News:John Grahame and the Islanders agreed to a contract for the rest of the 2011-2012 season, Islanders.NHL.com reports.
Analysis:John Grahame was brought up for depth with Evgeni Nabokov hurting. He's unlikely to be a fantasy option even if he plays.
News: Grahame is expected to be returned to AHL Lake Erie on Sunday, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: Grahame has been serving as the Avs' backup goalie the past few days while starter Craig Anderson tends to a personal matter. However, Anderson is expected to rejoin the team Monday, so Grahame likely be headed back to the minors following Saturday's game against Nashville.
News: Grahame has been recalled from AHL Lake Erie, the Denver Post reports. Craig Anderson, the Avs' top netminder, took a temporary leave of absence from the team on Thursday for personal reasons.
Analysis: Grahame will serve as backup to Peter Budaj as long as Anderson is unavailable. Anderson is apparently not hurt, and is only expected to be gone on a day-to-day basis. Thus, Grahame may not be around long and may not even see any game action, so don't go investing a lot of fantasy capital in him.
News: With the activation of starter Craig Anderson from IR, the Avs have returned Grahame to AHL Lake Erie, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: Grahame was originally recalled with the expectation that he would get at least a game or two while Anderson was on the shelf, but backup Peter Budaj handled the starting load all by himself, posting a very respectable 6-3-1 record. If Grahame was ever going to get in a game this season, his chances are pretty slim now. He has essentially zero fantasy value at this time.
News: The Avs will call up Grahame to replace the injured Craig Anderson on their active roster, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: Grahame got the nod ahead of AHL teammate Jason Bacashihua. The two had similar stats, but Grahame is seven years older.
News: Grahame is perhaps a little more likely to get the call to replace Craig Anderson than Jason Bacashihua, according to the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: Note that this didn't come from the team, but rather from the Post's Avs columnist. Grahame has more NHL experience and his mom works in the Avs front office.
News: Grahame was waived Saturday, according to the Ottawa Sun's Bruce Garrioch via Twitter.
Analysis: He hadn't played in the NHL since 2007-08. He will likely play in the AHL.
News: Free agent goalie John Grahame signed a contract with Avangard Omsk of the Kontinental Hockey League (Russia). Grahame was an eight-year NHL veteran.
Analysis: Grahame was a starting goalie for Tampa Bay in 2005-06, but spent the last two seasons as a backup, primarily in Carolina. He was 5-7-1 in 17 games with a 3.75 GAA and .875 save percentage last season. Grahame was eventually banished to the minors and it's no surprise to see him leave for an overseas league. It's safe to ignore Grahame in Fantasy.
News:John Grahame saw his first action in net since Feb. 18 after he replaced starter Cam Ward in the Carolina net on Friday. But neither goalie had the touch in the game against Buffalo, losing 7-1. Grahame gave up three goals on 24 shots, while Ward was taken out after giving up four goals on seven shots.
Analysis: Grahame has made just four appearances since returning from the AHL in early February. He is not expected to earn many starts down the stretch. Treat Grahame as a low-end flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Hurricanes TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Hurricanes G John Grahame stopped 26 shots during a 5-1 loss to the Devils Monday. Using defenseman Casey Borer as a screen, Travis Zajac opened the scoring at 2:02, beating Grahame from the high slot. Grahame, who relieved Cam Ward and got the win in the Hurricanes' 5-4 comeback win over the Panthers on Saturday, was making his first start since Dec. 31. "It's always tough when the other team gets the first goal," Grahame said. "I was ready to play. It's a save I needed to come up with, to give the team some confidence. They came out with some pressure and we needed to play a pretty solid game. We weren't even close."
Analysis: Grahame has made three appearances since returning from the AHL in early February. He made the previous two in relief outings, but struggled again as a starter. He will likely not earn many starts down the stretch if he continues to struggle. Treat Grahame as a low-end flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Hurricanes TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:John Grahame replaced Cam Ward in the third period and only allowed a penalty shot goal to Nathan Horton, who beat him with a high writ shot. But Grahame, who made 10 saves, got the win after the Hurricanes beat the Panthers 5-4. Ward allowed three goals on 13 shots.
Analysis: Grahame is the backup to Cam Ward and is nothing more than a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News:John Grahame replaced Cam Ward in the second period against the Devils on Saturday and stopped all six shots he faced the rest of the way in a 6-1 loss. Ward allowed all six goals on 20 shots.
Analysis: Grahame is the backup to Cam Ward and is nothing more than a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News: The Carolina Hurricanes switched out backup goalies Monday, recalling John Grahame from Albany of the American Hockey League and assigning Michael Leighton to the team's top minor league affiliate.
Analysis: The 32-year-old Grahame played in 13 games with the Hurricanes before being sent down nearly three weeks ago, posting a 4-6-1 record with a 3.83 goals-against average. He will once again backup Cam Ward, but is nothing more than a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News: According to the News and Observer, Carolina have put G John Grahame on re-entry waivers with the intention of calling him up from Albany (AHL). In seven AHL games, Grahame is 4-3-0 with a 3.04 goals-against average and .912 save percentage.
Analysis: If Grahame clears re-entry waivers as expected, he will back up Cam Ward in Carolina with Michael Leighton likely to be sent down to the minors. Ignore him in all formats for now.
News: The Carolina Hurricanes sent struggling G John Grahame to Albany of the American Hockey League on Friday. Grahame, 32, was scheduled to join Albany in time for the River Rats' AHL game against Syracuse on Friday night. The goaltender is 4-6-1 while allowing an average of 3.83 goals with a .875 save percentage in 13 games. In his last appearance, he allowed three goals on 14 shots before being pulled in the second period of the Hurricanes' loss to the New York Islanders on Monday.
Analysis: Grahame signed with the Hurricanes in the offseason following their 2006 Stanley Cup title. He went 10-13-2 with a 2.85 goals-against average and a .897 save percentage last season. Feel free to drop him in all formats at this time.
News: Hurricanes G John Grahame didn't last long in his first start since Dec. 20, allowing three goals in a four-shot span before he was pulled for Cam Ward with 14:15 left in the second period during a 4-1 loss Monday against the Islanders. Grahame finished with 11 saves before giving way to Ward, who stopped nine of the 10 shots he faced.
Analysis: Grahame made a few starts in December while Ward was struggling, but didn't look impressive at all. Ward remains the top dog in Carolina and Grahame remains the backup. He is nothing more than a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Hurricanes TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Hurricanes G John Grahame made 36 saves during a 5-4 loss Thursday against the Panthers. It was his third straight start in net and the loss snapped a two-game winning streak. Grahame has now allowed four or more goals in five of his last six outings.
Analysis: The Hurricanes kept Grahame in net Thursday because he had won consecutive starts, but now it might be time to hand the reigns back over to Cam Ward. Grahame remains just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or a flier in leagues that use average points per game in a scoring period. The Hurricanes TG remains a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Hurricanes G John Grahame stopped 34 shots during a 3-2 overtime win Tuesday against the Maple Leafs. He has now won consecutive starts, but the two goals allowed were the fewest since allowing two goals against the Panthers in a win Nov. 3.
Analysis: Grahame has put up some pretty awful outings as of late, but since Cam Ward is stuck in a funk, Grahame is seeing some starts. We expect Ward to regain his focus soon and remain the top goalie in Carolina. Grahame remains just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or a flier in leagues that use average points per game in a scoring period. The Hurricanes TG remains a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Carolina backup John Grahame made 36 saves during regulation and overtime, and despite allowing two goals in a shootout, still managed the 6-5 win Saturday against the Flyers. It was his first win since Nov. 3 against the Panthers. He had lost his last three starts.
Analysis: Grahame hasn't looked very sharp in his last four outings. He has allowed a total of 23 goals and is doing very little to instill confidence in the coaching staff. Grahame remains just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or a flier in leagues that use average points per game in a scoring period. The Hurricanes TG is a must-start Fantasy option because of Cam Ward.
News: Hurricanes G John Grahame was on the wrong end of a 8-1 decision Saturday against the Sabres. Grahame made his second start in four games and finished with 17 saves. However, he allowed two goals in each of the first two frames and then four goals in the final period.
Analysis: Grahame has lost his last three starts and has looked pretty awful. He has allowed 18 goals and is doing very little to instill confidence in the coaching staff. Grahame remains just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or a flier in leagues that use average points per game in a scoring period. The Hurricanes TG is a must-start Fantasy option because of Cam Ward.
News: Hurricanes G John Grahame allowed four goals and stopped 29 shots during a 5-0 loss to the Capitals Saturday. He has now lost his last two starts while allowing a total of 10 goals.
Analysis: Grahame is capable of posting some solid starts in place of Cam Ward, but he just doesn't start enough to stay sharp. Grahame remains just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or a flier in leagues that use average points per game in a scoring period. The Hurricanes TG is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Hurricanes goalie John Grahame, a former Tampa Bay starter, allowed the five second-period goals on 13 shots during Wednesday's 6-1 loss to the Lightning. "Just kind of bad luck for Johnny," Lightning forward Vincent Lecavalier said. "It's one of those games where you can play great and not produce at all, or you can play mediocre in the first, then score the first goal and it starts rolling. Tonight was that." Grahame finished the night with 22 saves.
Analysis: Grahame came into Wednesday's game having won his last two starts and has been pretty steady in net backing up Cam Ward. Well, everyone is entitled to an off night. Grahame remains just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or a flier in leagues that use average points per game in a scoring period. The Hurricanes TG is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Hurricanes G John Grahame made 22 saves and helped Carolina to a 4-2 win Saturday against the Panthers. Grahame has won his last two starts. His previous win came against the Islanders on Oct. 27. He made 28 saves in that game.
Analysis: Grahame is a solid backup to Cam Ward, but will only see the lion's share of starts if an injury befalls Ward. Grahame remains just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or a flier in leagues that use average points per game in a scoring period. The Hurricanes TG is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Backup goalie John Grahame picked up his first win of the season by making 25 saves during the Hurricanes' 8-3 win over the Islanders Saturday. Grahame also played Friday in relief of starter Cam Ward. Grahame, who replaced Ward in the second period, allowed just one goal and made 13 saves as the Hurricanes lost 7-4 to the Canadiens.
Analysis: Ward came into Friday's game as one of the top goalies in the early going. He suffered his first loss and is now 6-1-2. Still a very solid mark. Ward remains the top goalie in Carolina and remains a must-start Fantasy option. Grahame remains just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or a flier in leagues that use average points per game in a scoring period. The Hurricanes TG is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Hurricanes G Cam Ward was yanked after one period during Friday's 7-4 loss to the Canadiens. Ward managed 10 saves at even-strength, but was beaten for five goals during power play opportunities for the Canadiens. John Grahame replaced Ward in the second period. He allowed just one goal and made 13 saves.
Analysis: Ward came into Friday's game as one of the top goalies in the early going. He suffered his first loss and is now 6-1-2. Still a very solid mark. Ward remains the top goalie in Carolina and remains a must-start Fantasy option. Don't be surprised if Grahame is in net next time out for the Hurricanes, but he remains just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or a flier in leagues that use average points per game in a scoring period. The Hurricanes TG is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Simon Gagne scored his second goal of the game 48 seconds into overtime and the Philadelphia Flyers won their fifth straight game, 3-2 over the Carolina Hurricanes and backup G John Grahame on Saturday. Grahame had 28 saves and has now lost both starts this season.
Analysis: Grahame will likely serve as a backup more often than not for Cam Ward. He might get one start a week, but is best used as insurance for Ward owners in Fantasy leagues or in leagues that use average points per game in a scoring period. The Hurricanes TG remains a solid low-end No.1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Hurricanes G John Grahame (leg) made his first start of the season Saturday against the Capitals. He made 31 saves in the 2-0 loss.
Analysis: Grahame will likely serve as a backup more often than not for Cam Ward. He might get one start a week, but is best used as insurance for Ward owners in Fantasy leagues. The Hurricanes TG remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Hurricanes G John Grahame (leg) dressed as Cam Ward's backup for Friday's game against the Penguins, but did not see any time on the ice. It was the second straight game he dressed but did not play.
Analysis: Grahame will likely serve as a backup more often than not. He might get one start a week, but is best used as insurance for Ward owners in Fantasy leagues.
News: Despite a leg injury, John Grahame was healthy enough to serve as the backup to Cam Ward in Wednesday's regular season opener against the Canadiens.
Analysis: Apparently the leg swelled up on Tuesday night, but he was fine to dress for the game. Michael Leighton would have served as the backup, but he was not needed. Grahame might get a start either Friday against Pittsburgh or Saturday at Washington if healthy. He is only worth a look in deeper Fantasy leagues which average points per game in a scoring period.
News: John Grahame picked up a shutout in Thursday's preseason game at Columbus and sits with a 2.40 GAA and .908 save percentage in three games. Starter Cam Ward is 1-0 with a 0.66 GAA and a shutout in two games.
Analysis: Grahame is still only worth a look in deeper Fantasy formats and those leagues which average points per game in a scoring period.
News: John Grahame allowed four goals on 24 shots in Wednesday's game at Philadelphia, as the Hurricanes were thumped for the second consecutive night.
Analysis: Grahame was not much better than Cam Ward was Tuesday, as he was pulled. The Hurricanes have been outscored 11-2 in the past two days.
News: Carolina goalie Cam Ward scored on himself in Tuesday's game at Toronto. Last year's playoff MVP was replaced midway through the second period after allowing five goals on 19 shots. John Grahame allowed a goal on 13 shots in relief.
Analysis: Ward knocked in Toronto's second goal with his own stick and looked bad on Toronto's other goals. It would not be surprising to see Grahame in between the pipes for Wednesday's game at Philadelphia as poor as Ward looked.
News: Hurricanes G Cam Ward (knee) relieved John Grahame in goal at the start of the third period on Wednesday against the Capitals and earned his 28th win of the season. Grahame allowed three goals on six shots through 40 minutes. Ward faced only four shots in his first appearance in 11 days since sustaining a lacerated knee against the New York Rangers.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Ward back into active Fantasy lineups. It looks as though he is ready to go. He is a solid high-end Fantasy goalie when healthy. Grahame on the other hand is only useful in leagues that use averages in a scoring system.
News: G John Grahame faced 10 shots in the opening 40 minutes as Carolina built a 5-1 lead. He finished with 18 saves as the Hurricanes beat New Jersey for the first time in four games on Saturday. The Hurricanes won the game 7-2. Grahame has now won two of his last three starts.
Analysis: Grahame will continue to start in net while Cam Ward is out with injury. He remains a stopgap Fantasy option or No. 3 goalie while he is a starter.
News: John Grahame, making his second straight start after No. 1 goalie Cam Ward cut his leg Sunday against the New York Rangers, made 22 saves in Thursday's loss to the Devils.
Analysis: Grahame is the man for at least another week with Ward on the shelf, so he is a solid No. 3 play for Fantasy Week 25 (March 19-25).
News: John Grahame made 26 saves to help lead the Hurricanes to a 3-1 victory over the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night and into eighth place in the Eastern Conference. He's playing after a knee injury sidelined starter Cam Ward, last year's Conn Smythe winner. "Johnny Grahame, you can't say enough about him coming into obviously a pressure situation," Carolina captain Rod Brind'Amour said.
Analysis: Grahame is the man for at least the next week, which is the soft timetable for Ward's recovery. If he is available and you need a short-term goaltending solution in your Fantasy league, grab Grahame immediately.
News: Cam Ward was injured midway through the second period of Sunday's game at N.Y. Rangers, when he was cut on the leg by the skate of Brad Isbister. He was replaced by John Grahame, who stopped all 13 of the shots he faced.
Analysis: The MVP of last year's playoffs took stitches on the knee after stopping 12 of 13 shots, but said the injury isn't serious. Grahame's Fantasy value is limited to the largest of Fantasy leagues which average points per game in a scoring period.
News: John Grahame allowed three goals on 25 shots in Sunday's game against the Thrashers, but he took the loss with a lack of offensive support.
Analysis: Grahame is only worth a look in the largest of Fantasy leagues which average points per game in a scoring period.
News: John Grahame allowed three goals on 34 shots in Tuesday's game against the Senators, but he took the loss.
Analysis: Grahame didn't look half bad, but that's a high-flying offense in Ottawa that he was facing. The reserve for the Hurricanes is only worth a look in larger Fantasy leagues which average points per game in a scoring period.
News: Hurricanes G John Grahame made 28 saves on his way to a 4-1 win over the Thrashers Saturday. He has won in his last two starts, but is just 2-2 in February.
Analysis: Despite the solid performance, Grahame is only worth using in the largest of Fantasy formats which average points per game in a scoring period and as insurance for owners of Cam Ward.
News: John Grahame, who backs up Cam Ward, started for the first time on since Feb. 1 and made 33 saves in Thursday's game against the Flyers for his first victory since beating Florida on Jan. 16.
Analysis: Despite the solid performance, Grahame is only worth using in the largest of Fantasy formats which average points per game in a scoring period and as insurance for owners of Cam Ward.
News: Hurricanes backup G John Grahame relieved starter Cam Ward in the first period Saturday against the Wild. Grahame made 19 saves, but allowed two goals and took the loss.
Analysis: Grahame remains useful only in the largest of Fantasy formats which average points per game in a scoring period or if Cam Ward suffers some sort of long-term injury.
News: John Grahame stopped 16 shots on Thursday against his former team, the Tampa Bay Lightning, but the Hurricanes lost their third straight and fifth in six contests. They were shut out for the seventh time this season and have been outscored 15-4 in the past three games, drawing boos late in the third period. "I think everybody's frustrated. We're not really sure what to do," Grahame said.
Analysis: Grahame remains useful only in the largest of Fantasy formats which average points per game in a scoring period or if Cam Ward suffers some sort of long-term injury.
News: Against Washington Thursday, John Grahame made 25 saves in a loss against Washington. Carolina is chasing Atlanta for the top spot in the Southeast and had gotten points in its last five games.
Analysis: Grahame is only worth a look in larger Fantasy leagues which average points per game in a scoring period and as a reserve in leagues for owners of Cam Ward.
News: John Grahame, making his first start for Carolina in nine games, stopped 18 shots in Tuesday's start at Florida. "It's not an ideal situation by any means," Grahame said of his rare start. "But the team needs two points regardless of who's playing. You've got to take the mindset that it's your job to go out and get those points."
Analysis: Grahame is only worth a look in larger Fantasy leagues which average points per game in a scoring period and as a reserve in leagues for owners of Cam Ward.
News: Cam Ward stopped 28 shots in two periods, and was benched after allowing three goals in the second. John Grahame finished the game and stopped six shots, getting six third-period goals from his offense to pick up an improbable victory.
Analysis: Grahame had looked on for the past seven starts, but he might have bought himself some more playing time with the solid effort. He remains useful only in larger Fantasy leagues which average points per game in a scoring period at this point.
News: The Hurricanes' John Grahame finished with 22 saves in Thursday's loss at Buffalo. It was his second start in three games, and first against the Sabres this season. Cam Ward had started the three previous games against Buffalo, posting a 4.25 goals-against average in the three losses.
Analysis: Grahame will likely be back on the bench for Friday's home game against the Ducks. Set your daily Fantasy lineups accordingly.
News: John Grahame was staked to a 2-1 lead in Monday's game at Colorado, but he gave up four goals in the third period to take the loss. He allowed five goals on 30 shots overall.
Analysis: Grahame is only worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy goaltender in larger leagues which average points per game in a scoring period.
News: John Grahame allowed just two goals on 31 shots in Tuesday's game at Calgary, but he was bested by Miikka Kiprusoff who earned the shutout.
Analysis: Grahame has emerged as a solid option in all Fantasy leagues which average points per game in a scoring period.
News: Hurricanes backup goalie John Grahame made 21 saves on Friday against the Capitals to earn his first win for the Stanley Cup champions since joining them in the offseason.
Analysis: Cam Ward still gets the majority of starts in Carolina, while Grahame gets the occassional spot start here and there. He really shouldn't be used for Fantasy purposes at this time. The Hurricanes TG on the other hand is a solid Fantasy start.
News: Hurricanes G Cam Ward was replaced by former Lightning goalie John Grahame after allowing four goals on 21 shots through two periods in Thursday's 5-1 loss to the Lightning. Grahame had six saves and allowed one goal.
Analysis: Ward hasn't been overly spectacular to start the season, but since the Hurricanes are considered contenders to win another Stanley Cup, Ward remains a must-start Fantasy goaltender. As is the Hurricanes TG. Grahame will get his chances to play but remains the backup despite Ward's struggles.
News: G John Grahame made his second start for the Hurricanes on Saturday but could not get the win as the Islanders won 4-3 in OT. Grahame had 21 saves.
Analysis: Starter Cam Ward will continue to get most of the starts in Carolina, so consider Grahame a solid No. 3 Fantasy goaltender when he plays. The Hurricanes TG is a No. 1 option because of Ward.
News: G John Grahame, making his first start in goal for Carolina, had 26 saves as the defending champs still couldn't get their first win of the season losing 6-3 to Florida on Wednesday.
Analysis: Possibly Grahame got the start to give a struggling Cam Ward a night off. Ward will continue to get most of the starts in Carolina, so consider Grahame a solid No. 2 or 3 Fantasy goaltender when he plays.
News: Grahame signed a two-year contract with the Carolina Hurricanes on Sunday, as he was no longer needed in Tampa Bay after their trade for No. 1 goaltender Marc Denis.
Analysis: Grahame will serve as the backup to Cam Ward, who was magnificent in the Stanley Cup playoffs in leading the Hurricanes to the championship. He will be a solid No. 2 or 3 Fantasy goaltender, but look for Ward to get a majority of the starts.
News: The Tampa Tribune reports Sean Burke is expected to be in between the pipes for Tuesday's game against the Thrashers with John Grahame looking on as the No. 2.
Analysis: Burke has posted a 0.90 GAA in his past five games and was just edged by San Jose's Vesa Toskala for defensive player of the week honors, so this is a no-brainer for coach John Tortorella. Set your daily Fantasy lineups accordingly.
News: John Grahame allowed just two goals on 29 shots in Monday's game at Carolina, but he suffered a loss.
Analysis: Grahame entered Monday's play allowing three or more goals in 10 of his past 11 appearances. He remains a decent play in all Fantasy leagues despite the recent struggles because of Tampa Bay's high-flying offense.
News: John Grahame allowed five goals on 25 shots in Monday's game at Florida, as he was pulled after two periods in favor of Gerald Coleman. Coleman allowed just one goal on 14 shots, but that came in overtime after the offense came back and tied the back after being down 5-1 thanks to Grahame.
Analysis: Grahame has been terrible lately, getting pulled three times in the past eight starts. Despite his rough patch of late, he remains a decent No. 3 Fantasy goaltender due to the strength of the Tampa Bay offense in front of him.
News: John Grahame allowed two goals on 32 shots in Sunday's game against the Islanders to pick up a win.
Analysis: After a rough patch where Grahame allowed four or more goals in six straight starts, he has won back-to-back games and allowed five goals total during the stretch. He has re-emerged as a useful No. 2 Fantasy goaltender in most leagues.
News: Grahame allowed four goals on 31 shots in Tuesday's game at Ottawa. He allowed the game-winning goal to Daniel Alfredsson with less than seven seconds left to take the loss.
Analysis: Grahame and the Lightning will look to bounce back on Friday against Philadelphia, but it will be awfully tough to get back on track after such a tough ending.
News: John Grahame allowed five goals on 16 shots through two periods in Thursday's game at Buffalo, as he was pulled in favor of Sean Burke. The backup allowed two goals on just six shots.
Analysis: Grahame and Burke have been extremely inconsistent lately, as the offense is producing enough support but the duo just cannot keep the puck out of the net. Perhaps the Lightning should have bitten on the rumored Martin St. Louis for Nikolai Khabibulin deal at the deadline.
News: John Grahame allowed four goals on 27 shots in Tuesday's game at Pittsburgh, as he picked up a win in the shootout.
Analysis: Grahame has allowed at least four goals in each of his past four appearances, which might be why a rumor surfaced that the Lightning were interested in trading Martin St. Louis to Chicago for former Tampa goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin.
News: John Grahame allowed four goals on 13 shots in Tuesday's game against the Panthers before being pulled midway through the second period.
Analysis: Grahame gave way to Sean Burke and things were not much better. The Lightning will look to bounce back on Saturday against Montreal.
News: John Grahame has posted 22 victories with 15 losses and a 2.68 GAA and .900 save percentage through 40 games with the Lightning.
Analysis: Grahame has had a decent season, although the team has been rumored to be interested in acquiring Minnesota's Manny Fernandez. He remains a solid play in all Fantasy leagues, but that might change if the team goes out and picks up another front-line goaltender. Watch this situation carefully.
News: John Grahame stopped all 28 shots he faced in Thursday's game against the Hurricanes after taking over for an ineffective Sean Burke.
Analysis: Grahame will most likely get the nod in Saturday's game at Boston. He has emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues this season.
News: John Grahame allowed four goals on 22 shots in Tuesday's game against the Devils, taking over for Sean Burke who had yielded three goals on eight shots in the first period.
Analysis: The Lightning were buried by an offense which was hitting on all cylinders. Grahame remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite this recent hiccup.
News: John Grahame picked up his third shutout in his past four games by making 29 saves on Saturday vs. Washington. He has five shuouts this season and 12 for his career.
Analysis: Grahame is as hot as a goalie can get in the NHL right now. It's probably a good idea to start him.
News: John Grahame allowed two shots on 24 shots in Sunday's game at Washington, as the Lightning offense provided just one goal of offense in the loss.
Analysis: Grahame entered Sunday's play with two straight shutouts and he has allowed less than two goals per game in four of his past six games.
News: John Grahame stopped all 20 shots by the Devils in Thursday's game to pick up his fourth shutout of the season.
Analysis: Grahame has posted shutouts in two straight games. He will get a big test in his next start on Saturday at Philadelphia.
News: The Tampa Tribune notes that Sean Burke is expected to start in goal for the Lightning against Florida Tuesday. "We've just basically decided that my role here is to first and foremost come everyday and be a hard-working, good example and play the role I need to play. As far as the game goes, it's all about playing. When you are playing more, you are more consistent and you find some things that work for you and you stick with them," he said.
Analysis: After signing with the Lightning this past offseason hoping for a chance to become the No. 1 goalie, Burke has had to bide his time behind John Grahame. But Grahame's inconsistency had opened the door for Burke. Even though Grahame has gotten hot recently (3-1 with a 1.55 GAA and two shutouts in his past four starts), Burke still has started six of the team's past 10 games.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports Sean Burke will start Friday's game against the Bruins instead of John Grahame, as coach John Tortorella wants to see if the veteran can get the reeling Lightning back on track.
Analysis: Set your daily lineups accordingly. Burke should be a solid start against the Bruins and keep Grahame reserved in such leagues.
News: G John Grahame lost to Buffalo Friday night. He stopped 27 shots, but the Lightning have lost four in a row following a team record nine-game winning streak.
Analysis: Grahame is 14-12-1 this season, but he remains the top option for Tampa Bay, despite their attempts at giving Sean Burke a shot. Grahame is incredibly streaky, as are the Lightning this year. Since the start of November, he has lost five straight games, won nine of 10 games and now lost four straight again. Start him as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie because of the team he plays for.
News: John Grahame was not particularly sharp on Thursday against the Blues, but he did enough to pick up the victory. He allowed four goals and made 18 saves in the 5-4 win.
Analysis: Grahame has been on fire recently, winning nine straight starts. He has emerged as a must-start No. 1 Fantasy goaltender in all leagues.
News: John Grahame got the start in Wednesday's opener against the Hurricanes, allowing two goals and making 24 saves to pick up the win.
Analysis: Grahame appears to be the starter for the Lightning, but veteran Sean Burke was not brought in to keep the bench warm. Look for a possible 60-40 split in game time, as both are decent choices as a No. 2 Fantasy goaltender.
News: Since Nikolai Khabibulin has signed with Chicago, the current No. 1 goalie at Tampa Bay is John Grahame.
Analysis: The Lightning are seeking a replacement for Khabibulin, possibly Jocelyn Thibault, but for now, Grahame is worth selecting as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. Tampa Bay has one of the fastest set of defensemen in the league and whoever takes over between the pipes will be worth picking up in the middle rounds of a Fantasy draft.
News: The Tampa Tribune reports that John Grahame is expected to start against Florida Thursday.
Analysis: Grahame should be used in daily leagues for this favorable matchup.
News: According to broadcast reports, John Grahame is expected to start in goal Tuesday at Pittsburgh. This is his fourth start in a row over Nikolai Khabibulin.
Analysis: Grahame is averaging only one goal allowed in his past three games, which were all wins. He should be used as a No. 2 goalie until he cools down.
News: John Grahame did his best Nikolai Khabibulin imitation on Thursday at Columbus, stopping all 20 shots, for his seventh-career shutout.
Analysis: Despite the great game, Grahame is best used as a reserve unless an injury befalls the "Bulin Wall".
News: Grahame was called on for Friday's Game 5. He played well, stopping 46 New Jersey shots. Tampa Bay fell in triple-overtime, as Grahame was beaten by deadline acquisition Grant Marshall.
Analysis:
News: Grahame has started consecutive games and three of the past four. It's the first time since the 2002 Olympic break that All-Star goalie Nikolai Khabibulin has not been the Tampa Bay starter in two straight contests. Grahame is 4-1 for the Lightning since being obtained from Boston on Jan. 13. His other wins came against Ottawa, Dallas and Philadelphia. Consider adding Grahame to your roster as a reserve.
Analysis:
News: Grahame started his third game in the past five on Tuesday. "John Grahame has won two pretty big hockey games for us so we are going to go right back to him," Lightning coach John Tortorella told the Tampa Tribune. As long as Grahame plays well and Nikolai Khabibulin continues to struggle, expect Grahame to get the majority of the playing time. He's worth adding to your reserve roster in a larger league.
Analysis:
News: Grahame was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning on Monday. In exchange, the Bruins get Tampa Bay's fourth round draft selection in 2004. Grahame's Fantasy value should plummet as he will be the backup to Nikolai Khabibulin. Unless he can secure a starting job due to injury or a trade, he will have minimal Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Grahame might return to the starting lineup Thursday in Detroit. He has been serving as the backup after recovering from a separated shoulder. Since it is still unclear how starting assignments will be divided between Grahame and Steve Shields, keeping both goalies reserved is advised in all Fantasy leagues.
Analysis:
News: Grahame was available as Steve Shields' backup Saturday against the Rangers. Grahame has fully healed from a separated shoulder, but it is unclear when he will get his first start. Since he is clearly not the full-time starter in Boston, Grahame doesn't warrant starting consideration in a Fantasy league.
Analysis:
News: Grahame (shoulder) will practice Friday and is expected to be ready Saturday. The Boston Herald reports that he has healed from his injury, but it is unclear whether he will start the game over Steve Shields. Because Grahame might fall back into a timeshare of the goalie position in Boston, he is not someone you should rush back into your active lineup once he returns.
Analysis:
News: Grahame (shoulder) did not travel to Washington for Wednesday's game. He remains in Boston to continue his rehabilitation, and should be kept reserve in a Fantasy league for now.
Analysis:
News: The Bruins don't expect Grahame (separated shoulder) back before the weekend. The Boston Globe reports that he has been practicing with the team, but still has some soreness and swelling in the joint. Grahame is unlikely to play Wednesday in Washington, Thursday against Anaheim or Saturday against the Rangers, so keep him reserved at least until he officially returns to action.
Analysis:
News: Grahame (separated shoulder) will test the injury at Monday morning's practice session. The Boston Herald reports that he hopes to be ready to play Wednesday in Washington or Thursday against Atlanta. Grahame is still a risky starter in Fantasy leagues this week, since he isn't assured of being Boston's starting goaltender once healthy, and he's not guaranteed of being healthy enough to play at all.
Analysis:
News: Grahame (shoulder) skated Thursday for the first time since suffering the injury. He hopes to return to action either Wednesday or Thursday, but remains a risky starter for the upcoming week since he is no lock to play.
Analysis:
News: Grahame (shoulder) expects to resume skating Thursday. The Boston Globe reports that he hopes to return Oct. 30 in Washington or Oct. 31 against Anaheim. "It feels good," said Grahame. "Only in certain positions I notice it more than others. The trainers are saying it's normally a four- or five-week thing. That it's coming along this well already is a good sign. For some reason, my joints tend to heal fast so hopefully that will continue." Grahame is still a risky start for the upcoming week, since it is unclear whether he would immediately reclaim the starting job from Steve Shields, who has been playing well in Grahame's absence.
Analysis:
News: Grahame suffered a second-degree separation of his shoulder and will miss two to three weeks, according to the Boston Herald. Steve Shields will start in net in his absence.
Analysis:
News: The Boston Globe reports that Grahame returned to Boston on Thursday to be evaluated by doctors. Word on his diagnosis is expected on Friday, but he is out indefinitely for now. Steve Shields takes over as the Bruins' starting goaltender for the time being, with Tim Thomas serving as his backup.
Analysis:
News: Grahame left Wednesday's game in Vancouver in the first period with a right shoulder injury. "It was on the first goal. My shoulder got caught and I landed on it," he told the Boston Globe. "My arm was tucked in. I fell down when I was trying to make a save and it got caught underneath me. It's so frustrating." Grahame accompanied the team to Calgary after the game and will be evaluated there, but Steve Shields, who replaced him on Wednesday, was scheduled to start Thursday's game. Although Grahame had gotten all of the starts in goal, he remains a risky starter since this injury might allow Shields to claim the job from him.
Analysis:
News: An MRI on Grahame's injured left shoulder Tuesday revealed only swelling in the joint area but no tear, according to the Boston Herald. He practiced Tuesday and is confident he will be ready for the Bruins' season-opening six-game road trip beginning Friday in Minnesota. Grahame is still not a recommended Fantasy starter while he shares time in net with Steve Shields.
Analysis:
News: Grahame suffered a left shoulder injury in the first period of Saturday's preseason finale, according to The Boston Globe. "It feels 100 percent better than [Sunday]," he said. "Then, I couldn't even move it. It just seems like it's bad luck right now. It's 100 percent better, though, so I don't see it being a problem trying to skate [Tuesday]. I don't see it being a major concern." Grahame is questionable for the start of the regular season, meaning Steve Shields will likely start Friday's season opener with Tim Thomas serving as his backup.
Analysis:
News:The Boston Globe reports that Grahame, who will start Saturday's preseason game against the Rangers, and Steve Shields will likely begin the regular season sharing the starting goaltending job. Rookie Tim Thomas will be returned to Providence of the AHL. Neither Grahame nor Shields is a recommended Fantasy selection while they are splitting time in net.
Analysis:
News: Grahame played in Saturday's preseason game after missing time with a back injury. He wasn't very impressive in the outing, however, and is not doing a good job in the race for the starting goaltending job in Boston. Grahame is not a recommended Fantasy selection.
Analysis:
News: Grahame is still recovering from a minor back injury that kept him out of the past two preseason games, according to The Boston Herald. He is in a dead heat for the starting goaltender job with Steve Shields and Andrew Raycroft. Grahame can't afford to lose much more playing time to injury if he wants to win the job, and he's really not a good Fantasy selection at this stage.
Analysis:
News: Grahame is the likely backup to Byron Dafoe to begin the season, according to the Boston Globe. Although Dafoe is notoriously injury-prone and some Fantasy owners might consider Grahame as insurance in their leagues, we don't recommend any Bruin backup goalie. Grahame was highly ineffective when given a chance to play last season.
Analysis:
News: Grahame has been working out with the Bruins extensively, and is eager to see his first game action of the season. He has been sidelined since October with a broken ankle. Although he should be ready to play in about two weeks, it's unclear whether Grahame will stick as Byron Dafoe's backup or be sent to Providence of the AHL. Either way, he's unlikely to help your team this season.
Analysis:
News: The Bruins may get Grahame back in two to three weeks from the broken ankle he suffered during training camp. It's unclear how he would fit in the newly-crowded Boston net, now that Byron Dafoe and Peter Skudra have a stronghold on the job. Given the Bruins' injury history in goal, we wouldn't recommend any of the three right now.
Analysis:
News: The Bruins expect to get Grahame back in action on Tuesday, although it's unclear what his role will be with the team. He missed 32 games with a broken ankle suffered in a non-hockey incident, causing him and Boston management to enter a vicious feud. Both sides have reportedly settled their differences, so expect to see Grahame get some game action before long. He might displace current backup goaltender Peter Skudra.
Analysis:
News: Grahame has been suspended indefinitely by the Bruins after he broke his ankle in a non-hockey related accident. A backup to begin with, he's now unlikely to have any Fantasy value whatsoever this season.
Analysis:
News: Boston goalie John Grahame made 30 saves in his NHL debut, a 4-0 loss to Toronto on Monday night. Grahame and his father Ron became the first father-son combination to play goal for the same NHL team. The only other known father-son goalies in the NHL are Dennis and Pat Riggin, and Sam and Pete LoPresti and son Pete. However, neither of the pairs played for the same team.
Analysis:
