News:Brian Boucher was loaned to AHL Adirondack on Saturday.
Analysis:Brian Boucher has been backing up Ilya Bryzgalov over the past month, but the Flyers swapped him for fellow goalie Michael Leighton on Saturday. The 36-year-old Boucher went 0-2-0 in four appearances since his recall, but he did post a decent 2.50 GAA.
News:Brian Boucher had 25 saves Saturday in a loss at Montreal, allowing three goals in his first start of the season.
Analysis:Brian Boucher's start represented a breather for Ilya Bryzgalov who entered the evening leading all NHL goalies in minutes played. Though he kept the game close in the first period, as the Flyers were outshot 12-2, Philly eventually fell to the Canadiens 4-1. Even if Bryzgalov were injured Boucher would not be a good pickup considering the Flyers' offensive woes.
News:Brian Boucher will get the start in goal Saturday against the Canadiens, Ren Lavoie of RDS reports.
Analysis: It will mark Brian Boucher's second start of the season, the first of which came earlier this week against the Jets. With the Flyers anxious to make up ground in the standings during the compressed season, Boucher's starts should remain scarce as long as top goaltender Ilya Brzygalov is playing well.
News:Brian Boucher's teammate, Ilya Bryzgalov, will start Tuesday's game against the Jets, Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly.com reports.
Analysis: It was thought that Brian Boucher would start Tuesday's game after Bryzgalov started Monday, but the Flyers decided to stick with their workhorse against the Jets after all.
News:Brian Boucher is expected to start in goal Tuesday, according to Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Analysis: Ilya Bryzglov, who started Monday, has started 12 of the last 13 games, so it looks Brian Boucher's in line to give him a breather Tuesday night.
News:Brian Boucher came in for a struggling Ilya Bryzgalov against the Maple Leafs on Monday. He made nine saves on 10 shots in 33:45.
Analysis: Right now, there is no chance Brian Boucher takes the starting job, and he will likely continue to be an infrequently used backup.
News: The Flyers have recalled Brian Boucher from AHL Adirondack, Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News reports
Analysis: The report notes that it appears that Michael Leighton -- who has one start to date backing up Ilya Bryzgalov -- has an injury. Assuming that's the case, then Brian Boucher may get a start either Monday or Tuesday, with the Flyers playing back-to-back games those days against the Leafs and Jets.
News:Brian Boucher was assigned to AHL Adirondack on Friday, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis: The 36-year-old goalkeeper made only eight starts last season, and went 1-6-1 with a 3.40 GAA. It looks like he'll begin the year in the AHL after passing through waivers unclaimed.
News:Brian Boucher was waived by the Flyers on Wednesday.
Analysis: The team expects to send Brian Boucher to the Adirondack Phantoms of the AHL, which GM Paul Holmgren said was the team's plan all along. Boucher was acquired from the Hurricanes on Sunday in exchange for another minor leaguer.
News:Brian Boucher is headed to the Flyers' AHL affiliate in Adirondack, according to Philly.com.
Analysis: Flyers GM Paul Holmgren said that Brian Boucher will not practice with the team during training camp. When asked about his role with the team Holmgren was quoted as saying, "He's insurance."
News: The Flyers have acquired Brian Boucher and Mark Alt from Carolina for minor-leaguer Luke Pither, reports NHL.com.
Analysis:Brian Boucher's already been a Flyer twice, and now he enters his third stint. He'll back up Ilya Bryzgalov.
Carolina's Boucher (Shoulder) Out Four To Six Months
News: Adding to an already difficult goaltending situation for the 'Canes, veteran Brian Boucher will be sidelined four to six months following shoulder surgery, the Raleigh News and Observer reports.
Analysis: If his recovery goes as planned and the 35 year-old American is diligent in working himself back to game-shape, Brian Boucher could return to his normal relief role before the Winter Classic.
News: Making his eighth start of the season, Brian Boucher allowed three goals off of 25 shots Saturday night versus Florida in a 4-1 loss for the Hurricanes.
Analysis:Brian Boucher has never secured for himself a true starting job in the NHL, and can therefore be of very limited help to your fantasy squad.
News:Brian Boucher will start Saturday's season finale against the Panthers, according to Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News and Observer.
Analysis:Brian Boucher, whose last start was March 31, will close out a season that will see the Hurricanes shut out of a playoff spot, with the only thing at stake for the team Saturday being last place in the Southeast Division.
News:Brian Boucher allowed five goals on 31 shots faced Saturday night against the Devils.
Analysis:Brian Boucher faced 28 of those shots in the first two periods and was constantly getting bombarded by the Devils. It wasn't necessarily a bad goalie performance as much as it was poor defense in front of him. Either way, this was probably Boucher's last appearance of the season.
News:Brian Boucher will start Saturday against New Jersey, according to Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News and Observer.
Analysis: Saturday's game is the second of back-to-back games for the Hurricanes so Brian Boucher is getting the start. No injury to incumbent Cam Ward.
News:Brian Boucher will get the nod on Saturday vs. the Wild, Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News and Observer reports
Analysis: This will be Brian Boucher's first start since December 3 so expect a little bit of rust on Saturday.
News: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford announced Friday that the team will remove Brian Boucher (lower body) from injured reserve, the team's official site reports.
Analysis:Brian Boucher has been sidelined since Dec. 5 with a lower-body injury, and the team send down Justin Peters now that he's ready to return and backup Cam Ward. Before going down, Boucher recorded a 3.27 GAA and a 0-4-1 record in seven games. He won't be a great fantasy option going forward.
News:Brian Boucher (lower body) returned to practice Wednesday, the Hurricanes' official site reports.
Analysis: Coach Kirk Muller estimated that Brian Boucher is at least 10 days away from being in game shape, but Wednesday's presence at practice is a big step in the goaltender's recovery nonetheless.
News:Brian Boucher (lower body) is "getting closer" to a return, Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News and Observer reports.
Analysis: There still is no exact return date for Brian Boucher, but he is definitely going in the right direction towards returning from his lower body injury.
News:Brian Boucher will be sidelined by his lower body injury for another couple of months, Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News and Observer reports.
Analysis: Look for newly called up Justin Peters and Mike Murphy to serve as the backups for Cam Ward going forward.
News:Brian Boucher (lower body) will miss a couple of weeks, Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer reports.
Analysis: This news reportedly comes from the mouth of Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford. This likely means there is a start for Mike Murphy in the near future but he can be left on free agent wires as well.
News:Brian Boucher suffered a lower body injury Monday night, according to Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer.
Analysis:Brian Boucher's status going forward is unclear, but consider him questionable for Tuesday's game. While Justin Peters earned the AHL "Goalie of the Month" award for November with AHL Charlotte, it was Mike Murphy who was recalled on an emergency basis.
News:Brian Boucher stopped 37 shots in a 3-2 loss to Pittsburgh on Saturday night.
Analysis: It's just his fifth start of the season and he remains without a win. There's really no need to have him rostered at this point unless your rosters are enormous.
News:Brian Boucher is on the ice for the pre-game skate and looks to be the starting goaltender for Saturday's tilt with the Penguins, according to Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer.
Analysis: It will be a rare night off for regular starter Cam Ward, who was winless in six starts prior to Saturday's game and clearly needed a rest. Brian Boucher is 0-3-1 in six appearances so far this season and will look to bag his first win Saturday against the Pens.
News:Brian Boucher will be OK after being hit in the head with a puck Friday night, according to the Raleigh News and Observer.
Analysis:Brian Boucher played well in last week's 1-0 loss to Buffalo and an errant puck to the head should not derail him from his backup duties to Cam Ward. In case Boucher misses any time, look for Justin Peters to be called up from AHL Charlotte.
News:Brian Boucher will be in net for the Hurricanes on Friday night, according to Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer.
Analysis: Cam Ward can't stop anything right now as he's fallen into the depths in the month of November with a 4.39 GAA and .878 save percentage. The 'Canes have to turn to Brian Boucher to see if he can give them a chance to win. None of this signals an overall change in net though as the Hurricanes will still rely on Ward as their #1.
News:Brian Boucher entered Sunday's contest against Dallas in relief of Cam Ward early in the second period.
Analysis: Ward and the Canes surrendered four goals on 14 shots and Brian Boucher was called upon to stop the bleeding. Look for Boucher to get the odd spot start, but he is hardly a threat to Ward's playing time.
News:Brian Boucher made 29 saves in a 5-1 loss to the Flyers on Saturday night.
Analysis: So much for motivation while playing his old squad. The Canes fell apart in front of him in the third, allowing four unanswered goals including a shortie. Brian Boucher's fantasy value lies as a handcuff for Cam Ward for those of you in daily leagues. But mind your match-ups.
News:Brian Boucher will be in goal for Saturday's game against the Flyers, NHL.com's Dan Rosen reports.
Analysis: The Flyers are one of the top scoring teams in the NHL, but head coach Paul Maurice is hoping Brian Boucher has extra incentive to be on his game Saturday facing the team he spent the last two seasons with.
News: Head Coach Paul Maurice says that Brian Boucher will start between the pipes Saturday against Winnepeg, according to Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer.
Analysis: This is just a spot start for Brian Boucher in lieu of cornerstone starter Cam Ward.
News:Brian Boucher is starting in goal Saturday against the Capitals, the Raleigh News & Observer reports.
Analysis:Brian Boucher is spelling Cam Ward for the night.
News:Brian Boucher was red-hot Saturday against Nashville, stopping 41 shots in a 2-1 OT loss.
Analysis: The winner came just 11 seconds from a possible shootout. Brian Boucher won't get a lot of action behind elite workhorse Cam Ward so don't get too excited about nights like this.
News:Brian Boucher is expected to play all 60 minutes in Wednesday night's exhibition contest against Winnipeg, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Carolina's regular starter, Cam Ward, is among many projected starters not to make the trip to Winnipeg. This game will serve as a proving game for backups and young players fighting for a roster spot. Although Brian Boucher has his spot as the backup goalie unchallenged, this game will serve as an indicator if Ward will have to start 70-plus times in the regular season.
News: Boucher has signed a two-year contract with the Hurricanes amounting to $1.9 million, the Raleigh News & Observer reports.
Analysis: Cam Ward endured more starts (74) than any NHL netminder in 2010-11, so bringing the veteran Boucher to Raleigh was key for a club that is expected to give its top tender more rest next season. Commonly used as a backup throughout his career, Boucher has maintained a 2.69 goals-against average and .916 save percentage in 314 contests between the Flyers, Coyotes, Flames, Blue Jackets and Sharks.
News: Boucher was pulled in Wednesday's Game 3 loss to Boston after surrendering four goals on 20 shots late in the second period.
Analysis: Boucher returned to action after leaving Monday's Game 2 with an apparent injury, but evidence from Wednesday's game would suggest he's still hurt, or at least Flyers' fans would hope so. Boucher, and any other man unfortunate enough to man the Philly crease, has been a bit of a sieve during the Boston series. The Flyers were down 3-0 last year this round against Boston, but odds are Philly won't erase this deficit. No word yet on the team's starting goalie, but Boucher being relegated to backup duty wouldn't be a surprise.
News: Boucher will start Wednesday's game against the Bruins, the Bruins' official site reports.
Analysis: Boucher left Monday's Game 2 for a spell with an undisclosed issue, but he'll be back in nets Wednesday, with the Flyers down 2-0 in the series and on the road.
News: Boucher expects to play in Game 3 against the Bruins on Wednesday, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.
Analysis: Boucher, whose injury was not disclosed by the Flyers, appeared to dislocate his finger during the second period of Game 2. While Sergei Bobrovsky closed out the period, Boucher returned for the third and should be available for Game 3.
News: Boucher returned for the start of the third period of Game 2 after leaving because of an injury, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: Boucher, who looked like he hurt his left wrist, ended up stopping 32 of 35 shots in an exciting game, but Boston's David Krejci got him at 14:00 of the first overtime session, and the Bruins now have a 2-0 series lead.
News: Boucher will get the start in Monday's Game 2 against Boston, NHL.com reports.
Analysis: "Brian will go back in net (Monday)," said Laviolette. "(Monday) for me is a game where we all have to go back in there and try and right some wrongs. Everybody gets an opportunity and he deserves it." Boucher allowed five goals on 23 shots against the Bruins in Game 1 before being pulled, so he'll again be on a hot seat Monday.
News: Boucher was chased from the Flyers' net Saturday in the second period after he yielded five goals on 23 shots. He left with his team down 5-1.
Analysis: The Philly goalie carousel continues; he was replaced by Sergei Bobrovsky. Boucher couldn't be faulted on all the goals but there were two or three softies in there, too. We doubt he'll start Game 2 on Monday.
News: Boucher will start Game 1 against the Bruins on Saturday, according to the Flyers' official site.
Analysis: No surprise here, as Boucher did a masterful job shutting down the Sabres in Games 6 & 7 of the opening round, stopping 50 of the 53 pucks he saw in those two games. Boucher appears to be the Flyers' netminder of choice for now, but the Flyers are known for switching goalies at a moment's notice, and still have Michael Leighton and Sergei Bobrovsky waiting in the wings.
News: Boucher stopped 26 of 28 shots in Tuesday's 5-2, Game 7 win over Buffalo.
Analysis: Philadelphia's goaltending in the series was shaky at best, but the Flyers got the performance they needed in Game 7. Boucher is now nearly certain to be the starter for the Flyers in Game 1 of the second round.
Philadelphia's Boucher Will Start In Goal In Game 7
News: As expected, coach Peter Laviolette has named Boucher the starting goalie for Tuesday night's Game 7 in Philadelphia, the Buffalo News' Mike Harrington reports.
Analysis: Boucher relieved starter Michael Leighton and saved 24 of 25 shots in a 5-4 overtime win over Buffalo on Sunday. "I was absolutely disappointed not to get the chance to start," Boucher said. "I felt I've had a good series aside from three minutes [of Game Five]. But I just had to keep myself ready in case. We're all in this together and that's what kept me motivated."
News: Boucher made 24 saves in Sunday's 5-4 overtime win over Buffalo.
Analysis: Boucher relieved starter Michael Leighton, who allowed three goals on seven shots. Boucher now has three wins in the series and should get the start in Game 7.
News: Boucher let in three goals on only 11 shots before being pulled in a 4-3 overtime loss to Buffalo on Friday night.
Analysis: He was replaced at the 15:36 mark of the first period by last year's playoff hero Michael Leighton who looked strong in net the rest of the way.
News: Boucher made 28 saves Wednesday night in a 1-0 loss to Buffalo.
Analysis: He's played brilliantly since being called on in Game 2 of the series, having allowed only four goals since.
News: Boucher turned aside 35 of 37 shots in Monday's Game 3, 4-2 win over Buffalo.
Analysis: Boucher had more than a calming effect on his team after guiding them to a win in Game 2 before a strong effort Monday. Boucher is a playoff veteran that led Philly within a game of the finals during the 2000 playoffs and is cementing more starts as the Flyers take a 2-1 series lead.
News: Boucher is expected to start against Buffalo on Monday, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: Boucher stopped 20 of 21 shots in Game 2, so it makes sense for Philly to keep rolling with him.
News: Boucher played hero Saturday after relieving a shaky Sergei Bobrovsky in the first period. He allowed one goal on 21 shots to earn the win.
Analysis: He stopped 17 straight in the second and third to seal the win. He was one of the team's unlikely stars in last season's playoff run and may have just earned another shot at similar glory.
News: Boucher relieved starter Sergei Bobrovsky late in the first period of Saturday's game against the Islanders. He allowed one goal on 26 shots to earn the win.
Analysis: The Flyers won't be afraid to turn to Boucher if Bob the Goalie falters early in the postseason.
News: Boucher is expected to start against the Devils on Friday, Philly.com reports.
Analysis: Boucher is only 4-4-1-2 against New Jersey in his career, despite posting a 2.08 GAA against them in that span. He's been a bit hit-or-miss this year and is in the middle of a three-game losing streak, but Philly figures to be a tough opponent for New Jersey.
News: Boucher allowed two goals on 36 shots in a 2-1 loss to Boston on Sunday.
Analysis: Boucher has now lost three straight for Philly, though he's been fairly solid allowing six goals in those three tilts. Sunday was his first start in six games.
News: Boucher will start Sunday's game against the Bruins, the Flyers' official site reports.
Analysis: This will mark Boucher's first start since March 17, with Sergei Bobrovsky having started the Flyers' last four games, including Saturday's 4-1 win over the Isles.
News: Boucher replaced Sergei Bobrovsky on Tuesday night after the latter allowed three goals on nine shots.
Analysis: The Flyers still haven't committed to either goalie as their playoff starter. They lead the Eastern Conference in points, but they still have uncertainty between the pipes.
News: Boucher allowed three goals on 25 shots through regulation and overtime Thursday in Atlanta, then was beaten two out of three times in the shootout.
Analysis: Just when it looked like Boucher had turned around his little slide, he came out with another not-so-great one against the Thrashers. Fortunately for him, Sergei Bobrovsky has been equally inconsistent of late.
News: Boucher will start against Atlanta on Thursday, Philadelphia Daily News writer Frank Seravalli reports.
Analysis: Outside of a recent two-game stretch where he allowed eight goals, Boucher has been quite productive lately. Since February, he's 6-2 as a starter.
News: Boucher stopped 20 of 22 shots in Tuesday's 3-2 win over the Panthers.
Analysis: Boucher's record improved to 17-8-2 with the win. He figures to split time with Sergei Bobrovsky the rest of the way for Philadelphia, but makes for a great start when you know he's spotted and you're looking for wins.
News: Boucher will start Tuesday's game against Florida, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Boucher, whose last start was a 3-2 win over Toronto this past Thursday, is back between the pipes Tuesday after giving way to Sergei Bobrovsky on Saturday.
Flyers' Boucher: Tuesday's Expected Starter Versus Panthers
News: Boucher is expected to start Tuesday against Florida, Sam Carchidi of Philly.com reports.
Analysis: Boucher's workload has increased slightly over the past week or so. Since mid-January, he was starting roughly every third game in relief of Sergei Bobrovsky, but lately he's been starting every other game. At this point, there seems to be no clear-cut number one goalie in Philly with the playoffs looming on the horizon.
News: Boucher stopped 27 of 29 pucks Thursday in a win over Toronto.
Analysis: That's a lot better than Boucher's last two outings, and particularly Sunday's game against the Rangers, in which he was lit into for four goals on 18 shots before being pulled.
News: Boucher is expected to start against the Maple Leafs on Thursday, according to Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News.
Analysis: Boucher has given up a total of eight goals over his last two starts, but fortunately for him, Sergei Bobrovsky hasn't been a whole lot better lately. Bobrovsky's 24-save win over a shorthanded Edmonton team on Tuesday was his first in four games. Until one guy steps up and grabs hold of the starting reins, you could see the goalie rotation in Philly continue for awhile.
News: Boucher allowed four goals on 18 shots in a short stint in net Sunday against the Rangers.
Analysis: Boucher was lifted in the second period for Sergei Bobrovsky, who didn't fare much better with three goals allowed on three shots.
News: Boucher will start in net for Sunday's matinee against the Rangers, according to Andrew Gross of the Bergen Record.
Analysis: This was pretty much a sure thing after Sergei Bobrovsky had a hard time against the Sabres on Saturday in the 5-3 loss. This would normally be a very good start for Boucher owners -- as have been most of the ones this season if you're backing the first-place Flyers -- but a recent three-game skid by the team and the back-to-back factor for the Flyers has made this close to an even match-up.
News: Boucher made 25 saves in Saturday's loss to Ottawa.
Analysis: The Sens scored two just four minutes apart in the second period to take the lead and they never looked back. The loss snaps his personal win streak at four games.
News: Boucher will start Saturday in Ottawa, according to Flyers beat writer Anthony SanFilippo.
Analysis: The goalie tandem of Boucher and Sergei Bobrovsky continues to work very well for the Flyers, as the team is 7-2-1 in their last 10 games and is first overall in the Eastern Conference. Boucher has been starting roughly once every three games the last little while, but could see more work in future as Bobrovsky has not exactly been razor sharp lately, having allowed three goals in each of his past three starts. Monitor closely.
News: Boucher got the nod in nets for the Flyers on Sunday against the Rangers.
Analysis: Boucher picks up his 22nd turn of the season, while teammate Sergei Bobrovsky, who had started the team's last two contests, checks in with 36 starts to date.
News: Boucher stopped 24 of 27 shots in Tuesday's 4-3 shootout win over the Lightning.
Analysis: Boucher's record improved to 14-6-2 with the win. As long as he can continue to steal playing time from Sergei Bobrovsky, Boucher makes for a solid fantasy play.
News: Boucher is the expected starter for Tuesday's game against the Lightning, according to Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly.com.
Analysis: From a fantasy perspective, the only thing we don't like about Boucher is the amount of time he splits with rookie Sergei Bobrovsky. However, he does have a personal two-game win streak under his belt, and his overall record is none too shabby at 13-6-2. He makes for a very good fantasy play whenever he does get the starting nod - just keep an eye on the timeshare rotation between him and Bobrovsky.
News: Boucher made 31 saves Thursday in a 2-1 win over the Hurricanes, the third straight appearance in which he's allowed just a single goal.
Analysis: Although he's prone to the occasional blowup, overall Boucher has been excellent this year in the short end of a 60-40 timeshare with Sergei Bobrovsky. The Flyers just had four days off and don't play again until Sunday; expect Bobrovsky to start then to keep him fresh.
News: Boucher is expected to start Thursday against the Hurricanes, Sam Carchidi of Philly.com reports.
Analysis: Boucher makes for a decent fantasy goalie play in most formats. The only real knock against him is that he splits time with rookie Sergei Bobrovsky and doesn't enjoy the same kind of workload compared to other starters. Having said that, he is 12-6-2 in 22 starts so far this season, and has given up more than two goals in a game on just five occasions. Bottom line, he's very reliable when he does play - just make sure you have one or two other netminders to choose from on those nights when he's idle.
News: Boucher earned the game's first star Saturday with a 30-save, 3-1 win over Dallas.
Analysis: It was his first start since Jan. 22. He has the ability to string together multiple wins when he gets the opportunity but Bob's still your uncle in Philly. Expect him to continue in a backup role and that limits his fantasy value to those in daily leagues.
News: Boucher allowed two goals on 21 shots Saturday in the 3-1 loss to New Jersey.
Analysis: Boucher looked bad on the Devils' second goal but never saw the first one, with the final New Jersey tally being an empty-netter. The effort Saturday likely didn't earn him the confidence of his coaches, but then again, the Flyers only scored one goal against Johan Hedberg. Boucher is still embroiled in a timeshare with Sergei Bobrovsky.
News: Boucher will start in goal Saturday against New Jersey, the Flyers' official site reports.
Analysis: Other than a rough outing at Boston last week, Boucher has allowed two or fewer goals in four of his last five starts. He draws the NHL lowest-scoring team Saturday.
News: Boucher stopped 34 of the 36 shots he faced Sunday as the Flyers picked up a victory against the Rangers.
Analysis: This is a nice bounce-back game for Boucher after he let in six goals in his last outing. He's still sharing time with Sergei Bobrovsky, so keep that in mind.
News: Boucher is starting against the Rangers on Sunday night, according to Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News.
Analysis: It's a good match-up against two of the better teams in the Eastern Conference. This will be Boucher's fifth start in January, to just two for Sergei Bobrovsky.
News: Boucher was not at his best Thursday against Boston, as he blew three leads and allowed six goals on 36 shots to take the loss.
Analysis: Boucher blew leads of 1-0, 3-2 and 5-4, then gave up Steve Kampfer's game-winner with just 1:14 left in regulation. The loss ended a three-game winning streak for Boucher. Even with this outing, he has put up credible backup goaltender numbers.
News: Boucher stopped 34 shots Saturday afternoon in a 2-1 win over the Devils.
Analysis: He was unlucky on the Devils' lone goal. Andy Greene's shot deflected off Ville Leino's skate and soared over the twine tender's right shoulder. He has 10 wins on the season and should see a decent number of starts going forward as Philly seems to like to run him out there in about 35 percent of its games.
News: Boucher wasn't tested too much Thursday against the Devils, as he faced just 20 shots and turned away 18 of them.
Analysis: It's not really an impressive outing, as the Devils are practically a free win this year, but it's a good building block for him if he wants to take and hold the No. 1 job. Not that it seems likely he will.
News: Boucher will start Thursday against New Jersey, the Flyers' official site reports.
Analysis: Boucher is coming off a strong performance against Detroit on Sunday and gets to square off against the offensively inept Devils.
News: Boucher stopped 25 of the 27 shots he faced to beat the Wings on Sunday.
Analysis: The win gave the Flyers their first win in Joe Louis Arena since 1988. They had gone 0-14-2 there since then prior to Sunday.
Flyers Will Try To Slow Detroit With Boucher Sunday
News: Boucher will turn away pucks as the Flyers' starting goalie Sunday against the Red Wings, Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News reports.
Analysis: Boucher faltered in his last starting opportunity Dec. 28, when he allowed four goals to the Canucks before getting yanked in favor of Sergei Bobrovsky. With Michael Leighton in the goalie picture as well, it seems that Boucher has a slim margin of error. Hold off on starting Boucher as the Red Wings roll with one of (if not the best) offenses in the entire league.
News: Boucher was pulled in the second period of Tuesday's game against the Canucks after allowing four goals on 28 shots.
Analysis: Sergei Bobrovsky stopped 19 of 21 shots in relief. With Bobrovsky playing well and Michael Leighton now healthy, Boucher needed a strong showing on Tuesday and he didn't produce. It may be a little while before he gets another start.
News: Contrary to an earlier report, Boucher (not Sergei Bobrovsky) will start in goal Tuesday against the Canucks, Sam Carchidi of Philly.com reports.
Analysis: Carchidi mentioned in his tweet that Boucher was first off the ice in the morning skate, which means he'll be the one to start over Bobrovsky, who was initially expected to get the call. While setting your lineups in daily formats, keep in mind that Boucher has not allowed more than two goals in any game since Nov. 4.
News: Boucher had his wisdom teeth removed on Tuesday, according to the Daily News' Frank Seravalli.
Analysis: The dental surgery probably won't affect Boucher's playing time as the Flyers are off until December 28.
News: Boucher came into the game Monday with seven minutes left in the second period and allowed one goal in the 5-0 shutout loss to visiting Florida.
Analysis: Boucher has started four of the last six games and should continue to get those start ratios after an effort like this from backup Sergei Bobrovsky.
News: Boucher made 24 saves in Saturday's win over the Rangers. He allowed just one goal.
Analysis: He has sparkled this month with four wins in four attempts and just five goals against in those four games. He's doing his best to showcase himself for a potential trade now that Michael Leighton is on the horizon.
News: Boucher is expected to start Saturday afternoon against the Rangers, Philly.com reports.
Analysis: Boucher has allowed a total of just four goals over his last three games, making him an excellent fantasy start.
News: Boucher stopped 21 of 23 shots in Tuesday's 3-2 win over the Penguins.
Analysis: Boucher has now started three straight games and he has won all of them. As long as he continues to get playing time, he's a fine fantasy option.
News: Boucher is expected to face the Penguins on Tuesday, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer's Sam Carchidi.
Analysis: This will be Boucher's third consecutive start, and it's well-deserved. In his previous two games - both wins - he stopped a combined 66 of 68 shots. With Sergei Bobrovsky (14-4-3) waiting in the wings, it looks like coach Peter Laviolette is simply riding the hot hand by staying with Boucher. Furthermore, if Boucher continues to play as well as he has, it will make for a very crowded crease situation once Michael Leighton returns from injury. For now, deploy Boucher as you would any other starting fantasy goaltender.
News: The Flyers plan on carrying three netminders for at least a short amount of time upon the return of Boucher's teammate Michael Leighton, Philly.com reports.
Analysis: Leighton's return is expected this week, and the Flyers aren't likely going keep three goalies on the roster for long. Boucher and Leighton will likely be given a short audition for backup duties.
News: Boucher was outstanding between the pipes Saturday against Boston. He made 35 saves to carry Philadelphia to a 2-1 win in overtime.
Analysis: If he's being showcased for a trade, he's doing his best to impress. He has back-to-back wins in which he has allowed just two goals. He may be a decent speculative pick-up, just in case. But there aren't many teams looking for a starter. He'd be a platoon at best if he's moved.
News: Boucher will start Saturday against the Bruins, PhiladelphiaFlyers.com reports.
Analysis: Michael Leighton is due back any day now, so the Flyers are going to have to make a decision about their three goalies soon. Boucher, fresh off a strong performance Thursday at Toronto, will be making his second straight start, leading some to believe he may be getting showcased for a potential trade.
News: Boucher will start in goal Thursday against Toronto, the Philadelphia Daily News reports.
Analysis: Sergei Bobrovsky will take a break after starting four straight games. Boucher's 3-3-2 record isn't very impressive, but he's been getting much less offensive support than Bobrovsky has. A matchup against the low-scoring Leafs should help him out.
News: Boucher, whose job and roster spot may be about to evaporate with the impending return of Michael Leighton, answered the call Thursday and stopped 31 of 32 to beat Toronto.
Analysis: He's posted reasonable backup-caliber numbers, and there's no reason to think Boucher won't catch on with another team soon, whether via trade or being released.
News: Boucher stopped 24 shots in a 2-1 shootout loss to the Devils on Saturday.
Analysis: The eventual return of Michael Leighton will throw an interesting wrench into the Flyers' goaltending plans, but either way, Boucher appears to be no better than the team's second option in goal as Sergei Bobrovsky has played particularly well in Leighton's absence.
News: Boucher stopped 29 shots Monday in a 3-2 win over Montreal.
Analysis: The Flyers erased an early 2-0 deficit after an embarrassing loss to the Habs last week. Boucher is playing solidly and may garner more playing time with more efforts like this. He likely will play at least one more time this week with Philadelphia having back-to-back contests Friday and Saturday.
News: Boucher is starting for the Flyers against Montreal on Monday, the Philadelphia Daily News reports.
Analysis: It's only his sixth start of the season thanks in large part to the strong play from rookie Sergei Bobrovsky. Boucher could receive a second start this week as well with the Flyers having back-to-back matinees Friday and Saturday against the Flames and Devils.
News: Boucher bent in the third period of Saturday's game against the Capitals, giving up three goals to allow the game to get to overtime and ultimately the shootout. He then stoned the Capitals to earn a 5-4 win.
Analysis: He made 33 saves in regulation and overtime, and then turned away three greats -- Alexander Ovechkin, Alexander Semin and Nicklas Backstrom -- in the shootout. He'll need a lot of impressive performances in the next little while -- Michael Leighton will be back soon enough and the twine tent in Philly will be more crowded than the 99-cent buffet during senior's hour. Something will have to give.
News: Boucher will start Saturday in Washington, according to Flyers beat writer Anthony SanFilippo.
Analysis: One would think this might be the case with Sergei Bobrovsky allowing seven goals in his last 80 minutes of action. This will be just Boucher's fifth start of the season, and it's a good one, with the Eastern Conference's top two teams going at it.
News: Boucher, making his first appearance since Oct. 25, allowed four goals on 22 shots and took the loss Thursday against Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Sergei Bobrovsky was pulled after one period with a 5-4 lead, and Boucher coughed it up on a big night for offense. He's clearly the backup and likely headed out of town when Michael Leighton returns.
News: Boucher allowed two goals on 25 shots in Monday's loss to Columbus.
Analysis: Boucher played solidly in a losing effort, his second consecutive start in the musical chairs mess that is the Philadelphia goal crease. With Michael Leighton on the mend, Boucher and Sergei Bobrovsky are battling for an NHL job with each start. Until one of the two starts garnering the majority of starts, they don't offer much consistency.
News: Boucher will start Monday's game against the Blue Jackets, Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch reports.
Analysis: Boucher is 1-1-1 with a 2.33 GAA in three starts this season. He will face a Columbus team that has not scored more than three goals in a game this season, so feel free to use him if you need him.
News: Boucher will start Monday's game in Columbus, according to Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Post-Dispatch.
Analysis: That will make two in a row for Boucher, who will now be even in terms of games started with Sergei Bobrovsky in starts at four apiece. The two are pretty even in terms of results, so each start for Boucher is crucial in terms of future playing time.
News: Boucher faced just 14 shots and stopped 12 of them in Saturday's 5-2 win over the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: The Leafs played terribly against the Rangers and even worse against the Flyers, and Boucher was the beneficiary of that. Sergei Bobrovsky has lost a couple in a row, so all this could open the door for Boucher to start Monday for the second straight game.
Flyers' Boucher To Start Saturday Against Maple Leafs
News: Boucher will work between the pipes Saturday against the Maple Leafs, Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News reports, via Twitter.
Analysis: Boucher has yet to record a win this season but not helping matters is the fact that rookie netminder Sergei Bobrovsky has started twice as often as Boucher to date. On paper, Saturday's match against Toronto looks promising for Boucher as he sports a 1.69 goals-against average in eight career contests versus the Canadian club.
News: Boucher allowed three goals on 24 shots in Thursday's loss to the Lightning.
Analysis: Boucher hasn't been terrible, but it's noteworthy that the Flyers are 0-1-1 in his two starts, while they're 2-0-0 in Sergei Bobrovsky's.
News: Boucher will start Thursday night against Tampa Bay, the Flyers' official site reports.
Analysis: Philadelphia's pattern of alternating Boucher and Sergei Bobrovsky continues, with each starting two of the Flyers' first four games. The time-share limits the value of both players, but both have been playing well enough to still make an impact; Bobrovsky is 2-0 with a 2.00 GAA and a .931 save percentage and Boucher allowed just two goals on 25 shots in his season debut against St. Louis.
News: Boucher will start Saturday against St. Louis, the Flyers' official site reports.
Analysis: Earlier reports indicated Sergei Bobrovsky would get the nod, but coach Peter Laviolette made the official announcement early Saturday afternoon. The goaltending situation in Philly is currently in flux, but both Boucher and Bobrovsky have value now that Michael Leighton is out for six to eight weeks.
News: Boucher could see an expanded role with the Flyers' announcement that Michael Leighton will miss 6-8 weeks following back surgery.
Analysis: It's interesting to note that Sergei Bobrovsky is expected to start for the second straight game Saturday, so Boucher may get the lesser portion of a timeshare with the rookie while Leighton is on the shelf. In any case, Boucher's value has increased with this news even if Bobrovsky becomes the primary netminder until early December.
News: Sergei Bobrovsky - not Boucher - will start Philadelphia's season opener Thursday against the Penguins, PhiladelphiaFlyers.com reports.
Analysis: Boucher was expected to be Philly's primary netminder while Michael Leighton (bulging disc) is out for the first month of the season, but instead the rookie Bobrovsky will get the first start. This isn't a very encouraging development for Boucher's value, but he still might be the guy who gets most of the starts while Leighton is out, so don't overreact here.
News: Boucher will be the starting net-minder when the Flyers open the regular season as Michael Leighton is out with a bulging disc in his back, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.
Analysis: Leighton is expected to miss at least the first month of the season, so if Boucher plays like he did last season after he guided the Flyers to a playoff spot in relief of an injured Leighton, he could challenge Leighton for the starting goaltender role. Boucher stopped 25 of 28 shots in 60 minutes Tuesday night.
News:Brian Boucher couldn't make the stops. He opened his arms wide as a blue line and let all the Flyers in. Danny Briere was first with the celebratory hug. Claude Giroux joined the mob that swarmed Boucher. The Flyers needed three periods, overtime, and a thrilling shootout in the 82nd game to make the playoffs. Might as well go wild. Boucher stopped Olli Jokinen on the final attempt of the shootout to send the Philadelphia Flyers into the playoffs while eliminating the New York Rangers with a 2-1 victory Sunday. Boucher allowed his only goal to Jody Shelley 3:27 into the game and finished with 24 saves.
Analysis: Boucher finished the season winning three of his last four starts. It wasn't all smooth sailing for the veteran netminder after he took over for the injured Ray Emery and Michael Leighton. He finished with a 9-18-3 record. He also had a 2.76 GAA and .899 save percentage. Boucher did show this season that he is probably no longer a starter in the NHL and best left for backup duty. We expect him to have a backup job in 2010-11, so he should have marginal Fantasy appeal on Draft Day. The Flyers TG will likely remain a No. 2 option.
News: Goalie Brian Boucher came up with a big effort to key the Philadelphia Flyers' playoff push. Boucher made 23 saves to lift the Flyers to a 2-0 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday. Boucher was solid in earning the 17th shutout of his career and 100th win of his career, diving across his crease late in the third period to keep a rolling puck out of the net. "It's nice to see him play well and nice to see him get his 100th, especially in this big a game," Flyers defenseman Chris Pronger said.
Analysis: Boucher has won his last two starts and is finally looking like a starting NHL goalie. Unfortunately, it comes at too late of a time to make a serious impact in Fantasy. Boucher will continue to see most of the starts for Philly, but he remains a low-end Fantasy option. The Flyers TG is at best a No. 2 option.
News:Brian Boucher made 31 saves for Philadelphia during a 4-3 win against the Red Wings on Sunday. Boucher squandered an early 2-0 lead before Philadelphia took over the game for good with two second-period scores. Pavel Datsyuk scored 2:22 into the third, but Boucher managed to hold off the Detroit attack. One of five goalies to play for Philadelphia this season, Boucher had recorded only one victory in his previous seven starts. "This was a big one to keep us going," he said.
Analysis: The reason Boucher hasn't been spoiled with a wealth of wins hasn't been entirely his fault. The Flyers have scored two or fewer goals 17 times when Boucher has been between the pipes. They are 6-9-2 in those games. Boucher is going to see most of the starts in the final week, especially with Johan Backlund (groin) still out. He just remains a low-end Fantasy start. The Flyers TG has also lost a lot of Fantasy appeal.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher played well enough to win on Friday against the Canadiens, but Montreal G Jaroslav Halak was even better, as Philadelphia was shut out 1-0. Boucher made 22 saves. He has won just once in his last seven starts.
Analysis: Boucher hasn't been awful during those seven starts; he's allowed just 17 goals and the team has failed to score two or more goals in four of those games. Besides, the Flyers really don't have any better options with Michael Leighton injured, so Boucher will continue to see most starts. He remains a low-end Fantasy start. The Flyers TG is also a low-end option.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher started Thursday's game against the Islanders, but he wasn't around at the end as Philadelphia lost 6-4. The Flyers fell behind 5-1 when Trent Hunter's shot from the right circle sneaked in under Boucher's left arm 2:30 into the third. Boucher, who allowed five goals on 24 shots, was then relieved by Jeremy Duchesne -- making his NHL debut. He allowed one goal on four shots.
Analysis: Boucher had a really off night after earning a huge win on Sunday against the Devils. It has not been a good run for the veteran netminder since he took over for the injured Michael Leighton. Even though he has had a bad run, the Flyers really don't have any better options, so Boucher will continue to see most starts. He remains a low-end Fantasy start. The Flyers TG is also a low-end option.
News: Flyers Brian Boucher stopped 32 shots during a 5-1 rout of the Devils on Sunday. The Flyers goalie had let an early 2-0 lead slip away on March 25 to Minnesota. They didn't let that happen against the high-scoring Devils. Philadelphia blocked several shots before they could get in on Boucher. Boucher lost his shutout bid when Ilya Kovalchuk scored with 9:40 left. "Beggars can't be choosers," he said, laughing. "I'll take the victory."
Analysis: Boucher was 1-5 in six starts since replacing Michael Leighton as the No. 1 goalie. He was benched Saturday for rookie Johan Backlund in Pittsburgh. Backlund had stopped 22 of 24 shots through two periods before being forced out by a groin injury. "It just feels nice to get a win," Boucher said. "Things have been kind of going sideways a bit. [Getting the lead] was a big help. We were emphatic about our start, and we kept the foot on the pedal. We were able to capitalize on some chances, which hasn't really happened for us lately. It's nice to see some goals go in." Boucher is likely to see most of the starts down the stretch, even with Backlund healthy, but he remains a low-end Fantasy start. The Flyers TG has lost considerable Fantasy appeal since Leighton went down.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher replaced injured starter Johan Backlund after two periods of Saturday's 4-1 loss to the Penguins. Boucher allowed two goals on seven shots.
Analysis: Boucher is going to be the No. 1 goalie in Philly the rest of this season with all of the injury woes the team is having to deal with between the pipes. If the Flyers were playing a little better, Boucher might be worth a look in deeper leagues as a flier option, but for now Boucher is really a very risky low-end Fantasy option. The Flyers TG should also probably be ignored.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher made 17 saves during a 4-3 overtime loss against the Wild on Thursday. Boucher didn't face much of a challenge from Minnesota until the third period. Philadelphia had built a 3-1 lead after two periods and Boucher had allowed his only goal to Marek Zidlicky on a power play. However, the tables turned in the third. Martin Havlat and Andrew Brunette scored on Minnesota's six third-period shots, and Kyle Brodziak then had the winner 2:33 into overtime. Boucher initially gloved Brodziak's shot, but the puck bounced out and Boucher kicked the spinning puck into the net, sending the reeling Flyers to their sixth loss in their past seven games.
Analysis: Boucher is 1-3-2 in six starts since taking over for the injured Michael Leighton. We are not sure all of the Flyers' problems can be blamed on Boucher. However, Thursday's game probably can be since Boucher didn't have to face much of an offensive charge and struggled down the stretch. The Flyers really have no better options than Boucher, so consider him a low-end flier in Fantasy. The Flyers TG is losing Fantasy appeal as the losses rack up.
News:Brian Boucher made 24 saves in his fourth straight start for the Flyers, who lost their third in a row during a 2-0 defeat at the hands of the Senators on Tuesday. Ottawa, which went 0 for 7 with the man advantage, had already failed to convert three power-play opportunities when Chris Kelly opened the scoring midway through the first. The Senators center held onto the puck on a 2-on-1 rush with Andy Sutton and fired a wrist shot past Boucher from the right side 10:34 in for his 14th goal. Boucher made a strong glove save on Nick Foligno in the second just seconds after the Flyers killed Ottawa's fourth power play. Daniel Alfredsson put the Senators up by two with his 18th goal 18 seconds into the third.
Analysis: Boucher has received just three goals in support during the three-game slide, so it's not entirely his fault. He is performing well enough since replacing Michael Leighton (ankle) and could easily be on a winning streak with some offensive support. Boucher will do most of the heavy lifting in net down the stretch for Philly. But look to him as nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie for the stretch run. The Flyers TG is at best a No. 2 option as well.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher made 28 saves during a 3-1 loss to the Thrashers on Sunday. Boucher didn't have a chance after Atlanta scored twice in the first 11:01. Philadelphia cut the lead to 1 at 11:56 of the third before Rich Peverley put the game away at 16:53. Boucher fell to 1-2-1 since replacing the injured Michael Leighton last week.
Analysis: Boucher is 5-14-2 in 23 games with the Flyers this season. Boucher came to Philadelphia to play in a backup role. However, injuries to both Ray Emery and Leighton have put Boucher in a starting role. He will remain there unless Philly makes some sort of move. Boucher hasn't been a full-time starter in years, so look to him as nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie for the stretch run. The Flyers TG is at best a No. 2 option as well.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher gave up two goals in the first six minutes of Saturday's game against the Thrashers and Philadelphia couldn't recover, falling to Atlanta 5-2. Boucher made 23 saves.
Analysis: Boucher evened out after playing well in his first start in place of the injured Michael Leighton. While Boucher's Fantasy value increased with Leighton's injury, he is at best a low No. 2 Fantasy option. The Flyers TG is barely a No. 2 option.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher looked good in his first start of 2010, turning away 27 shots during Thursday's 3-2 win over the Stars. Boucher took the place of Michael Leighton, who will miss 8-10 weeks with a high ankle sprain. Boucher is 5-12-2 on the season.
Analysis: Boucher's Fantasy value obviously increases with Leighton's unfortunate injury; he's certainly worth picking up while available now that he'll be starting in net the rest of the way. The Fantasy value of the Flyers TG takes a hit with this news, and is now barely a No. 2 option.
News: CSN Philadelphia reports that Flyers G Michael Leighton is out 8-10 weeks with a high ankle sprain.
Analysis: This injury comes at an awful time for the Flyers and Leighton's Fantasy owners. The trade deadline is a thing of the past, so Philly will have to rely on Brian Boucher the rest of this regular season or find someone else off the scrap heap. Leighton can now be dropped in all Fantasy formats, while Boucher is certainly worth a look in deeper leagues. The Fantasy value of the Flyers TG takes a hit with this news, and is now barely a No. 2 option.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher turned away 24 of 25 shots after replacing starter Michael Leighton in the first period of Tuesday's 4-3 shootout loss to the Predators. Leighton left after less than 10 minutes due to an ankle injury.
Analysis: Boucher is merely the backup to Michael Leighton -- he hasn't started a game in 2010. With a GAA of 2.86 he isn't the worst replacement for Leighton, if Leighton does miss starts after spraining his ankle on Tuesday. However, if Leighton is healthy, Boucher is just a handcuff. The Flyers TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Flyers G Michael Leighton left in the first period of Tuesday's game against the Predators with a high ankle sprain. He allowed two goals on five shots in less than 10 minutes in net. It was his 15th consecutive start. Brian Boucher replaced Leighton, and made 24 saves.
Analysis: Leighton has allowed just 23 goals in his last 9 starts. Hopefully the injury is not a serious one, as Leighton should get most of the starts down the stretch. Consider him and the Flyers TG both No. 2 options.
News: The Bruins chased Flyers goalie Michael Leighton in the second period of a 5-1 win Thursday. After Philadelphia tied the game at 1 just 44 seconds into the middle frame, the Bruins scored three times in the next 11 minutes to send Leighton to the bench. David Krejci took a backhanded feed from Michael Ryder and beat Leighton with a wrist shot, chasing the goalie from the game at 11:16. He entered the game with a 15-3-2 with a 2.28 goals-against average for the Bruins. Leighton, who finished with 21 saves, was replaced by Brian Boucher, who allowed one goal on 12 shots.
Analysis: Boucher might see a few more appearances down the stretch with Ray Emery done for the season. However, Boucher is still considered the backup netminder to Leighton, who has been nothing short of spectacular since landing in Philadelphia in December. Boucher, who is winless since Dec. 14, remains a weak Fantasy option.
News: Philadelphia starting G Michael Leighton didn't have a great game on Wednesday against Florida and was eventually pulled for backup Brian Boucher. Boucher wasn't much better against the Panthers. Leighton stopped 22 shots but allowed two goals in the first period and two in the second before being removed for Boucher. Boucher almost immediately allowed two more goals over a three-minute span. When it was all over, Philly lost the game 7-4. Boucher stopped 14 of the 16 shots he faced.
Analysis: Leighton was the hot hand for the Flyers, having won five straight before Wednesday's loss. His record falls to 14-8-1 on the year. Boucher remains at 4-11-1. Consider Leighton and the Flyers TG both No. 2 Fantasy options. Boucher is just a handcuff.
News: The Philadelphia Daily News reports that Flyers G Ray Emery will require a bone graft on his hip and is out for the season.
Analysis: The rumors have been flying for weeks now that Emery was done for the season, and now it's official. He is likely also done in Philly and maybe in the NHL, but we'll just have to see how he recovers from this surgery. Drop Emery immediately in all Fantasy formats. With Emery finished, Michael Leighton becomes the concrete No. 1 the rest of the way barring a trade. However, he will have to play well to keep Brian Boucher from stealing starts. Consider Leighton and the Flyers TG both No. 2 Fantasy options, while Boucher is nothing more than a No. 3 in deeper leagues for now.
News: The Philadelphia Daily News reports that Flyers G Ray Emery (hip) didn't skate over the break.
Analysis: Emery's season could well be over, but he's still worth stashing away in most formats for the time being. Meanwhile, Michael Leighton will continue to get the majority of starts for the Flyers, with Brian Boucher getting the odd outing here and there. The Flyers play four times in Fantasy Week 20 (March 1-7) with favorable matchups against the Panthers, Lightning and Maple Leafs. Use Leighton as a solid No. 2 Fantasy goalie for the scoring period, while the Flyers TG is also a reliable secondary option.
News:The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Dr. Arthur Bartolozzi, who is the chief of sports medicine at Pennsylvania Hospital and used to work for the Flyers, said if goalie Ray Emery does have a torn hip labrum -- as the team is hinting -- then "it's fixable but career-threatening" situation. "Any injury to a joint is potentially a career-challenging injury," Bartolozzi said. "It can affect your timing, your speed, your agility." The Flyers have yet to reveal what the MRI exam on Emery's injured left hip produced. Instead, they have shut him down for three weeks and hope to avoid surgery until after the season. Michael Leighton and Brian Boucher are playing in Emery's absence.
Analysis: Bartolozzi said that if Emery's labrum is torn, playing after his three-week rest "unlikely will make it worse." However, he also speculated that surgery could happen before the end of the season, if Emery's condition doesn't improve. Former Flyers goalie Robert Esche had hip surgery on his labrum after the 2003-04 season, and after the lockout year his performance dropped dramatically in the two seasons that followed. Esche is now playing in Russia, where Emery was last season in the KHL. Although this report doesn't come from the Flyers, it does sound as though Emery, who will be an unrestricted free agent, has a battle on his hands. He is kind of a risky Fantasy option the rest of the way since it doesn't appear he will be 100 percent. The Flyers are sure glad they didn't act quickly when Emery returned from an abdominal issue in January and kept Leighton and Boucher. Leighton is likely to do most of the work in Emery's absence, but there are rumors that Philadelphia would like to trade for a goalie, targeting Florida's Tomas Vokoun.
News: Flyers G Michael Leighton will start in goal on Monday vs. the Devils.
Analysis: There hasn't been word on whether Ray Emery (hip) or Brian Boucher will back Leighton up on Monday, but both are clearly not worth risking in Fantasy Week 19 (Feb. 8-14) at this point. Leighton's play has been spotty of late and will face both the Devils and Canadiens twice in the scoring period, but he's probably still worth a shot in deeper leagues as a potential sleeper No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Flyers TG is also a No. 2 option for now.
News: The Philadelphia Daily News reports that Flyers G Ray Emery, who has made eight straight starts, will not dress for Wednesday's game at Edmonton. Michael Leighton will start, with Brian Boucher serving as the backup.
Analysis: Emery has been heavily used since returning from abdominal surgery, and the Flyers are clearly just taking advantage of the fact they currently have three goalies on their roster. He will get another couple of days to rest before Philly plays the Wild on Saturday, so hopefully Emery will be OK to make that his second start of the week after his shutout win on Monday. Leighton remains just a handcuff for Emery owners for now, while Boucher is clearly the odd man out at the moment and shouldn't be owned outside of the deepest of two-goalie leagues. The Flyers TG is a high-end No. 2 option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports now that D Ryan Parent is sidelined six weeks with back surgery, the Flyers can theoretically keep three goalies on their roster indefinitely. Brian Boucher and Michael Leighton are available, but with no back-to-back games until just before the Olympic break, the Flyers have a decision to make on which goalie to send to the minors or place on waivers. Ray Emery is the team's starter.
Analysis: It seemed all along that Leighton would be the short-term solution for Philly and he would end up on waivers just how the Flyers got him from the Hurricanes. But Leighton has been playing great for his former coach Peter Laviolette, so now the decision is a tough one. Boucher has been a healthy scratch for seven games and his job is not as safe anymore despite being under contract through next season. Leighton appears to be the better Fantasy option of the two, but he still has minimal Fantasy value as long as he is pulling backup duty to Emery.
News: The Flyers' official Twitter feed reports that G Michael Leighton will start Tuesday vs. the Stars.
Analysis: The Flyers have three games in Fantasy Week 15 (Jan. 11-17), with none of them back-to-back, and Leighton could be in line to get at least a couple of those starts. However, Ray Emery is back in Philly and is expected to be activated on either Tuesday or Wednesday. If Leighton continues his hot play on Monday though, you have to think the Flyers will continue to roll with him. He's certainly a bit of a risky start for the upcoming scoring period, but owners in deeper leagues could surely do worse than give him a shot. The Flyers TG remains a No. 2 Fantasy option for now.
News: Flyers G Michael Leighton was pulled within the first 10 minutes of Sunday's 7-4 loss to the Senators. Leighton actually had a 1-0 lead before Ottawa took the 2-1 lead at the 9:07 mark. Coach Peter Laviolette pulled Leighton in favor of Brian Boucher, who didn't fare much better. Boucher stopped 21 of 26 shots and was shouldered with the loss. The Flyers mounted a comeback and tied the game heading into the third period before Ottawa scored three unanswered goals. It was Boucher's first appearance since leaving a Dec. 21 start with a lacerated finger.
Analysis: Boucher has been active since his finger injury on Dec. 21, but he has had some pain. That has been a big reason why Leighton has remained in net. Also, because Leighton has been winning up until recently. We expect Boucher to stick around Philly once Ray Emery (abdominal) is healthy, but he still is only a stopgap Fantasy option until Emery is back.
News: Although G Brian Boucher didn't play in Saturday's win over Carolina, the Flyers' official Web site reports that Boucher was available to play if needed. Boucher has been out since Monday with a cut finger.
Analysis: Boucher is being listed as day-to-day by the Flyers, but should be able to return some time in Fantasy Week 13 (Dec. 28-Jan. 3). He'll be a bit of a risky start though, so you might just want to wait until he's fully healthy again.
News: Philadelphia G Brian Boucher, who injured his finger on Monday against Florida, was scratched for the Wednesday game against Tampa Bay. Boucher is day to day.
Analysis: Boucher could now miss some time with this injury to his hand and that means that Michael Leighton could get some consistent starts going forward. Boucher wasn’t exactly sharp against the Panthers before getting hurt but Leighton wasn’t much better. Boucher is now 4-10-1 on the year and was nothing but a stopgap option in Fantasy for injured Ray Emery.
News: Philadelphia G Brian Boucher suffered two losses on Monday night against Florida. Boucher gave up two goals on 13 shots and ended up losing the game, 4-1, but he also lost something more serious: His health. Boucher suffered a lacerated finger in the game and had to be removed and replaced by Michael Leighton. Leighton allowed two more goals before the game ended and stopped 15 shots.
Analysis: Boucher could now miss some time with this injury to his hand and that means that Leighton could get some consistent starts going forward. Boucher wasn’t exactly sharp against the Panthers before getting hurt but Leighton wasn’t much better. Boucher is now 4-10-1 with the loss and he’s lost his last four starts. Leighton will have to be better but at 1-4-0 on the year, that seems unlikely at the moment. Boucher was starting for injured Ray Emery and the Flyers’ goalie situation is only getting murkier. Boucher was nothing but a stopgap option and that is all that Leighton is as well. The Flyers TG is a No. 2 option, at best, at this point.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher stopped 22 shots in a loss against the Rangers Saturday against the Rangers. He allowed two goals in a 2-1 game.
Analysis: Boucher has allowed two or fewer goals in three of his recent five losses, but the Flyers continue to struggle offensively. Michael Leighton was added to the mix with Ray Emery sidelined. It will be interesting to see how Philly uses Leighton and Boucher. We imagine Boucher will see the majority of starts, but he is still more of a stopgap Fantasy option. The Flyers TG is a No. 2 option.
News:Kris Letang and Sidney Crosby scored in a shootout past Brian Boucher to give the Pittsburgh Penguins their fourth straight victory, 3-2 over the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday. Boucher made 28 saves and blew a pair of one-goal leads. Boucher was beaten twice on the power play. He is winless in his last two starts and four of five.
Analysis: Boucher has allowed two or fewer goals in two of his recent four losses, but the Flyers continue to struggle offensively. Michael Leighton was added to the mix with Ray Emery sidelined. It will be interesting to see how Philly uses Leighton and Boucher. We imagine Boucher will see the majority of starts, but he is still more of a stopgap Fantasy option. The Flyers TG is a No. 2 option.
News: Philadelphia goalie Brian Boucher did not have a good night stopping the puck against the Pittsburgh Penguins Tuesday. The fill-in for injured Ray Emery gave up six goals in the 6-1 loss and stopped just 29 of the 35 shots he faced. He gave up three goals in the 1st period and it was pretty much all down hill from there.
Analysis: Boucher is pretty much the main man in goal for the Flyers at this point, which isn't the best news since he's now 2-4 in his last six starts. There are a lot of rumors surfacing that the Flyers want to trade for a veteran netminder, but until those rumors come to fruition, Boucher is the Flyers' starter. Consider him a stopgap Fantasy option as a No. 2 netminder. The Flyers TG is also a No. 2 option.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher made 26 saves during a 3-1 win against the Bruins on Monday. Boucher actually trailed 1-0 heading into the third before Philadelphia rallied for the win. Boston had a chance to tie it when Scott Hartnell hit Mark Recchi in the face with his stick and gave Boston, which had pulled the goalie, a two-man advantage. But Kimmo Timonen found the empty net from behind the faceoff circle in his own zone, clinching the victory. Boucher ended a personal two-game losing streak.
Analysis: Boucher has only won a few starts since taking over full-time for the injured Ray Emery. There are a lot of rumors surfacing that the Flyers want to trade for a veteran netminder, but until those rumors come to fruition, Boucher is the Flyers' starter. Consider him a stopgap Fantasy option as a No. 2 netminder. The Flyers TG is also a No. 2 option.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher made 24 saves Saturday as Philadelphia fell 4-1 to the Devils.
Analysis: Boucher has now lost two straight starts and the Flyers are really struggling right now. Boucher is likely to get the majority of the starts while Ray Emery is out, but until Philadelphia gets back on track, he should only be used as a No. 2 Fantasy option in deeper leagues. The Flyers TG remains a No. 2 choice.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher made 23 saves during a 2-0 loss against the Senators on Thursday. With 9:30 minutes left, Nick Foligno took a wrist shot from just above the circle and then put his rebound past a diving Boucher, who had smothered another drive by Foligno a few minutes earlier. Jesse Winchester sealed the victory with a short-handed, empty-net goal in the final minute. Boucher is 1-5-1 in eight career starts against Ottawa.
Analysis: Despite the loss on Thursday, Boucher has looked good since learning on Tuesday he will be the team's starting goalie for the next six weeks with Ray Emery sidelined. He has allowed only three goals in his last two starts. Now, if he can just get some offensive support on a regular basis, then Boucher will be a nice stopgap Fantasy option. The Flyers TG is a No. 2 option.
News: With the latest news that Philadelphia starting goalie Ray Emery will be out for at least six weeks, backup and now starter Brian Boucher got down to business. Boucher defeated the New York Islanders handily on Tuesday night as the Flyers won 6-2. The new starter allowed just two goals and stopped 22 shots in the win.
Analysis: Boucher improves to 3-5-0 on the season for the Flyers and he'll see plenty of chances going forward. While he's the top guy in Philly, Fantasy owners will need to see some consistency before rushing out and picking him up. For now, he's just low-end and the Flyers TG is a No. 3 Fantasy option, at best.
News: Flyers goalie Ray Emery will undergo surgery Wednesday to repair a torn muscle in his lower abdomen, and is expected to miss about six weeks. Philadelphia general manager Paul Holmgren made the announcement Tuesday night before the Flyers played the New York Islanders. The Flyers, who lost five straight and eight of nine, recalled goalie Johan Backlund from the Adirondack Phantoms, but will rely heavily on Brian Boucher. Emery hadn't been playing well, and was pulled from Saturday's game against the Washington Capitals after allowing five goals. Holmgren said the injury played a part in Emery's slump. "You know how hard he practices," Holmgren said. "He's been trying to fight through this, but couldn't practice the way he normally does, and his game suffered. He's a down young man, and feels he let his team down."
Analysis: Emery had been awful lately and appeared to be losing his grip on the No. 1 spot in Philly even before the injury. That spot now belongs to Boucher, though his Fantasy value shouldn't improve that much. Backlund should barely be owned in Fantasy play and the Flyers TG probably isn't even worth using as a No. 2 unit anymore.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher made 10 saves during a 3-1 loss to the Canadiens on Monday. Boucher held the Canadiens scoreless on one shot in the first period while Philadelphia built a one-goal lead. Montreal then scored twice on six shots in the second period to take the lead for good. Boucher is winless in his last three decisions.
Analysis: It's going to be interesting to see how much Peter Laviolette uses Boucher now that he is behind the bench. We expect Ray Emery to remain the starter, but Laviolette hasn't been afraid to play his backup goalie in the past. Boucher is still a low-end Fantasy flier. The Flyers TG is more of a No. 2 option.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher allowed three goals on 13 shots Saturday after replacing Ray Emery midway through an 8-2 loss to the Capitals.
Analysis: Boucher looks like the top option in Philly right now, but he hasn't done quite enough yet to permanently steal the No. 1 spot away from the struggling Emery. Boucher remains just a low-end Fantasy flier for now.
News: Flyers goalie Brian Boucher could not outduel Roberto Luongo during a 3-0 loss to the Canucks on Thursday. Willie Mitchell scored at 13:38 of the second period when he picked up a loose puck in front of the Philadelphia net and scooped a backhand over the shoulder of Boucher, who finished with 26 saves. Vancouver added a goal four minutes later. Daniel Sedin's shot was redirected off the back of Alexander Burrows. Christian Ehrhoff finished the scoring with 3:19 left in the game with a slap shot that trickled past Boucher for his seventh goal.
Analysis: Despite the loss, Boucher gave another fine effort in net for Philadelphia. He has been a solid backup netminder to Ray Emery in 2009-10. Boucher has been starting a lot more as of late, but we aren't sure the Flyers are ready to completely do away with Ray Emery. Boucher is merely a low-end Fantasy flier. The Flyers TG is a No. 2 option.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Flyers G Brian Boucher will make his fourth start in the last five games when Philly hosts Vancouver on Thursday night.
Analysis: Luckily for Ray Emery's owners, the Flyers only had two games in Fantasy Week 9 (Nov. 30-Dec. 6), so this emergence of Boucher hasn't killed too many people. However, it's obviously a developing situation that should be monitored very closely. If Boucher plays well again on Thursday, he could be worth using in deeper leagues as a No. 2 Fantasy option in Week 10 (Dec. 7-13) as the Flyers play four times. However, it would be a risky decision, as one bad start and he could be back on the bench again. Emery will also have similar value until this mess clears up. The Flyers TG remains a No. 2 option as well.
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher made just 17 saves Saturday as Philadelphia fell 1-0 to the Thrashers. Boucher has now allowed a single goal in each of his last two starts (1-1).
Analysis: Boucher has a superb 2.01 GAA this season and is proving to be a very capable backup to Ray Emery. Until he gets more starts though, Boucher has minimal Fantasy appeal. The Flyers TG on the other hand is a No. 2 Fantasy option
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher allowed only one goal in a 2-1 win over the Islanders on Wednesday. Boucher made 28 stops in the game as his record improved to 2-2-0 on the season.
Analysis: Boucher has traded losses and wins in each of his first four starts this season, but this was his second appearance in a row that he allowed just one goal. Boucher is used to being a seldom-used backup since he has played with Evgeni Nabokov. Until he gets more starts, Boucher has minimal Fantasy appeal. The Flyers TG on the other hand is a No. 2 Fantasy option with Ray Emery getting the majority of the starts.
News: Flyers G Ray Emery was pulled during Monday's game against the Avalanche but avoided the loss as Colorado won 5-4. Emery was yanked after Philadelphia fell behind 4-2 about midway through the second period. Emery had 13 saves in a little less than half the game. David Jones greeted Brian Boucher, Emery's replacement, with his second goal of the game and 10th of the season to make it 5-2 with 4:44 left in the period. It was enough to hold up as Philly made a late surge in the third. Boucher made 13 saves.
Analysis: It's tough to see Boucher take the loss Monday since he did such a good job in relief, but those are the breaks. Boucher has made just three appearances this season since Emery has been pretty solid in net. He is used to being a seldom-used backup since he has played with Evgeni Nabokov. Until he gets more starts, Boucher has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News:Mika Pyorala scored his first NHL goal, backup goalie Brian Boucher made 37 saves and the Philadelphia Flyers opened a trip with their seventh victory in eight games, 3-2 over the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday night. Drew Doughty trimmed the Flyers' lead with a power-play goal on a long slap shot with 7:51 to play, but Los Angeles couldn't even it despite outshooting Philadelphia 21-5 in the third period. The Kings had a golden chance while Jonathan Quick was pulled with 15 seconds left, but Michal Handzus' tip in front of Boucher skittered under the goalie and missed the post by perhaps an inch.
Analysis: Boucher, the San Jose Sharks' backup goalie during the past two seasons, had a remarkable final period in his first victory since his return to Philadelphia, where he spent his first three NHL seasons. The Flyers have given Ray Emery all but two starts this fall. Boucher is used to being a seldom-used backup since he has played with Evgeni Nabokov. Until he gets more starts, Boucher has minimal Fantasy appeal. The Flyers TG is a No. 2 option thanks to Emery.
News: Philadelphia goalie Brian Boucher stopped 24 shots in his first start of the season Sunday against the Sharks, but still took the 4-1 loss. The game was tied at 1 before Manny Malhotra broke open the game with two goals in the second. Boucher, who played for the Sharks last season, started for the Flyers for the first time in more than seven years. He made his debut with Philadelphia in 1999 and has played for five NHL teams since then. "It would have been nice to win," Boucher said. "It didn't work out that way. It was a starting point."
Analysis: Boucher hasn't had a chance to jump in net since Ray Emery has been pretty solid in net for Philly. But, Boucher should be used to this since he used to sparingly play behind Evgeni Nabokov in San Jose. Boucher remains a low-end Fantasy reserve until further notice. The Flyers TG is a No. 2 option.
News: Philadelphia G Brian Boucher was taken off the IR on Thursday and backed up regular goalie Ray Emery in a 5-4 loss to the Penguins. Boucher had been out with a lower body injury. He did not play in the game.
Analysis: Boucher is back for his second stint with the Flyers. Only this time, he will begin as a backup goalie. Boucher went 12-6-3 with a 2.18 GAA, .917 save percentage and two shutouts last season in 22 games for the Sharks. Boucher is at best a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and a handcuff option for Emery owners.
News:The Times Herald reports Flyers goalie Brian Boucher is out 7-10 days with a lower-body injury suffered during Saturday's preseason game against the Devils. Boucher is expected to miss the first three games of the season. Johan Backlund will provide backup for Ray Emery in the meantime.
Analysis: The Flyers are calling the lower-body injury, believe to be a groin issue, very minor. It doesn't appear Boucher will need a long trip to IR. Boucher is back for his second stint with the Flyers. Only this time, he will begin as a backup goalie when healthy. Boucher went 12-6-3 with a 2.18 GAA, .917 save percentage and two shutouts last season in 22 games for the Sharks. Boucher is at best a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and a handcuff option for Emery owners. He is not a recommended start for Week 1 (Oct. 1-11).
News: Flyers G Brian Boucher left the ice during Saturday's preseason game against the Flyers because of a lower-body injury midway through the first period. He made two saves and gave up the goal before being replaced by Ray Emery.
Analysis: Boucher is back for his second stint with the Flyers. Only this time, he will open the season as a backup goalie. Boucher went 12-6-3 with a 2.18 GAA, .917 save percentage and two shutouts last season in 22 games for the Sharks. Boucher is at best a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and a handcuff option for Emery owners. He is questionable for the start of the season.
News: The Flyers brought back a familiar face Wednesday when they signed free agent goalie Brian Boucher to a two-year contract worth $1.85 million. Boucher, who spent the last two seasons with the Sharks, opened his NHL career in 1999 with the Flyers and spent three seasons with the team before bolting for Phoenix in 2002-03.
Analysis: Boucher has been pretty much a backup goalie since the NHL resumed playing in 2005-06 following the lockout season. He saw his most extensive time in 2008-09 when Evgeni Nabokov was injured early in the season, but only logged 22 appearances by season's end. He went 12-6-3 with a 2.18 GAA, .917 save percentage and two shutouts. Boucher heads to Philly ready to back up Ray Emery, who recently signed after spending last season in Russia. Boucher is at best a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and a handcuff option for Emery owners.
News: Backup goalie Brian Boucher stopped 19 shots for the Sharks during a 3-2 win against the Ducks Sunday. Boucher fell behind 1-0 after one period before San Jose scored twice in the second to tie the game. He then made 10 saves in a scoreless third while San Jose posted the winning goal with less than seven minutes to play. Boucher ended a personal two-game losing streak.
Analysis: Boucher made his first appearance since March 17 Sunday. He doesn't start or play much when Evgeni Nabokov is healthy, so this is not shocking to see. Boucher remains more of a handcuff Fantasy option for Nabokov owners. However, the Sharks TG is a must-start Fantasy option.
News:Shane Doan scored with 26.9 seconds remaining past Brian Boucher, who was playing in relief of Evgeni Nabokov, and the Phoenix Coyotes edged the San Jose Sharks 4-3 Tuesday night. Doan, who assisted on Phoenix's previous three goals, scored on the backhand as he was being tackled from behind by defenseman Rob Blake. He pulled the puck across the crease and bounced a shot off Boucher's right pad before falling to the ice. Dmitri Kalinin made it 3-0 with 14.9 seconds left in the first when he bounced a shot off the inside of the right post past Nabokov, who left after allowing three goals on nine shots. Boucher replaced Nabokov and stopped the first 10 shots he faced before surrendering the winning goal.
Analysis: Boucher has seen a lot of time in net the last few weeks as Nabokov was battling a lower-body injury. Nabokov won his previous two starts since returning to the lineup, so he simply just had an off night. Boucher played well, but couldn't pick up the win. He is most valuable when Nabokov is sidelined. When Nabokov is healthy, Boucher has little to no Fantasy value.
News: Sharks G Brian Boucher made 23 saves and allowed two goals in a 3-1 loss to the Blues on Thursday. With the loss, Boucher's record fell to 11-5-3 on the season as he continues to fill in for the injured Evgeni Nabokov.
Analysis: Boucher hasn't necessarily been stellar since taking over for the injured Nabokov. He's lost five of his last six starts dating back to the last day of February. The Sharks are having some injury issues lately and it is catching up with them of late. Think of Boucher as a decent stopgap option and the Sharks TG is a high-end option when Nabokov is healthy.
News:Christian Ehrhoff's overtime goal sailed over Minnesota goalie Niklas Backstrom's stick and salvaged a badly needed victory for Brian Boucher and the San Jose Sharks, who blew a three-goal lead but beat the Wild 5-4 on Tuesday. Boucher held a 3-0 lead 5:40 into the second and 4-2 lead 10:25 into the third before Owen Nolan tied the game with two goals in the final seven minutes. Ehrhoff's overtime winner, however, gave Boucher his first win in five outings. He made 25 saves.
Analysis: The Wild were down 3-0 -- the same deficit they faced six days earlier in San Jose before surging to tie the game on Marek Zidlicky's fluke goal that Boucher bumbled. Mikko Koivu, who set up Nolan's first goal by hustling to take the puck away in the corner after the Sharks won a faceoff, had the winner in overtime last Wednesday. It was almost deja vu for Boucher, but luckily Ehrhoff came to his aid. Boucher continues to start for Evgeni Nabokov, who is out until at least Saturday against the Kings with a lower-body injury. Boucher remains just a stopgap Fantasy option. The Sharks TG has high-end Fantasy appeal when Nabokov is active.
News: San Jose goalie Evgeni Nabokov and defenseman Rob Blake will miss both games on the Sharks' upcoming road trip because of injuries. Nabokov, second in the NHL with 32 victories, has missed five games due to an undisclosed lower body injury. He didn't travel with the Sharks on Monday to Minnesota for a trip that includes games against the Wild and the St. Louis Blues. Brian Boucher will continue to start in Nabokov's place.
Analysis: Boucher is 1-3-1 in his last five starts in place of Nabokov. He has allowed three or more goals in his last four outings, with no victories in that span. Still, the Sharks have to lean on him until Nabokov is ready to go. Consider Boucher a viable Fantasy option for Week 23 (March 9-15). The Sharks TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option without Nabokov.
News:Brian Boucher, making his fifth straight start while No. 1 goalie Evgeni Nabokov recovers from a lower-body injury, made 26 saves for the Sharks during a 3-1 loss to the Canucks Saturday. Boucher never led in the game, but San Jose did cut the lead to 2-1 in the second. However, Kevin Bieksa sealed the deal with a power-play score 11:48 into the third. Boucher is 1-3-1 in his last five starts.
Analysis: Boucher has allowed three or more goals in his last four outings, with no victories in that span. Nabokov did not make the trip to Vancouver, but is expected to be join the Sharks when their three-game road continues Tuesday in Minnesota. If he is healthy, expect Boucher to return to the bench. Boucher remains just a stopgap Fantasy option, and the Sharks TG is a high-end option when Nabokov is active.
News:Marek Zidlicky scored Minnesota's tying goal from mid-ice when San Jose goalie Brian Boucher made a humiliating blunder on the puck, and Mikko Koivu scored his second goal with 13.3 seconds left in overtime in the Wild's 4-3 victory over the Sharks on Thursday. Zidlicky completed Minnesota's comeback from a three-goal deficit with 7:37 left in regulation when his dump-in backhand from just past the center line somehow bounced between the legs of Boucher, who whiffed with his glove like a nervous shortstop. Boucher made 32 saves in his fourth straight start in place Evgeni Nabokov, who is day-to-day with a lower-body injury.
Analysis: Coach Todd McLellan has been wanting to get Boucher more playing time down the stretch, but he might want to reconsider now that Boucher has lost the last three games and really blew it Thursday. It appears as though he is better in a backup role. San Jose can't wait to get Nabokov back and healthy. Boucher remains just a stopgap Fantasy option, and the Sharks TG is a high-end option when Nabokov is active.
News: Sharks backup goalie Brian Boucher made 27 saves in his third straight start in place of Evgeni Nabokov, who apparently has the flu, during Tuesday's 4-1 loss to the Stars. Boucher never led in the game, but was locked in a 1-all tie before Mike Modano scored the go-ahead goal 4:24 into the second. Dallas added two more scores in the third period to send Boucher to a second straight loss.
Analysis: Boucher has allowed seven goals in his last two starts and the Sharks are just itching to get Nabokov back in net. While Boucher has done an admirable job as a backup in 2008-09, he still isn't at the talent level of Nabokov. Boucher still has low-end Fantasy appeal. The Sharks TG remains a high-end Fantasy option.
News:Andrei Markov and Saku Koivu each had a goal and an assist in Montreal's three-goal first period against Brian Boucher and the Canadiens held on for a 3-2 victory over the San Jose Sharks on Saturday. Josh Gorges also scored in the first for Montreal, which beat Boucher three times in a 6:42 span to take a 3-0 lead. Boucher stopped 18 shots in his second start in a row, including a 2-1 win in Ottawa on Thursday night. He made 11 saves over the final two scoreless periods, but San Jose couldn't rally for the win.
Analysis: After Boucher did so well in net Thursday, coach Todd McLellan opted to give him another start to rest up Evgeni Nabokov, who has been run ragged over the last few months. Nabokov will likely return to net Tuesday against the Stars, making Boucher a seldom-used backup again. He has very little Fantasy value at this time. The Sharks TG remains a high-end Fantasy option.
News:Brian Boucher made 23 saves for the NHL-leading Sharks during Thursday's 2-1 win against the Senators. Mike Fisher opened the scoring with his ninth goal 13:46 in. The center deflected defenseman Chris Campoli's shot past Boucher while San Jose left wing Tomas Plihal was serving a tripping penalty. Boucher then stopped 13 shots over the final two scoreless periods for his first win since Jan. 10.
Analysis: Boucher hasn't allowed more than two goals in his last seven outings dating back to Nov. 17. For a seldom-used backup, Boucher does an admirable job when called into action. If he wasn't behind Evgeni Nabokov, Boucher might be starting in the NHL. But since he is stuck in San Jose, he has very little Fantasy value at this time. The Sharks TG remains a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Sharks G Brian Boucher excelled in a rare chance to start on Wednesday, blocking 35 shots and allowing only one goal in a 2-1 shootout loss to the Penguins. It was Boucher's 11th decision of the season as his record fell to 9-1-2 on the year. It was his first starting opportunity since Han. 10 against Vancouver.
Analysis: Boucher is not going to get many opportunities in San Jose as long as Evgeni Nabokov is healthy. Nabokov has been one of the best goalies in the league this season. Boucher has been impressive when filling in but isn't really worth owning beyond a flier in Fantasy since Nabokov returned from injury in December. The Sharks TG is a high-end option on the other hand.
News:The Sports Xchange reports while the focus in the Sharks' goal is the excellent season unfolding for Evgeni Nabokov, it's important not to forget the importance of keeping backup Brian Boucher somewhat fresh. Sharks coach Todd McLellan realizes that fact as much as anyone. "Bouche needs to play," McLellan said. "With five games left before the All-Star break, I want to make sure that he gets a chance to play. He got a couple periods in Calgary -- no, not by design -- and he's played well all year when we've asked him to, especially on the road."
Analysis: Boucher, who relieved Nabokov in Calgary on the first stop of the three-game trip, made his first start Saturday night at Vancouver since Dec. 15 at Los Angeles and stopped 24 shots to improve to 9-1-1 this season. Might he get one more start before the break? "Potentially," McLellan told the paper. "We'll play it by ear as we go along." Boucher has been an adequate backup for San Jose, but hasn't played much since Nabokov returned from injury in December. Boucher is back to being just a flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News: San Jose backup G Brian Boucher got the start on Saturday night against the Vancouver Canucks and looked a lot like the team's No. 1 option. Boucher stopped 24 of 26 shots in the game and allowed just two goals to take a 4-2 win and improve to 9-1-1 on the season.
Analysis: Boucher has been incredibly hot lately as he's won six straight starts for the Sharks. That said, he's nowhere near overtaking Evgeni Nabokov as the team's No. 1 option. Boucher is back to being just a flier in leagues that use average points per game and the TG Sharks are a very high-end option.
News: Sharks G Evgeni Nabokov was chased from Tuesday's 5-2 loss against the Flames after Daymond Langkow scored his second goal of the game 1:26 into the second period. Nabokov made 14 saves and allowed four goals before being replaced by Brian Boucher, who finished up with nine saves on 10 shots.
Analysis: Boucher has won his last five decisions dating back to Nov. 13 and has lost just once this season for San Jose. He has been an adequate backup for San Jose, but hasn't plaued much since Nabokov returned from injury in December. Boucher is back to being just a flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News: Sharks G Brian Boucher made 26 saves during Monday's 3-2 shootout win Kings in his 10th start this season and first since beating Washington on Nov. 22. Boucher fought back from a 2-0 deficit and allowed just one goal in the shootout while the Sharks scored twice for the win.
Analysis: Boucher has won his last five starts, but hasn't seen much playing time since Evgeni Nabokov returned from a lower-body injury. Boucher is a solid backup goalie, but he is not a threat to Nabokov at this time. He remains a Fantasy flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Sharks TG is a high-end Fantasy option.
News: San Jose defeated Washington 7-2 on Saturday night as goalie Brian Boucher needed to stop just 19 shots to earn the victory. He allowed just two goals in the easy win.
Analysis: Boucher improved his record to 7-1-1 on the season and he's won four straight for the Sharks. He's starting for as long as Evgeni Nabokov is out but the starter is nearing a return. The longer Boucher stays hot in net, the longer San Jose can afford to rest Nabokov. However, once Nabokov is healthy, Boucher is back on the bench. Consider Boucher a stopgap Fantasy option but that makes him a tough start in Week 8 if Nabokov returns. The Sharks TG is still a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Sharks G Brian Boucher stopped 32 shots during a 4-1 win Monday against the Predators. David Legwand ruined Boucher's shutout bid at the 9:27 in the third period. He skated into the slot on a breakaway and converted the rebound when his first shot bounced off Boucher, who was making his sixth straight start in place of the injured Evgeni Nabokov (lower body).
Analysis: Boucher has won his last three starts and four since taking over for the injured Nabokov, who is still day-to-day. The longer Boucher stays hot in net, the longer San Jose can afford to rest Nabokov. However, once Nabokov is healthy, Boucher is back on the bench. Consider Boucher a stopgap Fantasy option for Week 7 (Nov. 17-23). The Sharks TG is still a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Sharks G Brian Boucher stopped 28 shots during a 6-5 loss to the Blackhawks Sunday. He was making his fifth straight start in place of the injured Evgeni Nabokov, who remains day-to-day with a lower-body injury. Boucher allowed one short-handed goal and two power-play scores. He also trailed 5-4 going into the final period before shutting out the Blackhawks on eight shots.
Analysis: Boucher has won three of the five starts in place of Nabokov and continues to provide San Jose with solid appearances. The longer he stays hot in net, the longer San Jose can afford to rest Nabokov. However, once Nabokov is healthy, Boucher is back on the bench. Consider Boucher a stopgap Fantasy option for Week 7 (Nov. 17-23). The Sharks TG is still a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Sharks G Brian Boucher made 23 saves during Thursday's 6-1 win against the Flames in his fourth consecutive start in place of injured Evgeni Nabokov, who still could be a few days away from resuming action. Michael Cammalleri scored a power-play goal with 9:47 left to break up Boucher's shutout bid.
Analysis: Boucher won for the first time in three starts Thursday, but has won four times this season and has allowed one or no goals in each victory. As long as he remains strong in net, the Sharks can be patient with Nabokov. If Boucher is still in net Sunday against the Blackhawks, then he might be a decent stopgap option again for Week 7 (Nov. 17-23). The Sharks TG has high-end Fantasy potential at most times.
News: San Jose could not extend its home winning streak without starter Evgeni Nabokov on Tuesday night against the Nashville Predators. Nashville beat G Brian Boucher in overtime 4-3. Boucher stopped 24 shots and allowed four goals, the last coming in the extra frame from Ville Koistinen at the 2:28 mark.
Analysis: Boucher has been solid in net four Nabokov as he's started three straight. He's 1-1-1 in the three games with eight goals allowed. He has been a solid backup to Nabokov and could see a few more starts if Nabokov is not ready to play. Boucher remains a viable stopgap Fantasy option for the time being, but San Jose continues to say Nabokov is just day-to-day. The Sharks TG remains a high-end option.
News: Sharks G Brian Boucher made 26 saves during a 4-2 loss to the Coyotes Sunday. Boucher was making his second straight start in place of the injured Evgeni Nabokov, who is day-to-day with a lower-body injury. San Jose took a 2-0 lead 10:30 into the game, but Boucher then allowed Phoenix to tie it up 2:04 later. Phoenix got the game-winning goal on a Peter Mueller power-play scored 2:02 into the second period and ice the game with an empty-net goal in the third.
Analysis: Boucher was pretty darn solid in his first three outings of the season, posting a 3-0-0 record, .985 save percentage and two shutouts. He has been a solid backup to Nabokov and could see a few more starts if Nabokov is not ready to play by Tuesday against the Predators. Boucher remains a viable stopgap Fantasy option for the time being, but San Jose continues to say Nabokov is just day-to-day. The Sharks TG remains a high-end option.
News: San Jose G Brian Boucher stopped 23 shots on Saturday against Dallas and won 2-1. Boucher allowed just the one goal in the game and improved his record to 3-0-0 on the season in three starts. Boucher was starting for the injured Evgeni Nabokov.
Analysis: Boucher hadn't been in net since Oct. 25 against Tampa Bay. He won that game by stopping 22 shots and didn't allow a single goal. In fact, his two previous starts before Saturday were both shutouts. He's now allowed just one goal in three games. Boucher has had great success in his first season under Todd McLellan, but despite two shutouts, he is only going to see more playing time if Nabokov is out for a long period due to injury. Boucher is definitely worth adding if you own Nabokov, but he might just be a short-term stopgap option in the event Nabokov is only out a few games. The Sharks TG still have high-end Fantasy potential without Nabokov.
News: Goalie Evgeni Nabokov might not play in the NHL-leading San Jose Sharks' next game after injuring himself while making the final stop in their shootout victory over St. Louis on Thursday night. Nabokov, a finalist for the Vezina Trophy as the NHL's top goalie last year, has a lower-body injury, the Sharks said Friday .He gave up four goals to the Blues Thursday before coming up big in the shootout, stopping three of four shots to keep San Jose unbeaten in eight home games this season. But Nabokov got up slowly after stretching his legs to stop Patrik Berglund on St. Louis' final shootout try. Nabokov skated gingerly off the ice, and he didn't practice Friday. The Sharks have a more-than-capable backup in Brian Boucher, who has posted shutouts in his only two starts this season. He's likely to play Saturday night when the Sharks host the Dallas Stars.
Analysis: Boucher has had great success in his first season under Todd McLellan, but despite two shutouts, he is only going to see more playing time if Nabokov is out for a long period due to injury. Boucher is definitely worth adding if you own Nabokov, but he might just be a short-term stopgap option in the event Nabokov is only out a few games.
News:Evgeni Nabokov made 25 saves and stopped three consecutive Blues in the shootout for San Jose during a 5-4 victory Thursday, but the Sharks might have paid the ultimate price as Nabokov had to be helped off the ice after the game. Nabokov made a sprawling save of a Patrik Berglund shot to secure the win for San Jose in the shootout, but the All-Star goalie laid face down on the ice for several minutes before being helped off the ice by trainers. He did not put any weight on his left leg and hobbled to the locker room once off the ice. Nabokov allowed just one power-play goal while winning for the 10th time and fifth in-a-row. If Nabokov is unable to play Saturday against the Stars, Brian Boucher will likely dress in his absence.
Analysis: It definitely appeared as though Nabokov might have injured his groin Thursday since he went full butterfly to stop Berglund from scoring. This is definitely not good news in Fantasy terms since earlier in the week we learned that Martin Brodeur would miss 3-4 months following elbow surgery. It would be very eerie if we lost another high-end No. 1 Fantasy goalie in the same week. Nabokov owners will want to keep their fingers crossed and hope for the best, but in the mean time you might want to add Boucher just in case the injury isn't minor. The Sharks TG still has high-end Fantasy potential without Nabokov.
News: Backup G Brian Boucher made 22 saves for his second shutout this season and the San Jose Sharks beat the Tampa Bay Lightning 3-0 on Saturday night. Boucher turned aside 21 shots in his first game of the season in San Jose's 1-0 win over the Los Angles Kings 1-0 on Oct. 12.
Analysis: Boucher, making just his second start, picked up his second shutout. He's made 43 saves this season without allowing a goal. He might get 1-2 starts every few weeks, but Evgeni Nabokov is still going to carry this team, so Boucher only remains a flier in Fantasy leagues that use average points per game. The Sharks TG is a must-start Fantasy option.
News:Brian Boucher made 21 saves to lead the Sharks to a 1-0 victory against the Los Angeles Kings on Sunday night. Boucher was making his first start of the season for San Jose. He won all three of his starts last season after being signed as a free agent in late February. "I'm really, really happy for Boucher," said Sharks coach Todd McLellan, who has quickly found success in his first season with the team. "He probably didn't have the preseason that he'd like -- he'd probably admit that. Coming in behind (Evgeni Nabokov) you never know when you're going to get your starts. Bouche stepped up and he was probably our best player tonight and you need that when you're playing ugly, so we're real proud of him."
Analysis: Boucher almost didn't have the shutout Sunday, but the refs bailed him out twice. With Lukas Kaspar serving a hooking penalty, Kings defenseman Tom Preissing sent a slap shot from the left point past Boucher, but the goal was disallowed because of a crease violation. Minutes later, Los Angeles forward Matt Moulson followed up on his own shot, crashing the net and colliding with Boucher as the puck skittered in. But after a lengthy replay review, it was ruled Moulson had directed the puck in with a distinct kicking motion. Boucher now has 15 career shutouts. He might get 1-2 starts every few weeks, but Nabokov is going to carry this team, so Boucher only remains a flier in Fantasy leagues that use average points per game. The Sharks TG is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: The San Jose Sharks got off to a head start on their offseason moves, re-signing forwards Joe Pavelski and Jeremy Roenick and backup goaltender Brian Boucher on Wednesday, six days before the start of the free-agency period. Roenick and Boucher, who each received a one-year contract, would have become unrestricted free agents on July 1. Pavelski, who would have been a restricted free agent, got a two-year deal from the Sharks.
Analysis: Boucher played only five games for the Sharks after being picked up in late February as the backup to Evgeni Nabokov. Boucher had three wins and a 1.76 goals against average in his limited playing time. Wilson expects Boucher to make an even bigger contribution next season as the team tries to lighten the load on Nabokov, who played in a team-record 77 games during the regular season and all 13 games in the playoffs. "I think they work well together," Wilson said. "I don't think you'll see Nabber playing the same number of games as he did last year. Having two guys like this enables that to take place. Our goal is to be healthy and rested come playoff time and when you have two guys like this, that should be able to happen." Still, Boucher will be nothing more than a low-end Fantasy flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News:Brian Boucher made 23 saves and the San Jose Sharks wrapped up the Pacific Division title with a 3-1 victory Friday night over the defending Stanley Cup champion Anaheim Ducks. The Sharks won their third division crown and first since the 2002-03 season. Anaheim, second in the division, has three games remaining and trails San Jose by eight points. The Ducks had won 10 straight at home.
Analysis: Boucher shut out the Ducks after the first period, and Jeremy Roenick and Curtis Brown scored second-period goals for the Sharks. Boucher has allowed just three goals in four games since being signed by the Sharks on Feb. 26. Boucher has won three of four appearances for the Sharks since coming over from the Philadelphia Phantoms in late February. He will relied upon to be a veteran presence in the locker room as the Sharks make a run at the Stanley Cup, but his Fantasy value is limited at this point.
News: Sharks backup G Brian Boucher replaced the ineffective Evgeni Nabokov in Tuesday's 5-4 loss to the Coyotes. He faced 10 shots in 19:18, allowing one goal.
Analysis: Boucher has only made three appearances for the Sharks since coming over from the Philadelphia Phantoms in late February. He will relied upon to be a veteran presence in the locker room as the Sharks make a run at the Stanley Cup, but his Fantasy value is zero at this point.
News:Brian Boucher stopped 29 shots for his second victory in two starts with the San Jose Sharks, who got goals from Joe Thornton and Patrick Rismiller in a 2-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday night, their ninth straight on the road.
Analysis: Boucher also won a start in place of Evgeni Nabokov on March 1. The 31-year-old is the regular backup to Nabokov and with performances like this one, he might be getting a few more games under his belt to allow nabokov to get some rest ahead of the playoffs.
News: Rescued from the minors earlier in the week, Brian Boucher made 23 saves in his first start of the season as the San Jose Sharks beat the St. Louis Blues for a 2-0 victory Saturday night, their fifth straight win. Boucher, a former first-round draft pick and member of the NHL's all-rookie team in 1999-2000, had four shutouts for the AHL's Philadelphia Phantoms this season to earn another chance. He picked up his first win since March 3, 2007, at Phoenix and first shutout since Nov. 12, 2006, against the Blue Jackets.
Analysis: While Evgeni Nabokov had a rare night off, the 31-year-old Boucher was tested most in the first period when he faced 11 shots. It seems Boucher will be the regular backup to Nabokov and with performances like this one, he is going to see some starts down the stretch to rest Nabokov for the playoffs.
News: The San Jose Sharks signed goalie Brian Boucher on Tuesday, securing a veteran backup to ironman starter Evgeni Nabokov. Boucher has spent this season with the AHL's Philadelphia Phantoms, but the former first-round draft pick has played in 220 NHL games for Philadelphia, Phoenix, Calgary, Chicago and Columbus. He is 23-16-1 this season with a 2.47 goals-against average, a .917 save percentage and four shutouts for the Phantoms.
Analysis: The 31-year-old Boucher, who has played in 21 NHL playoff games, will join Thomas Greiss and Dimitri Patzold as the seldom-used backups to Nabokov, who has started all but two of the Sharks' 62 games this season. Both Greiss, who has the Sharks' only other two starts this season, and Patzold are rookies. Boucher might get the odd spot start down the stretch, but he shouldn't be added to any Fantasy rosters at this point.
News: Brian Boucher is 4-0 with a 1.50 GAA in four games for the Philadelphia Phantoms of the AHL. He has allowed just six goals in 124 shots.
Analysis: Boucher remains an injury replacement option for the Flyers if Antero Nittymaki and Martin Biron get hurt, but he has little Fantasy value right now.
News: The Philadelphia Flyers signed goaltender Brian Boucher to a deal with the minor league Phantoms of the AHL on Monday. Boucher, who helped lead the Flyers to the 2000 Eastern Conference finals during an earlier three-season stint with Philadelphia, played in 18 regular-season games last season with the Chicago Blackhawks and Columbus Blue Jackets. He went 2-11-3 with a 3.34 goals-against-average last season.
Analysis: With the Flyers, Boucher was 46-38-12, with a 2.45 GAA and seven shutouts, in 103 regular-season games from 1999-2002. The 30-year-old goalie is 77-96-33 with a 2.79 GAA and 13 shutouts, in 220 NHL games over seven seasons with Philadelphia, Phoenix, Calgary, Chicago and Columbus. He is only worth a look in deeper Fantasy leagues if Martin Biron or Antero Niittymaki suffer a long-term injury.
News: Columbus' Brian Boucher, who started the season with the Blackhawks, made 22 saves, including a blocker stop on penalty shot by Chicago's Duncan Keith midway through the third.
Analysis: Boucher has allowed three goals in four straight games and he's 1-2 in that time. He rebounded from his last start (March 17 against L.A.), but he's still only worth owning in larger leagues.
News: Brian Boucher allowed three goals on his first seven shots in Saturday's game at Los Angeles and he was pulled after making the rare start. Fredrik Norrena relieved him, allowing two goals on 15 shots.
Analysis: Boucher will likely be back to the bench for Tuesday's game against the Blackhawks. Set your daily Fantasy lineups accordingly.
News: G Brian Boucher made his Blue Jackets debut on Saturday against the Coyotes. He stopped 32 shots in a 4-3 win. It was the first time he was in net since Jan. 19 against the Wild when he still was with the Blackhawks.
Analysis: Boucher will provide organizational depth and will be a nice backup for Fredrik Norrena. His Fantasy value is reserved to the largest of formats which average points per game in a scoring period.
News: Brian Boucher has been claimed off waivers from the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday, as he will now serve as the No. 3 goaltender in Columbus following the trade of Ty Conklin to Buffalo.
Analysis: Boucher will provide organizational depth and will be a nice backup for Fredrik Norrena until Pascal Leclaire (knee) is ready to return. His Fantasy value is reserved to the largest of formats which average points per game in a scoring period.
News: The Arlington Heights Daily Herald reports Nikolai Khabibulin will start Wednesday's game at Detroit and Sunday's game against St. Louis, while Patrick Lalime is set to face San Jose on Thursday.
Analysis: Set your daily lineups accordingly for the next three games. The Blackhawks also have Brian Boucher on the roster and one of three goaltenders will likely be dealt by the Feb. 27 NHL trade deadline.
News: Brian Boucher made 23 saves in his first start since Dec. 9 for Chicago, which lost 3-0 to the Wild on Friday.
Analysis: If Boucher is only going to get one start a month, he is not worth owning in Fantasy leagues at this time.
News: Blackhawks starting goalie Nikolai Khabibulin lasted less than two minutes into the second period on Friday before being replaced by backup Brian Boucher. Khabibulin allowed four goals on 13 shots before being replaced. Boucher was not much better allowing four goals on 17 shots in a 8-3 loss to the Predators.
Analysis: After a great run in December, Khabibulin has now lost three of his last four starts. He remains a decent No. 2 goalie, but don't be surprised if someone else starts in net for the Blackhawks next time out. Boucher is a poor Fantasy option at this time.
News: Chicago's Nikolai Khabibulin made his 10th straight start on Friday, but was pulled for the first time this season after allowing three goals on seven shots in the first period. Brian Boucher replaced him to start the second, and permitted one goal on 13 shots. The Blackhawks lost 5-3 to the Bruins.
Analysis: Boucher might have earned himself a start next time out after a solid relief performance on Friday. Still, he is a poor Fantasy option. While Khabibulin remains a solid Fantasy goalie.
News: According to the Chicago Tribune, The Blackhawks will send G Patrick Lalime, out all season with a back injury, on a conditioning assignment sometime after New Year's Day. He will go down to Norfolk for a two-week conditioning stint. Once he is done, the Blackhawks intend to carry three goalies (Lalime, Nikolai Khabibulin and Brian Boucher).
Analysis: Lalime, signed for $700,000, injured his back right before the start of training camp and needed surgery. That opened the door for Boucher, who had a strong training camp and earned a one-way $475,000 contract. Khabibulin has been playing exceptionally strong as of late and will likely continue to get the bulk of starts when Lalime returns. Khabibulin still remains a solid Fantasy option, while Boucher and Lalime will only be useful as No. 3 Fantasy goalies when the new year rolls around.
News: Blackhawks G Brian Boucher stopped 33 shots on Saturday in a 5-4 loss to the Wild.
Analysis: Boucher should not be starting in any Fantasy format at this time.
News: Brian Boucher allowed two goals on 27 shots in Thursday's game at Phoenix before losing in a shootout.
Analysis: Boucher was likely making his last start in a while, as Nikolai Khabibulin (finger) was activated from injured reserve and served as his backup.
News: The Arlington Heights Daily Herald reports Nikolai Khabibulin (finger) will come off of injured reserve, but head coach Trent Yawney said Brian Boucher deserve the start Thursday at Phoenix after his shutout on Sunday.
Analysis: Keep Boucher in the active Fantasy lineup for at least one more game. Set your daily Fantasy lineups accordingly.
News: Brian Boucher stopped 28 shots for his 13th NHL shutout and first victory with the Blackhawks, a 1-0 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Sunday night. "It's a huge sense of relief, but it wasn't getting to my head," said Boucher, 1-7-1 this season. "You know you can win. It's just a matter of getting that first one."
Analysis: This might have been Boucher's last hurrah, as Nikolai Khabibulin (finger) might be able to return for Thursday's game at Phoenix. After a shutout, it is difficult to reserve a goaltender, but Boucher should be kept reserved in all Fantasy leagues just in case the 'Bulin Wall is ready to return. Better to be safe than end up with a zero for Fantasy Week 7 (Nov. 13-19).
News: According to chicagoblackhawks.com, goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin, who has missed six games in a row with a broken finger, might not return until Sunday's game against Columbus.
Analysis: If so, Yawney will have to decide between Boucher and backup Sebastien Caron in goal against St. Louis Friday. Despite a respectable 3.38 goals-against average, Boucher is 0-7-1 and still seeking his first win since playing with Calgary in February. Caron has yet to appear in a game since being recalled Oct. 22 from Norfolk of the AHL. Obviously, Boucher is the better play in Fantasy leagues, despite being winless, if he's getting starts over Caron.
News: Brian Boucher allowed just one goal on 27 shots in Thursday's game at New Jersey, but he took the loss in the shootout.
Analysis: Boucher has lost all eight of his starts this season. His last win came as a member of the Calgary Flames on Feb. 10 against St. Louis. Avoid him in all daily Fantasy leagues until he can produce a win or two.
News: Brian Boucher is expected to get the start on Thursday at New Jersey, as Nikolai Khabibulin (finger) is still not expected to be ready.
Analysis: Boucher has lost all seven of his starts this season while posting a 3.75 GAA. His last win came as a member of the Calgary Flames on Feb. 10 against St. Louis. Avoid him in all daily Fantasy leagues for this difficult matchup.
News: Brian Boucher, making his fifth straight start in place of injured Nikolai Khabibulin, blocked 27 shots on Thursday but took a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to the Red Wings.
Analysis: Boucher is now 0-7-0 on the season. Boucher is keeping the position warm until Khabibulin (broken finger) is able to return and has done nothing to make the coaches think twice about leaving him in net. Boucher remains a poor Fantasy option at this time.
News: Brian Boucher allowed five goals on 24 shots in Tuesday's game at N.Y. Islanders, but his performance was not as bad as the statistics seem to indicate. Three of the goals came on the power play, as the Blackhawks took a lot of undisciplined penalties in front of him.
Analysis: Boucher is keeping the position warm until Nikolai Khabibulin (broken finger) is able to return. According to Tuesday's telecast of the Blackhawks-Islanders game, he is targeting a Nov. 9 return at New Jersey.
News: Chicago's Brian Boucher, a first-round draft pick of the Flyers in 1995, was effective in stopping 32 of 34 shots in a loss at Philadelphia Monday. Boucher played for the third straight game, replacing Nikolai Khabibulin, who is expected to be sidelined up to two weeks because of a broken finger.
Analysis: Boucher has yet to win this season in five tries, but he did put together a solid effort here, so keeping him as a reserve goalie is recommended. Keep the 'Hawks TG reserved for now.
News: Chicago's Brian Boucher started for the second straight game on Saturday in place of Nikolai Khabibulin and made 19 saves in a 3-0 loss to the Ducks.
Analysis: Boucher has not been good in four starts and now is 0-4-0 on the season. Consider putting the Blackhawks TG on reserve until Boucher turns his game around or until Khabibulin returns in a few weeks. Boucher is a poor Fantasy option at the time.
News: In his first start since being named the team's starting goaltender, Blackhawks G Brian Boucher stopped 26 shots in a 5-0 loss to the Canucks.
Analysis: Boucher has been absolutely horrendous in three starts and now is 0-3-0 on the season. Consider putting the Blackhawks TG on reserve until Boucher turns his game around or until Nikolai Khabibulin returns in a few weeks. Boucher is a poor Fantasy option at the time.
News: Nikolai Khabibulin suffered a broken right finger during warmups on Saturday and is expected to miss at least two weeks due to the injury. Brian Boucher will take over as the full-time starter in Chicago while he is on the mend.
Analysis: Reserve the 'Bulin Wall in all Fantasy leagues until he is healthy enough to return. If your league has injured spots, place Khabibulin there and scoop up Boucher immediately. The Blackhawks TG takes a bit of a hit in terms of Fantasy value, although Boucher can be capable when he is on his game.
News: Blackhawks backup goalie Brian Boucher stopped 35 shots Friday but the Blackhawks lost 5-4 to Dallas.
Analysis: Boucher is not worth owning in most Fantasy leagues. The veteran will serve as the backup to Nikolai Khabibulin, at least until Patrick Lalime (back, knee) is ready to return in early November. He is not worth adding unless the 'Bulin Wall suffers a long-term injury to open up a starting job.
News: Blackhawks backup goalie Brian Boucher stopped 24 shots Saturday but the Blackhawks lost 4-3 to St. Louis.
Analysis: Boucher is not worth owning in most Fantasy leagues. The veteran will serve as the backup to Nikolai Khabibulin, at least until Patrick Lalime (back, knee) is ready to return in early November. He is not worth adding unless the 'Bulin Wall suffers a long-term injury to open up a starting job.
News: Brian Boucher, who has had a strong training camp and preseason, signed a one-year contract with the Chicago Blackhawks on Monday.
Analysis: The veteran will serve as the backup to Nikolai Khabibulin, at least until Patrick Lalime (back, knee) is ready to return in early November. He is not worth adding unless the 'Bulin Wall suffers a long-term injury to open up a starting job.
News: Brian Boucher, invited to training camp on a tryout basis, stopped 26 shots to lead the Chicago Blackhawks to a 2-0 win over the St. Louis Blues on Tuesday night in the exhibition opener for both teams.
Analysis: Boucher is battling Sebastien Caron for the backup job to start Nikolai Khabibulin in Chicago while Patrick Lalime (back, knee) is sidelined. Even if he can win the job, his Fantasy value will be minimal.
News: Patrick Lalime is expected to have back surgery on Friday and he will be sidelined anywhere between four and 12 weeks while recovering. He was already recovering from a torn anterior cruciate ligament which ended his 2005-06 season prematurely.
Analysis: With Lalime on the shelf, the backup job to starter Nikolai Khabibulin will be a battle between Brian Boucher and Sebastien Caron. In any event, neither Boucher or Caron are not worthy of any Fantasy consideration.
News: Mike Leclerc and Brian Boucher were traded to the Flames for Philippe Sauve and Steve Reinprecht on Wednesday.
Analysis: Boucher might see a little more time for the Flames, giving Miikka Kiprusoff a break now and then. He remains useful only in larger Fantasy leagues that average points per game.
News: Boucher allowed one goal on six shots in Tuesday's game against the Canucks in relief of Curtis Joseph.
Analysis: Boucher will likely get the start on Thursday against the Kings, as Curtis Joseph was brutal against the Canucks.
News: Brian Boucher allowed six goals on just 34 shots in Monday's game against the Capitals to suffer the loss.
Analysis: After looking sharp in place of an ineffective Curtis Joseph, Boucher blew his chance to take a step towards No. 1 goaltender duties by getting pounded by one of the worst teams in the league. Meanwhile, CuJo was impressive in a 4-3 win at Toronto on Saturday, so expect the veteran back between the pipes on Thursday against Florida. Set your daily lineups accordingly.
News: The Arizona Republic reports Brian Boucher will get the start in Thursday's game at Los Angeles in place of the struggling Curtis Joseph.
Analysis: Set your lineups accordingly in all daily Fantasy leagues.
News: The Arizona Republic reports Brian Boucher is expected to get the start on Saturday against Colorado, as Curtis Joseph has struggled mightily over the past six games allowing 22 goals.
Analysis: Set your daily Fantasy lineups accordingly, although Boucher is not that attractive of an option against Colorado's offense.
News: Brian Boucher allowed two goals on 24 shots in Monday's game after taking over for an ineffective Curtis Joseph midway through the first period.
Analysis: Curtis Joseph is 6-3-0 over his past nine games and is firmly entrenched as the No. 1 goaltender, but he cannot afford many more games such as Monday's with a healthy Boucher back and pushing him for playing time.
News: Boucher (groin) was activated from injured reserve to start Saturday's game at Los Angeles. He allowed four goals and made 33 saves in his season debut.
Analysis: Boucher will serve as the backup to Curtis Joseph and is not worth a roster spot in any Fantasy league unless CuJo suffers a long-term injury.
News: Brian Boucher (groin), on a conditioning assignment with San Antonio of the AHL, aggravated his groin injury.
Analysis: The team's medical staff determined he aggravated the scar tissue. It is uncertain when he will be able to return to the team in Phoenix, but there is no rush.
News: Boucher was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday due to a groin injury.
Analysis: Boucher suffered the injury early in training camp and has had trouble recovering. He is out until at least mid-October, so Curtis Joseph has the chance to get off to a quick start and grab hold of the No. 1 job.
News: Wayne Gretzky's Phoenix Coyotes beat the Minnesota Wild 3-2 in his coaching debut on Friday night. But goalie Brian Boucher left with a groin injury that occurred after the preseason opener ended.
Analysis: It came in an exhibition of the shootout that will be used in tie games under the NHL's new rules. There will be such exhibitions after all preseason games as part of the effort to let fans know that after labor strife killed an entire season, the league has made significant changes in an attempt to make the game more exciting. The status of Boucher's injury is unclear.
News: Brian Boucher was not given a qualifying offer from the Phoenix Coyotes on Monday, so he is now an unrestricted free agent.
Analysis: Boucher might try and sign a deal later for less money against the new salary cap. The team might look at former Phoenix netminders Sean Burke or Nikolai Khabibulin to return.
News: The Arizona Republic reports that Boucher will start in goal against San Jose Friday. He was named the No. 1 goalie Thursday, despite being 9-17-10 since his record-breaking shutout streak.
Analysis: Boucher has played well recently with 78 total saves and two ties.
News: Brian Boucher made a career-high 44 saves on Saturday against Detroit to pick up another win.
Analysis: Boucher is only a solid No. 2 or 3 Fantasy goaltender in larger leagues while he remains behind Sean Burke on the depth chart despite his sensational scoreless streak earlier in the month.
News: Brian Boucher allowed three goals in Tuesday's game against Vancouver.
Analysis: Boucher made his seventh consecutive start. He will likely sit Thursday at Nashville in place of Sean Burke.
News: Brian Boucher's scoreless streak ended at 6:16 of the first period on Sunday when he was beaten by Atlanta's Randy Robitaille on a power play goal. After five straight shutouts and a streak of 332:01, the longest scoreless stretch in the NHL modern-era, Boucher is back to being the No. 2 goaltender.
Analysis: Coach Bob Francis said he will give Sean Burke the start against Vancouver on Tuesday now that the impressive streak has come to an end. Boucher might start again on Thursday at Nashville. Despite all of the solid play of late, Boucher might only be in line for one start this week, so set your lineup accordingly.
News: Boucher had 21 saves Friday at Minnesota for his fifth consecutive shutout of the season. He has not allowed a goal in his past 325:45 of playing time. The five-plus hours of keeping a net empty are a new modern NHL record.
Analysis: Phoenix will obviously stick with Boucher against Atlanta Sunday. Fantasy owners should do likewise during this amazing streak.
News: Boucher made 27 saves at Washington to record his fourth consecutive shutout on Wednesday.
Analysis: Boucher is the first netminder in nearly 55 years to accomplish the feat. His scoreless streak is at 265:45. Bill Durnan of Montreal is the only goaltender in the modern era with a longer streak at 309:21. Boucher will look to set the record on Friday at Minnesota.
News: Brian Boucher stopped all 26 Carolina shots on Sunday for his third consecutive shutout.
Analysis: Boucher has made all 82 saves during the three-game hot streak and he is unbeaten in his past seven starts (4-0-3).
News: The Coyotes left Boucher unprotected for Friday's NHL waiver draft, according to the Arizona Republic. "They're playing a percentage game," he said. "They're hoping no one will pick up my salary. I have the feeling that I'm still wanted here and it's a tough decision they had to make. It's a little unfortunate that they are in a situation where they have four goalies, who are either good prospects or can play in the NHL, and they can only protect two."
Analysis: Boucher is currently slated to serve as Sean Burke's backup to start the season. Boucher is only useful as insurance for Fantasy owners who draft Burke.
News: Boucher is expected to start Tuesday against Columbus. Zac Bierk (groin) is not expected to be ready to return. Jean-Marc Pelletier will be Boucher's back up. Boucher has no Fantasy value unless he can secure a starting job.
Analysis:
News: Boucher is expected start against Dallas on Saturday. It will be his first start since Dec. 26 when he suffered a knee injury. With the emergence of Zac Bierk, the start might be an audition of sorts, as Boucher might be the odd man out with Sean Burke due to return Wednesday. Boucher might be traded before the Mar. 11 NHL trading deadline, as the club appears pleased with Zac Bierk's performance filling in for Boucher (knee) and Burke (knee).
Analysis:
News: Boucher (knee) is the backup to Zac Bierk. He is not expected to start until after the All-Star break. Bierk has played so well that he will remain the starting goaltender in Phoenix until Sean Burke (knee) returns from injury.
Analysis:
News: The Arizona Republic reports Boucher may miss 10 to 14 days. He is suffering from a deep bone bruise in his knee. With starter Sean Burke already sidelined, the goaltender duties will be handled by Zac Bierk and Jean-Marc Pelletier.
Analysis:
News: Boucher (knee) should be ready for Wednesday's game in Chicago. He is likely to serve as the Coyotes' starter for the next two to three weeks while Sean Burke nurses a knee injury of his own. Boucher is only worth using in a larger Fantasy league if you're very thin at the goalie position, and he's a risky start this week due to his injury status.
Analysis:
News: Boucher missed Friday's game in Detroit with a knee injury. He was replaced by Jean-Marc Pelletier as Sean Burke's backup. Boucher, who is day to day, has no Fantasy value as a backup.
Analysis:
News: Boucher becomes Phoenix's backup goalie after Sean Burke returned Saturday. Boucher is unlikely to get many starts now that Burke is healthy, so he's only worth keeping on a Fantasy roster as insurance for Burke owners in larger leagues.
Analysis:
News: Boucher will start for Phoenix for at least the next four weeks. Sean Burke is expected to miss at least that much time after an MRI revealed ligament damage in his knee. Boucher is worth an immediate pickup in any Fantasy league.
Analysis:
News: Boucher becomes the Coyotes' starting goaltender after Sean Burke's injury. It is unclear how long Burke will be sidelined, but Boucher is worth an immediate Fantasy pickup and might be someone to activate as a No. 2 starter for the upcoming week if Burke is expected out for long.
Analysis:
News: Boucher's Fantasy value takes a significant hit as a result of Thursday's news that Sean Burke signed a two-year contract extension. Boucher is now only useful as insurance for Fantasy owners who select Burke.
Analysis:
News: Boucher was dealt to Phoenix on Wednesday for Michal Handzus and Robert Esche. "We understood that Brian wants to be a No. 1 goalie and Cechmanek feels that he has earned the right to be No. 1," Philadelphia general manager Bobby Clarke said. "I don't think that either one was very comfortable last year, although neither one of them gave us any problems." Boucher will backup veteran Sean Burke in 2002-03.
Analysis:
News: Boucher started both of the Flyers' games this weekend, winning in Boston on Saturday. He looks fully recovered from a strained left hamstring, and it appears as if Head Coach Bill Barber is giving him a chance at the starting job once again. We're still unsure whether this is the case or the Flyers are just giving him some work while he's playing well, so if you can afford to keep Boucher and Roman Cechmanek reserved for this week to see how the starts shake out, you might want to do so.
Analysis:
News: Boucher, who has been serving as the Flyers' backup goaltender after recovering from a strained left hamstring, will start Saturday's game in Boston. It remains unclear whether he or Roman Cechmanek will be the starter for the foreseeable future, but right now we expect Cechmanek to hold the job based on recent performance. Don't activate Boucher right now.
Analysis:
News: The Flyers have cleared Boucher to return from a strained left hamstring, and he served as the backup to Roman Cechmanek Monday in Atlanta. Boucher is expected to practice a few more days before Philadelphia considers giving him a start, and we don't recommend you activate him unless it becomes clear he will be given another crack at the full-time job. Considering how well Cechmanek has played of late, we're skeptical that will come in the foreseeable future.
Analysis:
News: Boucher practiced over the weekend and presumably will return from a strained left hamstring sometime this week. We recommend you keep him reserved until he officially returns. It is unclear whether Boucher will be given back the starting job over Roman Cechmanek right now, so don't gamble with Boucher right now.
Analysis:
News: Boucher skipped practice Wednesday after feeling some soreness in his pulled left hamstring. He was hoping to play over the weekend, but now will likely be out until sometime next week. Keep Boucher reserved for the upcoming week as a result.
Analysis:
News: Boucher will practice with Philadelphia of the AHL on Tuesday as he works to return from a pulled hamstring. He would like to return Thursday against the Islanders, but is more likely to return Saturday against Minnesota. Boucher is likely to get another crack at the starting job, in which case you can activate him for the upcoming week.
Analysis:
News: Boucher might begin skating next week as he works to recover from a strained left hamstring. Roman Cechmanek hasn't been that exceptional in Boucher's absence, so expect Boucher to get a good crack at taking the full-time goaltending job back once he's healthy.
Analysis:
News: Boucher suffered a hamstring injury Thursday against Washington, and is expected to miss up to three weeks. This injury opens the door for Roman Cechmanek to reclaim the starting goaltending job, which is very bad news for Boucher. Keep Boucher reserved, and grab Cechmanek if his owner dropped him.
Analysis:
News: Boucher recorded his second straight shutout Wednesday against Pittsburgh, and has now gone 155 minutes without allowing a goal. He looks like the main man in net for the Flyers right now, which is a big blow to Roman Cechmanek's owners. You should definitely get Boucher into your active lineup right away, as he will get plenty of playing time for at least as long as he remains hot.
Analysis:
News: Boucher shut out the Washington Capitals Tuesday on 32 shots, and appears to have won the Flyers' starting goaltending job. He will make his first home start Wednesday against Pittsburgh, and could hold down the job permanently provided he plays well over the next few games. Boucher is definitely worth picking up and activating in your league, especially if you're a Roman Cechmanek owner.
Analysis:
News: Boucher will get the start in Tuesday's game in Washington, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. If he plays well, Flyers Head Coach Bill Barber has indicated that Barber could regain the starting goaltending job in Philadelphia. This is a golden opportunity for Boucher to shine, as well as for you to still claim the youngster if he's available in your league. We wouldn't be surprised if he meets the challenge and gets increased starts down the road.
Analysis:
News: Flyers Head Coach Bill Barber says Boucher has earned the right to start his second straight game Wednesday in Buffalo, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. If you're a Roman Cechmanek owner, you should probably grab Boucher now as a backup before it's too late. It's appearing as if there's a goaltending controversy in Philadelphia right now, although we imagine Cechmanek will still get the bulk of the starts, with Boucher possibly being traded to a team that will use him as its No. 1 goaltender.
Analysis:
News: Flyers Head Coach Bill Barber will start Boucher Monday in Columbus, and will give both his goaltenders starting assignments over the next several weeks, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. At that point, Barber will determine which goalie is playing better and then give him the majority of the playing time. While Barber says he's not trying to create a goaltending controversy, this clearly alters the Fantasy value of both Boucher and Roman Cechmanek for the remainder of the season. If you're a Cechmanek owner, now is as good a time as any to insure yourself by also picking up Boucher.
Analysis:
News: The Flyers will keep Boucher on the bench for the third consecutive game tonight in Toronto. Coach Craig Ramsay has been inclined to play the hotter hand in goal lately, and right now that's Roman Cechmanek. Boucher is likely to get a start this weekend, though, as the Flyers play back-to-back games Friday and Saturday. If you're still a believer, it might be time to inquire about his trade availability. Boucher's value probably will never be lower.
Analysis:
News: Boucher, whose 1.91 GAA last season led all goalies, has already been removed from two games in favor of backups Maxime Ouellet and Roman Cechmanek. Philadelphia's shoddy play hasn't been helping Boucher's cause, either, so don't expect him to start putting it together Fantasy-wise until the team can remain healthy.
Analysis:
News: Boucher improved to 18-10-3 by making 22 saves. Boucher, who faced only 16 shots in a 1-0 loss at Carolina on Sunday, made his third straight start. He entered with an NHL-best 1.78 goals against average on the road.
Analysis:
News: Boucher recorded his third shutout of the season, helping the Flyers past the Predators 2-0. Nashville put a lot of pressure on the rookie netminder in the first period, but he never buckled and stood tall saving all 27 shots in the game.
Analysis:
News: Boucher played for the fourth time in the last seven games in place of veteran John Vanbiesbrouck and improved to 8-4-3 in his rookie season. He is 2-3-1 on the road.
Analysis:
News: Philly goalie Brian Boucher, a rookie making only his third start of the year, made 10 saves as Philadelphia outshot the Hurricanes 37-11, Carolina's lowest shot total of the season. He won't see much playing time this season.
Analysis:
