the moved paid off. Belanger has never cracked 40 points in his career and has limited offensive upside. Until he remains a consistent scorer, he has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News:Eric Belanger is playing a number of roles for the injury-riddled Minnesota Wild, and he is loving it. Belanger scored with 9:25 remaining to lift the Wild past the Phoenix Coyotes 3-2 on Saturday. "I feel good out there and I'm playing with a lot of confidence," Belanger said. "My legs feel great. I'm playing in every situation, and as a player you can't ask for any more."
Analysis: Minnesota took advantage of a Coyotes turnover to take the lead. Peter Mueller's attempted clearing pass was intercepted by Marc-Andre Bergeron, and the defenseman bounced a pass off David Hale's leg and onto Belanger's stick in the left circle. Belanger shot a wobbler, but the puck slipped over Ilya Bryzgalov's pad and into the net to make it 3-2. "We were forechecking pretty good and created the turnover," Belanger said. "I was in the right place at the right time. It went right on my stick." Belanger now has three goals and five points in 10 games this season. He is currrently centering the Wild's second line. Belanger is a low-end Fantasy option until he can be a little more consistent, but he is definitely worth keeping tabs on in Fantasy.
News:Eric Belanger scored twice, and the Wild welcomed former goalie Manny Fernandez back to Minnesota with a three-goal second period that was enough to hang on for a 4-3 victory over the Boston Bruins on Saturday. Fernandez let Belanger's below-the-circle poke slip between his pads on a power play to tie the game at 1 with less than 90 seconds left in the first period. His second goal came on a slap shot in the second period.
Analysis: Belanger started so fast in his first season with the Wild that Lemaire suggested he could reach 80 points, but he trailed off and managed only one goal in his final 30 games. Part of that was because he played a lot on a checking line and had fewer opportunities to score, and Lemaire said he'd like to keep Belanger on the ice for offensive situations more this season. "I'm definitely capable of doing that, and hopefully I can do that all year," Belanger said. "If they want me to check the other top line I can do that also, but this is a team game." Belanger is a low-end Fantasy option until he can be a little more consistent, but he is definitely worth keeping tabs on in Fantasy.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger returned to the lineup Monday against the Oilers after missing seven games with a broken toe. He had one assist and a minus-1 rating in 14:57 of ice time. It was his first point in seven games.
Analysis: Belanger was expected to miss the rest of the regular season, but came back a few weeks before the playoffs are set to begin. He is back centering the third line for the Wild and has limited Fantasy value down the stretch.
News: According to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, Wild coach Jacques Lemaire says C Eric Belanger might well miss the rest of the regular season with his broken toe.
Analysis: Belanger's absence from Fantasy lineups will not have that much of an impact. Ever since Mikko Koivu returned from a leg injury in January, Belanger has been non-existent on the Wild's third line. You should release him in all non-keeper formats at this time.
News: Minnesota Wild center Eric Belanger has a broken big toe on his right foot, the result of slap shot that hit him there on Friday. Belanger did not suit up for Sunday's game against San Jose after being injured Friday night against Atlanta. Minnesota assistant general manager Tom Lynn said there was no timetable set for Belanger's return. The team will wait until the swelling subsides in the toe.
Analysis: Belanger's absence from Fantasy lineups will not have that much of an impact. Ever since Mikko Koivu returned from a leg injury in January, Belanger has been non-existent on the Wild's third line. Consider benching him for Fantasy Week 24 (March 10-16). He is nothing more than a low-end flier when healthy.
News:Eric Belanger injured his foot on Friday and will not be available to play in Sunday's game against the San Jose Sharks. Belanger was hit in the foot by a slap shot while killing a second-period penalty against Atlanta and was unable to play the rest of the way.
Analysis: The Wild said it would know more about Belanger's status on Sunday during the practice skate. Belanger is manning the third line for Minnesota and not getting too many scoring opportunities. He is a low-end Fantasy flier.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger tallied an assist and finished at even during Tuesday's game against the Capitals. He now has one goal and two assists in his last five games.
Analysis: Belanger was playing really well through the first four months. His season then got really stale once Mikko Koivu returned from leg injury in mid-January. Belanger is now manning the third line for Minnesota and not getting as many scoring opportunities. He is now a low-end Fantasy flier.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger tallied an assist and finished at minus-1 Sunday against the Predators. It was his second point in 14 games. He doesn't have a goal in that span.
Analysis: Belanger was playing really well through the first four months. His season then got really stale once Mikko Koivu returned from leg injury in mid-January. Belanger is now manning the third line for Minnesota and not getting as many scoring opportunities. He is now a low-end Fantasy flier.
News: Minnesota C Eric Belanger is playing some of his best hockey since mid-December. In the last nine games, Belanger has four goals and seven assists for some quality production.
Analysis: Belanger has quietly collected 12 goals and 20 assists this season. He has managed at least 10 goals and 10 assists in his last five seasons. He is on track for a career high in points, but is a low-level Fantasy flier at this time.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger grabbed a fluttering puck with less than a minute to go Thursday against the Red Wings and poked it past Chris Osgood to force overtime. Minnesota would eventually win 6-5 in a shootout. Belanger also had an assist in the game. He now has three goals and five assists in his last seven games.
Analysis: Belanger has quietly put 29 points on the board in 42 games this season and is playing some of his best hockey since mid-December. He has managed at least 10 goals and 10 assists in his last five seasons. He is on track for a career high in points, but remains just a low-end Fantasy flier at this time.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger made it four games in a row with at least a point when he scored Thursday night in Minnesota's 6-3 win over the Dallas Stars. Belanger has two goals and four assists during his streak.
Analysis: Belanger had only four points in his previous 11 games coming into this streak and has a career high of 37 points in a season, so don't expect this hot play to last. Leave him alone in everything but the deepest of leagues at the moment.
News: Against Vancouver Sunday, Aaron Voros and Eric Belanger scored for Minnesota, which won its fourth straight and moved into sole possession of first place in the Northwest Division. Voros, a Vancouver native, scored an improbable game-winning goal late in the second period, lifting a pass from Marian Gaborik over Luongo's shoulder. After passing to Gaborik from below the goal line, Voros -- better known for his physical play than his stickwork -- skated to edge of the left crease and took the shot as he was being checked to the ice by Lukas Krajicek and Byron Ritchie. Luongo said the puck went off the post and his back before landing in the net.
Analysis: Belanger is a sleeper as a No. 3 or 4 center in Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams.
News:Eric Belanger has turned out to be a better overall fit with the Wild than the departed Todd White. But his scoring has followed the same streaky nature that White's always did. Against Edmonton Thursday, he was hot. Belanger had four points -- all assists -- to establish career highs in both categories.
Analysis: The four assists matched a Wild team record. Belanger has been great to open the season. He has five goals and 10 assists in 18 games. Belanger is a deep sleeper in Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams. He is worth using as a No. 3 center in such formats.
News: Wild C Eric Belanger scored the team's lone goal during a 3-1 loss to the Avalanche on Sunday. He did finish with a minus-1 and dropped his season total to plus-9. He has two goals and three assists in his last seven games.
Analysis: Belanger has been great to open the season. He has four goals and five assists in 11 games. Belanger is a deep sleeper in Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams. He is worth using as a No. 3 center in such formats.
News: Instead of losing his temper, Minnesota winger Eric Belanger got even with Phoenix by scoring the winning goal. After being struck in the face and losing a tooth, Belanger scored a shorthanded goal late in the third period and the Minnesota Wild rallied to beat the Phoenix Coyotes 3-2 on Saturday night. "The best way to get back is to score the winning goal," Belanger said. "I was upset with what happened, and it was a cheap shot. We have three games against them, so we'll see what will happen." Belanger knocked in the rebound from a Stephane Veilleux backhander at 16:45. That came just more than three minutes after Mikko Koivu tied the game for Minnesota with six minutes, 20 seconds remaining.
Analysis: Belanger has been great to open the season. He has two goals, two assists and a plus-5 rating in four games. Belanger is a deep sleeper in Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams. He is worth using as a No. 3 center in such formats.
News: Eric Belanger and Brian Rolston picked up assists on a goal by Pierre-Marc Bouchard in Thursday's regular season opener against the Blackhawks. All three players posted a plus-1 rating in the 1-0 win.
Analysis: Belanger is a deep sleeper in Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams. He is worth using as a No. 3 center in such formats. The Wild will be back in action on Saturday night against the Blue Jackets.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports Eric Belanger is in line to center one of the top two lines with the Wild this season. He would either center the top scoring line between scorers Pavol Demitra and Marian Gaborik or on the second line centering Pierre-Marc Bouchard and the underrated Brian Rolston. "He's a solid player who's good on faceoffs, can move the puck and gets his share of goals," coach Jacques Lemaire said. "I like his demeanor a lot. I talked to him a bit and I like his image. He wants to play. He wanted to be here."
Analysis: Belanger averaged 36 points per season over the past two years splitting time between Atlanta, Carolina and Los Angeles. If he can find a home between such prolific scorers in Minnesota, he might be in line for a breakout season. Consider Belanger a deep sleeper heading into Draft Day in leagues of 12 or more teams.
News: The Minnesota Wild re-signed center Wes Walz to a one-year deal and also added veteran center Eric Belanger and goaltender Nolan Schaefer. "Centers are important in the league and centers are very important to the Minnesota Wild," assistant general manager Tom Lynn said. "We feel it's the second most important position behind the goaltender and a position we wanted to upgrade. Wes has played that position and played it well for years."
Analysis: The 29-year-old Belanger had 17 goals and 35 points while playing for Carolina and Atlanta last season. Most importantly for Minnesota, he won 53.1 percent of his faceoffs last season, an area in which the Wild struggled, especially in their first-round playoff loss to Anaheim.
News: Eric Belanger (groin) was back in the lineup for Wednesday's game at Florida.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Belanger back into the active Fantasy lineup in all larger leagues which allow daily transactions.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution is reporting Eric Belanger (groin) was able to skate with the team on Monday, but said he is pacing himself after tweaking the injury in Pittsburgh over the weekend.
Analysis: Belanger is considered day to day. It sounds as if he will be able to skate on Wednesday at Florida, but go another way in larger Fantasy leagues if you don't like rolling the dice.
News: Belanger picked up a goal on his only shot of the game in 20:55 of ice time on Sunday against the Sabres.
Analysis: Belanger has six goals, nine points and a plus-6 rating over the past 10 games. He is a solid No. 3 Fantasy center in most leagues.
News: Eric Belanger, Ilya Kovalchuk and Slava Kozlov each posted a goal and assist in Thursday's game against the Canadiens. Belanger and Kovalchuk managed a plus-2 rating while Kozlov checked in with a plus-1.
Analysis: Belanger has managed five goals and nine points over the past eight games. He has emerged as a solid No. 3 Fantasy center in most formats.
News: Eric Belanger had two goals to help the Thrashers end a five-game home losing streak with a 4-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators on Friday night. Belanger, acquired in a Feb. 10 trade with Nashville, has five goals and three assists in eight games with the Thrashers.
Analysis: Belanger was originally not supposed to be a big-time offensive contributor, but he has been just that. He is just owned in five percent of Fantasy leagues and could be worth adding if you have the extra roster spot.
News: Marian Hossa scored the game-winner and Eric Belanger had a goal and an assist to lead Atlanta to a 3-2 win over the Boston Bruins on Monday night.
Analysis: Belanger was originally not supposed to be a big-time offensive contributor, but he has been just that. He has three goals and six points in seven games with the Thrashers since being acquired from the Predators.
News: Thrashers forwards Belanger and Denis Hamel played for the Thrashers for the first time on Sunday at Edmonton. Belanger was acquired on Saturday from Nashville for Vitaly Vishnevski, while Hamel was obtained from Ottawa through waivers.
Analysis: Belanger notched the only goal of the game and finished with three shots on goal in 16:13 of ice time. He skated with Marian Hossa and Slava Kozlov on the second line with Steve Rucchin (head) out of the lineup. He'll likely be bumped down a line once Rucchin returns, so his Fantasy value remains limited to larger formats.
News: Eric Belanger, acquired from the Nashville Predators over the weekend, has scored in the first period of Sunday's game at Edmonton in his debut for the Thrashers.
Analysis: Belanger is skating on the team's second line with Marian Hossa and Slava Kozlov with Steve Rucchin (head) out with an injury. He might have some decent short-term Fantasy value, especially if Rucchin is sidelined for a while.
News: In a deal between first-place teams, the Atlanta Thrashers traded defenseman Vitaly Vishnevski to the Nashville Predators for center Eric Belanger on Saturday. Belanger was dealt by the Central Division-leading Predators just one day after being acquired from Carolina for center Josef Vasicek.
Analysis: In dealing for Belanger, the Thrashers got needed depth up the middle and a center who won more than 53 percent of his faceoffs with the Hurricanes. The 29-year-old Belanger had eight goals and 12 assists in 56 games. Last season, Belanger set career highs with 17 goals and 37 points for the Los Angeles Kings. Belanger is only worth a look as a low-end Fantasy center in larger leagues at this point.
News: The Nashville Predators acquired Eric Belanger from the Carolina Hurricanes for Josef Vasicek on Friday.
Analysis: Belanger posted eight goals and 20 points through 56 games for the Hurricanes. Belanger is only worth a look as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy center in larger leagues at this point.
News: Belanger has two assists to go along with a plus-3 rating in 15:12 of ice time in Thursday's come-from-behind win against the Panthers.
Analysis: Belanger has managed a goal and four assists with a plus-5 rating over the past six games, but his Fantasy value remains limited to larger leagues at this time.
News: Eric Belanger, Eric Staal, Scott Walker and Justin Williams scored to lead the inspired Hurricanes to a 4-1 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday night.
Analysis: Despite the goal, Belanger is not a recommended Fantasy option in all but the largest of formats.
News: Belanger was scoreless with two shots on goal in 16:14 of ice time in Monday's game against the Sabres.
Analysis: Belanger managed 37 points in 65 games last season, but that was in a more prominent role. He is not worth using in most Fantasy leagues this season.
News: Three Carolina newcomers all notched their first points with the Hurricanes during the second period Saturday night. Defenseman Tim Gleason, center Eric Belanger and right wing Scott Walker all recorded assists.
Analysis: Belanger scored 37 points in 65 games last year. Pick him up as a No. 3 or 4 defenseman.
News: The Carolina Hurricanes traded away one of their top prospects Friday, sending promising defenseman Jack Johnson to the Los Angeles Kings in a multiplayer deal. The defending Stanley Cup champions also sent defenseman Oleg Tverdovsky to the Kings for forward Eric Belanger and defenseman Tim Gleason. The Hurricanes selected Johnson, a 19-year-old Michigan sophomore, with the No. 3 overall pick in last year's draft, but twice in the past year he turned down offers from the team to turn professional.
Analysis: The 29-year-old Belanger is a center who had 17 goals and 20 assists in 65 games last season with the Kings, and in five seasons in Los Angeles had 63 goals and 87 assists in 323 career games. The move came hours before the Hurricanes' final home game of the preseason against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Rutherford said Belanger and Gleason would join the team Saturday and play in Sunday's preseason finale at Washington. He scored 37 points in 65 games last year. Pick him up as a No. 3 or 4 defenseman.
News: Belanger (elbow) was able to play in Thursday's game against the Stars.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Belanger back into the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues which allow daily moves.
News: Belanger was forced to sit out Tuesday's game against the Coyotes due to a hyperextended elbow suffered in Monday's game against the Sharks.
Analysis: Belanger is considered day to day and might be able to return as soon as Thursday against the Stars. However, keep him reserved until he can officially play and prove his health.
News: Eric Belanger has 14 goals, 15 assists, a plus-6 rating through 45 games at the Olympic Games break.
Analysis: Belanger is on pace for career-highs in goals (19), assists (21) and points (40) this season. He remains useful only in Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams if you need a fourth or fifth center.
News: Eric Belanger scored a goal and added an assist and had a plus-2 rating in Wednesday's game at Columbus in 17:46 of ice time.
Analysis: Belanger has scored in consecutive games, but he remains useful only in larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Eric Belanger scored a goal in Tuesday's game at Minnesota, his first in four games since returning from injured reserve after a groin injury.
Analysis: Belanger remains useful only in larger Fantasy leagues despite his score on Tuesday against the Wild.
News: The L.A. Times reports that Belanger (groin) skated before and after the Kings' game Thursday and he's expected to return to play against Anaheim Saturday.
Analysis: Belanger has missed 12 games. He thought he was ready to return a couple weeks ago, but he suffered a setback.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Eric Belanger tweaked his groin injury on Monday during the morning skate and he will now miss Tuesday's game against the Lightning.
Analysis: He was expected to return before Monday's setback. Doctors told him he did not tear the muscle again, but he suffered a significant setback. There is no timetable for his return.
News: Belanger (groin) remained sidelined for Thursday's game at Boston, as he is still on injured reserve.
Analysis: Belanger remains day to day. He might be able to return for Saturday's game at Buffalo, but keep him reserved until he can officially play.
News: The Los Angeles Daily News reports Belanger (groin) is targeting a return on Jan. 12 against the Bruins.
Analysis: Belanger is taking it slowly so he does not aggravate his injury like back in late December. When healthy, his Fantasy value is minimal.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Belanger is out indefinitely due to a groin injury. He has returned to Los Angeles for an MRI, so he is obviously out for Saturday's game at Dallas.
Analysis: Belanger should be reserved in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Belanger suffered a groin injury in the second period of Thursday's game against the Coyotes.
Analysis: Belanger is considered day to day. When healthy, he is only worth using in larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Belanger (flu) was in the lineup on Tuesday. He was scoreless and a minus-1 in 15:43 of ice time.
Analysis: Belanger is best used as a reserve in most larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Belanger had a shorthanded goal in the first period of Friday's game at Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Belanger has scored in each game this season for the Kings, but he is best used as a reserve in larger leagues due to his propensity for injury.
News: Belanger (back) has resumed skating, according to the Los Angeles Times. He might play Saturday against the N.Y. Islanders. He has minimal Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Belanger will be sidelined for at least another week. The Los Angeles Times reports that Belanger is still recovering from a back injury. Belanger is not useful in Fantasy leagues.
Analysis:
News: Belanger (back) might be headed back to injured reserve. According to the Los Angeles Times, Belanger is not expected to travel with the team Thursday to Edmonton. Rookie Jared Aulin might be called up from Manchester of the AHL to take his roster spot.
Analysis:
News: Belanger aggravated his back injury on Monday. He has played the past two games, but missed six games before that with a lower back strain. He will be re-evaluated on Tuesday. He is considered day to day.
Analysis:
News: The Kings placed Belanger on injured reserve Saturday with a back injury. The move was made retroactive to Friday. There is no timetable for Belanger's return to the lineup, but he isn't a useful Fantasy player.
Analysis:
News: Belanger had surgery Tuesday to repair a torn tendon sheath in his left wrist. He is expected to be out eight weeks, the Kings said. The 24-year-old was injured in a game against Nashville on Jan. 15 and went on the injured list Jan. 21. Belanger has appeared in 46 games this season, with a career-high 22 points (eight goals and 14 assists) and 21 penalty minutes. It is not likely that Belanger will return this season and be productive.
Analysis:
News: Belanger, on injured reserve because of a sprained left wrist, is eligible to be activated Thursday. However, he will likely return next week.
Analysis:
News: Belanger is recovering from a wrist injury, according to the L.A. Times. He suffered the injury in Tuesday's game and will be evaluated on a day to day basis.
Analysis:
News: The Kings recalled Belanger, who had two goals and four assists in eight games before being sent down after the signing of Jozef Stumpel, from Lowell of the AHL before Tuesday night's game against the Rangers. He had an impressive eight goals and 10 assists in 13 games with Lowell, and scored a goal in his first game back. Belanger might be worth a look in deep leagues despite his inexperience; he looked good with Los Angeles when he was up earlier in the season.
Analysis:
News: The Kings assigned Belanger to their minor league affiliate in Lowell on Monday to make room for recently-signed Jozef Stumpel. Belanger, who had six points in eight games in Stumpel's absence, will probably be back later in the season.
Analysis:
