Height/Weight: 6-1/190
| Birthdate: 9/19/1981
| Birthplace: Lewiston, ME, USA
| Team: New York Islanders
| College: Boston U.
| NHL Experience: 10
| Salary: $4,500,000
| Owned/Started%: 2/0 | Average Draft Position: 227.60
Isles' DiPietro Made Some Controversial Comments After Demotion
News:Rick DiPietro made some controversial remarks after his demotion to Bridgeport, according to Newsday.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro made comments like "I thought about driving my car into a tree". Taken out of context one might think he was suicidal, he's not, just upset about the demotion. He also stated that he "felt like someone ripped out my heart and stuck a knife in it and then lit it on fire and then flushed it down the toilet". Strong words coming from someone who hasn't lived up to his potential and ironic as that is exactly how most Islander fans feel about his play the past few years.
News: The Islanders have given Rick DiPietro permission to take the weekend to gather his thoughts, according to Newsday's Arthur Staple.
Analysis: Apparently Rick DiPietro was stunned to find out he was shipped to the AHL (he might be the only one). He has very few options, so he will report to Bridgeport if he wants to collect his salary. The Islanders coaching staff lost faith in DP, and that is the reason he was waived. Now the question will be whether or not owner Charles Wang will authorize a buyout before next season begins.
News:Rick DiPietro cleared waivers Saturday and was assigned to AHL Bridgeport.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro was unlikely to be claimed because of his big contract. He'll head to the AHL and quit wasting a roster spot on the Isles. Kevin Poulin will take his place as Evgeni Nabokov's backup.
News:Rick DiPietro will be placed on waivers on Friday, according to Arthur Staple of Newsday.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro has lost all three games he has played this season with a 4.09 GAA and .855 save percentage. Since the beginning of the 2008-09 season, DiPietro has not played more than 26 games in a season and has seen very limited time in net. He has a big contract and being claimed would seem unlikely, so he could be headed for the AHL or another team.
News:Rick DiPietro allowed three goals on 26 shots in a 3-1 loss to the Senators on Tuesday.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro actually played a pretty solid game against offensively challenged Ottawa, but he did let in a softy when he misplayed a weak shot on net, dropping it and then failing to clear it with his stick. He will continue to back up Evgeni Nabokov here in the seventh year of the worst contract ever signed.
News:Rick DiPietro will start Tuesday versus Ottawa, according to Newsday's Arthur Staple.
Analysis: This was expected after Evgeni Nabokov was lit up for seven goals Monday against Philly. Rick DiPietro has been little more than a garbage can in net for the Islanders this season. It's certainly hard to see a situation where a fantasy owner should start him.
DiPietro Likely To Start Tuesday For The Islanders
News:Rick DiPietro is likely to start Tuesday for the Islanders versus Ottawa, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Evgeni Nabokov was shelled for seven goals against Philly on Monday leaving most to believe Rick DiPietro will get his shot against the Senators.
News:Rick DiPietro gave up five goals on 30 shots in a 6-4 loss to Carolina on Monday.
Analysis: Before we throw DP under the bus he didn't have all that much luck in this game. Two goals were scored off the skates of opposing players and another off the chest of defenseman Travis Hamonic. Still, Rick DiPietro did nothing in the game that warrants him to get anything other than a start once every two weeks or so.
News:Rick DiPietro will start Monday's game against the Hurricanes, according to Newsday's Arthur Staple.
Analysis: The start will be Rick DiPietro's second of the season and first since January 25. The Isles will probably need him next week as well, given that they are scheduled to play two sets of back-to-back games -- 2/18 and 2/19, plus 2/23 and 2/24.
News:Rick DiPietro surrendered four goals on 23 shots in Friday's loss to Boston, his first start of the season.
Analysis: If Rick DiPietro can somehow stay healthy, he could carve himself out a niche behind Evgeni Nabokov. DiPIetro is not a bad option for a spot start when he's facing a less potent team than Boston, but relying on him for any type of consistent production is hardly sage. Expect to hear DiPietro's name thrown around this season especially as potential buyout candidate for the Islanders.
News:Rick DiPietro will start in goal for the Islanders against the Bruins, according to Arthur Staple of Newsday.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro will be making his season debut between the pipes for the Islanders against a solid Bruins squad. He has not played in an NHL game since December of the 2011-12 season because a sports hernia ended his season early. Evgeni Nabokov is a solid goalie for the team and will continue to see the majority of the starts for the Isles.
Isles' DiPietro Expected To Start Friday Or Sunday
News:Rick DiPietro is expected to make his season debut Friday or Sunday, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Evgeni Nabokov has played well so far in net for the Islanders. Friday would be a logical choice to start DP as it would be the second half of back-to-back games, but that start would be against the Bruins, not the easiest of opponents.
News:Rick DiPietro described himself as "bright eyed, bushy tailed, and ready to rock and roll" in an interview with The Sporting News.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro is finally healthy, but there's little reason to believe that he will be able to stay on the ice. That said, most fantasy owners will want to keep an eye on his progress since he figures to start the year as the backup to Evgeni Nabokov. DiPietro has appeared in only 47 games over the past four years and there is reason to believe that he will struggle even if he's somehow able to stay healthy.
News:Rick DiPietro (groin) hasn't played since Oct. 14 in Germany, according to the Islanders Point Blank.
Analysis: It was originally reported that DP suffered a groin injury, a report he denied, yet he's not playing in any games, and what makes matters even more curious, he's not dressing as the backup either. Riessersee is learning the hard way what every Islanders fan knows, that relying on Rick DiPietro between the pipes is a fool's errand.
News:Rick DiPietro is disputing that he has a groin injury, according to the Islanders Point Blank.
Analysis: This seems to be just a matter of semantics. Rick DiPietro may not actually have a groin injury, perhaps it's only sore, but either way something is wrong. When the new CBA is hammered out, today, tomorrow, next week, month, or year, the wording will have a lot to say about how long DP will remain with the Islanders. At the very least you have to think they will not want that albatross hanging around their necks when the move to Brooklyn in 2015.
News:Rick DiPietro, who is playing for SC Riessersee in the German league, is out with a groin injury, according to the team's Facebook page.
Analysis: The injury appears to have happened after just two games and while unconfirmed, it isn't a stretch to think it might be related to the same groin problem that sidelined him last season. Then again, did anyone think he wouldn't get injured while playing overseas?
News:Rick DiPietro has signed a lockout deal with SC Riessersee of Germany's second-tier division, thefourthperiod.com reports.
Analysis: The Islanders only wish Rick DiPietro would be off the books for good, as he still has nine years remaining on his 15-year, $67.5 million contract. Unfortunately, the deal with Riessersee will allow the perenially injured DiPietro to return to the Islanders when the lockout ends. DiPietro has appeared in just 42 total games over the last three seasons, prompting the Islanders to consider buying him out if the new CBA permits an amnesty clause, though it would come at the cost of around $27 million.
Isles Remove DiPietro From IR: Cost Saving Measure?
News:Rick DiPietro (groin) has been removed from the Islanders' injured reserve list, according to The Hockey News.
Analysis: The move doesn't guarantee he's fully healthy. Instead, it's a move that's linked to finances -- the Isles would have to pay him through any lockout if he was still injured. And injured players cannot be bought out, something that has been rumored might happen if an amnesty buyout period were permitted under a new Collective Bargaining Agreement. The Isles would save some $13.5 million over the life of his contract if they buy him out, but the team would absorb a cap hit of $1.5 million for each of the next 18 seasons (twice the time remaining on the deal). Yikes.
News:Rick DiPietro (groin) is back on the ice for the Islanders, according to Newsday.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro has battled a myriad of injuries over the years and has been the butt of many jokes. He is no longer considered to be the starting goalie with the Isles and may not even be on the team if there is a provision in the new CBA that allows a team to buy out one contract.
News:Rick DiPietro (sports hernia) will undergo surgery and likely miss the rest of the season, Newsday's Arthur Staple reports.
Analysis: The loss of Rick DiPietro shouldn't change much for the Islanders, as Evgeni Nabokov and Al Montoya are better.
News:Rick DiPietro (groin) will head back to New York after suffering a setback, according to Newsday's Arthur Staple.
Analysis: We're not even sure where to go with this. Do we thrown in a sarcastic one-liner, just report the injury, or just feel sorry for DP and the Islanders?
News:Rick DiPietro (groin) will travel with the Islanders to Carolina for Tuesday's game, Arthur Staple of Newsday reports.
Analysis: Carolina is a beatable opponent, but even if Rick DiPietro does play, hopefully you have an option better than his .876 save percentage .
News:Rick DiPietro (groin) has resumed skating with the team, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Hooray, the Islanders season is saved, okay, probably not. Still no word yet on when DP might be able to return to the lineup, but at this point the only interesting thing regarding Rick is whether or not the Isles will be able to buy him out under the next CBA.
News: The Islanders placed Rick DiPietro (groin) on injured reserve Thursday, according to the team's official website.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro's IR placement will be backdated, likely to Dec. 4, but it does not appear he is close to returning. Al Montoya and recent call-up Kevin Poulin will serve as the Islanders' goaltenders for now, but expect Evgeni Nabokov to jump back into the mix when he is cleared to resume playing.
News:Rick DiPietro is out with a groin strain and there is no timetable for his return, the team's official Twitter page reports.
Analysis: The Islanders could be calling up a goalie in the near future, as Al Montoya is the only healthy one on their roster. Rick DiPietro is 2-2-3 with a 3.44 GAA in seven games this season. Leave him on the free agent wire even when he returns from this injury.
News:Rick DiPietro (groin) did not practice Monday, NewYorkIslanders.com reports.
Analysis: Given Rick DiPietro's injury history, it seems safe to assume that he'll at least miss Tuesday's game. The Islanders don't play until Thursday after that.
News:Rick DiPietro (groin) is considered day-to-day, Newsday reports.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro suffered the injury during Saturday's game. The Isles are off until Tuesday, so we suppose there's still a shot he'd be ready to at least back up in that game. Then again, with RDP, assuming a slow recovery with anything else being gravy is usually the better approach.
News:Rick DiPietro left Saturday's game with a groin injury, according to a report on CBC's Hockey Night in Canada.
Analysis: Is anyone surprised? This guy could get hurt opening a carton of milk. No word yet on the severity.
News:Rick DiPietro will start Saturday at Dallas, Newsday's Arthur Staple reports.
Analysis: It will be Rick DiPietro's first start in five games as the Isles give Al Montoya the night off. DiPietro ranks near the bottom of just about any goaltending stat category these days, with a 3.44 GAA and .885 save percentage, so it's tough to recommend him on any given night. Make sure you exhaust all other fantasy goalie options before you roll with this guy.
News:Rick DiPietro will start against the Flyers on Wednesday night, the Islanders' official Twitter feed reports.
Analysis: Although the Isles are hosting the Flyers, Rick DiPietro has been far from reliable in his few starts this season and with a heavy slate of games on the NHL schedule for Wednesday night, there are probably a few viable alternatives available for most owners.
News:Rick DiPietro was chased from the net after the first period after allowing three goals on 13 shots in Saturday's loss to the Bruins.
Analysis: The middle goal was a stinker -- he gifted the puck to Nathan Horton who roofed it from the right circle. He's the Isles' starter right now given the injuries suffered by Al Montoya and Evgeni Nabokov. But right now, we just can't recommend him -- the Isles need to give him a lot more support before we can do that.
News: Head coach Jack Capuano confirmed that Rick DiPietro will start Saturday's game against the Bruins, according to the Islanders' official Twitter page.
Analysis: With Evgeni Nabokov (groin) out a few weeks and Al Montoya day-to-day with a hamstring injury, Rick DiPietro is currently the only one left riding on the Islanders' goalie carousel. The Islanders recalled Anders Nilsson to serve as the backup goalie for the time being, but DiPietro will likely get nearly all of the starts until Montoya is ready to go.
News:Rick DiPietro is likely to start Saturday versus Boston, according to Newsday.
Analysis: The Islanders were rolling with three goaltenders which left starts hard to come by for DP, but with the injury to Evgeni Nabokov that could keep him out upwards of a month, Rick DiPietro could get more starts than not if he can handle the job.
News:Rick DiPietro stopped 24 of 27 shots Thursday in a 4-3 win over the Canadiens after coming on in relief of the injured Evgeni Nabokov in the first period.
Analysis: Nabokov's injury gives Rick DiPietro at least a short-term line on a backup goaltending role behind Al Montoya. DiPietro's won two consecutive games, but that's more attributable to the nine goals of offensive support he's received than it is to any great feat of goaltending.
News:Rick DiPietro earned his first win of the season Saturday despite early chants from fans to remove him after two shaky goals. He finished with 24 saves in a 5-3 win.
Analysis: The chants from Islanders fans started after Alex Ovechkin put the Caps up 2-0 late in the first. But he centered himself and got the win. The three-way battle between the pipes on Long Island makes owning any of their goalies a risky proposition.
News:Rick DiPietro will make his third consecutive start Saturday against the Capitals, Newsday's Arthur Staple reports.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro appears to have regained the uppper hand as the Isles' top goalie since recovering from a mild concussion. Al Montoya, who started four of the team's first five games, hasn't played since Oct. 20, and Evgeni Nabokov remains out with a lower body injury. DiPietro is winless so far this season with one regulation loss and two hard-luck OT losses to his credit, but his 2.50 goals-against average and .909 save percentage suggest he's not playing all that badly. If the Isles' forward lines could just manage to give him a little goal support, the wins could start rolling in. In the meantime, consider him the team's official starter until further notice.
News:Rick DiPietro stopped 23 of 25 shots in Thursday's 3-0 loss to Winnipeg.
Analysis: The final goal was an empty-netter and, as far as we can tell, Rick DiPietro did not suffer an injury, surprisingly. The 15-year man has three losses on the season in just two starts and the Isles are giving him opportunities to prove himself. The Islanders are in a mess of a goaltending situation, and none of the three-headed baby dragon of DiPietro, Al Montoya and Evgeni Nabokov are highly recommended plays at this point of the season.
News:Rick DiPietro will start Thursday's game against the Jets, according to the Islanders' official Twitter page.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro will make his second start of the season Thursday against a Jets team that is in the middle of the pack with a 2.60 GFA. He likely remains behind Evgeni Nabokov (lower body) on the Islanders' cluttered depth chart, but he could make another start in the near future with Nabokov day-to-day.
News:Rick DiPietro played well Saturday against the Sharks in his first start of the season but ended up on the losing end of a 3-2 score in OT. He made 27 saves.
Analysis: And so the logjam in the Isles' blue paint begins, all but eliminating the fantasy value of all of the men.
News:Rick DiPietro will be in goal for Saturday's game against the Sharks, according to the Islanders' official Twitter page.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro saw his first action of the season Thursday, manning the goal during the shootout after Evgeni Nabokov (lower body) could not continue. With Nabokov unavailable Saturday, DiPietro will make his first start of the season against a high-scoring Sharks squad.
News:Rick DiPietro played in the shootout in Thursday's loss to Pittsburgh, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Starter Evgeni Nabokov suffered an injury and couldn't go in the shootout so DP came in and saw his first action of the season. He allowed the only goal of the shootout to Evgeni Malkin but survived without an injury and looks likely to start Saturday versus San Jose.
News:Rick DiPietro will be the backup goalie for Tuesday's game against the Penguins, Newsday reports.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro will be in uniform Tuesday for the first time since suffering a concussion nearly two weeks ago. The Islanders plan on rotating their three goalies - Al Montoya, Evgeni Nabokov, and DiPietro - in the near future, but since DiPietro has yet to appear in a game this season, consider him between the other two netminders for the time being.
News: The Islanders plan to go with the hot hand in net, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Whichever goalie out of Rick DiPietro, Evgeni Nabokov, and Al Montoya is playing the best, will play the most. Easier said than done, with three goalie all vying for playing time it may be hard for any of them to get in a groove. A trade should be a priority, but the Isles may need an injury to happen to another team's goalie first.
News:Rick DiPietro (concussion) practiced with the rest of his teammates Wednesday, according to the Islanders' official Twitter page.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro's return to the team session indicates his concussion symptoms are fading. DiPietro will travel with the Islanders on their upcoming two-game road trip, and though it's not clear if he will be available for either game, it appears he could be cleared for game action again in the near future.
Islanders' DiPietro Skates For Second Straight Day
News:Rick DiPietro (concussion) skated again Tuesday, Newsday's Arthur Staple reports.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro was able to do some pre-practice work for the second straight day, but he is not yet ready for team sessions. He remains out until team doctors clear him to return to practice.
News:Rick DiPietro (concussion) skated Monday before the team's practice, Katie Strang of ESPN New York reports.
Analysis: The 30-year-old goalie is in his 10th season with the Islanders. He has played in 39 combined games over the past three seasons and is yet to play this year. Islanders head coach Jack Capuano didn't rule out Rick DiPietro making the trip to Florida this week. He could be in line for a few spot starts once he's fully healthy.
News:Rick DiPietro has been diagnosed with a concussion and is out indefinitely, according to the Islanders' official Twitter page.
Analysis: This is just another in a long line of setbacks that have prevented Rick DiPietro from developing into the goaltender the Islanders thought he would become, both after selecting him overall and handing him a 15-year contract in 2006. No timetable has been established for DiPietro's return, so Evgeni Nabokov will serve as Al Montoya's top backup going forward.
News:Rick DiPietro (head) will not suit up for Thursday's game against the Lightning, ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: The Islanders have not provided much for details regarding Rick DiPietro's injury, but he's likely still a bit woozy after being struck on his goalie mask by a puck Wednesday, and team doctors have not ruled out a concussion. Consider DiPietro day-to-day for the time being.
News: The injury-prone Rick DiPietro left practice early Wednesday after taking a puck to the face mask, ESPN.com reports.
Analysis:Rick DiPietro will undergo an evaluation after practice, and there's a good chance he was just a little shaken. With first-string 'tender Al Montoya off to a solid start and capable backup Evgeni Nabakov ready to fill in, there's no reason not to give DiPietro a break to make sure he's totally healthy.
News: It's looking like Rick DiPietro will begin the season as the Isles starting goalie, according to Newsday.
Analysis: The Islanders have heard this story before, but DP has played well this season and will once again earn a chance to earn his huge contract. Injury issues aside, DP is unlikely to play more than 50 games this season as the Isles will start the season with three goaltenders on their roster.
News: DiPietro will start Saturday's season finale against the Flyers, Newsday's Katie Strang reports.
Analysis: Use him if you must, but DiPietro is sporting a 3.34 goals-against average and a .888 save percentage this season.
News: DiPietro will start Wednesday's game against the Bruins, the Islanders' official site reports.
Analysis: DiPietro has lost six of his last seven starts and will be facing a Bruins squad eager to rebound from Monday's collapse against the Rangers, which saw them squander a 3-0 lead in an eventual 5-3 loss.
News: DiPietro will start against New Jersey on Wednesday, MSG Network's Rob Carlin reports.
Analysis: Outside of a four-game winning streak in December and January, DiPietro has been very unreliable this year. You're best off going with a different option in most cases.
News: DiPietro saw entirely too many red lights Saturday, as the Flyers scored four times on just 18 shots to take a 4-1 win on Long Island.
Analysis: This is not going to help his effort to regain firm control of the starter's job. His season-long composite numbers are dreadful (3.36, .889), and we earnestly hope he isn't anchoring your fantasy roster.
News: DiPietro will start Saturday against the Flyers, according to the Isles' official site.
Analysis: This will be DiPietro's second start since returning from a 21-game absence following his dust-up with the Pens' Brent Johnson back on Feb. 2. The Isles are paying DiPietro to be their everyday No.1 starter, and will give him every opportunity to earn that role. For the time being, however, he will likely continue to share the load with rookie Al Montoya.
News: DiPietro made 29 saves through overtime and turned away all shooters in the shootout to carry the Islanders to a 4-3 win over the Panthers on Saturday.
Analysis: OK, it was the pop-gun Panthers. But it's still a win. It's his first game back after missing 20 with that busted face courtesy of Penguins' goalie Brent Johnson. Don't expect a lot of starts for Tricky Ricky going forward -- Al Montoya has emerged as the Isles' go-to goalie in DP's absence and should see starts in at least half of the Isles' remaining contests.
News: DiPietro has been confirmed as Saturday's starter against Florida, MSG Network's Rob Carlin reports.
Analysis: With a save percentage of just .890 and a GAA of 3.36 on the year, DiPietro represents a risky fantasy start. While Florida is a relatively soft opponent, the Islanders' offense is equally inept.
News: DiPietro is expected to start versus Florida on Saturday for the Islanders, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Al Montoya will start Friday versus Carolina as the Islanders coaching staff wanted to give DP another day of practice. The Isles are reluctant to start Montoya on back to back nights, so even if he plays lights out versus the Hurricanes, DP should still get the start versus the offensively challenged Panthers. The question is can DiPietro make it through the entire game without suffering yet another injury.
Isles' DiPietro Expected To Play Friday Or Saturday
News: DiPietro is expected to play Friday or Saturday for the Isles, according to Newsday.
Analysis: DiPietro was activated off the IR on Wednesday, and with the Isles playing back to back games Friday and Saturday, it's a good bet that DP will start one of those games. With his injury history however, it may not be a good bet that he finishes the game 100% healthy.
News: DiPietro (face) has been activated off IR by the Islanders, Newsday's Katie Strang reports.
Analysis: With DiPietro, who hasn't played since Feb. 2, back in the mix, the Isles sent Nathan Lawson to AHL Bridgeport. How much action DiPietro will see down the stretch is uncertain, as Al Montoya has emerged in his absence, carving out a 7-3-3 record since being recalled.
News: DiPietro (face) practiced Tuesday with the other injured Islanders, according to Newsday.
Analysis: DiPietro will continue to work with the coaching staff in practice the next few days and the Isles are hoping to announce their plan of action with him by Friday.
News: DiPietro (face) worked out on the ice with goalie coach Mike Dunham on Monday, Katie Strang of Newsday reports.
Analysis: No word yet regarding when the Isles expect him back, but this workout suggests the team is still planning on getting something from him later this season.
News: DiPietro (facial fractures and knee swelling) has been placed on IR by the Islanders, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: It was already known that DiPietro is slated to miss significant time, so this is just an FYI for those in leagues where official IR designations are a factor in roster management.
News: DiPietro (facial fractures and knee swelling) has been placed on IR by the Islanders, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: It was already known that DiPietro is slated to miss significant time, so this is just an FYI for those in leagues where official IR designations are a factor in roster management.
News: DiPietro will miss four-to-six weeks with facial fractures and knee swelling, the Islanders' official site reports.
Analysis: Things really can't get much worse for DiPietro at this point, although he at least appears to have an outside shot at playing again this season. Perhaps DiPietro's injury will convince Evgeni Nabokov to report to Long Island as there is now plenty of playing time available.
News: DiPietro had x-rays taken on his face Thursday, according to Newsday.
Analysis: The x-rays came back negative, and considering DiPietros' injury history this has to come as a bit of a surprise. We were kind of expecting a broken bone or three, concussion, and freezer burn for hitting the ice so fast.
News: DiPietro got into a fight with opposing goaltender Brent Johnson during the game Wednesday.
Analysis: The fight occurred with under a minute left in the game when DiPietro interfered with Matt Cooke which started a small melee. Johnson then left his crease and challenged DP. The fight was a quick one as a left hook sent DiPietro to the ice. This would be all the Isles need is for DP to have suffered an injury in a fight. Johnson fantasy owners shouldn't be any happier as he was thrown out of the game thus not getting the shutout in what was an eventual 3-0 win over the Isles.
News: DiPietro will start Wednesday versus Pittsburgh, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Kevin Poulin gets the start Tuesday night which leaves DP with the second half of back-to-back games. That being said, if Poulin were to play lights out versus the Thrashers, there is always a chance the Isles would go back to him Wednesday.
News: DiPietro will get the call in net for Wednesday's game against the Hurricanes, Newsday's Katie Strang reports.
Analysis: The Hurricanes are averaging 3.6 goals per game in January, so be wary of starting DiPietro Wednesday if he is part of your fantasy squad.
News: DiPietro only made 18 saves on 22 shots Sunday in a loss to the Sabres.
Analysis: With Evgeni Nabokov eschewing the Islanders, that should mean more starts for DiPietro. Whether or not that is a good thing remains to be seen, but all signs point to that not being the case.
News: DiPietro (illness) will start versus Buffalo on Sunday, according to Newsday's Katie Strang.
Analysis: No surprise here as the Islanders had stated all along that DP would only miss one game with the illness. The bigger question is, how long until he gets hurt again? A shift, period, game, week ... it could be just a matter of time. DiPietro's health, or lack thereof, is the main reason the Isles are going through the Evgeni Nabokov drama now.
News: DiPietro (illness) is expected to start Sunday, according to Newsday's Katie Strang.
Analysis: For those of you keeping score, here is the cliff notes version of the Islanders' goaltending situation: Dwayne Roloson was the starter at the beginning of the season but was traded to Tampa about a month ago. DiPietro, he of the 15-year contract, is now the starter but has an extremely difficult time staying healthy. Nathan Lawson has been average at best in net and injured his knee Friday. Kevin Poulin has shown some promise but is only 20 years old and would be better off playing every day in the AHL. Evgeni Nabokov, who the Isles claimed Saturday, has decided not to report to the team. This is more entertaining than the prime time lineup for quite a few television stations.
News: DiPietro (illness) is expected to practice Saturday and play Sunday, according to Newsday.
Analysis: DiPietro missed the game Friday with the illness, and with the injury to backup Nathan Lawson, if DiPietro were to miss any significant amount of time the Islanders could be in a whole at the goaltending position.
News: DiPietro (illness) won't make the trip to Buffalo for Friday's game, according to Newsday.
Analysis: DiPietro had to receive IV fluids after the game Thursday and is out for the Buffalo game. He is expected however to play versus Buffalo at home Sunday.
News: DiPietro (illness) stopped 22 of 24 shots Thursday, but was outdueled on the other end by Braden Holtby.
Analysis: He'd come down with something earlier in the week, but appears to be over it. Still, just a matter of time until his next injury.
News: DiPietro (illness) will start Thursday's game against the Caps, the Islanders' official site reports.
Analysis: DiPietro was feeling under the weather Wednesday, but he's evidently feeling better Thursday and will get the nod against the sputtering Caps.
News: DiPietro (illness) is not skating at practice Wednesday, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: No word yet on whether or not DiPietro's illness will impact his availability for Thursday's game against the Caps.
News: DiPietro was given the day off Monday versus New Jersey, according to Newsday.
Analysis: By "day off" we mean that he didn't even suit up as the backup. There was some thought that he may have injured himself in the game Saturday, but he's fine, and this is the just the Islanders' way of trying to keep him as healthy as possible. The Islanders will also keep Kevin Poulin and Nathan Lawson with the big club for now until DiPietro proves he can stay healthy for the long term (insert joke here).
News: DiPietro will be scratched for Monday's afternoon game against the Devils, according to the Islanders' Official Twitter Feed.
Analysis: We haven't heard of any injury yet and there's a chance the team just wants DiPietro rested after returning from a groin injury and playing well Saturday. Kevin Poulin will start and Nathan Lawson will back him up, while RDP won't even suit up for this one.
News: DiPietro stood on his head Saturday and made 40 saves in a 5-3 win over Buffalo.
Analysis: Now this is what the Isles and his owners dreamed of when they drafted him. Now if he can only maintain his health; time will tell.
News: DiPietro (groin) will start Saturday's game against the Sabres, the Islanders' official site reports.
Analysis: DiPietro sports a 3.36 GAA and an .889 save percentage and the Isles have lost three in a row, but he'll be out there Saturday if you need him.
News: After his second day of practice with the team this week, both DiPietro and coach Jack Capuano sounded optimistic Friday that he'll be able to start Saturday against the Sabres, according to Katie Strang of Newsday.
Analysis: DiPietro has only played one game in January, and that was the one where he injured himself. With a full slate Saturday and a contest against a Sabres squad that's been playing well, DiPietro's return -- along with the return of his 3.46 GAA and .889 save percentage -- may not end up being the fantasy-saving news people have been waiting for. Still, it looks like his return is near if you need him.
News: DiPietro (groin) was on the ice Tuesday with his goaltending coach, according to Newsday.
Analysis: DiPietro has been out of action for a little over a week now with his groin injury. GM Garth Snow stated that he would play sometime this week, but no word yet on when that will be.
News: DiPietro (groin) will return sometime this week if you believe GM Garth Snow, according to Newsday's Katie Strang.
Analysis: We would take this this with a huge grain of salt as DiPietro could get hurt getting out of bed. Hopefully you have a better option this week.
News: DiPietro is flying back to New York on Friday for a medical evaluation on the groin strain he suffered during Monday's win, Newsday reports.
Analysis: Coach Jack Capuano said Thursday that DiPietro was "feeling much better," so we're not sure whether there was a setback or the Isles are just being cautious. Nathan Lawson and Kevin Poulin will handle the goaltending duties while DiPietro is out.
News: DiPietro (groin) will not start Thursday against Edmonton, the Isles' official site reports.
Analysis: DiPietro participated in the morning skate, so his groin strain - as expected - doesn't appear to be serious, but the Isles will hold him out. Nathan Lawson will get the start.
Isles' DiPietro Not Overly Concerned About Strained Groin
News: DiPietro said he "wasn't too concerned" about the groin strain that he sustained in Monday's 5-2 win over the Flames, Newsday reports.
Analysis: DiPietro reportedly hurt himself denying shots from Jarome Iginla. "I don't know if a man's body is supposed to be contorted in those positions," he said. "I felt a little twinge and hopefully it's nothing serious." His status is cloudy for Thursday's game in Edmonton, and just in case he can't give it a go, the Isles have both Nathan Lawson and Kevin Poulin on hand from AHL Bridgeport.
News: The injury DiPietro suffered Monday versus Calgary was to his groin, according to Newsday
Analysis: The good news is that it doesn't seem to be serious and wasn't to his hip or knee where he has suffered injuries in the past. The bad news is that once again DP just can't stay healthy for any length of time and can't be relied upon by the Islanders or your fantasy team.
News: DiPietro left Monday's win over Calgary with an apparent hip injury after allowing one goal on 14 shots.
Analysis: Seriously, does this surprise anyone? Days after the Islanders deal Dwayne Roloson to Tampa Bay, DiPietro suffers an injury without another player touching him. DiPietro's had hip problems in the past, so this doesn't portend well for the Islanders. Remember the name Nathan Lawson if you were relying on DiPietro.
News: DiPietro will start Monday against the Flames, according to the Islanders' official Twitter feed.
Analysis: DiPietro, who saw just four starts in the month of December, will no doubt need to adjust to his new role as #1 starter for the Isles following the recent trade of Dwayne Roloson to Tampa Bay. In 15 starts this season, DiPietro is 5-6-4 with a 3.49 GAA and .888 SV%, and has posted consecutive wins only once. As a team, the Isles have been playing well, but that has largely been with Roloson between the pipes. Meanwhile, this is DiPietro's ninth year in the NHL and there are still many question marks surrounding his ability to be the Isles' everyday starter. Fantasy owners should keep him on a very short leash.
News: DiPietro is now the Islanders' number one goalie.
Analysis: The Isles sent Dwayne Roloson to Tampa Bay on Saturday, leaving the starting job in DP's hands. How many games he plays will depend upon how his knees and hips hold up. The Islanders have yet to call up a backup from Springfield, but the smart money is on Nathan Lawson being DiPietro's understudy.
News: DiPietro stopped 37 of 38 shots Wednesday night as the Islanders downed the Penguins 2-1 in a shootout.
Analysis: Not only did DiPietro get the Islanders a win, he also put an end to Sidney Crosby's 25-game point streak.
Islanders' DiPietro Will Start Wednesday Against Pittsburgh
News: DiPietro will start in goal against the Penguins on Wednesday, the Islanders' official site reports.
Analysis: The oft-injured Dipietro, who was activated from the IR this past Sunday, will have to test his knee in a game setting against the Penguins, the current leaders of the Eastern Conference. We strongly advise that you either keep DiPietro reserved for this unfavorable matchup, or not use a roster spot on him at all.
News: DiPietro (knee) was activated from the IR list Sunday, according to Newsday.
Analysis: DiPietro had swelling in his knee after practice last Sunday so the Isles decided to play it safe and place DiPietro on IR. He won't start Sunday, but he is healthy enough to be the backup. The Isles do play again Monday versus the rival Rangers, but no word yet if DP could get the start.
News: The Islanders placed DiPietro (knee) on injured reserve Tuesday, Newsday reports.
Analysis: What began with some knee swelling and a "precautionary" absence from Saturday's game has now turned into an injured reserve situation. The injury may still turn out to be fairly minor, but considering DiPietro's history, we're not going to take anything for granted. He'll be out at least until the end of the week.
News: DiPietro (knee) did not practice Monday, according to Newsday.
Analysis: The Islanders are calling it a maintenace day but if you have DP in one of your fantasy leagues, play it safe and find a replacement for this week.
News: DiPietro (knee) is expected to start one of the games this week for the Islanders, according to Islanders Point Blank.
Analysis: The swelling in his surgically repaired knee may have caused him to miss the start Saturday, but apparently it is very minor and he should be good to go for this coming week. If you're relying on DP as a goaltender, you already have problems on your fantasy team, so take the safe route here and find someone else to play in the crease this week.
News: DiPietro is experiencing some knee swelling and will not play Saturday against the Coyotes, Newsday's Katie Strang reports.
Analysis: DiPietro stressed that the move is simply precautionary. Considering his injury history, resting him instead of risking a setback is probably a wise decision. New York will start Nathan Lawson, who was recalled on emergency loan earlier in the day.
News: DiPietro won for just the fourth time in 14 starts this year Thursday against Anaheim, stopping 30 of 32 shots.
Analysis: It's been a shaky year, to say the least, for DiPietro, who was fortunate enough to catch the Ducks on the second of back-to-backs 3,000 miles from home. That is to say: Don't read too much into this one.
News: Dwayne Roloson was the only goalie on the ice Thursday morning, meaning DiPietro will likely start against the Ducks, Katie Strang of Newsday reports.
Analysis: Any Isles goalie is tough to count on if you're looking for wins, as the Isles have a whopping five of them this season. RDP does have decent supporting numbers though, with a 2.67 GAA and .910 save percentage. The Ducks also played on Wednesday, so if you have to use DiPietro maybe you'll luck out in this one.
News: DiPietro will start in goal Saturday against Atlanta, the Islanders' official site reports.
Analysis: DiPietro surrendered three goals Thursday night at Boston and has just one win in his last eight starts. We don't have high hopes for him against the Thrashers' high-scoring offense (eighth in the NHL in goals per game).
News: DiPietro will start Thursday against the Bruins, according to the Islanders' official Twitter feed.
Analysis: Bottom line here is, DiPietro's a mediocre goalie, the Isles are a mediocre team, and the Bruins are one of the NHL's best. As such, DiPietro is not worth a fantasy start unless you're absolutely desperate.
News: DiPietro stopped just 20 of 26 shots in Thursday's loss to the Rangers.
Analysis: He continues to very rarely show signs of life, then drop right back into playing terribly again. It's very hard to roll him out in any fantasy leagues right now. Yes, he shut out the Devils one game ago, but they're the Devils.
News: DiPietro will start Thursday against the Rangers, the Islanders' official site reports.
Analysis: He's been playing a little better over his last four starts, going 1-1-2 with a 3.20 GAA and .903 save percentage, but there's still a lot of risk in rolling him in most matchups given the inconsistency and the lack of offensive support he generally receives from the squad in front of him.
News: DiPietro stopped all 29 shots he faced in a 2-0 victory over the Devils on Friday.
Analysis: The win also stopped the Islanders' 14-game winless streak. DiPietro has not been very good this year as he entered Friday's matchup with an .871 SV% and a 3.92 GAA.
News: DiPietro will be in goal for Friday's matchup with the Devils, according to the Islanders' official Twitter page.
Analysis: DiPietro's 3.92 GAA in nine starts is anything but pretty to look at, but he should benefit from facing the league's lowest scoring team Friday.
News: DiPietro will start against the Blue Jackets on Wednesday, the Isles' official site reports.
Analysis: He played well in an overtime loss to the Thrashers on Sunday, which almost certainly led to the decision to give him a second straight start Wednesday. DiPietro was shelled in his two outings before that, however, so you'll want to temper your expectations against a better than expected Columbus squad Wednesday.
News: DiPietro made 33 saves in a 2-1 loss to Atlanta on Sunday.
Analysis: The loss extends the Islanders' winless streak to 13, but DiPietro can't be blamed for this one as he may have been the best player on the ice. DP hadn't played since Nov. 3, and perhaps the rest did him well as this was easily his best game of the season. This performance should earn him a few more starts.
News: DiPietro will get the start in goal Sunday versus Atlanta, according to Newsday.
Analysis: DiPietro hasn't played since Nov. 3 so there might be a little rust that he has to shake off, but then again the way he had been playing earlier this season was proof that he never shook off the rust from not playing most of the past two seasons. Dwayne Roloson has outplayed him, but Sunday is the second of back-to-back games, so DiPietro will get another shot in net.
News: DiPietro will likely start Sunday against the Thrashers, MSG Network's Deb Kaufman Placey reports.
Analysis: Hey, they might as well try something to end the 11-game losing streak. DiPietro hasn't started since Nov. 3, thanks largely to his 4.21 GAA and .854 save percentage.
News: DiPietro (hand) practiced Thursday and seemed just fine, according to Newsday.
Analysis: It seems the hand injury was nothing to really worry about. What you should be worried about is the level of play DiPietro has shown so far this season as it has been well below par.
News: Dipietro was seen icing his hand after Wednesday's morning skate, the New York Daily News reports.
Analysis: This doesn't sound all that serious, but it's not like DiPietro needs another reason to be avoided in fantasy leagues. The first overall pick of the 2000 NHL Entry Draft has no fantasy value as he ranks dead last among active goalies in the two major statistical categories: save percentage (.854) and goals-against average (4.21). Avoid him at all costs, even if the hand issue turns out to be no big deal.
Islanders Deny There is any Plan to Send DiPietro to Bridgeport
News: Isles GM Garth Snow denied Sunday a report that the Islanders are considering sending DiPietro to Bridgeport, according to the Islanders Point Blank.
Analysis: It's not like the demotion isn't warranted as DiPietro has been abysmal so far this season. He is sitting with a .854 SV% and 4.21 GAA. He has barely played in three seasons, perhaps playing in the AHL would be better for his future rather than being the backup with the big club. Of course if the Isles did send DiPietro down, they would be under the salary cap floor which would bring about other problems.
Islanders' DiPietro Allows Seven Goals in Loss Wednesday Night
News: DiPietro allowed all seven goals in a 7-2 loss to Carolina on Wednesday night.
Analysis: He went into Wednesday night's action with a 3.75 GAA and an .867 SV% so the seven goals allowed is not going to help matters.
News: DiPietro will start Wednesday against Carolina, the Islanders' official site reports.
Analysis: He's been a track wreck in the early part of the season, toting a 3.75 GAA and meager .867 save percentage through his first six starts. In any case, we can't recommend him as a good option in goal against a strong Carolina squad in a road start Wednesday night.
Isles' DiPietro Will Still Get His Share of Starts
News: The Islanders are still going to rotate their goalies evenly, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Dwayne Roloson has badly outplayed DiPietro so far this season, posting a 2.40 GAA to DP's 3.75. Still the Islanders realize they need to find out if DiPietro can be the franchise goaltender they once thought he could. If not, then the team may be in the market for a true number one as Roloson is over 40 and won't be around forever.
News: DiPietro made 23 saves in Saturday's 6-1 loss to the Flyers.
Analysis: He really didn't have a chance. His faced 11 power plays, two of which were the result of his wandering ways. The Isles are not a good team; avoid DiPietro only if desperate.
Isles DiPietro Expected to Start Saturday Against Philly
News: Dipietro is expected to get the start against the Flyers on Saturday, according to Islanders Point Blank.
Analysis: Originally it was thought that DiPietro would start Friday versus Montreal, but the Isles decided to give him the second of back-to-back nights. DiPietro has been outplayed this season by Dwayne Roloson, but the Islanders have also lost three straight with Roloson in net; perhaps DP will change their luck. He will also be wearing pink pads, trapper, and blocker to support breast cancer Saturday; it should be a sight to see.
DiPietro Expected to Start for the Islanders on Friday
News: DiPietro is expected to start for the Islanders on Friday, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Dwayne Roloson started Wednesday for the Isles in a 5-3 loss to Montreal; even if he had played well, DiPietro would still have started Friday or Saturday. The Isles are giving DiPietro every chance to win the starting job as they realize he is their future while Roloson is likely playing his last season with the team.
News: DiPietro saved 26 of 30 shots against Florida in his first loss of the season Saturday.
Analysis: DiPietro witnessed a hat trick from teammate Jonathan Tavares in what proved to be a see-saw battle, but the Panthers had the last laugh as DiPietro was beaten by Radek Dvorak for the deciding goal in the third period. DiPietro is a shaky start in fantasy leagues as he's let in three or more goals in all but one game this season.
News: DiPietro will start in goal Saturday against the Panthers, reports the Islanders' official site.
Analysis: DiPietro is 2-0 in four starts this season, but his save percentage is resting at just .886, so he's not as hot as his record might indicate.
News: DiPietro stopped 28 of 30 shots in Thursday's overtime win in Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Good for Islanders fans and fantasy owners to see DP finally have a good game, as he'd failed to record a .900 save percentage in any of his first three starts.
News: DiPietro will start Thursday against Tampa Bay, the Islanders' official site reports.
Analysis: He doesn't have a regulation loss yet, but 11 goals allowed in three starts isn't exactly a great way to begin the season, especially with Dwayne Roloson playing well. When setting your Thursday lineup, also consider that the Lightning rank third in the league in scoring with 3.40 goals per game.
News: DiPietro made 26 saves in an OT loss to Pittsburgh on Friday night.
Analysis: While he hasn't lost in regulation through three starts, DiPietro hasn't played all that well so far. The concern here will continue to be offensive support, but DiPietro has been inconsistent so far having allowed 11 goals through three games.
News: DiPietro will pick up another start Friday when the Islanders take on the Penguins, according to the Islanders Official Twitter Feed.
Analysis: A tough start on the road against one of the conference's finest to be sure, but the banged-up Pens have been a little off their game lately so it's not the slam dunk it may have been at other times. DiPietro will now have started three of the team's four games.
News: DiPietro may start Wednesday for the Isles, according to Newsday.
Analysis: So much for taking it easy with DiPietro at the beginning of the season as this would be his third straight start. DP isn't playing all that well with a GAA of 3.8 in his first two starts, but the Isles want to get him going and they feel the only way to do that is for him to play. The Isles play back-to-back games Friday and Saturday, so look for Dwayne Roloson to start one of those.
News: DiPietro turned aside 29 shots in Monday's 6-4 win over the Rangers.
Analysis: Allowing four goals in a win is hardly dominant, but it's good to see DiPietro back in the crease. He's hardly a reliable play with his health history and the team in front of him, but he may be getting the bulk of the starts for now.
News: DiPietro will start against the Rangers on Monday afternoon, Chris Botta of Fanhouse reports.
Analysis: He struggled in the opener against Dallas, yielding four goals on 22 shots before losing in the shootout. Health permitting, DiPietro will shoulder a large workload (50-plus starts) this season, while Dwayne Roloson falls into more of a backup role. That said, it wouldn't be surprising to see the workload break down more evenly than that.
News: DiPietro will start the Isles' season opener against the Stars on Saturday, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Durability is a concern here as always, since DiPietro has made just 12 starts over the last two seasons. If he can stay healthy enough for 55-60 turns between the pipes, there's a good chance he'll outearn his draft-day cost. It's important to realize that there's much more risk than usual in this low-cost investment.
News: DiPietro went the distance Saturday night against the Devils, making 25 stops in a 2-1 win.
Analysis: He made a few exceptional saves over the course of the night. Even if he can return to his one-time exceptional play, he remains a fantasy risk for both his tightly controlled workload and his poor supporting cast.
News: DiPietro will start in net Saturday for the Islanders, according to Newsday.
Analysis: It's only a scrimmage, but with the Islanders not scheduled to have their first exhibition game until Wednesday, it's the best they can do.
Isles Have Their Own Version of the Joba Rules With DiPietro
News: The Islanders are taking a page out of the Yankees' playbook in regard to how they will treat DiPietro, according to the Islanders Point Blank.
Analysis: For every two days of practice, DiPietro will rest a day. This is the plan for this week. After the week is over the team will decide how they should handle the second week of camp. This is all designed to keep DiPietro and his knee/hip fresh and healthy.
News: The Islanders don't want to overwork DiPietro during camp, according to Newsday.
Analysis: The Isles will decide how much DiPietro will practice on a day by day basis. He is completely healthy now and skating, but they don't want to push their luck with the oft injured goaltender.
News: DiPietro is skating and ready for the season to begin, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Dwayne Roloson is still the number one goaltender on the island, but DiPietro is sure to play more than the eight games he managed last season if he stays healthy. That's a big if of course as DiPietro has never done a good job of staying on the ice for long periods of time.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Islanders G Rick DiPietro has been officially shut down for the rest of the season because of swelling in his surgically repaired left knee after making just eight appearances in his latest comeback attempt. The former All-Star has appeared in 13 games the past two seasons because of knee problems. "We feel that working without goaltending coaches this summer, Rick will return to top form," GM Garth Snow said. Martin Biron and Dwayne Roloson will continue to fill the void in net.
Analysis: All Snow can be is upbeat and optimistic because New York is still on the hook for most of DiPietro's record 15-year contract. We doubt New York will make another such foolish offer in the future having learned from the DiPietro disaster. It's not surprising that DiPietro will not return as New York is doubtful for make the playoffs. Fantasy owners are going to have to be cautious on Draft Day 2010 as DiPietro's recent history of injury issues make him a risky selection.
News:Newsday reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro is out indefinitely with swelling in his surgically repaired right knee.
Analysis: What needs to be said that hasn't already about Mr. DiPietro and the 12 years remaining on his contract? Just when it looked like he was getting back to NHL relevance, DiPietro is back on the shelf again. It's ironic how this injury comes just a few days after he stated his hope to play in the 2014 Olympics. If you're a glutton for punishment, stash DiPietro away in deeper seasonal formats, but just don't bank on him playing much the rest of the way. The Islanders TG remains a low-end Fantasy option with Dwayne Roloson likely to get most of the starts the rest of the way.
News: AOL Fanhouse reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro missed practice Monday in order to get his troublesome knee checked out by a doctor. He is scheduled to return to workouts on Tuesday.
Analysis: Hopefully this is just a regular checkup for DiPietro, who is being handled with care by the Islanders, and for good reason. New York plays three times in Fantasy Week 20 (March 1-7), with games vs. Chicago, at Atlanta and vs. Boston. DiPietro is highly unlikely to get all three of those starts, so remains just worth using as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News: Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro was scratched for a second straight game on Sunday against the Senators because of the flu.
Analysis: The flu is not one of those ailments that we can be thankful the Olympic break has arrived since it is not considered a long-term situation. We expect to see DiPietro back after the break. At least he hasn't suffered a setback with his surgically-repaired knees. DiPietro is just 2-5-0 with a 2.60 GAA and .900 save percentage in eight games since making his season debut. You had to expect some rust after being sidelined for so long. We are likely to see DiPietro split starts with Dwayne Roloson down the stretch, so consider him a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 22 saves Saturday in a 3-1 loss to the Hurricanes.
Analysis: DiPietro has now lost four straight starts and isn't exactly earning his monster contract right now. At least he's healthy, though. DiPietro will continue to split starts with Dwayne Roloson until he shows he deserves extra starts, and is really not worth considering as anything more than a No. 3 option for now. The Islanders TG is a No. 2 option.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 23 saves during a 2-0 loss to the Panthers on Sunday. Jordan Leopold had a power-play goal at 15:45 in the first. He took a pass from Michael Frolik and scored with a wrist shot. Keith Ballard stretched Florida's lead to 2-0 when he scored with 9.6 seconds left in the second period. He one-timed a pass from Cory Stillman past DiPietro for his fourth goal of the season and first since Dec. 31.
Analysis: DiPietro is winless in his last four appearances after winning two of his first three coming off injured reserve. He hasn't played awful during his winless streak. He just hasn't received a lot of offensive support at times. DiPietro is likely to split time down the stretch with Dwayne Roloson. DiPietro is a decent No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Islanders TG is a No. 2 option.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 19 saves during a 4-1 loss to the Islanders on Thursday. DiPietro fell into a 2-0 hole in the first period as Carolina scored twice withing a three-minute window midway through the frame. Stephane Yelle then added a short-handed score midway through the third period and Jussi Jokinen finished it off with an empty netter. DiPietro is winless in his last three outings.
Analysis: The Islanders aren't afraid to throw DiPietro back-to-back starts, but since Dwayne Roloson is still a viable option in net, New York has no reason to push DiPietro to the brink. It's probably for the best since it will decrease his chances for a setback with his surgically-repaired knees. DiPietro is a decent No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Islanders TG is a No. 2 option.
News: It wasn't a happy night for Islanders and goalie Dwayne Roloson on Tuesday night against the Washington Capitals. The Capitals peppered the net and scored four times in the first period against Roloson to eventually cruise to the 7-2 victory. Roloson took the loss as he managed to stop just eight of the 12 shots he faced. Roloson was replaced by Rick DiPietro at the start of the second period. DiPietro stopped 18 shots but allowed three more goals to score over the final two periods.
Analysis: Roloson came into Tuesday's game with wins in five of his six starts in January but the Capitals can score almost at will and did so on Tuesday against him. His record falls to 19-9-6 on the year. DiPietro remains 2-2-0. Roloson remains a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Islanders TG is a No. 2 option since New York is in playoff contention. Right now, DiPietro is just a backup to Roloson.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro saw his winning streak end at two games Saturday when New York fell 4-2 to the Devils. DiPietro made 24 saves, and only allowed three goals as the final New Jersey tally was an empty-netter.
Analysis: DiPietro has done OK since returning from his numerous injuries, but will likely continue to split starts with Dwayne Roloson until he starts to prove he deserves to be the outright No. 1 goalie on the island. Continue to view RDP as a No. 2 option in deeper formats until then, along with the Islanders TG.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro picked up his 15th career shutout Monday in a 4-0 win over the Devils. DiPietro made 20 saves.
Analysis: DiPietro has now won back-to-back starts for the first time since February 20-21, 2008. While he's clearly off to a good start since finally getting back healthy, don't get too excited just yet. He's likely to continue to split starts with Dwayne Roloson for a while, but the potential is definitely there. Grab DiPietro in all formats and feel free to start him in deeper formats as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is also a secondary option.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 31 saves during regulation and then came out on top in a shootout as New York edged the Sabres 3-2 for DiPietro's first win since Dec. 26, 2008. "I was trying not to cry on the ice," said the 28-year-old DiPietro, back from a series of knee injuries. "That's the one thing I told myself. I wouldn't cry. It's an emotional time for me. It's been a long time coming, been a rough road. Just to get the win was amazing."
Analysis: It's good to see DiPietro back in the winner's circle after all his troubles, and hopefully he'll be able to stay healthy for a while. He will likely continue to split starts with Dwayne Roloson for now, so is only worth using in the deepest of leagues as a low-end No. 2 choice for now. The ceiling is certainly high, however. The Islanders TG remains a No. 2 option.
News: AOL FanHouse reports that G Martin Biron has been informed he is no longer part of the Islanders goalie rotation. "It's going to be Rick (DiPietro) and Roli (Dwayne Roloson)," said coach Scott Gordon.
Analysis: The Islanders will now look to possibly trade Biron, as he's certainly still capable of being at least a serviceable backup somewhere in the league. For now, only hold on to him in the deepest of formats. Keep a close eye on where he ends up, however.
News: Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro made 24 saves in his first game in more than a year during a 4-3 loss to the Stars on Friday. DiPietro sustained a left knee injury on Jan. 2, 2008, that required major surgery. DiPietro completed a minor-league rehab assignment and the 28-year-old goalie got the start on the second stop of a three-game road trip. He held a 2-1 lead after the first period before Dallas rallied to score three times in the second to take the lead. "I'm not going to lie, I was nervous, but I got a chance to handle the puck a couple of times, made a few saves and ease my way into it," DiPietro said. "The fourth goal was kind of a sloppy rebound on my part and that's the kind of stuff that comes back and bites you."
Analysis: DiPietro definitely showed some rustiness in the second period on Friday after Dallas made some intermission adjustments and eventually blew past the oft-injured the goalie. But the good news is that DiPietro made it through the game and can start to build off that. New York will carry three goalies for the time being and possibly the rest of the season. DiPietro will likely move into the starting role at some point, but don't be surprised if he is eased back into action. He is worth adding in Fantasy, but he is not a must-start option just yet. The Islanders TG is at best a No. 2 option.
News: NHL.com reports Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro will return to the ice on Friday against the Stars for the first time since Jan. 2, 2009. The 28-year-old has been recovering from and rehabbing knee surgery after appearing in just five games last season. He made four rehab starts with Bridgeport (AHL), going 1-2-0 with a 3.31 goals-against average and .883 save percentage. The Islanders will continue to carry three goalies, keeping Dwayne Roloson and Martin Biron on the roster. "Is it ideal? No," general manager Garth Snow said. "But we just have to make sure things go smoothly. If something presents itself we'll do it. Worst-case scenario, we have three No. 1 goalies at the deadline. It's not a bad situation, it's not a great situation."
Analysis: DiPietro's best season was 2006-07. He went 32-19-9 with a 2.58 GAA and .919 save percentage. The Islanders are hoping he can return to his pre-injury form since DiPietro still has a long ways to go on a 15-year deal. With Biron and Roloson still around, the Islanders are likely going to ease DiPietro back into action. He is worth adding in Fantasy, but he is not a must-start option just yet. Clearly, Roloson and Biron lose some Fantasy appeal because now their playing time has been cut.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro (knee) dressed as Dwayne Roloson's backup for Wednesday's win over the Avalanche.
Analysis: It looks like DiPietro is ready to make his well overdue NHL return in the next few days, and that Martin Biron will be the odd man out on the island. Grab DiPietro in most leagues now if he's available, but just realize that he comes with a lot of injury risk. Biron might find himself traded somewhere, but us still likely to be a backup.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro (knee) has officially been recalled from his AHL conditioning stint. DiPietro, who practiced with the Isles on Monday, made two AHL starts over the weekend, allowing seven goals.
Analysis: DiPietro might be back between the pipes for the Islanders this week, but he didn't exactly look good over the weekend and you'd be crazy to risk him in Fantasy Week 14 (Jan. 4-10). Just continue to stash him in deeper formats until he's back healthy and producing.
News: The New York Post reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro is expected to start oN Friday night for Bridgeport of the AHL.
Analysis: On Saturday, DiPietro will have gone a year without playing for the the Islanders. He is hoping to make a return to the NHL some time this month, but he is probably not worth starting in Week 14 (Jan. 4-10). There is also a chance he is eased back into the rotation, so he might not see back-to-back or regular starts until later in the season. Continue to stash DiPietro in Fantasy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Islanders G Rick DiPietro, who recently resumed practicing after removing himself from a minor league rehab start Dec. 11 because of stiffness in his surgically repaired left knee, hopes to play a full game for Bridgeport (AHL) this weekend. The former All-Star added he won't return to NHL action until he feels fully healthy. "I'm not going to put the team's chance to win in jeopardy just because I want to play. I like to think I'm a little smarter than that now," DiPietro said. "I feel great and I'm looking forward to getting in a game. It's exciting. How this process works is to see how my knee responds to activity, and so far it has responded well."
Analysis: With the way New York has babied DiPietro until this point and all the setbacks he has suffered, we are not surprised DiPietro wants to take a cautious approach. But at some point he is going to have to suck it up and play through it. DiPietro is hoping to make a return to the NHL in January, but he still remains a risky start for Week 14 (Jan. 4-10). There is also a chance he is eased back into the rotation, so he might not see back-to-back or regular starts until later in the season. Continue to stash DiPietro in Fantasy.
News:Newsday reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro might play in an AHL rehab game this weekend.
Analysis: At this point, it's almost like we should wait until we actually see DiPietro in an Islanders jersey and on the ice for a start before we update him again. Just when you think he's ready, he suffers a set back again. Continue to stash DiPietro in deeper formats until he eventually returns to action.
News:Newsday reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro (knee, tightness in his leg) will not play in Tuesday's game for Bridgeport, which was supposed to be his final rehab contest.
Analysis: Just when it looked like DiPietro was close to a return to the Islanders, it appears the oft-injured goalie is probably at least another week or two away now. Hopefully this tightness issue is nothing but a minor setback, but with DiPietro you never know. Continue to stash him away if you can afford to.
News:The Sports Xchange reports it's just "stiffness," and it's "unrelated" to the multiple knee surgeries Rick DiPietro has undergone in the last year. That was the Islanders' company line and they were sticking to it when their always injured franchise goalie was removed from his second rehabilitation start for Bridgeport (AHL) on Friday after he'd looked so sharp over the first two periods. "He played a great 40 minutes. He made some great saves, looked extremely mobile, read the play well and handled the puck efficiently," GM Garth Snow said. "As far as the third period, we don't have enough information yet on it for me to make an educated comment."
Analysis: DiPietro turned aside 13 of 14 shots in his two periods but didn't come out for the third period because of "stiffness" in one of his legs, which he did not specify. DiPietro told reporters he was just being overly cautious after missing so much time, but the Isles wouldn't say Saturday if they still expected him to make his next scheduled rehab start Tuesday at Bridgeport. "If it's what I'm told -- that he's just being cautious -- then no, (I'm not concerned). But if it turns out to be something more severe, then I would be concerned," Isles coach Scott Gordon said. "From where he's coming from, he has to be (cautious)." Whether you want to consider this a setback or not, the fact DiPietro left a start likely means his timetable to return to the NHL will be pushed back. At this rate, are we ever going to see the oft-injured goalie? Continue to keep DiPietro out of active Fantasy lineups. We are hoping for a late December return at this juncture.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro (knee) had his first game action since Jan. 2, starting for Bridgeport of the AHL on Saturday night. DiPietro, taken off the injured list and loaned to Bridgeport on Thursday, stopped 10 of 13 shots over two periods against Springfield.
Analysis: DiPietro has played only twice in NHL over the last 12 months, but he should inherit the Islanders starting job right back once he's healthy again. With the solid start New York is off to this season, DiPietro could end up being a productive Fantasy goalie down the road, so you might want to pick him up now if your current options between the pipes are struggling. Don't start him in Fantasy Week 10 (Dec. 7-13), though.
News:Newsday reports that Islanders GM Garth Snow is targeting a mid-December return for G Rick DiPietro (knee).
Analysis: DiPietro has played only twice in the last 12 months, but he should inherit the Islanders starting job right back once he's healthy again. With the solid start New York is off to this season, DiPietro could end up being a productive Fantasy goalie down the road, so you might want to pick him up now if your current options between the pipes are struggling. The Islanders TG remains more of a No. 2 Fantasy option for now.
News:Newsday reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro (knee) will return to practice on Tuesday.
Analysis: DiPietro has played only twice in the last 12 months, but he should inherit the Islanders starting job right back once he's healthy again. With the solid start New York is off to this season, DiPietro could end up being a productive Fantasy goalie as soon as maybe mid-December, so you might want to pick him up now if your current options between the pipes are struggling. The Islanders TG remains more of a No. 2 Fantasy option for now.
News: The New York Post reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro (knee) practiced for a second straight day Tuesday. "He was good," Scott Gordon said. "I sat and watched him and he did multiple butterflies, more rapid recovery." DiPietro will work consecutive days twice next week as he continues his recovery.
Analysis: DiPietro continues to take his sweet time to recover from this knee problem, but quite rightly so after his history of problems. Hopefully he'll be back between the pipes in a couple of weeks, so just continue to stash him away.
News: The New York Post reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro (knee) continues to work his way back to full health. "Next week he should be able to ramp up his workouts on the ice," said coach Scott Gordon on Thursday. "It's working on more technique. Everything is pretty controlled right now, the next step is to make it more game-like ... moving off passes, multiple shots, recoveries, everything that would come up in the course of a normal practice, but do it in a controlled environment."
Analysis: DiPietro is out until at least late October, but we wouldn't be surprised if the Islanders take extra caution with their franchise goalie and hold him out even longer than that. Continue to stash him in leagues as an injury sleeper option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Islanders G Rick DiPietro, who underwent surgery twice on his left knee last season, isn't expected back until late October at the earliest. Martin Biron and Dwayne Roloson will play in his absence.
Analysis: We aren't shocked by this news. We expected DiPietro to be on the shelf when the season began and he will be. DiPietro is a big-time injury-risk Fantasy sleeper when healthy. But keep him reserved in Fantasy until further notice. As for Biron and Roloson, they remain stopgap Fantasy options. We believe Biron will see the most starts in DiPietro's absence. The Islanders TG remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro (knee) skated Wednesday morning, but there is no timetable for his return to the lineup.
Analysis: It's seems very unlikely that we will see DiPietro on the active roster to open the season. He just hasn't done a lot of work this preseason, and the Islanders do have Martin Biron and Dwayne Roloson on the roster. When DiPietro is ready, he is going to see the lion's share of starts. However, he is going to be an injury-risk selection Draft Day
News:The Sports Xchange reports with two viable NHL goaltenders on hand, the Islanders do not need former All-Star Rick DiPietro to rush back to the lineup following a lost 2008-09 season and a series of hip and knee surgeries. But that doesn't mean the often injured franchise netminder isn't trying to get back on the ice as soon as possible. DiPietro remains unlikely to be ready to start the season with the Isles, but he resumed skating in late August and told Newsday that he is optimistic about returning to active duty after appearing in only five games last season. "So far, everything has been positive. I've done everything under the sun to get stronger and into better shape," DiPietro said. "I'm going to come back and play when I'm 100 percent healthy. I'm not gonna make another mistake and rush myself back."
Analysis: After being forced to go with unproven journeymen Joey MacDonald and Yann Danis between the pipes for most of last season, the Isles added veterans Dwayne Roloson and Martin Biron via free agency as hedges against DiPietro's ongoing health problems. But DiPietro added that he plans to accompany the team to training camp, which opens Sept. 12. "It allows Rick to take his time and make sure he's 100 percent before he comes back in games," GM Garth Snow said. "I didn't want to make the same mistake I made a year ago. It was a situation where we didn't have depth at the goaltending position that we have this year. With Roloson, Biron and DiPietro -- when he's 100 percent to play -- we have three bona-fide goaltenders." This is definitely surprising news since DiPietro has had so much time to heal. Now, it's easy to see why Biron signed on in late July. When DiPietro is ready, he is going to see the lion's share of starts. However, he is going to be an injury-risk selection Draft Day. As for Biron and Roloson, they remain low-end Fantasy fliers. The Islanders TG also has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News:The Sports Xchange reports two, generally, is the logical number when it comes to goaltenders on an NHL team. After all, there are only two nets in practice. But as general manager Garth Snow crowed after the Islanders signed veteran net-minder Martin Biron to a reasonable one-year contract ($1.4 million) on July 22, "this gives us three bonafide No. 1" goalies. "We learned about the importance of stability in our lineup from last year and he now allows us to have another quality starter," Snow said. So what does adding Biron, and the signing earlier this summer of veteran Dwayne Roloson, say about the future of franchise goalie Rick DiPietro, who has 12 years remaining on his contract after missing virtually all of last season with knee injuries? The company line is that DiPietro, who has undergone three knee operations and two hip surgeries since signing his contract, will resume skating in August and is expected to be with the team when training camp convenes in September in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
Analysis: If DiPietro isn't ready to start the season, the presence of Biron, who won 59 games for the Flyers over the past two seasons, and Roloson is a significant upgrade over the two inexperienced goalies -- Joey MacDonald and Yann Danis -- the Isles were forced to use in DiPietro's absence in finishing dead last in the NHL last season. If DiPietro, who appeared in only five games last season, proves healthy sooner than anticipated, Biron's contract and experience should make him an attractive commodity on the trade market for teams seeking help in goal. "We were thinking outside the box and tried to make it work with the Islanders," Biron said. "We put the emphasis on the situation and tried to see how that would work for us and the team. It's a good fit for my situation and for the Islanders. It's going to give Rick and the Islanders a chance to get themselves prepared. (Snow) said he's going to monitor the situation closely and be in constant conversation with everyone involved. A lot can happen that I don't have control over, but I know I have Garth's support." Well, at least we were right on with our predictions. Biron was added as insurance in case DiPietro is not ready, but he is still taking a big risk in the event New York can't trade him. DiPietro is expected to be New York's top goalie as long as he is healthy, so he is Fantasy owners best bet. Just keep your eyes on Biron and Roloson in case you need to hit the waiver wire. The Islanders TG is at best a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option Draft Day.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro apparently was having a better July than any of the previous 18-to-24 months. The oft-injured goalie married his longtime girlfriend on July 18. His father, Richard Sr., also told reporters at the team's summer mini-camp that DiPietro's health has steadily improved since undergoing his second knee surgery last October and that he expects his son to be ready when training camp starts in September. "This is just from the perspective of a father," DiPietro's dad told reporters, "but compared to last year, it's night and day for Rick."
Analysis: Officially, the Isles have said repeatedly that DiPietro is slated to resume skating in August. Still, they signed free agents Dwayne Roloson and Martin Biron as insurance, while also signing minor-league veteran Scott Munroe and second-round pick Mikko Koskinen for depth at AHL Bridgeport after DiPietro played in only five NHL games last season. We didn't get overly anxious when New York signed Roloson on July 1, but when they inked Biron weeks later it became very puzzling. Both Roloson and Biron were starters last season and have the ability to still start in the NHL. If DiPietro is healthy, they are going to fight for backup minutes. The Islanders are glad to have three quality goalies on the roster, but it creates nightmares for Fantasy owners since we don't know how coach Scott Gordon is going to handle the situation.
News: The Islanders made a stunning announcement Wednesday with the signing of free-agent goalie Martin Biron to a one-year contract. Biron now joins Rick DiPietro and Dwayne Roloson on the goalie depth chart. "Adding Marty gives us three bonafide No. 1 goalies," GM Garth Snow said. "We learned about the importance of stability in our lineup from last year, and he now allows us to have another quality starter." Biron appeared in 55 games with the Flyers last season, posting a 29-19-5 record, 2.76 goals against average, .915 save percentage and two shutouts.
Analysis: While having enough capable goalies is never a bad thing, this move is kind of stunning from Biron's standpoint. He goes from a starting goalie in Philadelphia to a potential backup option with the Islanders. And he might even have to split time with Roloson. The only other scenario is that DiPietro could be behind in his recovery from knee surgery and the Islanders aren't saying anything. But this signing speaks loudly. Fantasy owners are going to have to watch the goalie situation very closely in training camp. DiPietro is expected to be New York's top goalie as long as he is healthy, but with Roloson and Biron breathing down his neck he can't afford much room for error. The Islanders TG is at best a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option Draft Day.
News: Free agent goalie Dwayne Roloson has signed a contract with the New York Islanders. Newsday reports it is a two-year deal worth $5 million. The veteran netminder appeared in 63 games for Edmonton in 2008-09, posting a 28-24-9 record, 2.77 GAA and .915 save percentage. Roloson will serve as Rick DiPietro's backup in 2009-10.
Analysis: It's interesting Roloson heads to New York since Islanders coach Scott Gordon has already said DiPietro is the team's starting goalie as long as he is healthy. DiPietro played in all but four games in '08-09 due to knee issues. But by bringing in Roloson, it could help keep DiPietro fresh in net and off injured reserve. DiPietro has the ability to be a No. 1 Fantasy goalie, but since there are major injury concerns and the Islanders aren't yet ready to contend, consider him a No. 2 Fantasy goalie Draft Day.
News:Newsday reports the progress is positive regarding Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro, who appeared in just five games in 2008-09 because of multiple injuries and none after Jan. 2 with swelling in his surgically repaired left knee. "It sounds like everything is going well with Ricky," coach Scott Gordon said of the goaltender's progress in rehabilitation of his left knee. "I spoke with (trainer) Garrett Timms, and he's very encouraged. That's music to my ears." The Islanders were quite injury-prone in '08-09 as they lost a league-high 582 games due to various ailments. But DiPietro's absence was the most impactful. "To me, the most important thing is going to be Ricky," Gordon said of looking forward to 2009-10. "No matter who we draft, it's going to come down to what we do in net. No matter how good you are, you're going to break down. You can't underestimate the value of the guy in net. You saw Ricky's value the previous year when he played so well the first half of the season. When he got hurt, they went from being a playoff contender to struggling. You have to have a guy who is able to run with the ball. No matter who we draft, it gets overshadowed by who's in net."
Analysis: Yann Danis and Joey MacDonald filled in for DiPietro in '08-09, and while they each had their moments, neither player did enough to create a goalie controversy heading into '09-10. , However, Gordon said it's far too early in the rehab process to tell how much of a workload DiPietro will carry next season. "We'll have to see how everything goes through training camp," Gordon said. "The first step is to get him healthy and see where he's at." DiPietro still has many years left on the monster 15-year contract he signed with New York a few years ago, so it's not hard to see why the team continues to back the injury-prone goalie. DiPietro has the ability to be a No. 1 Fantasy goalie, but since there are major injury concerns and the Islanders aren't yet ready to contend, consider him a No. 2 Fantasy goalie Draft Day.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Rick DiPietro will not be in goal for the Islanders again this season. But in his first interview since it was announced on Jan. 20 that he'll miss the remainder of the season because of swelling in his surgically repaired left knee, the injury-prone goalie expressed optimism Monday that the added time off will get him healthy for training camp in September. "I don't see any way that I'm not," DiPietro told reporters after watching the Isles' 3-2 shootout win Monday over Pittsburgh. "I'm not giving a definitive answer either way. I don't know what's going to happen. But so far, so good. I've seen quite a few doctors who are pretty positive about the future. That's the whole point of this season is to make sure I'm 100 percent and ready to fulfill my contract."
Analysis: Just three seasons into a landmark 15-year contract, DiPietro also has undergone operations on both hips and has suffered multiple concussions and groin injuries since signing his $67.5 million deal in 2006. "It's been terrible," the 27-year-old DiPietro said. "In the summer, when I got my knee cleaned up, I never thought it would cause such a problem. To look back and miss pretty much an entire season, it's brutal. The worst thing in the world you can do is sit in a rehab center and try to get healthy. Mentally, I can't take much more of this. It's just been a tough two years for everybody. I've never seen so many injuries, but there's nothing you can do." The fact DiPietro appears to be at his mental breaking point is never very comforting, but he has a lot of time to get his confidence up in the offseason. The veteran goalie is only worth holding onto in larger long-term Fantasy keeper leagues.
News: New York Islanders G Rick DiPietro is out for the season because of continuing problems with a surgically repaired knee. The 27-year-old goalie has played only five games and won't see any more action this season. "This has been one of the most frustrating situations I have ever had to deal with, but this is the right decision for me and the team," DiPietro said in a statement. "I am confident this will allow me to make a complete recovery, be ready in plenty of time for next season and compete to my highest ability for many years to come."
Analysis: This had been a rumor for about a week now, and finally it's been confirmed. DiPietro's owners in seasonal leagues can now obviously drop him immediately, and owners in keeper formats will have to seriously consider not holding on to him as well, as who knows if he will ever shake off these nagging knee problems.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro did not play in Thursday's game against the Bruins and according to Newsday the Islanders may be ready to shut Rick DiPietro down for the season, having brought in Wade Dubielewicz from Russia.
Analysis: If DiPietro is in fact done for the season, this is a major blow for his owners who likely drafted him thinking he was going to be an every week starter. Don't release him just yet, but be prepared to play the rest of the season without him.
News:Newsday reports that with the Islanders reportedly exploring the idea of bringing back G Wade Dubielewicz, the team may be ready to shut Rick DiPietro down for the season.
Analysis: This would be a huge blow for DiPietro's owners, but it would certainly stop the headache of having to worry every week about putting him in your lineup or not. Dubielewicz was playing in Russia, but his contract has been bought out and he has been talking to three NHL teams. Hold on to DiPietro for now, but be prepared to not have again the rest of the season.
News:Newsday reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro (knee) won't play in Tuesday's game vs. the Rangers.
Analysis: It looks like you can forget about starting DiPietro in Fantasy Week 15 (Jan. 12-18) as his injury woes continue. DiPietro has what it takes to be a viable No. 2 Fantasy goalie when healthy, but who knows when that will be.
News:The Sports Xchange reports it would be comical, if only it weren't so ominous for the Islanders. Goalie Rick DiPietro now is experiencing swelling in one of his surgically repaired knees, so the oft-injured goaltender missed his third straight game during a 5-2 loss Thursday night in Calgary. Without another game until Tuesday at home against the rival Rangers, DiPietro will get the weekend to rest further and will be reevaluated by the team's medical staff once the Isles return to Long Island. He has appeared in just five games this season, following summertime hip surgery and operations on each knee, including an arthroscopic procedure Oct. 31 to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. DiPietro also missed a handful of games in recent weeks due to a groin injury. "From a medical standpoint, he's cleared to play. With the (knee) surgery that he's had, he's expected to have some swelling. That's been normal," coach Scott Gordon said of DiPietro, who is in just the third year of a record 15-year contract. "We've been very cautious about how he's going to respond."
Analysis: DiPietro practiced Wednesday and appeared on target to play one night later against the Flames, but Yann Danis was summoned to fly across the continent from AHL Bridgeport to serve as Joey MacDonald's backup once DiPietro was deemed unavailable. "We just feel that it's in his best interests to give (DiPietro) the night off and make sure that everything is going the way it's supposed to go. If anything, just err on the side of caution," Gordon said. "He could have played all (four) games (on the road trip). That's why he's been here. But it hasn't made the progress that was to be expected, so, rather than just throw him in there, knowing that he's medically cleared to play, we just figured we'll hold off and get him back to New York and re-evaluate and go from there." The is just unreal with DiPietro. If we were the Islanders, we would find someway to get out of the remainder of his contract because it just seems he is going to be an injury headache. DiPietro has what it takes to be a viable No. 2 Fantasy goalie when healthy, but until he is 100 percent and producing, he remains a risky start.
News:Newsday reports that, although he's medically cleared to play, Islanders G Rick DiPietro has sat out the last three games. "With the (knee) surgery that he's had, he's expected to have some swelling," said Coach Scott Gordon. "That's been normal. We've been very cautious about how he's going to respond."
Analysis: It's hard to tell whether the Islanders are just being super-careful with their franchise player or if DiPietro is really hurting again. Still, either way you need to bench him until he prove he can get through a few games in a row and not suffer any consequences.
News: Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro, making just his fifth start of the season and first since December 26, made 28 saves during Friday's 5-4 loss to the Coyotes. New York's No. 1 goalie returned from a 27-game absence a week ago and played two games before being sidelined with a groin injury for three games. DiPietro never led in the game and trailed 4-1 after Olli Jokinen's 13th goal 3:10 into the third.
Analysis: DiPietro has had a very frustrating season and is just hoping to stay healthy at this point. New York might take it a little cautious with the former No. 1 pick until they are certain he is at 100 percent. DiPietro might prove to be a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie down the road. The Islanders TG still has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro sat out the Islanders' game against Florida Wednesday with a strained groin. DiPietro has only played in four games this season for the Isles as he had a knee injury that kept him out of the bulk of the games he has missed. He has now missed three contests with the groin injury and Joey MacDonald continues to start in his place.
Analysis: The Islanders have been plain pathetic this season and one has to believe that DiPietro's constant absence has not helped the matter. When healthy, DiPietro can be a No. 2 goalie, but keeping him healthy seems like an impossibility at the moment.
News: Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro lasted only one game before another injury forced him out of the lineup again. DiPietro, the Islanders' franchise goalie, has played only four times in New York's 37 games this season. He returned Friday after a 27-game absence and made 28 saves in the Islanders' 4-1 victory that snapped the club's 10-game losing streak. However, a new groin strain forced him to skip the Islanders' trip to Buffalo on Saturday and he was held out of the lineup again Monday night when the team faced the New York Rangers. The Islanders recalled goalie Yann Danis to serve as Joey MacDonald's backup.
Analysis: DiPietro made a few early season appearances following surgery on his right knee, but then was shelved again after an operation on the left knee in October. After the initial knee surgery in June, DiPietro backed up MacDonald for the first four games of the season, but didn't see any action. He then made three straight starts, but lasted only one period against Carolina on Oct. 25. DiPietro had arthroscopic surgery on Oct. 31 to repair a torn meniscus in the left knee. DiPietro, in the third season of a landmark 15-year deal with the Islanders, has had three operations in seven months -- including a hip procedure in March. That marked the second time DiPietro had hip surgery, once on each side in consecutive years. DiPietro just can't shake the injury-prone label at this time and that's making it very hard for Fantasy owners to trust him. DiPietro can be a No. 2 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro ended two months of inactivity when he finally returned to the net Friday in a 4-1 win over the Leafs. DiPietro, who underwent knee surgery in late October, made 28 saves.
Analysis: It's nice to see DiPietro back in goal again for the Islanders, but Fantasy owners will have a dilemma in Fantasy Week 13 (Dec. 29-Jan. 4). That's because the Isles play four times in the period, which is usually great news. However, DiPietro might only make half of those starts as he continues his comeback and New York is a bad team. We would lean towards starting DiPietro in most formats as a No. 2 Fantasy goaltender, but keep your expectations low. The Islanders TG is back to being a low-end No. 2 option now.
News:Newsday reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro (knee) returned to practice Monday, but there is still no set timetable for his return. "For now, he's just going to practice and we'll go from there," Coach Scott Gordon said. "He definitely has made a lot of progress."
Analysis: It looks like DiPietro is still a week or two away, so you likely won't have to worry about starting him in Fantasy Week 13 (Dec. 29-Jan. 4). Keep him reserved in all leagues until he's back playing, as he can be a No. 1 goaltender when healthy and playing well.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro, who is slated to rejoin the Isles in practice Friday for the first time since he underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Oct. 31, is aiming to return to the lineup on Dec. 26. "The expectation is that he'll be practicing with us by the weekend," coach Scott Gordon. "He'll skate (Friday and Saturday), and we'll get into that routine. Until we see where he's at, I would expect at least a week of practices."
Analysis: This latest injury has lingered on for DiPietro and it looks like he won't be worth starting in Fantasy Week 12 (Dec. 22-28), as he might get just one start during the period. Keep him reserved in all leagues until he's back playing, as he can be a No. 1 goaltender when healthy and playing well.
News:Newsday reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro should return to practice later this week. "We think he's going to join us Friday," coach Scott Gordon said.
Analysis: This latest injury has lingered on for DiPietro and it looks like he won't be worth starting in Fantasy Week 12 (Dec. 22-28), as he might not even be back playing during the period. Keep him reserved in all leagues, as he can be a No. 1 goaltender when healthy and playing well.
News:Newsday reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro skated at practice Tuesday for the second day in a row. "I felt good ... It's been a long time," DiPietro said. "I've been looking forward to getting back."
Analysis: DiPietro could have been back next week, but it looks more likely he will return in mid-December now, especially with the way Joey MacDonald has been playing in his absence. Continue to hold on to DiPietro if you can, as he has the ability to be a No. 1 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: New York Islanders G Rick DiPietro underwent arthroscopic knee surgery to repair a meniscus injury, and the team said Saturday that he will miss four to six weeks. The Islanders said DiPietro had the surgery on Friday.
Analysis: DiPietro is 0-2-0 in three starts this season with a 3.91 goals-against average. He underwent offseason surgery on his hip and right knee, played in only one preseason game, then dressed but did not play in the Islanders' first four games. He lost 2-0 to Florida and 5-3 to Dallas, then was lifted after allowing two goals in the first period to Carolina on Oct. 25 and replaced by Joey MacDonald, who had started the Isles' first four games. Continue to hold on to him in the majority of leagues, but you need to realize that you might not be able to rely on him much this season as a starting Fantasy goalie.
News: While there has been no official announcement by the team, the Islanders roster on NHL.com is showing G Rick DiPietro as being on injured reserve. The goaltender, who dealt with hip and knee issues via surgery over the summer, is now dealing with a lower-body injury.
Analysis: The DiPietro circus, which Fantasy owners surely hoped was over after his surgeries, continues to roll on into the 2008-09 season with this latest news. With the way the NHL teams aren't required to release injury information, we might never hear exactly what DiPietro's latest problem is, but we sure know what kind of problem he's creating in Fantasy play. Continue to hold on to him in the majority of leagues, but you need to realize that you might not be able to rely on him much this season as a starting Fantasy goalie.
News: New York Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro sat out Monday night against the New York Rangers due to an undisclosed lower body injury the team said is unrelated to previous ailments. DiPietro was examined by a doctor on Monday, but no details were provided. "Rick DiPietro incurred a lower body injury Saturday night unrelated to his previous injuries," according to a release provided by the team. "Rick is day to day pending additional assessment and treatment. No further comments related to this issue will be made until further information is available."
Analysis: DiPietro had surgery to fix a knee and a hip during the offseason and didn't play the first four games of the season. While he wasn't ready for action then, he did dress for all the games as the backup to No. 2 goalie Joey MacDonald. He finally made his first on-ice appearance on Oct. 18 at Florida and started three consecutive games. DiPietro lasted only one period Saturday night at home against Carolina, allowing two goals on 12 shots. One of the goals came directly after he turned over the puck with an ill-advised clearing attempt. Following the game, the Islanders announced he was pulled because of an injury and not based on his performance. There is no telling when DiPietro might return to the pipes, so consider him a risky start Week 4 (Oct. 27-Nov. 2). He has potential to be a solid No. 2 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Islanders coach Scott Gordon already is on record saying it's not his style to pull goalies because of poor performance or simply to try to shift momentum for a struggling team. Thus, Rick DiPietro's place on the bench to start the second period Saturday only could mean one thing -- he apparently is injured again. DiPietro, whose egregious turnover led to the Hurricanes' first goal in the opening minutes of a wild 4-3 Carolina victory, sat on the bench for the first four games this season while working back into playing shape following summertime hip and knee surgeries. In the third of those four games, backup Joey MacDonald and the Isles were pummeled, 7-1, by Buffalo on home ice. Gordon, a former goaltender, insisted DiPietro was well enough to play, but the coach cited his reluctance to switch goalies mid-game as a reason for not inserting the rehabbing All-Star.
Analysis: MacDonald replaced DiPietro with the Isles trailing 2-0 after 20 minutes Saturday night with what both the goalie and his coach acknowledged was an injury-related decision. DiPietro, 0-2 with a 3.91 GAA in three starts this season, appears doubtful for Monday's home showdown against the rival Rangers. Gordon once again hid behind team policy about not discussing injuries, saying, "I hate to be the bearer of bad news ... but until someone tells me otherwise, that's the way it's going to be." Gordon did acknowledge his reasoning for pulling DiPietro "wasn't about performance." DiPietro is 0-2-0 with a 3.91 GAA and .883 save percentage in three outings this season. There is no telling when DiPietro might return to the pipes, so consider him a risky start Week 4 (Oct. 27-Nov. 2). MacDonald is nothing more than a stopgap Fantasy option while DiPietro is out, and the Islanders TG remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: The Islanders fell, 4-3, to Carolina on Saturday and needed two goalies to pick up the loss. Rick DiPietro started in goal and stopped 10 shots before being pulled for Joey MacDonald to start the second period. MacDonald took the loss while stopping 14 shots.
Analysis: MacDonald has been starting over Dipietro as he's been working his way back from offseason knee surgery. Neither looked very good on Saturday. Continue to treat MacDonald as a stopgap for Dipietro until the former starter gets more consistent in the nets. The Islanders TG remains a low-end option.
News:Rick DiPietro, who served as the Islanders' backup for the team's first four games, started his second straight and first at home during Thursday's 5-3 loss to the Islanders. He finished with 24 saves. Dallas jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first period and had two power-play goals on the night. On a positive note, DiPietro did shut out Dallas in the third period and stopped all six shots he saw come his way.
Analysis: DiPietro had his first bad start Thursday, but is still without a win on the season. However, we still can take away from his first two starts is that DiPietro hasn't suffered any setbacks from his surgically repaired hips or knee. DiPietro remains a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro was healthy enough to start Saturday against the Panthers, however, he fell to Florida, 2-0. DiPietro allowed two goals and saved 34 shots on the game. It was his first start of the season and his first loss.
Analysis: DiPietro has finally gotten some ice time and remains a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie, when healthy. Hopefully he begins to play a little more frequently for the Islanders. New York's TG is also a No. 2 option.
News: G Rick DiPietro (knee) hasn't play in any of the Islanders' four games this season and sat out agains Thursday against the Lightning. He was the backup Thursday. Coach Scott Gordon said DiPietro is day-to-day.
Analysis: The Islanders continue to say that DiPietro is not sitting because he is still recovering from offseason surgery, but where there is smoke there is fire. If DiPietro was 100 percent, he should be in net by now. DiPietro will be back in net at some point for the Islanders, but should be kept reserved until further notice. He is a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro (knee) remained on the Islanders' bench Monday against the Sabres and missed a third straight game to open the season. Joey MacDonald once again started in his place.
Analysis: The Islanders continue to say that DiPietro is not sitting because he is still recovering from offseason surgery, but where there is smoke there is fire. If DiPietro was 100 percent, he should be in net by now. DiPietro will be back in net at some point for the Islanders, but should be kept reserved until further notice. He is a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro could be back Monday at home against Buffalo after missing the first two games. He shot down a report that swelling in the knee was keeping him out of action. "It's natural when you're coming off surgery to have some swelling in there. It's nothing serious," said DiPietro, three seasons into a 15-year deal. "If I wasn't backing up, there would be something to talk about."
Analysis: First-year head coach Scott Gordon has downplayed the significance of keeping DiPietro benched in favor of Joey MacDonald, saying it is ludicrous to think the Islanders can accomplish anything unless DiPietro regains the form that made him a first-time All-Star last season. "I've done a lot of talking about Rick, and I love talking about him," Gordon said Saturday. "I'm not going to take away from what our team and Joey did tonight (in a 5-2 win against St. Louis). For the time being, I think we're going to pass on (talking about DiPietro)." DiPietro will be back in net at some point for the Islanders, but remains a bit of an injury-risk start for Fantasy Week 2 (Oct. 13-19). He is a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro, who sat out his team's opener on Friday, could not play in Saturday's game against the Blues. He reportedly has swelling and fluid in his surgically-repaired knee.
Analysis: The Islanders say they're just taking it easy with their franchise player, but the reports leaking out of the locker room are suggesting there might be more to this story. You should definitely consider benching him for Fantasy Week 2 (Oct. 13-20) at this point. Stay tuned to this story, as more should come out over the next couple of days.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro, who sat out his team's opener on Friday, reportedly has swelling and fluid in his surgically-repaired knee, according to TSN.
Analysis: The Islanders say they're just taking it easy with their franchise player, but the reports leaking out of the locker room are suggesting there might be more to this story. If DiPietro doesn't play Saturday against the Blues, you should definitely consider benching him for Fantasy Week 2 (Oct. 13-20). Stay tuned to this story, as more should come out over the next couple of days.
News: Islanders G Joey MacDonald got the start in net Friday against the Devils over starter Rick DiPietro, who had only played in one preseason game while working his way back from knee surgery.
Analysis: DiPietro was expected to start in net Friday, but he allowed six goals in his only preseason appearance Monday and it didn't appear as though he was ready for the regular season. The Islanders aren't saying much as when DiPietro will be in net, but if he doesn't play Saturday against the Blues, he might be a bit of an injury-risk start Fantasy Week 2 (Oct. 13-19). DiPietro should be treated as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie when active.
News: Islanders starting goalie Rick DiPietro (hip, knee) made his first appearance of the preseason Monday against the Panthers and finished with 28 saves. However, he allowed the Panthers to score six times in three periods.
Analysis: As expected, DiPietro was a little rusty in his first game on the ice. But the good news is that he finished out the game and should be in net for Friday's opener against the Devils. DiPietro should be treated as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie until further notice. The Islanders TG is also a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro (hip, knee) is close to returning. He skated with teammates Friday morning and is expected to get the start Monday when the Islanders finish their preseason schedule at Florida.
Analysis: DiPietro wasn't worried about missing the team's opener Oct. 10 against the Devils, but the team was concerned about DiPietro's slow recovery. It appears as though he will be fine for Fantasy Week 1 (Oct. 4-12) and can be treated as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders play the Devils and Blues Week 1.
News:Newsday reports that Islanders G Rick DiPietro will work out Thursday in the pre-game skate for the first time since undergoing knee surgery in June. He could play in at least one of the final two exhibition games Saturday in Boston and Monday in Florida.
Analysis: With 13 seasons remaining on his landmark contract, DiPietro undoubtedly is being counted on as the face of the franchise for years to come, assuming he can stay on the ice. The Islanders have contemplated lessening his workload this season, but unproven Joey MacDonald is slated to replace departed Wade Dubielewicz as DiPietro's understudy under first-year coach and former goalie Scott Gordon. DiPietro remains a borderline No. 1/No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The fact he is battling injury concerns should make you cautious on Draft Day.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Islanders G Rick DiPietro is two seasons into his landmark 15-year contract, but has already has undergone surgery on both hips and missed several other games because of concussions and knee injuries. He also has just recently resumed skating after having surgery to repair damage to the meniscus in his left knee on June 3. Thus, DiPietro might not see much, if any, action in exhibition games before the Oct. 10 regular-season opener at New Jersey. His backup is 28-year-old Joey MacDonald, who has appeared in 17 NHL games. "My main focus is staying healthy and making sure I'm 100 percent when I come back," DiPietro said. "(The doctors) know that if you put me in a practice, it's going to get competitive, and there's a chance that you do something stupid. There's no rush right now. My goal is to be ready for the last couple of exhibition games and then start the season."
Analysis: With 13 seasons remaining on his landmark contract, DiPietro undoubtedly is being counted on as the face of the franchise for years to come, assuming he can stay on the ice. The Islanders have contemplated lessening his workload this season, but unproven MacDonald is slated to replace departed Wade Dubielewicz as Dipietro's understudy under first-year coach and former goalie Scott Gordon. DiPietro remains a borderline No. 1/No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The fact he is battling injury concerns should make you cautious on Draft Day.
News:The Sports Xchange reports there wasn't much golf for Rick DiPietro this summer. Not much skating, either. Not after undergoing his second hip surgery (one on each side) in as many years late last season, and also a clean-up procedure on his left knee early this summer. The All-Star goaltender is pushing hard to be fully rehabbed by the Islanders' season opener against New Jersey, but there is no guarantee the team's most important player -- by far -- will be ready in time. "I'm not so worried about being 100 percent for training camp, I'm more worried about being ready October 10," DiPietro told Newsday. "I'm really optimistic and hell bent on being there for the first game (against the Devils)."
Analysis: With 13 seasons remaining on his landmark contract, DiPietro undoubtedly is being counted on as the face of the franchise for years to come, assuming he can stay on the ice. He also missed significant time late in the 2006-07 season with concussions. The Islanders have contemplated lessening his workload this season, but unproven Joey MacDonald is slated to replace departed Wade Dubielewicz as Dipietro's understudy under first-year coach and former goalie Scott Gordon. "I've said it before, but I want to play every game," DiPietro said. "We'll see what they have in store, but all I can control is trying to play well and force their hand." DiPietro remains a borderline No. 1/No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The fact he is battling injury concerns should make you cautious on Draft Day.
News: The New York Islanders announced Wednesday that G Rick DiPietro will have hip surgery Wednesday and will be sidelined for the remainder of the season. He is expected to make a full recovery and should be ready for training camp later this year. This will be DiPietro's second hip surgery in as many years. "Rick wanted badly to be with his team until the end of the season, but this decision was made with his best long-term interests in mind," said Islanders general manager Garth Snow.
Analysis: DiPietro tweaked his hip during the All-Star weekend and never really recovered. The fact this is his second surgery on the joint in two years is a little worrying, but the Islanders sound pretty confident about his ability to play at a high level in the future. A low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie when healthy, DiPietro should be released in all regular formats at this time. The Islanders TG should be avoided at all costs.
News:Rick DiPietro will not be in uniform on Tuesday night against the Toronto Maple Leafs. He will be replaced by backup goalie Wade Dubielewicz because the All-Star netminder was sent for an MRI on the opposite hip from the one that required surgery last summer. DiPietro has spent the past two months denying he was injured beyond normal bumps and bruises, but some of his shayk performances indicated otherwise.
Analysis: DiPietro has continued to play despite tweaking his hip during All-Star Game weekend Jan. 26 when he faced Minnesota's Marian Gaborik on a breakaway during the skills competition. DiPietro is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Islanders TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro stopped 26 shots and lost his fifth consecutive start during Saturday's 3-0 defeat at the hands of the Canadiens. "It's a tough one," DiPietro said. "It seems like every time you lose, it's tough, but it's a nice place to play on a Saturday night and it's a great place to win, and unfortunately for us we weren't able to do that."
Analysis: DiPietro has allowed three or more goals in each game during his losing streak and has allowed a whopping 21 goals in that span. DiPietro appears to be headed for a career as a .500 goalie unless the Isles take steps in beefing up their defense. DiPietro is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Islanders TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Rick DiPietro stopped 28 shots for the Islanders, who lost 4-2 to the Florida Panthers on Wednesday night. DiPietro has lost four games in a row and six of seven.
Analysis: The Islanders slim playoff hopes continue to be fading after each game. DiPietro still remains a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: New York goalie Rick DiPietro allowed eight goals on 44 shots and the Islanders lost a bad one, 8-4, to the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Islanders have lost five of six. DiPietro had allowed just two goals in winning the previous three games between the teams this season.
Analysis: New York started play 12th in the Eastern Conference and is now nine points behind eighth-place Philadelphia, who lost 4-3 in overtime to Toronto. DiPietro still remains a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro wasn't too sharp in his first game since returning to action following the death of his grandmother, giving up four goals on 27 shots in a 4-1 loss to the Flyers. DiPietro missed two games for the wake and funeral. He didn't get the start in favor of backup Wade Dubielewicz in a loss to the Rangers on Thursday.
Analysis: With DiPietro's rather poor play recently, the Islanders are 2-6 since winning six in a row and quickly falling out of the Eastern Conference playoff race. New York trails eighth-place Philly by seven points with 12 games remaining. DiPietro still remains a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News:Rick DiPietro will miss a third straight game after being excused two earlier this week to attend the funeral of his grandmother. The Islanders decided not to rush DiPietro back and are going with Wade Dubielewicz, who has played well in DiPietro's absence. DiPietro is practicing with the team and by the time the next game comes around Saturday at Philadelphia, he would have had a full week off.
Analysis: DiPietro and the Islanders recently bounced back from a seven-game losing streak with a six-game winning streak before the trade deadline that included a stretch of four wins in which DiPietro gave up a total of five goals. But they lost three of the next four, and DiPietro allowed a total of 15 goals. When active, DiPietro is a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News:Rick DiPietro rejoined the New York Islanders for practice on Wednesday with no assurance he would be back in goal Thursday night for the second half of a home-and-home series with the rival New York Rangers. DiPietro was on the ice early Wednesday, well before practice, taking shots from goaltending coach Mike Dunham and injured teammates Bruno Gervais and Jon Sim.
Analysis: DiPietro had been away from the team since the conclusion of Saturday's loss to Philadelphia due to the death of his grandmother earlier in the week. He went home to New England for the wake Sunday and the funeral Monday. The All-Star goalie, in the second season of a 15-year contract with the Islanders, figured to come back and play Tuesday night in the road portion of the two-game series against the Rangers, but was convinced by general manager Garth Snow -- a former netminder -- to take another day off. DiPietro remains a No. 1 Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro didn't practice with the New York Islanders on Tuesday morning, following his grandmother's funeral, and coach Ted Nolan said the All-Star goalie wouldn't play that night against the New York Rangers. DiPietro left immediately after the Islanders' home loss to Philadelphia on Saturday to attend the wake on Sunday and the funeral on Monday.
Analysis: Obviously you can't dictate when relatives die, but DiPietro's owners won't be happy that their No. 1 goalie is going to miss a game this week as most Fantasy regular seasons come down to the wire. He still could get two starts this week, however, so it isn't the end of the world as all goalies sit now and again. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy option in all formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Islanders All-Star goalie Rick DiPietro missed Sunday's game against Florida to attend funeral services in Massachusetts for his paternal grandmother, who passed away Feb. 28. "It just really puts things in perspective, and you realize how fragile life is," said DiPietro, whose grandmother had suffered in recent years from Alzheimer's disease. "You just wish that you had a chance to spend more time with them."
Analysis: DiPietro, who expects to be back in time for the start of a critical home-and-home series beginning Tuesday against the rival New York Rangers, made his 14th consecutive start in Saturday's 4-1 loss to Philadelphia. He has now lost three of his last four starts and has allowed three or more goals in the process. He is once again back to his streaky ways after winning six straight starts from Feb. 12-21. We can't expect the world from DiPietro, but since he starts pretty much every game for New York, he is a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. He is a low-risk start for Fantasy Week 23 (March 3-9).
News:Rick DiPietro made 27 saves for the Islanders who lost 4-1 to the Flyers on Saturday afternoon. DiPietro has lost three of four games after winning six straight. He has started 14 straight games dating to Feb. 2 (7-6-1).
Analysis: DiPietro has seen the majority of the starts in the Islanders net, but he will likely get Sunday off when the Isles visit Florida to attend the funeral of his paternal grandmother. DiPietro is a No. 1 goalie in Fantasy leagues. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option. DiPietro has a record of 26-24-7 to this point of the season.
News: It wasn't pretty, but Rick DiPietro will be glad to put an end to a short two-game slide despite giving up four goals on just 23 shots as the Islanders recovered after blowing a three-goal lead to beat the slumping Atlanta Thrashers 5-4 in overtime. DiPietro had lost his last two starts by a 4-2 scoreline. He won six straight games before this mini-slide.
Analysis: DiPietro has seen the majority of the starts in the Islanders net which makes him a No. 1 goalie in Fantasy leagues. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option. DiPietro has a record of 26-23-7 to this point of the season.
News: After winning six consecutive games, Rick DiPietro has now dropped his last two starts by a 4-2 scoreline. It was the New Jersey Devils on Saturday and now the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday, who victimized DiPietro for four goals.
Analysis: DiPietro's record dropped to 25-23-7. He has seen the majority of the starts in the Islanders net, therefore, remaining a No. 1 goalie in Fantasy leagues. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro was bombarded with 22 shots in the third period alone and 42 for the game, alll coming in a 4-2 loss to the New Jersey Devils on Saturday. DiPietro came into the game having won six straight games and four starts against the Devils this season and a shutout.
Analysis: DiPietro, who has 25 wins, has played in 56 games for the Islanders this season. He has never played more than 63 games in a season and his high in wins came last season with 32. DiPietro remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:Rick DiPietro stopped 31 shots for the New York Islanders, who won their sixth straight game with a 1-0 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday night. Miroslav Satan scored the only goal of the game. DiPietro was perfect in snapping the Lightning's 10-game road run of earning at least one point (7-0-3).
Analysis: DiPietro posted his third shutout of the season, first in 40 games, and 14th in the NHL. He has allowed only 12 goals during the winning streak. DiPietro also records his 25th win of the season in his 55th game. He has never played more than 63 games in a season and his high in wins came last season with 32. DiPietro remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Goaltender Rick DiPietro again had a solid game behind an injury-depleted defense that was missing Andy Sutton, who tore a hamstring Monday against San Jose. DiPietro made 28 saves after allowing two goals in the first period. He stopped everything in the second and third periods (18 shots), three shots in overtime and all three shooters -- Viktor Kozlov, Alexander Ovechkin and Alexander Semin -- in the shootout, for a 3-2 victory.
Analysis: That gives DiPietro five consecutive wins and 24 for the season in 54 games played. DiPietro has never played more than 63 games in a season and his high in wins came last season with 32. He might reach the 30-win mark for a third straight season with a solid presence down the stretch. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro stopped 28 shots during a 3-2 win Monday against the Sharks. He has now won his last four starts and has allowed just three goals in his last two outings.
Analysis: DiPietro is now up to 23 wins in 53 games. He has never played more than 63 games in a season and his high in wins came last season with 32. He might reach the 30-win mark for a third straight season with a solid presence down the stretch. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:Rick DiPietro came up 77 seconds short of a shutout and the Islanders set franchise records for fewest shots allowed and shot discrepancy in New York's 4-1 win over the Atlanta Thrashers on Saturday night. DiPietro needed to stop just nine shots, while the Islanders pelted Kari Lehtonen for 49. DiPietro also added an assist as 12 Islanders recorded a point.
Analysis: The three consecutive wins for DiPietro came after a seven-game losing streak (0-6-1). During those seven games, New York scored just 11 goals. They've scored 13 goals in the three wins. DiPietro is a No. 1 Fantasy goalie because he gets most of the starts for the New York Islanders.
News: After going without a win in eight straight games, Rick DiPietro made 27 saves for the Islanders to win his second in a row, 5-4, over the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Islanders moved within four points of a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
Analysis: DiPietro improves his record to 21-21-7 for the season. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie because he gets most of the starts for the New York Islanders.
News:Rick DiPietro made 26 saves to win for the first time since Jan. 16 and send the injury-riddled Flyers to their fourth straight regulation loss with a 4-3 win. It was a span of eight games without the taste of a win for DiPietro.
Analysis: New York hadn't won at home in seven games, since beating New Jersey on Dec. 29 (0-5-2). DiPietro is 20-21-7 for the season. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie because he gets most of the starts for the New York Islanders.
News:Rick DiPietro was screened on the first two goals and didn't flinch when they went in. Kurtis Foster scored on a first-period slap shot and Brian Rolston knocked in James Sheppard's shot with his skate in the second. In the end, the Islanders lost 4-3 to the Wild in overtime.
Analysis: DiPietro is 0-6-2 in his last eight starts and his record for the season fell to 19-21-7. DiPietro is still a No. 1 Fantasy goalie because he gets most of the starts for the New York Islanders.
News:Rick DiPietro gave up four goals on 27 shots and suffered a 4-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday. The last time DiPietro tasted victory goes back to Jan. 16.
Analysis: DiPietro is 0-6-1 with in his last seven starts and his record for the season fell to 19-21-6. DiPietro is still a No. 1 Fantasy goalie because he gets most of the starts for the New York Islanders.
News:Rick DiPietro allowed three goals on 26 shots and the Islanders offense could not find a way past Jean-Sebastien Giguere on Tuesday when the Islanders lost 3-0 to the Ducks. DiPietro has not tasted victory since Jan. 16.
Analysis: DiPietro is 0-5-1 with in his last six starts and his record for the season fell to 19-20-6. DiPietro is still a No. 1 Fantasy goalie because he gets most of the starts for the Islanders.
News:Rick DiPietro was back in the net for the Islanders after missing Thursday's 3-1 loss to Los Angeles because of the flu. DiPietro did not play bad, stopping 28 shots, but ended up on the end of a 4-1 loss to the Montreal Canadiens.
Analysis: DiPietro is 0-4-1 with a 4.00 GAA in his last five starts and his record for the season fell to 19-19-6. DiPietro is still a No. 1 Fantasy goalie because he sees the majority of starts for the Islanders.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro dressed as the team's backup goalie Thursday against the Kings, but did not get into the game because of the flu. He missed Wednesday's practice because of the ailment and is questionable for Saturday against the Canadiens.
Analysis: The little mental and physical break comes at an opportune time for DiPietro. He hasn't won in his last four appearances (0-3-1) and has allowed three or more goals in each outing. He also had to partake in All-Star festivities and didn't get a break like other goalies. DiPietro is still a No. 1 Fantasy goalie when healthy because he still sees the majority of starts for the Islanders.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro continues to deal with the flu and is unlikely to play Thursday night against the Kings, reports Newsday. "He's just not feeling up to par," said coach Ted Nolan.
Analysis: If DiPietro can't go, Wade Dubielewicz will get the start against the Kings. If you can adjust your lineup daily, keep an eye on news about DiPietro on Thursday before adjusting your squad accordingly. Owners in weekly leagues shouldn't panic just yet.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro, C Mike Sillinger, D Bryan Berard, D Andy Sutton and LW Ruslan Fedotenko all missed Wednesday's practice with the flu and are questionable for Thursday night's home game against the Los Angeles Kings, reports Newsday.
Analysis: If DiPietro can't go, Wade Dubielewicz will get the start against the Kings. If you can adjust your lineup daily, keep an eye on news about DiPietro on Thursday before adjusting your squad accordingly.
News: All-Star goalie Rick DiPietro gave up four goals on 25 shots Tuesday in taking his fourth straight loss, 5-2, to the Ottawa Senators. DiPietro and the Islanders are winless in five consecutive games on home ice (0-4-1).
Analysis: DiPietro's record for the season fell to 19-18-6 in 45 appearances this season. He did missed some time due to minor injuries, but nothing too serious. He seems pretty much every start in net for the Islanders and can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Bruins G Tim Thomas should be sending plenty of thanks teammate Marc Savard's way. The Bruins center scored with 20 seconds left during the 56th All-Star game Sunday giving the Eastern Conference an 8-7 win over the Western Conference. Thomas milked away a 5-3 lead when he entered the game in the third period. He allowed four goals on 18 shots, but picked up the win on Savard's goal. Islanders G Rick DiPietro started in net for the Eastern Conference. He allowed just one goal on 13 shots. He was replaced in the second period by Panthers G Tomas Vokoun, who allowed two goals on 20 shots.
Analysis: The confidence DiPietro gained playing against the Western Conference All-Stars could go a long way, but then again, he had better defensemen Sunday than he has back home in New York. DiPietro went 19-17-6 with a 2.57 GAA and two shutouts in his first 44 appearances. He missed some time due to minor injuries, but nothing serious. He seems pretty much every start in net for the Islanders and can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:Rick DiPietro will get some time off with the All-Star weekend coming up to rest and reflect on some of his recent poor outings. DiPietro gave up four goals on 30 shots Thursday in a 4-1 loss at Boston. DiPietro has lost four of his last sfive starts.
Analysis: DiPietro has been an inconsistent goaltender for much of the season, but can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy goalie since he sees so many starts in net. The Islanders TG is more a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Hurricanes forward Cory Stillman netted the power-play winner in overtime for the Hurricanes past Rick DiPietro during a 3-2 victory over the New York Islanders on Monday. DiPietro shook off an injury to his right leg and was in line for his 20th win before allowing two third-period goals. DiPietro stretched for a shot that sailed wide of the net late in the second period and got up slowly, flexing his right leg. He made a flurry of saves soon after and appeared to be OK. DiPietro missed three games last month due to a left knee injury and said this was unrelated. "It was a little tweak. Nothing major," said DiPietro, who finished with 26 saves.
Analysis: DiPietro has now lost three of his last four starts and has allowed eight goals in his last two outings. DiPietro has been an inconsistent goaltender for much of the season, but can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy goalie since he sees so many starts in net. The Islanders TG is more a No. 2 Fantasy option. We might not see DiPietro in net Tuesday against the Hurricanes in the back-end of a home-and-home, but it is not because of his leg injury. It will just provide the Islanders with a chance to rest him. It appears safe to keep DiPietro active in Fantasy leagues for the time being.
News:Rick DiPietro continued his up-and-down play Saturday when he allowed five goals on 32 shots in losing 5-3 to Philadelphia. DiPietro did, however, earn his fourth assist of the season on Richard Park's goal, tying him with Chris Osgood (2001-02) for the team record.
Analysis: DiPietro has been an inconsistent goaltender for much of the season and should be considered as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Islanders TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:Rick DiPietro allowed only one goal on 38 shots Wednesday for a 3-1 win over the Devils, the fifth time in as many games this season the Islanders beats New Jersey. DiPietro was spectacular in the third period when he stopped 15 of 16 shots, including one in close by Dainius Zubrus in the final 90 seconds that had the Devils center looking up at the rafters in the Prudential Center.
Analysis: DiPietro has been an inconsistent goaltender for much of the season and should be considered as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Islanders TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: G Rick DiPietro stopped 19 shots in the Islanders' 3-1 loss to the Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday. DiPietro has been very streaky since Dec. 15. Since then he lost two in a row, won the next three starts, lost another four straight after that and again won the last two before Tuesday's loss.
Analysis: DiPietro has been an inconsistent goaltender for much of the season and should be considered as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Islanders TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 31 saves during a 3-1 win Sunday against the Senators. He has now won his last two starts while allowing two or fewer goals in three of his last six appearances.
Analysis: DiPietro is trading a good start with every bad start in six January starts. In three January outings, he has allowed four goals a piece. In the other three he has allowed a total of five goals. DiPietro is far too inconsistent to be treated as anything more than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Islanders TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: It takes a shootout, but G Rick DiPietro snaps a four-game losing streak with a 5-4 win at Calgary on Friday. DiPietro allowed the four goals on 42 shots.
Analysis: The Islanders play Montreal, New Jersey and Philadelphia in Fantasy Week 16 (Jan. 14-20), which isn't an easy schedule by any means. Consider DiPietro a No. 2 Fantasy goalie for that period, along with the Islanders TG.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made it four straight healthy starts without a win Tuesday when his team fell 3-2 to the Vancouver Canucks. DiPietro made a season-high 43 saves in defeat. "We lost, that's all I know," said a stumped DiPietro after the loss. "I feel sick to my stomach. I don't want to hear about the point we got, I don't like how it ended."
Analysis: DiPietro's last win came on Dec. 22, which won't be pleasing his owners any, while the Islanders also haven't won in 2008. His superb saves total on Tuesday suggests he is no longer struggling with his knee injury and it's more likely that his team is just in a slight funk right now. The Islanders play Montreal, New Jersey and Philadelphia in Fantasy Week 16 (Jan. 14-20), which isn't an easy schedule by any means. Consider DiPietro a No. 2 Fantasy goalie for that period, along with the Islanders TG.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro failed to record a win for a third straight game since returning from a minor knee sprain, as he allowed four goals on 33 shots in a 4-0 loss to the Oilers on Monday night. It was his first loss in four career starts against Edmonton.
Analysis: DiPietro has allowed four goals in two of his last three games, although two of his last three losses have come in overtime. He could get three more starts this week, although it's possible that backup Wade Dubielewicz could steal one of those games from him. DiPietro remains a low-end No. 1 Fantasy goalie for now, but he may drop down to a No. 2 if he continues to struggle the rest of this week. Consider the Islanders TG a No. 2 option at the moment.
News:Marek Svatos backhanded a shot past Rick DiPietro 2:05 into overtime, helping the Colorado Avalanche snap a four-game losing streak with a 2-1 win over the New York Islanders on Saturday night. DiPietro, wearing his new bright-white pads, turned aside 37 shots, including numerous point-blank opportunities by Colorado early in the game. He is now winless in his last two appearances -- both overtime decisions -- since returning from a sprained knee.
Analysis: DiPietro learned on Friday that he wouldn't be suspended for changing pads Thursday against the Panthers, and played well in his second game back, but just took a heartbreaking loss. Fantasy owners can take solace in the fact that DiPietro will not be suspended for his wardrobe malfunction and remain in the Isles lineup. DiPietro is a decent low-end No. 1 Fantasy goalie when healthy. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option. It appears safe to keep both Fantasy options active.
News: New York Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro will get his confiscated pads back and won't be suspended for using them for one period of Thursday's overtime loss to the Florida Panthers. DiPietro wore new white pads for warmups and the first period Thursday, but was told before the second that he couldn't use them for the rest of the game. There was confusion about whether the pads were examined and approved by the NHL as is required before they can be worn in a game. DiPietro was under the impression that they were, adding the process usually occurs before he receives his equipment.
Analysis: Wearing illegal pads or ones that haven't been approved by the league could carry a two-game suspension. "I can confirm the pads have been cleared. They are being returned to Rick in Colorado and he will not be suspended," Islanders spokesman Chris Botta said in an e-mail Friday. "I don't know if he'll get the pads in time for Saturday's game or if he will be wearing them." The Islanders play the Avalanche in Denver on Saturday. This is great news for Fantasy owners, who saw DiPietro return to action Friday after missing three games with a sprained knee. DiPietro is a decent low-end No. 1 Fantasy goalie when healthy. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option. It appears safe to keep both Fantasy options active.
News: In his first game back after missing the previous three with a sprained left knee, Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro came out for warmups and played the first period Thursday against the Panthers in clean, white leg pads. However, for the second and third periods, he switched back to his old orange, blue and white pads without an explanation. A goalie's equipment must be inspected and approved by the NHL before it can be used in a game. Using illegal or uninspected equipment results in an automatic two-game suspension for the player, a $25,000 fine for his team, and $1,000 for the team's equipment manager. "We are sorry ... but we have no comment on this matter at this time," Mike Murphy, the NHL's senior vice president of hockey operations said via e-mail.
Analysis: While DiPietro might have to deal with a possible rules misconduct, his on ice play suffered Thursday against the Panthers. He allowed three second period goals and eventually took the loss when Jassen Cullimore score 1:37 into overtime. DiPietro made 28 saves. DiPietro had allowed more than three goals just once in 11 December appearances. He was playing great hockey before the injury cropped up. It appears safe for the time being to activate DiPietro in Fantasy leagues, but keep an eye on his status. If the NHL intends to take action for his wardrobe malfunction, it might come down very soon. DiPietro is a decent low-end No. 1 Fantasy goalie when healthy. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Rick DiPietro said before this season started that he hoped to play in all 82 games. Head coach Ted Nolan has taken that decision out of DiPietro's hands recently, forcing the Isles' No. 1 goalie to sit out three straight games after experiencing a mildly sprained knee last week against Toronto. DiPietro is expected back in goal Thursday night against Florida at Nassau Coliseum after not accompanying the Isles to Carolina for their 4-1 win on New Year's Eve. "We're going to stick with our plan initially on Ricky and make sure he's 100 percent. Right now, he's about 95, 98 percent," Nolan said. "He's ready to go, but we know the importance of Ricky to this hockey team. If he's out for a long period of time, it'll be tough. There's no one on this team that we rely on more than Ricky."
Analysis: DiPietro, replaced again Monday by backup Wade Dubielewicz, added, "I'm not really a big fan of not playing. You always try to talk a coach into letting you play, but at the end of the day, it always comes down to what the doctors say and the trainer, and everyone gets together to make a decision. It's tough as a goalie, especially the way I play. Your legs are really important. If you have one that's not working as well as you need it to be, it's tough to play." The injury comes at a bad time for DiPietro as he was playing some of his best hockey. He sees pretty much every start in net when healthy and has emerged as a viable No. 1 Fantasy goalie. It appears as though his return is right around the corner.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro (knee) did not play during Monday's game against the Hurricanes, although it was expected he would be back in net. He has now missed the last three games after spraining his knee Wednesday against the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: The injury comes at a bad time for DiPietro as he was playing some of his best hockey. He sees pretty much every start in net when healthy and has emerged as a viable No. 1 Fantasy goalie. He remains day to day.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro skated with his team before Saturday's game with the Devils but decided to skip the contest and rest his injured knee, reports Newsday. DiPietro should be ready for the Islanders' New Year's Eve game at Carolina.
Analysis: DiPietro is a huge part of the Islanders' chances of making the playoffs this season, so fans and his Fantasy owners will be glad to see his injury was not as serious as first thought. He remains an injury-risk start for Fantasy Week 14 (Dec. 31-Jan. 6), but he should be OK to go.
News: An MRI performed Thursday on Islanders G Rick DiPietro's sprained left knee knee showed no significant structural damage, according to Newsday. DiPietro originally injured himself before a 4-3 overtime win over Toronto on Wednesday. The Islanders say there's a chance DiPietro might return to the lineup as soon as Saturday night against the Devils.
Analysis: DiPietro was having a pretty good season before getting hurt, as his 2.47 goals against average is the best since his 2003-04 season. He remains on pace to claim 30 or so wins for the third straight season and should be OK to start in Fantasy Week 14 (Dec. 31-Jan. 6) barring a setback before then.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro injured his knee in warm-ups before Wednesday night's game against the Maple Leafs and had to leave after the first period. He was replaced by Wade Dubielewicz, who ended up getting the win in overtime. DiPietro underwent an MRI on Thursday and stayed in New York for treatment instead of joining the team in Ottawa for a game that night. The Islanders said the 26-year-old DiPietro is day to day and might play Saturday at home against New Jersey.
Analysis: DiPietro was having a pretty good season before getting hurt, as his 2.47 goals against average is the best since his 2003-04 season. He was on pace to claim 30 or so wins for the third straight season and you rarely had to worry about him being benched. It appears his knee injury is not too serious, so he should be OK to start in Fantasy Week 14 (Dec. 31-Jan. 6).
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro needed just 14 saves during a 3-2 overtime win Saturday against the Capitals. DiPietro made a dazzling stop on Alexander Semin to keep the first period scoreless. He sprawled out and got his glove on Semin's slap shot, then made a dive back to snare the puck as it trickled out of his glove and headed toward the goal line at 11:36. He he now won his last two starts and has allowed just two goals in each of his last three outings.
Analysis: DiPietro had been struggling since mid-November, but seems as though he is back on the right track. Since he starts almost every game, he remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option at this time.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 24 saves during a 4-2 win Friday against the Penguins. The loss snapped a two-game skid for DiPietro. He has allowed just two goals in five of his last seven outings, but has just three wins.
Analysis: DiPietro has had some trouble stopping the puck since mid-November after such a solid start to the season. The Islanders offense has also been struggling. DiPietro's numbers are starting to level out, but since he starts almost every game, he remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option at this time.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 15 saves during a 2-1 loss Wednesday against the Sabres. It was his second straight loss and fourth in his last six appearances. He has allowed two or more goals in his last 11 appearances.
Analysis: DiPietro has had trouble stopping the puck since mid-November after such a solid start to the season. DiPietro's numbers are starting to level out, but since he starts almost every game, he remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option at this time.
News:Rick DiPietro stopped 37 shots for the Islanders during a 3-2 loss Saturday against the Islanders. He has now lost two of his last three starts and has allowed eight goals in those two losses.
Analysis: DiPietro has allowed more than three goals just once in eight December appearances. However, he hasn't allowed fewer than two goals in any of those starts. DiPietro's numbers are starting to level out, but since he starts almost every game, he remains a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.
News:Rick DiPietro made 34 saves for the Islanders during Thursday's 3-2 win against the Coyotes. The Coyotes had a chance to tie it when Bruno Gervais was sent off for slashing with 1:17 left, but New York held on. DiPietro threw punches behind his net during a stoppage with only 2.3 seconds remaining and earned a harmless roughing penalty. DiPietro has now won two of his last three starts.
Analysis: DiPietro has allowed two or fewer goals in three of his last four starts and has won two of those outings. Despite a recent slump, DiPietro is still having a mighty fine season and remains a No. 1 Fantasy option. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 32 saves during Saturday's 3-2 overtime win against the Lightning. It was his first win in his last five appearances. His previous win came Nov. 28 against the Senators.
Analysis: DiPietro has allowed two or fewer goals in three of his last six starts and has won two of those outings. Despite a recent slump, DiPietro is still having a mighty fine season and remains a No. 1 Fantasy option. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro finished with 38 saves during a 3-0 loss to the Panthers Friday. DiPietro stopped Stephen Weiss on a penalty shot at 6:41 of the second period to keep the game scoreless. Weiss tried to beat DiPietro with a deke to his backhand, but DiPietro made a pad save. Weiss then beat DiPietro with a wrist shot high to the glove side at 8:30, five seconds after the end of coincidental minors turned a 4-on-3 into a 5-on-4.
Analysis: DiPietro is having a rough time in net. He is winless in his last four starts (0-3-1) and has allowed three or more goals in each appearance. Well, even the best goalies have slumps once in a while. DiPietro is still having a mighty fine season and remains a No. 1 Fantasy option. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.
News:Rick DiPietro, who got a respite on Saturday night after starting 18 straight games, turned aside 19 shots in a loss against Boston.
Analysis: DiPietro and the Islanders TG are still useful Fantasy goalies in all formats. Although DiPietro has lost three of his past six games.
News: After three straight losses to Rick DiPietro and the New York Islanders this season, the Rangers finally found a way to solve their biggest rival Thursday. DiPietro finished with 27 saves, allowing four goals, while playing his 18th straight game. He has missed only one of New York's 23 contests.
Analysis: The Rangers had dropped all three previous meetings with their biggest rival this season, scoring only four goals in the process, and were 3-8-1 in the past 12 matchups dating to April 11, 2006. DiPietro played in all but one of those games and allowed two goals or fewer eight times. The Islanders are 2-3-1 in their last five and 5-5-1 in the past 11 despite not scoring more than two goals in any game. DiPietro is 2-1-1 in his last four starts and continues to look sharp in net for the Islanders. Consider DiPietro a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro, in his 17th consecutive start, stopped 35 shots for New York and only allowed one goal in six rounds of a shootout to survive for a 3-2 Wednesday against the Senators. DiPietro sealed New York's first shootout victory of the season when he gloved Dean McAmmond's drive in the sixth round of the tiebreaker.
Analysis: DiPietro is 2-0-1 in his last three starts and continues to look sharp in net for the Islanders. Consider DiPietro a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.
News: On Monday, Rick DiPietro had another good performance against the Stars, who beat him for the first time in three outings. He was especially sharp in the third when he made eight of his 28 saves. With G Rick DiPietro also expected to start back-to-back games later this week against Ottawa and the Rangers, Nolan was asked Monday if he's considering sending little-used backup Wade Dubielewicz to AHL Bridgeport for a conditioning assignment. "There's got to be some discussion of that very shortly," Nolan said.
Analysis: DiPietro's brief wooziness Saturday had the Islanders concerned enough to run him through a battery of tests before he started for the 20th time in 21 games Monday against Dallas. After missing several games, including the playoff opener against Buffalo, with two concussions late last season, DiPietro wobbled on his skates following a collision behind his net in Saturday's 2-1 win over Boston. "We double-checked and triple-checked," Isles coach Ted Nolan said before Monday's game. "Doctors talked to Ricky, and our medical staff talked to Ricky. We did everything humanly possible to make sure there's nothing there. He woke up Sunday feeling good, had a nice day off and came here today feeling good. There's no concern whatsoever." Consider DiPietro a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.
News:Rick DiPietro earned his split of the series by making 20 saves, and picked up an assist on Andy Hilbert's goal during Saturday's 2-1 win against the Bruins. DiPietro was a bit dazed with under five minutes left when Boston's Glen Metropolit struck him in the head behind the net, but he remained in the game and said he was OK.
Analysis: DiPietro took the 2-1 loss on Friday against the Bruins, but with the win Saturday, he snapped a two-game losing streak. He has had some rough games here and there, but for the most part has looked sharp in net this season. Consider DiPietro a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 23 saves during a 2-1 loss on Friday against the Bruins. It was his second consecutive loss and only the second time this season he has lost two straight starts.
Analysis: DiPietro played well enough to win Friday, but just didn't get enough offense. He has had some rough games here and there, but for the most part has looked sharp in net this season. Consider DiPietro a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option.
News:Rick DiPietro allowed four goals on 33 shots in a loss to the visiting Canadiens Wednesday. The Isles looked like a tired and sloppy team in spotting the Canadiens the first four goals, and DiPietro clearly was not as sharp as he'd been during the all-Atlantic stretch that saw the Isles finish 5-2-0 in the seven tight games.
Analysis: DiPietro is 4-6 against the Canadiens. With home-and-home games slated for Friday and Saturday against Boston, DiPietro's hometown team, there remained little chance the Isles' workhorse net-minder (17 starts in 18 games) would come out of the lineup against the Bruins. "You know better than to ask me that question. Right now I'm going to play as many as I can," DiPietro said Wednesday. "I feel good, and I'd like to get us on a winning streak." He continues to be a solid No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option at this time.
News:Rick DiPietro chose not to dwell on his 100th NHL victory and his one punch to Sean Avery's head. The face of the New York Islanders franchise stopped 18 shots Monday night and led his club to a 2-1 victory against the New York Rangers. It was his 10th against Long Island's biggest rival, including all three matchups this season. "It means I've been in the league a couple of years, I guess," said DiPietro, in the second season of a 15-year contract with the Islanders. "It's a long way to go and hopefully a lot more wins." After DiPietro covered a loose puck in the crease, Ruslan Fedotenko cross-checked Avery from behind into DiPietro. The fiery Islanders goalie jumped up and punched Sean Avery.
Analysis: DiPietro, the first goalie ever drafted No. 1 when the Islanders took the Massachusetts native in 2000, followed up a 1-0 victory Friday at New Jersey with another stellar performance against the Rangers. The Islanders netminder drew a roughing penalty for punching prime agitator Avery in the first. DiPietro continues to be a workhorse, starting all but one game this season, and coach Ted Nolan doesn't sound ready to give backup Wade Dubielewicz another crack after he allowed eight goals in his lone start last month. "When you have a stallion, you ride it," Nolan said. "Ricky joked before the season started that he wants to play all 82. I'll think about it, but probably not that long." He continues to be a solid No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option at this time.
News: Islanders goaltender Rick DiPietro got his second shutout of the season and beat New Jersey for the third time during Friday's 1-0 win. DiPietro stopped 26 shots in stopping a two-game losing streak. DiPietro has not allowed more than three goals in any of his seven November starts.
Analysis: DiPietro is having a strong start to the season. He has even looked like a goalie that is worthy of a 15-year contract. He continues to be a solid No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option at this time.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 24 saves during Thursday's 3-2 loss to the Penguins. He has now lost consecutive starts while allowing three goals a piece in each contest. He opened November with three wins in four appearances and not having allowed more than two goals in any of those games.
Analysis: Despite the consecutive losses, DiPietro is actually having a strong start to the season. He has even looked like a goalie that is worthy of a 15-year contract. He continues to be a solid No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option at this time.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro turned aside 19 shots for his eighth win this season during Saturday's 2-1 victory over the Devils. He has now won his last three decisions and five of six overall.
Analysis: DiPietro has not allowed more than two goals in any of his last four appearances. He has not been slowed by taking a stick to the face Nov. 3 against the Penguins and continues to be a solid No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Islanders TG is also a high-end Fantasy option at this time.
News: Rick DiPietro shook off the effects of an eye injury to earn his seventh win Tuesday against the Rangers. DiPietro made two key saves with three minutes left as the Islanders went on to win their third straight and fifth in six games. DiPietro made 36 saves in the Islanders 2-1 win over the Rangers on Oct. 10 and now the Islanders are riding an 8-1-2 surge against their biggest rivals with DiPietro backstopping seven of the wins.
Analysis: The Islanders trailed 2-1 on Saturday when DiPietro left the game in the second period after getting hit in the right eye by the stick of Pittsburgh forward Sidney Crosby. DiPietro said he wasn't concerned about getting right back into a game so soon after his eye injury. He was given the go-ahead to practice Monday and made his seventh straight start Tuesday. "It still feels a little different than the other one. It's hard to explain," he said. "The doctors cleared me to play and I did." He is having a great start to the season. He can be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy goalie.
News: Sidney Crosby drew the ire of the sold-out Nassau Coliseum crowd Saturday when he struck Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro in the mask with his stick in the second period. Crosby was going to be called for goalie interference but instead got four minutes for high-sticking. DiPietro, who had already left for the dressing room, was called back down the tunnel to show the referee he had been cut near the eye before retreating again. Wade Dubieliewicz was perfect in relief of DiPietro, who didn't return after taking Crosby's stick in the mask. He finished with 16 saves on 18 shots. Islanders spokesman Chris Botta said the 26-year-old netminder did not suffer a severe eye injury, but DiPietro was taken from the arena to the office of team ophthalmologist Dr. Bruce Zagelbaum for an evaluation.
Analysis: Botta said the doctor confirmed DiPietro did not have a major eye injury, but would not say whether he had any vision problems. He's listed as day to day and will be reevaluated Monday. Head coach Ted Nolan hugged DiPietro before the goalie left the building and captain Bill Guerin also checked on his status. "I just asked him how he was and he said he was all right," Guerin said. It doesn't appear as though the injury is serious and will force DiPietro to miss any time. The Islanders have two games during Fantasy Week 6 (Nov. 5-11). He is a very low-risk, injury-start for Week 6. DiPietro remains 6-3-0 on the season and is having a great start to the season. He can be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy goalie.
News: Rick DiPietro turned aside 28 shots for his 12th career shutout and added an assist to help the New York Islanders beat the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-0 on Thursday night. DiPietro made the biggest save of the game nine minutes into the game when he gloved a rising wrist shot from in close by Jan Hlavac. DiPietro also earned a secondary assist in the game, his eight career NHL assist.
Analysis: DiPietro needed a strong performance Thursday after allowing six goals in his previous start. He got it and now has won three times in his last four starts. He has allowed more than four goals in a game just twice in nine appearances this season. DiPietro remains a solid low-end No. 1 Fantasy goaltender in all formats. Consider the Islanders TG a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option as well.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro started Saturday's game against the Hurricanes and stopped just eight shots before being relieved by Wade Dubielewicz, who made 10 more saves. DiPietro allowed six goals by the 7:48 mark of the second period and that was it for the sixth-year goalie out of Boston.
Analysis: DiPietro just had an off night against the Hurricanes. It was just the second time in eight appearances he allowed more than four goals in a game. DiPietro remains a solid low-end No. 1 Fantasy goaltender in all formats. Consider the Islanders TG a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option as well.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro stopped 25 shots during Saturday's 4-3 overtime win over the Devils. DiPietro carried a 3-1 lead into the third period before allowing goals at the 2:22 and 12:11 mark. He then buckled down and picked up the win when Bill Guerin's power-play goal with 3.7 seconds left in overtime gave the Islanders a 4-3 victory.
Analysis: DiPietro continues his strong start to the 2007-08 season. He is now 5-2-0 and has won his last two starts. He has allowed more than two goals just twice in his seven starts. Perhaps he is finally reaching his potential and we are seeing why the Islanders handed him a 15-year contract. DiPietro remains a tremendous low-end No. 1 Fantasy goaltender in all formats. Consider the Islanders TG a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option as well.
News: It would have been understandable if the slow start against Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro on Saturday gave the Flyers a miserable flashback to last season. After all, the Islanders won all four games at Philadelphia -- the first time the Flyers were swept at home by their Atlantic Division rival -- and New York won all five games against them when DiPietro started. DiPietro's last shutout even came against the Flyers in February. He couldn't take the shutout past the second period in this one. Jofferey Lupul's shot from the circle was knocked in by Jeff Carter for his third goal of the season and a 1-0 lead. The Flyers struck again only 2 minutes, 9 seconds later when Sami Kapanen slid a backhand past DiPietro for his second goal and a 2-0 lead. DiPietro made 20 saves in the 2-1 loss.
Analysis: All good things eventually come to an end, and for DiPietro, that is what happened with his dominance over the Flyers on Saturday. He still had a nice outing and has been solid to open the season. He has allowed two or fewer goals in each of his last four starts after allowing four goals to Buffalo in the opener. Perhaps he is finally reaching his potential and we are seeing why the Islanders handed him a 15-year contract. DiPietro remains a tremendous low-end No. 1 Fantasy goaltender in all formats. Consider the Islanders TG a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option as well.
News:The Sports Xchange notes: Rick DiPietro almost certainly will be back in goal Saturday at Philadelphia after backup Wade Dubielewicz was roasted by the Leafs for all eight goals in his first start of the season.
Analysis: DiPietro remains a tremendous low-end No. 1 Fantasy goaltender in all formats. He is 3-1 so far this season.
News: Rick DiPietro made 36 saves in Wednesday's game against the Rangers, as the Islanders bounced back from a 2-1 home loss to Washington on Monday to win for the third time in four games.
Analysis: DiPietro remains a tremendous low-end No. 1 Fantasy goaltender in all formats. The Islanders will be back in action on Thursday at Toronto, although it wouldn't be surprising to see Wade Dubielewicz in the crease for that one.
News: The Islanders got 10 saves from Rick DiPietro, but Washington was still able to get two pucks past him for the win Monday in New York.
Analysis: DiPietro remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy goaltender and nice keeper option in most formats. The Islanders TG should also be used as a No. 2 Fantasy option at this time.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro returned to the ice Saturday to pick up his second win against the Sabres in as many days. DiPietro made 22 saves in the 6-4 win Friday and stopped 30 shots in the 3-2 win Saturday.
Analysis: DiPietro has always had health concerns in the last three seasons, but has managed to start 50 or more games. DiPietro told coach Ted Nolan before the season he "wants to play as many games as possible" this season. He remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy goaltender and nice keeper option in most formats. The Islanders TG should also be used as a No. 2 Fantasy option at this time.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro opened his 2007-08 season with a win Friday against the Sabres, but not before Buffalo put four goals past the six-year veteran. Lucky for him, the Islanders scored six goals. DiPietro made 22 saves in the win.
Analysis: DiPietro has always had health concerns in the last three seasons, but has managed to start 50 or more games. DiPietro told coach Ted Nolan before the season he "wants to play as many games as possible" this season. He remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy goaltender and nice keeper option in most formats. The Islanders TG should also be used as a No. 2 Fantasy option at this time.
News:The Sports Xchange notes: With 14 years and justified worries remaining on his landmark contract, G Rick DiPietro insists he is healthy after missing much of the final month of the 2006-07 regular season with concussions and also undergoing hip surgery in the summer.
Analysis: DiPietro told coach Ted Nolan he "wants to play as many games as possible" this season. He remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy goaltender and nice keeper option in most formats.
News: Rick DiPietro (hip) was beaten twice on 17 shots in Monday's preseason game against the Rangers, as he split time in net with Wade Dubielewicz.
Analysis: DiPietro had a shutout in his only other preseason action. He remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy goaltender and nice keeper option in most formats.
News: Rick DiPietro had hip surgery this week, and the New York Islanders goalie is expected to be fully recovered in time for training camp in September. DiPietro, sidelined by two concussions 12 days apart late in the regular season and the start of the playoffs, had arthroscopic surgery Monday in Vail, Colo., to repair a tear in his left hip. DiPietro will be on crutches for two weeks and will rest for four to six weeks. The Islanders said DiPietro, the first goalie ever chosen first in the NHL Draft when New York selected him in 2000, is expected to make a full recovery.
Analysis: The 25-year-old netminder, who has 14 years and $63 million left on the landmark contract he signed last summer, went 32-19-9 with a 2.58 goals-against average in 62 regular-season games. He sat out the final seven contests, when the Islanders made a run to the final postseason spot in the Eastern Conference behind third-stringer Wade Dubielewicz, and the playoff opener against Buffalo. He returned for the last four games of New York's first-round ouster. DiPietro was 1-3 with a 3.31 GAA against the Sabres, stopping 114 of 127 shots in the series.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro (concussion) was back in net for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Sabres on Saturday.
Analysis: It looks as though DiPietro was going to do his best to make it back before the series got in to deep.
News: Rick DiPietro (concussion) has been cleared to practice and might play in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals on Saturday at Buffalo. Coach Ted Nolan said he will practice on Friday.
Analysis: Wade Dubielewicz replaced him in goal on Thursday in the 4-1 Game 1 loss at Buffalo, allowing four goals on 35 shots.
News: New York Newsday reports Rick DiPietro (concussion) will resume skating on Tuesday, but he is not expected to start in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Sabres. DiPietro still has to pass a neuro-psychological test before he is cleared to play.
Analysis: DiPietro said the test "is a few more steps away." Consider DiPietro questionable for the entire series against the Sabres. The Isles will go with Wade Dubielewicz in net, which is well-deserved for him. He held the Islanders in the playoff race down the stretch and then got them in with stellar play.
News: In a bit of a reversal, New York Newsday is reporting the Islanders have admitted that Rick DiPietro (headaches) suffered minor concussions on March 13 against Montreal and March 25 against N.Y. Rangers. General manager Garth Snow said the concussions are not career-threatening, but don’t look for the team to rush him back any time soon. He continues to undergo neurological testing, although a recent CT scan and neuro-psychological exam did not show evidence of post-concussion syndrome.
Analysis: Mike Dunham and Wade Dubielewicz will hold down the fort in the crease for the Islanders. The team is hopeful he will be able to return on April 3 against the Rangers, but you might want to make alternative plans for Fantasy Week 27 (April 2-8) at this point. His return is anything but a certainty.
News: Rick DiPietro (headaches) has been ruled OUT for Friday's game at Buffalo. Mike Dunham and Wade Dubielewicz will man the crease for the Islanders.
Analysis: DiPietro is also considered doubtful for Saturday's game against Ottawa. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: General manager Garth Snow told newyorkislanders.com that Rick DiPietro (headaches) will not play again until he has completely recovered from headaches. He will be re-evaluated on a daily basis and was sidelined for Tuesday's game against New Jersey in favor of Mike Dunham (cramps) and Wade Dubielewicz. "After the game on Sunday, Rick told our medical staff that he was suffering from headaches," Snow said. "Until Rick is completely recovered, he will not play. As important as these games are, nothing is more important than Rick's health."
Analysis: New York Newsday went on to add that DiPietro does NOT have post-concussion syndrome, as he had CT scans and neuro-psychologicial exams which did not turn up PCS. However, the headaches are still bothering him and the team will not rush the prized goaltender back despite the fact they are teetering on the brink of the playoffs in the Eastern Conference. We'll likely see Dubielewicz and Dunham for a couple of more games, at the very least.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro stopped 20 shots in a 4-3 win over the Flyers on Saturday. He has now won his last two starts and three of his last four.
Analysis: It appears safe for Fantasy owners to get DiPietro back into active Fantasy lineups. It looks as though he has overcome his neck problem. He is a high-end Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: Rick DiPietro turned aside 37 shots, and the New York Islanders snapped a four-game losing streak by beating the Pittsburgh Penguins 3-1 Thursday. It was his first win since returning from neck soreness on Tuesday.
Analysis: It appears safe for Fantasy owners to get DiPietro back into active Fantasy lineups. It looks as though he has overcome his neck problem. He is a high-end Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: Rick DiPietro (neck, soreness) was back in the lineup for Tuesday's game at Tampa Bay. He allowed four goals on 40 shots to take the loss.
Analysis: While Fantasy owners were probably not thrilled about a loss, it is great to have DiPietro back into the lineup after it looked like his injury might have been much worse.
News: New York Newsday reports Rick DiPietro (neck, soreness) is questionable for Tuesday's game at Tampa Bay. Coach Ted Nolan said if DiPietro cannot go, Wade Dubielewicz will start and not Mike Dunham.
Analysis: DiPietro should be kept reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro (neck) missed his second straight game Saturday against the Panthers.
Analysis: DiPietro is day to day. The first goalie ever chosen No. 1 in the NHL draft, DiPietro has hit the 30-win mark for the second straight season with a 2.59 goals-against average after signing a landmark, 15-year contract with the Islanders in September. He remains a high-end Fantasy option when active and healthy.
News: Mike Dunham allowed all five goals on Thursday at Ottawa in his first start since Feb. 1 as Islanders No. 1 goalie Rick DiPietro sat out because of a stiff neck and overall soreness, ending his career-high streak of 18 straight starts. Wade Dubielewicz, recalled from Bridgeport of the AHL on Wednesday, replaced Dunham and stopped the eight shots he faced in his season debut.
Analysis: DiPietro, who didn't skate with the Islanders on Thursday morning, is day to day. He was struck on the head by Steve Begin's leg after he chased down a loose puck at the Islanders blue line to prevent a breakaway. The first goalie ever chosen No. 1 in the NHL draft, DiPietro has hit the 30-win mark for the second straight season with a 2.59 goals-against average after signing a landmark, 15-year contract with the Islanders in September.
News: anders goalie Rick DiPietro has a stiff neck and is a gametime decision for New York's game in Ottawa on Thursday. DiPietro left Tuesday's 5-3 loss to Montreal with 4:19 remaining in the opening period after he collided with Canadiens forward Steve Begin. DiPietro was chasing down a loose puck at the Islanders blue line to prevent a breakaway when Begin's leg hit the goalie in the head.
Analysis: DiPietro has made 18 straight starts and traveled with the team to Ottawa on Wednesday. "One thing about Ricky is that he's a fierce competitor," Islanders coach Ted Nolan said. "Right off, Ricky said `I'll be ready for the next one.' He's a warrior, so we'll bring him (to Ottawa) and see what happens from there." DiPietro is a risky start for Thursday, but when healthy, he is a high-end Fantasy goalie.
News: The New York Islanders are hoping their playoff push includes Rick DiPietro. The star goaltender suffered a head injury late in the opening period of the Islanders' 5-3 loss to the Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday night. DiPietro was taken to a hospital and released, and coach Ted Nolan said the team would have no further information until the medical staff reviewed test results. "He was a little bit groggy," Nolan said. "That was quite a hit that he took, but he seems to be OK right now, but we'll give it 24 hours. We'll get him re-evaluated by our doctors and go from there."
Analysis: DiPietro left with 4:19 remaining in the opening period after he collided with Canadiens forward Steve Begin. DiPietro was chasing down a loose puck at the Islanders' blue line to prevent a breakaway when Begin's leg hit the goalie in the head. Keep DiPietro reserved in all Fantasy leagues until more details emerge. We'll have more information for you on Wednesday.
News: Rick DiPietro stopped 26 shots to reach 30 wins for the second straight season after the Islanders downed the Capitals 5-2 on Saturday. He now has four wins in his last seven games.
Analysis: DiPietro has now tied his win total from last season and needs just one more win to set a career high. He remains a high-end Fantasy goalie.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed two goals on 30 shots in Thursday's loss against Henrik Lundqvist and the Rangers.
Analysis: Despite the loss, DiPietro remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro made an Islanders-record 56 saves, but he came up one save shy in the shootout Monday night in the Rangers' 2-1 victory in the New York-New York matchup. "It's my job to make as many saves as I can. I was able to do that for the most part," said DiPietro, who made a career-high 15th straight start. "It's always tough to lose."
Analysis: DiPietro did a great job for his Fantasy owners who get points per save, but it was just an unfortunate night for those in formats where saves do not matter and only wins count.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made a career-high 14th consecutive start Saturday against the Capitals. He stopped 26 shots in a 6-2 win. DiPietro is now 5-0-1 in his last six starts.
Analysis: DiPietro now has 29 wins on the season and continues to put distance between his wins and losses. DiPietro remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro stopped 36 shots in a 3-2 loss to the Blues Thursday. The loss ended a personal four-game winning streak for DiPietro.
Analysis: Despite the loss, DiPietro remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. He already has 28 wins on the season and is closing in on surpassing his career-high 30 wins. which he set last season.
News: Rick DiPietro stopped 29 shots and the Islanders improved to 5-1-0 on their seven-game home stand with a win over the Flyers on Tuesday. "It seemed like there was a lot of weird stuff going on," DiPietro said. "Pucks were bouncing off sticks, off glass, things that normally don't happen did (Tuesday)."
Analysis: DiPietro remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues and he'll have even more offensive support after Tuesday's deadline addition of Ryan Smyth from the Edmonton Oilers.
News: Rick DiPietro, starting his 11th straight game, stopped 20 shots in a 3-2 win over the Canadiens Saturday. He is 7-2-2 during his last 11 starts.
Analysis: DiPietro remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, as the Islanders are playing well and are right in the mix of the Eastern Conference playoffs race.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed five goals on 30 shots in Monday's afternoon game against the Penguins, but he was rewarded with a late goal by Mike Sillinger to earn an undeserved win.
Analysis: DiPietro remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, as the Islanders are playing well and are right in the mix of the Eastern Conference playoffs race.
News: Rick DiPietro made 28 saves for the Islanders in a 2-0 loss to the Devils Saturday.
Analysis: DiPietro had won his previous two starts before losing Saturday. He remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy goaltender in all formats.
News: Rick DiPietro made 24 saves in Thursday's game against the Bruins while allowing just one goal to pick up a win. He allowed two goals or fewer for the sixth time in seven games.
Analysis: DiPietro has been red hot lately and is single-handedly kept the Islanders in the hunt for a postseason spot in the Eastern Conference.
News: Rick DiPietro, a Winthrop, Mass., native, is 4-2-1 with two ties and a 2.25 goals-against average in nine starts against Boston. The Islanders will host the Bruins in Thursday's game in Uniondale.
Analysis: DiPietro is coming off of a shootout victory on Tuesday night at Toronto in which he was stellar in earning first star honors. He remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy goaltender in all formats.
News: Rick DiPietro's stellar play in goal allowed the New York Islanders to tie the Toronto Maple Leafs in the Eastern Conference standings. DiPietro made 39 saves to lead the Islanders to a 3-2 victory at Toronto on Tuesday night.
Analysis: DiPietro held the Islanders in the game during the third period when the Leafs outshot the Islanders 16-1. He was nearly beaten by D Tomas Kaberle, but he made a great diving save to preserve the tie and get his team into the extra session. He showed glimpses of brilliance in this game, which explains why the Islanders locked him up to such a crazy contract in the offseason.
News: Rick DiPietro is 1-3 with a tie and a 4.25 GAA in five starts against Toronto. Only the victory came at home. The Islanders will travel north of the border to play the Leafs on Tuesday.
Analysis: Despite his poor career record against Toronto, DiPietro remains a solid No. 2 or 3 Fantasy netminder in most formats.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 25 saves Saturday in a 4-3 shootout loss to the Bruins.
Analysis: DiPietro has been playing a lot better as of late, just losing twice in his last 12 starts. He is a solid high-end Fantasy goalie at this time.
News: Rick DiPietro, who posted his 11th NHL shutout Wednesday, played well in Thursday's loss at New Jersey. "This is a tough time for us. We need all these points," he said. "If you are a little tired and don't feel you have your best game you have to play smarter, and that's what Jersey does so well and so consistently."
Analysis: DiPietro allowed just two goals on 37 shots, but he was upended by Martin Brodeur. It also marked the first time in nine games that New York failed to earn a point (5-1-3).
News: Rick DiPietro made 27 saves in his fifth shutout of the season and the New York Islanders finally figured out the Philadelphia Flyers at home with a 2-0 victory Wednesday night.
Analysis: DiPietro remains a decent low-end No. 1 goaltender or solid No. 2 in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro stopped 30 shots in a 2-1 SO loss to the Capitals Sunday.
Analysis: Sunday marked the first time that DiPietro has lost in his last six apperances. DiPietro remains a high-end Fantasy goalie.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 28 saves on his way to a 4-2 win over the Canadiens Saturday.
Analysis: DiPietro has not lost in his last five apperances and has picked up three wins along the way. DiPietro remains a high-end Fantasy goalie.
News: Rick DiPietro was rested for Thursday's game at Atlanta after allowing three goals on five shots in a previous meeting. Mike Dunham started and allowed two goals on 32 shots to get the win, as he made coach Ted Nolan's decision look genius.
Analysis: DiPietro will likely be back between the pipes for Saturday's matinee in Montreal, unless Nolan decides to reward Dunham for his strong performance. Regardless, DiPietro remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed four goals on 35 shots in Tuesday's game against the Red Wings to take the loss in overtime.
Analysis: Despite the loss, DiPietro remains a decent low-end No. 1 goaltender or solid No. 2 in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro, yanked after allowing three goals on five shots Friday night in Atlanta, made 25 saves for the win Saturday against the Sabres.
Analysis: DiPietro had been strong in net prior to Friday's start. He remains a No. 2 Fantasy goalie.
News: Ilya Kovalchuk scored his second goal of the game with 2:01 left in overtime, giving Atlanta a 5-4 victory over the New York Islanders after the Thrashers squandered an early three-goal lead. Kovalchuk, who has 26 goals on the season, also scored during a first-period spurt that led the Islanders to yank their starting goalie, Rick DiPietro, before the game was six minutes old. He gave up three goals on five shots. Mike Dunham replaced DiPietro, and he gave up only two goals on 28 shots, but still took the loss Friday.
Analysis: DiPietro had been strong in net prior to Friday's start, but he will likely be back in net the next time the Islanders take the ice. He remains a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. Dunham should only be used in leagues that have average scoring periods.
News: Rick DiPietro had 29 saves for the Islanders in a win at Philadelphia Thursday.
Analysis: DiPietro has gone 3-1 over the past five games, but he has allowed three or fewer goals in three of those games. He remains a decent No. 2 or 3 Fantasy goaltender option in most leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed four goals on just 24 shots in Monday's game against the Lightning to take another loss. "It was a tough loss," said Rick DiPietro. "That was a big two points we let get away."
Analysis: DiPietro has gone 2-6-1 over the past nine games, but he has allowed three or fewer goals in five of those games. He remains a decent No. 2 or 3 Fantasy goaltender option in most leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro, who made 28 saves Saturday, has lost four straight starts to the Lightning posting a 3.14 GAA. The Islanders also are trying to avoid a season-high fourth consecutive home loss.
Analysis: DiPietro is still a decent No. 2 or 3 goaltender option for Fantasy Week 16 (Jan. 15-21) in all leagues despite his futility against Tampa Bay.
News: Scott Gomez scored with 1:20 left in overtime to lift the New Jersey Devils to a 2-1 win over the New York Islanders on Saturday night. Patrik Elias took the puck in the Islanders zone, drew a defenseman down, and passed up to Gomez, who slid the puck in the short side past Rick DiPietro for his eighth goal. DiPietro made 28 saves as the Islanders lost their third straight at home
Analysis: DiPietro had won his last two starts prior to Saturday's game. He remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy goalie in most formats.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed four goals on 42 shots in Thursday's shootout win at Boston.
Analysis: DiPietro remains a decent No. 2 or 3 Fantasy goaltender in all leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed three goals on 31 shots in Tuesday's game at N.Y. Rangers, as the Islanders continue to own their biggest rivals.
Analysis: DiPietro is 4-0-1 in five starts against the Rangers this season, as the Islanders have won three games at Madison Square Garden in one season. New York is 7-20-4-3 in its last 34 games following Rangers contests and 1-9-3 after victories over its biggest rival.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro had 23 saves in a 4-2 loss to the Hurricanes on Saturday.
Analysis: DiPietro has lost his last two starts, but is still a pretty solid Fantasy option in most leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed four goals on 26 shots in Thursday's game at New Jersey to take the loss.
Analysis: Despite the setback, DiPietro remains a must-start in most Fantasy formats.
News: Rick DiPietro, who was coming off consecutive shutouts against Columbus and the New York Rangers, allowed two goals on 29 shots in Wednesday's game at Ottawa. His scoreless streak was stopped at 156:30. "I can tell you honestly I don't really pay any attention to the shutout streak or anything like that," DiPietro said. "The biggest stat you can have is wins and that's all we were focused on (Wednesday)."
Analysis: DiPietro hadn't allowed a goal since Carolina's Scott Walker beat him early in the third period of the Islanders' 5-1 road loss to the Hurricanes a week ago. Despite the loss, he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues while hot.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 30 saves but took the loss on Friday. The Hurricanes won 5-1.
Analysis: Heading into the game, DiPietro had won four of his last six starts. He is still a pretty decent Fantasy goalie. Use him as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy starter.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed three goals on 33 shots in Tuesday's game at N.Y. Rangers to pick up the victory.
Analysis: DiPietro has settled down over the past two games, allowing three totals goals after a four-game stretch where he allowed 17 goals.
News: Rick DiPietro stopped 37 shots for his second shutout of the season in the New York Islanders' 6-0 blanking of the Atlanta Thrashers on Saturday night.
Analysis: DiPietro had a rough outing on Friday giving up five goals before getting pulled, but rebounded nicely on Saturday. Consider DiPietro a solid No. 2 Fantasy goalie.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro started Friday's game against the Penguins, but was yanked in the third period after giving up five goals on 29 shots through two periods. Backup Mike Dunham came into the game and gave up two goals on six shots. The Islanders lost 7-4.
Analysis: Friday's game was just a bad outing for DiPietro. He still remains a decent Fantasy option. Dunham is not a recommended option at this time.
News: Rick DiPietro made 28 saves on Saturday to earn his 12th win of the season as the Islanders won 5-4 (S0) over the Panthers.
Analysis: DiPietro has now won five of his last seven starts. It appears safe to get DiPietro back into the active lineup in all leagues for Fantasy Week 11 (Dec. 11-17).
News: Rick DiPietro (lower body injury) returned to the crease for Thursday's game against the Canadiens. He allowed four goals on 36 shots in the loss.
Analysis: Despite the loss, it appears safe to get DiPietro back into the active lineup in all leagues for Fantasy Week 11 (Dec. 11-17).
News: Rick DiPietro, who was already slated to have the night off, didn't dress for Tuesday's game against the Senators or sit on the bench. The Islanders would only say that he was out because of an undisclosed lower body injury.
Analysis: Wade Dubielewicz served as the backup to Mike Dunham. DiPietro is expected back in goal on Thursday against Montreal for the second game of New York's weeklong homestand.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed four goals on 43 shots in Sunday's game at N.Y. Rangers to pick up the victory.
Analysis: DiPietro has won five of his past six starts, allowing three or fewer goals in each game.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro extended his record to 10-7-1 with a 5-3 win over the Penguins on Saturday. He stopped 34-of-37 shots.
Analysis: Since returning from injury on Oct. 21, DiPietro has gone 10-4-1 and has only allowed more than three goals in two games. He is becoming a solid Fantasy option and could be used as a No. 1 Fantasy goaltender at the current time. As is the Islanders TG.
News: Mike Dunham made just his third start in the month of November in Thursday's game against the Flyers with Rick DiPietro serving as backup. He allowed three goals on 23 shots in the loss.
Analysis: Dunham plays very infrequently when Rick DiPietro is healthy. DiPietro will be back between the pipes for Saturday's game against New Jersey.
News: Rick DiPietro displayed more confidence in making 33 saves, lifting the surging New York Islanders to a 4-1 victory over the slumping Washington Capitals on Saturday night.
Analysis: Since returning from injury on Oct. 21, DiPietro has gone 9-3-1 and has only allowed more than three goals in two games. He is becoming a solid Fantasy option and could be used as a No. 1 Fantasy goaltender at the current time. As is the Islanders TG.
News: Islanders G Rick Dipietro gave up three first period goals against the Maple Leafs on Monday, but settled down in the final two periods. However, it was too little to late and the Islanders lost 4-2. He had 29 saves in the loss.
Analysis: DiPietro is now 4-2-1 in his last seven games. He is starting to come around and produce like the holder of a 15-year contract should. If he is available, scoop him up and feel free to use him as a No. 2 Fantasy netminder.
News: Rick DiPietro made 36 saves, but the Islanders lost 3-2 to the Lightning after a shootout on Friday.
Analysis: DiPietro is starting to come around and produce like the holder of a 15-year contract should. If he is available, scoop him up and feel free to use him as a No. 2 Fantasy netminder.
News: Since the home fans let him hear it in a horrible performance last week against Atlanta, G Rick DiPietro has stopped 66 of 67 shots in his last two starts, including his seventh career shutout (3-0) Wednesday night in Dallas.
Analysis: DiPietro is starting to come around and produce like the holder of a 15-year contract should. If he is available, scoop him up and feel free to use him as a No. 2 Fantasy netminder.
News: Rick DiPietro is finally 100 percent over his groin injury and it is starting to show in the standings. DiPietro has won four of the past five games and the Islanders goaltender has allowed three or fewer goals in six of the past seven games.
Analysis: DiPietro is starting to come around and produce like the holder of a 15-year contract should. If he is available, scoop him up and feel free to use him as a No. 2 Fantasy netminder.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed just one goal on 33 shots in Thursday's game at Philadelphia to pick up a rare win against the Flyers.
Analysis: DiPietro entered the game with just one win in seven-career games against the Flyers with a 3.18 goals against average. That's how bad it is for the Flyers these days. DiPietro remains a top-notch No. 2 Fantasy goaltender in most leagues.
News: Top goaltender Rick DiPietro had Monday night off following the Atlanta loss, in which he allowed four goals on 19 shots. He's likely to return to the net against the Flyers, but is 1-6 with a 3.18 goals-against average in seven starts against them.
Analysis: DiPietro had been cruising along until his last start on Nov. 4 against Atlanta, when he was thrashed for four goals in a loss. He remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy netminder in most formats.
News: Islanders G Rick DiPietro made 15 saves as the Thrashers rolled to a 4-1 win on Saturday.
Analysis: Outside of Saturday's loss, DiPietro and the Islanders have been playing a bit better lately. He has re-emerged as a solid No. 2 Fantasy option, as has the Isles TG.
News: Rick DiPietro had 14 saves for the Islanders, who won their third straight game on Thursday with a 5-2 defeat of the Devils.
Analysis: DiPietro and the Islanders are playing a bit better lately. He has re-emerged as a solid No. 2 Fantasy option, as has the Isles TG.
News: Rick DiPietro stopped 30 of 32 shots in Tuesday's game against the Blackhawks, as he picked up his second straight victory after dropping four of the first five starts.
Analysis: DiPietro and the Islanders are playing a bit better lately. He has re-emerged as a solid No. 2 Fantasy option, as has the Isles TG.
News: Rick DiPietro turned aside 22 shots for just his second win this season as the Islanders beat the Panthers 4-3 on Saturday. The Islanders won the game in a shootout.
Analysis: Consider the Islanders TG and DiPietro as viable No. 2 Fantasy options. The team continues to struggle and it is not an ideal time to rely on either for Fantasy purposes.
News: Islanders G DiPietro, who earned a victory Saturday after missing four games with a groin injury, fell to 1-4 after Thursday's 3-0 loss to the Sabres. He stopped 27 shots in the loss.
Analysis: Consider the Islanders TG and DiPietro as viable No. 2 Fantasy options. The team continues to struggle and it is not an ideal time to rely on either for Fantasy purposes.
News: Tom Poti scored New York's third power-play goal 23 seconds into overtime, capping the Islanders' rally in a 4-3 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday night and giving G Rick DiPietro his first win of the season following a four-game layoff due to a groin injury. DiPietro, playing at home in the regular season for the first time since signing a 15-year deal with the Islanders, fought the puck early on but regrouped in the final two periods. He couldn't be faulted much for the Hurricanes' late uprising that nearly cost New York a victory. DiPietro finished with 37 saves in his first outing since yielding four goals on 40 in shots at Los Angeles -- a defeat that made the 25-year-old goalie 0-3.
Analysis: It appears safe to get DiPietro back in your team's active Fantasy roster. Consider the Islanders TG and DiPietro as viable No. 2 Fantasy options.
News: Islanders G Mike Dunham has started in place of Rick DiPietro, who has a groin injury and has not played since Oct. 10. DiPietro, though, is reportedly set to return for the Islanders game on Saturday against the Hurricanes.
Analysis: DiPietro, if he does play, will get a harsh welcome back by having to face off against the defending Stanley Cup champions. If he does return to the ice, get him back into your active lineup for Fantasy Week 4 (Oct. 23-29). If he remains sidelined, keep him reserved. The same can be said for the Islanders TG.
News: Rick DiPietro (groin) missed another game on Thursday night against the Penguins. Mike Dunham started again in his absence.
Analysis: DiPietro will likely start on Saturday night against the Hurricanes if he is healthy. If he can play, get him back into your active lineup for Fantasy Week 4 (Oct. 23-29). If he remains sidelined, keep him reserved.
News: New York Newsday reports Rick DiPietro's groin strain is a minor one, but he missed his third straight game on Monday night against the Predators. Mike Dunham got the start and lost in a shootout.
Analysis: DiPietro remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: New York Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro missed the team's home opener against Boston on Saturday night because of a groin injury. It was unclear when DiPietro hurt himself, but his last action was Tuesday night in Los Angeles. Backup Mike Dunham played the next night in Anaheim, and earned New York's first win of the season. DiPietro lost the first three games of the season. DiPietro signed a 15-year, $67.5 million dollar contract during the offseason. New York recalled goalie Wade Dubielewicz from Bridgeport to back up Dunham.
Analysis: DiPietro has struggled mightly in 2006 and it could be because of his groin injury. Check back with us for further updates on the DiPietro situation, but put him on your bench for the time being.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed four goals on 40 shots in Tuesday's start at Los Angeles, losing his third straight start. He has allowed 12 goals in three road starts at Phoenix, San Jose and Los Angeles to begin the season.
Analysis: Despite the slow start, DiPietro remains a decent No. 3 Fantasy goaltender in all leagues. The Islanders are off to their first 0-3 start ever, but don't despair. The Islanders TG remains a solid No. 2 unit in most formats.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed six goals on 32 shots through two periods in Thursday's regular season opener at Phoenix. He was pulled in favor of backup Mike Dunham.
Analysis: That is not exactly the start Fantasy owners were looking for, but at least you do not have to keep him for 15 years. In all seriousness, DiPietro is better than this and he will likely bounce back Saturday at San Jose. However, if he was treated this badly by what is viewed as a less-than-stellar Coyotes team, what will the Stanley Cup contender Sharks do to him?
News: Rick DiPietro signed a 15-year contract on Monday with the New York Islanders on Tuesday which will keep him on the Island for the remainder of his career. The former first-round pick in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft will be 25 on Sept. 19, so he would still be just 40 at the end of this deal. "In all of our discussions with Rick, he made it clear that he wanted to be an Islander for the rest of his career," said Islanders general manager Garth Snow. "But it was of equal importance to Rick that we work out a deal that would allow us to continue to build a Stanley Cup contender for years to come. This deal is great news for our franchise and our fans."
Analysis: DiPietro is a good-looking young goaltender, but this contract is a little bit out there. It is one of the first orders of business for the new general manager (and backup to DiPietro) Garth Snow. He is an outstanding keeper prospect for all Fantasy owners, but he remains nothing more than a No. 2 or 3 goaltender in all leagues heading into the 2006-07 season with a still young offense and talented, but still green defense.
News: Rick DiPietro told New York Newsday that he will need offseason surgery on his right knee, although it is considered a minor procedure.
Analysis: The surgery will prohibit him from taking part in the World Championships for Team USA in May. He is expected to be back in plenty of time for training camp and remains a solid keeper prospect in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro stopped all 20 shots he faced in Saturday's game against the Capitals to pick up the shutout.
Analysis: DiPietro ended a four-game losing streak. He remains a solid play in all Fantasy leagues despite the recent difficulties.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed three goals on just 21 shots in Sunday's game against the Flyers to take another loss.
Analysis: The Islanders have dropped four straight games and have the stamps out and are mailing it in. If you own the Isles TG, you might want to go another way with an unfavorable schedule upcoming.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed five goals on 22 shots in Wednesday's game against the Islanders to take a loss.
Analysis: DiPietro is 2-5-1 over the past eight starts while allowing three or more goals in five of those games.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed one goal on just 35 shots in Tuesday's game at Montreal to take a tough loss.
Analysis: DiPietro is 8-4-1 over the past 13 games allowing three or fewer goals in 11 of those starts. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite Tuesday's loss.
News: Rick DiPietro earned his career-best 27th win Saturday vs. Atlanta, making 22 saves.
Analysis: DiPietro, who had been in a rough stretch of late, remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy goaltender in most formats.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed five goals on 37 shots in Sunday's game at Tampa Bay to take the loss.
Analysis: After winning six straight starts, DiPietro has dropped three games in a row while allowing three or more goals in each game. Despite the rough stretch, he remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy goaltender in most formats.
News: Rick DiPietro stopped 40 of 43 shots on Friday at Florida in a losing effort.
Analysis: DiPietro had posted seven straight wins, but has now lost back-to-back games. Despite the losses, he remains a must-start in all larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed three goals on 38 shots in Thursday's game at Atlanta to take the loss, as Kari Lehtonen was just a little bit better.
Analysis: DiPietro had posted seven straight wins until Thursday's setback. Despite the loss, he remains a must-start in all larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed one goal on 17 shots in Tuesday's game at New Jersey, as beat Martin Brodeur for the third start in a row.
Analysis: DiPietro posted his seventh straight win, allowing one goal or less in the past four starts. He was named the NHL defensive player of the week on Monday.
News: Rick DiPietro stopped 22 shots on Friday vs. Toronto and he picked up the victory after a 2-1 shootout win over the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: DiPietro remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy goaltender in all leagues for the stretch run.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed just one goal on 31 shots in Tuesday's game against the Devils, as he edged out Martin Brodeur in a shootout.
Analysis: DiPietro has won two starts in six days head-to-head against the Devils and Brodeur in a shootout. He remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy goaltender in all leagues for the stretch run.
News: Rick DiPietro stopped 26 of 28 shots in Thursday's game against the Devils in a shootout, picking up his 20th win as a result.
Analysis: DiPietro edged Martin Brodeur to get the much-needed win. He will look to keep it going in Saturday's game against Atlantic Division rival Philadelphia.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed just two goals in each of the past two starts in the Olympic Games in Turin for Team USA, but each start resulted in a 2-1 loss.
Analysis: DiPietro has been gaining a lot of confidence against the world's best, but he should still be considered a No. 2 Fantasy netminder at best for the stretch run.
News: Rick DiPietro made 26 saves Saturday as the New York Islanders beat the New Jersey Devils 2-1.
Analysis: He's been hot and cold all season, but he's heading into the break on a high note. Continue to start him in leagues of 10-plus teams.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed three goals on just 24 shots in Monday's game against Tampa Bay to take the loss.
Analysis: DiPietro is 3-4-1 in his past eight games and he has allowed at least three goals in six straight games.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed three goals while making 26 saves in Tuesday's game against the Capitals to win his second consecutive game.
Analysis: DiPietro lucked out, as the Capitals were without Alexander Ovechkin (groin) and Dainius Zubrus (arm). He improved to 17-15-3 with the win and remains a decent No. 2 or 3 Fantasy netminder.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that Wade Dubielewicz is expected to start against Pittsburgh Thursday.
Analysis: Rick DiPietro got lit up for four goals on 19 shots against New Jersey Tuesday. Dubielewicz is 1-3-0 on the season with a 2.94 GAA and a .907 save percentage. Consider grabbing him in daily leagues if you are in need of a No. 2 goalie.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed four goals on 17 shots in Tuesday's game against the Devils before being pulled midway through the second period.
Analysis: DiPietro will look to bounce back on Thursday against the Penguins.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed one goal and made 34 saves in Tuesday's game at Chicago to pick up another win.
Analysis: DiPietro bounced back from a drubbing at the hands of the Canucks over the weekend to get it done Tuesday.
News: Rick DiPietro (knee) was able to return to the lineup on Thursday against the Flames. He allowed two goals and made 28 saves in the victory.
Analysis: It appears safe to get DiPietro back into the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues.
News: The New York Daily News reports Rick DiPietro (knee) made it through practice on Wednesday without any setbacks and is hopeful of playing Thursday against the Flames.
Analysis: DiPietro has missed the past five games and following an injury to Garth Snow (knee), the club has had to rely on Wade Dubielewicz in between the pipes. While he has done a decent job holding down the fort, the club is likely as excited to get DiPietro back as he is of playing.
News: The New York Post reports Rick DiPietro (sprained medial collateral ligament) was expected to practice on Wednesday.
Analysis: DiPietro might be able to return to the lineup some time during the next week, but should be kept reserved in all Fantasy leagues in the upcoming scoring period.
News: Rick DiPietro (knee) missed Monday's game against the Lighting. Garth Snow got the start in his absence and did well in a 2-1 loss.
Analysis: DiPietro remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News:Newsday reports Rick DiPietro has a mildly sprained left knee, suffered on Friday against the Senators.
Analysis: DiPietro will likely rest in Monday's game against the Lightning in favor of Garth Snow, so set your Fantasy lineups accordingly.
News: Rick DiPietro left Friday's game at Ottawa early during a scramble which led to a Daniel Alfredsson goal. He was tended to by a trainer and then replaced by veteran Garth Snow.
Analysis: More on DiPietro's status when we know it, but expect Snow to get the starting nod in Monday's game against the Lightning at the very least. DiPietro suffered an apparent left leg injury.
News: Rick DiPietro was pulled from Monday's game against the Maple Leafs after being shelled for six goals in less than two periods on just 17 shots.
Analysis: His replacement Garth Snow was not much better, allowing three more goals. The Islanders will look to bounce back on Wednesday against the Devils, but it is uncertain which goaltender coach Steve Stirling will turn to.
News: Rick DiPietro allowed three goals while making 24 saves in Thursday's game at Columbus.
Analysis: DiPietro was solid, but was outdueled by Pascal Leclaire in the shootout loss. He has won his past two starts entering Thursday's game.
News: Rick DiPietro made 31 saves on 34 shots in Tuesday's game at St. Louis to pick up his 10th win of the season.
Analysis: DiPietro has been a solid No. 2 Fantasy goaltender in 2005-06, winning five of his past seven decisions.
News: Rick DiPietro (knee) was able to return for Saturday's game at Ottawa and he was hammered. He allowed six goals while making 26 saves in a 6-0 whitewash.
Analysis: DiPietro will look to get back on track on Tuesday at New Jersey. It appears safe to get him back into the active Fantasy lineup despite the poor showing.
News: Rick DiPietro (knee) was out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Bruins, as Garth Snow was again between the pipes.
Analysis: DiPietro remains day to day. Keep him reserved until he can get back into the crease.
News:Newsday reports DiPietro missed practice on Sunday due to soreness in his right knee. He had the knee wrapped up while serving as a spectator during the Monday afternoon scrimmage.
Analysis: Consider DiPietro day to day for now and reserve him in daily Fantasy leagues if you have healthier alternatives on Tuesday.
News: Rick DiPietro (groin) was able to play in Wednesday's game at N.Y. Rangers. He allowed two goals and made 33 saves in the shootout win.
Analysis: It appears safe to get DiPietro back into the active Fantasy lineup, although don't be surprised to see him back on the bench for Thursday's second half of the home-and-home against the Rangers.
News: Rick DiPietro (groin) missed Saturday's game at Philadelphia. Garth Snow got the start in his absence.
Analysis: DiPietro remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues for the upcoming scoring period.
News: Rick DiPietro left Thursday's game at Washington due to a groin injury.
Analysis: DiPietro is considered day to day. Garth Snow replaced him in between the pipes.
News: Rick DiPietro made 42 saves in Saturday's game against Carolina. He allowed only two goals in the victory.
Analysis: DiPietro bounced back from a shaky performance in the opener. He remains a useful Fantasy netminder in all formats, especially those which allow keepers.
News: Rick DiPietro made 33 saves in Wednesday's opener at Buffalo, but he was peppered all night long, allowing five goals to take the loss.
Analysis: There will be better days for DiPietro, as he has a solid defense and offense in front of him.
News: Rick DiPietro, who had been slowed by tendinitis in his wrist, was able to start Tuesday's preseason game at Philadelphia. He allowed five goals while making 24 saves.
Analysis: Despite the poor performance, DiPietro can be counted on as a solid No. 2 netminder in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro re-signed for one season with the Islanders on Wednesday.
Analysis: DiPietro was 23-18-5 with a 2.18 GAA in 2003-04 with the Islanders. He should be a fantastic goaltending option in 2005-06.
News:Newsday reports Rick DiPietro will have a minor surgery to repair a slight tear to his right medial meniscus.
Analysis: DiPietro will be ready for training camp and continues to improve as a Fantasy goaltender.
News: Rick DiPietro (flu) returned to the lineup and had his scoreless streak of 145:40 broken in Saturday's game against the Hurricanes.
Analysis: It appears safe to get DiPietro back into the active lineup in all Fantasy leagues.
News: The New York Post reports that Rick DiPietro (flu) will not play at Philadelphia Thursday.
Analysis: DiPietro will be replaced in goal by Garth Snow. Consider using Snow, who plays well against his former team, as a replacement in Fantasy leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro came back after allowing four goals on seven shots Thursday to stop 45 shots at Anaheim on Friday.
Analysis: DiPietro is still a young goalie and inconsistent play should be expected. Continue starting him as a No. 2 goalie.
News: Rick DiPietro (bruised knee) returned to the lineup on Thursday, but he made only 18 saves and allowed six goals in the loss at Toronto.
Analysis: Despite the poor outing, it appears safe to get DiPietro back into the active lineup.
News: Rick DiPietro was sidelined for the second straight game on Tuesday due to a bruised knee. He would have been available if needed, however.
Analysis: DiPietro will likely get the call on Thursday at Toronto, after Garth Snow went 0-1-1 in two games against the lowly Penguins.
News: Rick DiPietro made a career-high 42 saves in Friday's win over the Sabres.
Analysis: DiPietro has emerged as a solid Fantasy netminder this season.
News: Rick DiPietro made 28 saves in a 0-0 tie against the Bruins on Tuesday night.
Analysis: DiPietro continues to realize his amazing potential. He will continue to be a valuable player in keeper Fantasy leagues for years to come.
News: Rick DiPietro stopped all 25 shots by Atlanta on Saturday to earn his second shutout of the season.
Analysis: DiPietro continues to inch closer towards reclaiming the starting goaltender job from Garth Snow.
News: Rick DiPietro made 30 saves en route to a 5-2 win over Ottawa on Monday.
Analysis: DiPietro is 3-1 in five games in the month of January. He has allowed two or less goals in four of the five appearances.
News: The Islanders obliged Rick DiPietro's request and demoted him to Bridgeport of the AHL Monday. The goalie wants to get more playing time and was stuck on the bench while Garth Snow has played well recently.
Analysis: DiPietro should be reserved in all leagues and dropped in leagues without many reserves.
News:Newsday notes that Rick DiPietro will give way to Garth Snow for Tuesday's start against New Jersey.
Analysis: DiPietro should be reserved in daily leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro made 27 saves and allowed only one goal in Thursday's game against Dallas to win his third straight start.
Analysis: DiPietro has allowed three or less goals in eight of his nine appearances this season.
News: Rick DiPietro stopped 18 shots and allowed three goals in a 3-0 loss at Montreal on Thursday.
Analysis: It was DiPietro's first loss of the season after posting a 2-0-1 record to start the season. He is still worth using as a No. 2 or 3 goaltender in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Rick DiPietro made 20 saves with one goal allowed to beat Florida Saturday.
Analysis: DiPietro should be starting in most leagues now that it seems he has become the No. 1 goaltender.
News: DiPietro made 21 saves in Tuesday's 2-2 tie against Atlanta.
Analysis: DiPietro has looked sharp this season and appears to have secured the starting job.
News: Rick DiPietro made 13 saves on Saturday at Buffalo, as he earned his first-career shutout.
Analysis: DiPietro might see a bulk of the starts in the short-term, as Garth Snow was pounded by the Capitals in the opener, while DiPietro has yet to allow a goal in 93 minutes this season.
News: Rick DiPietro will start Saturday at Buffalo, according to Newsday.
Analysis: DiPietro replaces an ineffective Garth Snow. DiPietro is a recommended starter in daily leagues for this favorable matchup.
News: DiPietro will now be the starter in net for the Islanders. According to Newsday, the team declined to pick up an option on Garth Snow's contract, making him a free agent. DiPietro is worth a roster spot as a No. 2 Fantasy netminder, but should not be counted on as one to carry a team.
Analysis:
News: DiPietro was recalled from Bridgeport of the AHL on Thursday. He made the start against New Jersey and made 30 saves in a 3-3 tie. Despite the performance, he only has Fantasy value in keeper leagues.
Analysis:
News: The Islanders assigned DiPietro to Bridgeport of the AHL on Friday. While he has plenty of upside, he still only warrants attention in keeper leagues.
Analysis:
News: DiPietro was recalled from Bridgeport of the AHL on Wednesday. He will serve as the backup to Garth Snow while Chris Osgood (ankle) is on the mend. DiPietro has no Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: The Islanders returned DiPietro to the minors on Monday. With Chris Osgood finally picking up his performance, the team felt it was better to allow DiPietro to play regularly in the minors. DiPietro is only useful in a keeper league.
Analysis:
News: The Islanders recalled DiPietro from Bridgeport of the AHL on Wednesday. According to Newsday, he will start Thursday's game in Minnesota. "He's here for now," said general manager Mike Milbury. "We'll evaluate the situation at the end of the break." DiPietro might be returned to the minors at some point, and it's not clear how much playing time he'll get, so he's still not worth adding to a Fantasy roster outside of keeper leagues.
Analysis:
News: DiPietro returned to Bridgeport of the AHL on Sunday. According to Newsday, he will be recalled in time to serve as the backup in Wednesday's game against Ottawa. It is unclear how the Islanders plan to settle their goaltending position the remainder of the season, but the fact that DiPietro was recalled this weekend suggests they are ready to give him a chance. He is still only useful in keeper leagues until he starts showing some game results at the NHL level.
Analysis:
News: DiPietro was recalled by the Islanders on Saturday. The move was made shortly before the Islanders beat the New York Rangers 3-1. DiPietro was the backup to Chris Osgood.
Analysis:
News: New York Newsday reports that a source close to the Islanders said DiPietro will be traded if he doesn't beat out Chris Osgood for the starting goaltending job in training camp. If DiPietro does win the job, Osgood will be traded. However, this scenario appears very unlikely, as DiPietro is probably not ready to compete at the NHL level. Expect Osgood to be the victor of this battle, with DiPietro returning to the minors until late in the season.
Analysis:
News: The Islanders recalled DiPietro from Bridgeport of the AHL on Tuesday. He will serve as Garth Snow's backup for as long as Chris Osgood is sidelined, and isn't worth adding to your roster at this point.
Analysis:
News: Islanders GM Mike Milbury decided on Tuesday that DiPietro will remain with the Islanders for the rest of the season. He served as John Vanbiesbrouck's backup for Wednesday's game against New Jersey, with regular backup Wade Flaherty scratched. Expect Vanbiesbrouck or Flaherty to be traded soon, with DiPietro likely to get increased starts the rest of the way. He's an excellent keeper league prospect.
Analysis:
News: DiPietro made his NHL debut against Buffalo on Saturday, a 29-save effort in a 2-1 loss. The Islanders were without starting goaltender John Vanbiesbrouck, who was sidelined with back spasms, and backup Wade Flaherty was given a rest. Don't expect DiPietro to get many starts the rest of this season, but this is a good sign that he's a great player to own in a keeper league.
Analysis:
News: DiPietro was recalled from Chicago of the IHL on Tuesday, while John Vanbiesbrouck attends to a personal matter. This is the second time this season that he's been recalled. Since DiPietro will be joining the U.S. national junior team on Friday, don't expect any Fantasy value from him for the next month, at least.
Analysis:
News: The Islanders recalled DiPietro for the second time Wednesday to serve as the backup to Wade Flaherty. With John Vanbiesbrouck day-to-day with a back injury, Flaherty will get the call in net until "Beezer" is ready to return. DiPietro probably will not get much, if any, playing time, so unless you're in a keeper league he's not worth picking up at this point.
Analysis:
News: The New York Islanders recalled goaltender Rick DiPietro, the No. 1 pick in the 2000 NHL draft, from the minor leagues. DiPietro served as Wade Flaherty's backup in a 4-1 loss to the Los Angeles Kings. Veteran John Vanbiesbrouck was a healthy scratch.
Analysis:
News: 'Mad' Mike Milbury may have picked DiPietro higher than any goalie ever before (first overall), but in the end, the young goalie suffered the fate of many first rounders before him...a trip to the minors. DiPietro has been assigned to the Chicago Wolves of the IHL.
Analysis:
