News:Steve Montador (upper body) is out indefinitely, Chicago Sun-Times writer Adam Jahns reports.
Analysis: The team hasn't referred to it as such, but it sounds like Steve Montador's injury is the resurfacing of concussion symptoms. If that is the case, he might be out for a considerable stretch of time.
News:Steve Montador played 4:20 in Tuesday's loss to New Jersey, his first game since being cleared to play after suffering a concussion.
Analysis: Look for Steve Montador's minutes to gradually increase as he gets more acclimated to playing again. Still, a defenseman playing barely over four minutes isn't necessarily a good sign.
News:Steve Montador (concussion) will play against New Jersey on Tuesday, CSN Chicago's Tracey Myers reports.
Analysis:Steve Montador has been out since Feb. 7. His return should be a nice boost for the Chicago defense.
News:Steve Montador (concussion) will travel with the Blackhawks and is hopeful he'll play against New Jersey on Tuesday, CSN Chicago's Tracey Myers reports.
Analysis: Concussion recoveries are tricky to anticipate, but Steve Montador presumably wouldn't single out Tuesday if he didn't have a reason to believe it's a possibility.
News:Steve Montador (concussion) has been cleared for contact, Chicago Sun-Times writer Adam Jahns reports.
Analysis:Steve Montador, who will miss his 22nd straight game on Sunday night, still doesn't have a return target, but this is obviously an important step in the right direction.
News:Steve Montador (concussion) took part in all drills during Friday's practice, Jesse Rogers of ESPNChicago.com reports.
Analysis: There was speculation that Steve Montador's season might be over, but his participation Friday seems to indicate he's nearing a return. It's still uncertain when that will be, but the team's next game is Sunday against Nashville.
News:Steve Montador (concussion) will not travel for games against Los Angeles (Saturday) or Anaheim (Sunday), the Chicago Sun-Times reports.
Analysis:Steve Montador remains out on a rather indefinite basis due to the concussion, which could even end his season.
News:Steve Montador (concussion) will miss his eighth game in a row on Thursday and could be out even longer or even the entire season, the ESPNChicago reports.
Analysis: Blackhawks' coach Joel Quenneville said Steve Montador was feeling better; but on the other hand, did not rule out not returning this season. "Be nice to give you a timeline on it but we don't have the precise forecast of exactly where it is," Quenneville said. "He's starting to feel better. Hoping not too long."
News: The Blackhawks placed Steve Montador (upper body) on injured reserve Friday, the team's official Twitter page reports.
Analysis: The team also recalled Dylan Olsen from AHL Rockford. It looks like Steve Montador will miss the team's next three contests.
News:Steve Montador (upper body) was feeling much better Wednesday, Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.
Analysis:Steve Montador was "banged up" in Tuesday's loss to the Avs, but it sounds like he has a shot to suit up Friday against the Sharks.
News:Steve Montador was "banged up" in Tuesday's loss to the Avs, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: 'Hawks coach Joel Quenneville was unwilling to specify what Steve Montador's injury was. Montador will be evaluated on Wednesday.
News:Steve Montador, who missed three games because of an upper-body injury, will skate on Sunday night against the Red Wings, ESPN Chicago reports.
Analysis: The Blackhawks are hoping that the return of Steve Montador will help the team's defense that has been slightly woeful recently.
News: The Blackhawks have activated Steve Montador from injured reserve. He'd been out of the lineup since December 30 with an upper body injury.
Analysis: The Hawks are off Saturday, but Dylan Olsen was sent back to Rockford of the AHL so it looks like Steve Montador will slot right back in for Sunday's big contest against the Red Wings, who currently sit just one point behind Chicago for first place in the Central Division.
News:Steve Montador (upper body) was placed on IR on Wednesday, ESPN Chicago reports.
Analysis:Steve Montador has been out of the lineup since the Dec. 30th game against the Red Wings. He has five goals and five assists this season. After a strong start he only has one point since Nov. 23.
News:Steve Montador (upper body) is questionable for Thursday's game against the Flyers, TSN reports.
Analysis:Steve Montador should be considered day-to-day.
News:Steve Montador (upper body) will miss Monday's game against Edmonton, CSN Chicago's Tracey Myers reports.
Analysis:Steve Montador seems to have a decent chance to be ready for Thursday's game against Philadelphia, but no concrete return target has been mentioned to this point.
News:Steve Montador is questionable for Monday's game with an upper body injury, Tracey Myers of CSN Chicago reports.
Analysis: With 10 points and a plus-1 rating in 38 games this season, Steve Montador is quietly plugging along on a course for his usual 20-25 points. We'll revisit his availability after the morning skate in case the Hawks tip their hand at that time.
News:Steve Montador tallied his second and third goals of the season Sunday against Edmonton.
Analysis: The cagey veteran is not known for his scoring, as his career high of eight goals can attest to. This is likely a fluke performance, and you shouldn't expect him to score much this season.
News:Steve Montador scored his first goal of the season and also collected an assist, both on second period power plays in Thursday's win over Columbus.
Analysis: You wouldn't figure Steve Montador to be the guy to cure what's been an ailing power play for Chicago, but sometimes it's those under-the-radar guys who break the slump and get things going. And when we say under-the-radar, we mean that Montador's last power-play goal came Feb. 13, 2008. He's now got three in a 535-game NHL career spanning the last decade.
News:Steve Montador has just one assist and no goals on the season and hasn't appeared on the scoresheet since the second game of the season.
Analysis:Steve Montador has managed to post a plus-2, which is characteristic of the defenseman, who hasn't posted a negative plus/minus since the 2005-06 season. Don't count on the blueliner for big numbers in points or plus/minus this season.
News: The Blackhawks signed Montador to a four-year, $11 million contract on Thursday, the Chicago Sun-Times reports.
Analysis: The Blackhawks get a reliable defenseman who can help out on both ends of the ice in Montador, who apparently had no interest in making himself available to other teams in free agency. He quickly reached a deal with the Blackhawks, who obtained his rights from the Sabres on Wednesday in exchange for a future seventh-round draft pick. "At the end of day, I want to win a Cup. Chicago had all those elements. I have no regrets about not checking out July 1," said Montador.
News: Montador is believed to be nearing a four-year, $11 million deal with Chicago, Nick Kypreos of Sportsnet.ca reports.
Analysis: We're awaiting confirmation on this one, but it would make sense for the Hawks to make a competitive offer after sending a seventh-round pick to Buffalo for exclusive negotiating rights.
Sabres Send Montador's Negotiating Rights To Chitown
News: The Sabres have traded Montador's negotiating rights to the Blackhawks in exchange for a seventh-round draft selection in the 2012 or 2013 Entry Draft, the Sabres' Official Site reports.
Analysis: Montador and his unrestricted free agent status really didn't fit into the Sabres' plans after they acquired Robin Regehr over the weekend, and the big home run for the team is if they can sign Christian Ehrhoff, whose rights Buffalo acquired before the Montador deal. So essentially, the Sabres get a free draft pick here and the Blackhawks get first crack at Montador before he officially hits free agency.
News: Montador, who led the Sabres with a plus-16 last season, will enter free agency on Friday and could provide a lot of value for a team looking for a fourth or fifth defenseman.
Analysis: At 31, Montador, who is originally from Vancouver, would be an ideal fit for the Canucks who need to replace Christian Ehrhoff.
News: Mondator (lower body) will play Saturday against New Jersey, WGR 550 SportsRadio reports.
Analysis: Montador is back after missing three games, partially because the Sabres are dealing with an injury to one of their defenseman (coach Lindy Ruff wouldn't reveal who) and need another body. Montador should be safe to use if you're relying on him in a deep league.
News: Montador (lower body) is questionable for Friday's game against Florida, WGR550 reports.
Analysis: We'll try to get a read on Montador's status as game time approaches. Buffalo and Florida face off at 7:30 eastern time.
News: Montador (lower body) took to the ice in Wednesday's optional skate and claims that he is ready to play, WGR550.com reports.
Analysis: Montador has been the model of consistency on an otherwise inconsistent blue-line for the Sabres this season. With four games next week, he could be a valuable addition to lineups in weekly leagues, if he does get back by then.
News: Montador (lower body) skated prior to practice Monday and tried to join some drills but left the ice early and will miss his second straight game Tuesday, The Buffalo News reports. "The plan was for him to do as much as he could," said coach Lindy Ruff. "He got a little sore today so he came off."
Analysis: Montador is a decent reserve fantasy defenseman with 22 points in 65 games and his usual solid plus-15 rating, though his absence is probably more important following a game (one that he also missed) where the Sabres had some late gaffes by other blueliners.
News: According to Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News, it looks like the Sabres will be without Montador (lower body) on Sunday against Nashville.
Analysis: Montador, who is dealing with a lower body injury, also caught his finger in the bench Saturday, so he's a little dinged up at this point.
News: Montador will be in the lineup Friday night after missing five games with what the Sabres never full committed to calling a concussion, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: Montador was expected to be back earlier in the week, but as is the case with concussion, nobody every really knows for sure. Montador has fantasy value in leagues where you can change your lineup daily.
News: Montador (concussion) expects to play against St. Louis on Friday, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: His owners probably want to follow up on Friday just to make sure he's not being overly optimistic (like he was with Tuesday's game), but for the moment it's looking like Buffalo can expect Montador to return Friday.
News: Montador (concussion symptoms) will not play Tuesday against the Canadiens, according to WGR550.com.
Analysis: Montador thought he'd be ready to go in this one but the Sabres will keep him out at least one more game. Chris Butler will continue to fill Montador's spot on the blue line.
News: Montador (concussion symptoms) is aiming to return to the lineup Tuesday against Montreal, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: Montador was a full participant in Saturday's workout. "We took the right steps to make sure it wasn't anything serious," Montador said. "I think we did the right thing not to jump it too son. I took the neuropsych test [Friday] and I aced it." Coach Lindy Ruff said Montador will likely be cleared for contact Monday.
News: Montador (concussion symptoms) skated Saturday morning in a non-contact jersey, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: Montador was scheduled to undergo concussion testing Friday afternoon, so his presence on the ice Saturday indicates he passed his tests. He's still very unlikely to play Sunday - and is probably questionable for Tuesday and Wednesday as well - but this doesn't look like it will be an extended absence.
News: Montador is suffering from an upper body injury -- sources say it's concussion-like symptoms -- and won't play Thursday against the Panthers, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: Montador is believed to be getting better but, if the reports are true, will need to pass a neuro-psych test before he can even hit the ice again. We would guess his status for the weekend is pretty iffy.
News: Montador (undisclosed) won't play against Tampa Bay on Tuesday, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: Given that the team hasn't disclosed information on the injury, it's pointless to guess whether he'll play against Florida on Thursday. Hopefully something new will surface there sometime soon. Chris Butler figures to inherit Montador's lineup spot as long as he's out.
News: Montador is questionable for Tuesday's game with an undisclosed injury, WGR550.com reports.
Analysis: The Sabres aren't revealing the nature of Montador's injury and his absence from Monday's practice is being called a "maintenance day" by head coach Lindy Ruff. In any case, he's considered day-to-day at this time.
News: Through 27 games, Montador quietly ranks second in the NHL with a plus-16.
Analysis: The Sabres have a minus-5 goal differential, and Montador kills penalties and doesn't get any time on the power play.
News: Montador blasted one home from the point for the first Sabres goal in Saturday's 3-2 overtime win over Washington.
Analysis: Montador is quietly having a nice season for those who have snatched him up in their fantasy leagues. His plus-5 leads a Sabres team that has a negative goal differential.
News: Montador has a number of bumps and bruises, including a broken nose suffered in Buffalo's win over the Thrashers on Wednesday, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: He'll continue to play through everything, and will be sporting a half shield that he normally doesn't wear. Montador isn't a huge point producer, but he's off to a good start this season with four points in seven games to go with a plus-5 rating, and 21 blocked shots, currently second in the NHL.
News: Sabres D Steve Montador returned to the lineup on Thursday against the Hurricanes after missing one game with a hip injury. He tallied an assist in 15:21 of ice time and finished at minus-2. He has two assists in his last four games and 13 on the season.
Analysis: Coach Lindy Ruff sent Montador a message last week by making him a healthy scratch for a game. It really hasn't worked since Montador is minus-4 in three games since his return. His defense hasn't been stellar lately and that is why Ruff is upset. Montador still has low-end Fantasy appeal since he is not a top offensive threat.
News: Sabres D Steve Montador (hip) was not able to play Tuesday against the Boston Bruins. He is considered day to day.
Analysis: Montador is on pace to match his 22-point average from the previous two seasons. He isn't much of an offensive presence, but can pick up the PIM quite often. Montador is just a low-end Fantasy option and also a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News: The Buffalo News reports that Sabres D Steve Montador (hip) will not play Tuesday vs. Boston.
Analysis: Montador is on pace to match his 22-point average from the previous two seasons. He isn't much of an offensive presence, but can pick up the PIM quite often. Montador is just a low-end Fantasy option and also a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News: The Buffalo News reports that Sabres D Steve Montador missed practice Monday with a hip issue.
Analysis: Montador is on pace to match his 22-point average from the previous two seasons. He isn't much of an offensive presence, but can pick up the PIM quite often. Montador is just a low-end Fantasy option and also a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Sabres' defense corps could look different on a game-to-game basis down the stretch. Buffalo has been carrying eight defensemen all season. Andrej Sekera and Nathan Paetsch were the healthy scratches the majority of the time, but coach Lindy Ruff wants to get a better rotation in the final months of the season. Veteran Steve Montador was the first to take a seat. He was minus-7 in his previous four games. "A couple of opportunities, odd-numbered situations that I think he's had a little bit of a tougher time," Ruff said when asked why he made the move. "But he's made those mistakes on the aggressive side."
Analysis: Buffalo added Montador in the offseason after losing Andrei Markov in free agency. He was a plus-player before his recent slide, so he might not spend a lot of time in the press box. However, we just can't expect a lot from a Fantasy standpoint since Montador is not a top offensive player. He continues to have low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Sabres D Steve Montador scored a goal during Tuesday's game against the Ducks. Montador, who played 65 games with the Ducks last season, cut Anaheim's lead to 4-3 at 6:12 of the second when he intercepted a pass deep in the Ducks' zone and backhanded his third goal of the season past Jonas Hiller's stick.
Analysis: Montador has pretty much delivered the expected results for the Sabres. he has been a solid presence off the blue line. Still, he isn't just a one-trick pony. Montador has low-end Fantasy appeal since he isn't a scoring whiz. He is also a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Sabres D Steve Montador tallied an assist and finished at plus-2 on Friday against the Thrashers. He has five assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Montador has shown some offensive life as of late, but he is still not lighting it up with only 12 points in 40 games. Montador is a regular blueliner for Buffalo, but he plays at both ends of the ice and just isn't a top offensive threat. Montador is a low-end Fantasy option and also a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Sabres D Steve Montador scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Wednesday's 3-0 win against the Capitals. Montador opened the scoring with his second of the season 4:06 into the first period. From the right point, Montador's shot skipped past Jose Theodore, who was screened by Nathan Gerbe. Montador has three points (two assists) in his last seven games.
Analysis: Montador has only seven points in 28 games this season. He is starting to contribute more as of late on the offensive end, but we still aren't expecting great numbers from Montador. Montador is a low-end Fantasy option and also a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Sabres D Steve Montador scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Wednesday's game against the Oilers. Buffalo made it 2-0 when Montador fired a slap shot from the right circle for his first goal of the season, scored at 7:34 of the second.
Analysis: Buffalo added Montador to their blue line in the offseason for his toughness. He has made great strides offensively the last two seasons, but Buffalo definitely wanted him for defensive prowess. Montador is a low-end Fantasy option, and also a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Sabres D Steve Montador tallied two assists and finished at plus-2 during Wednesday's game against the Devils. Montador has all three of his assists in his last three games.
Analysis: Buffalo added Montador to their blue line in the offseason for his toughness. He has made great strides offensively the last two seasons, but Buffalo definitely wanted him for defensive prowess. Montador is a low-end Fantasy option, and also a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Sabres were unhappy with their intensity last season, as the team too often put forth lackluster efforts. So on the opening day of free agency, they signed defenseman Steve Montador. Though not the most skilled, he is known to bring his best every night. "We need to get more competitive with our team," general manager Darcy Regier said. "Just the grittiness and the toughness that he brings and the character that he brings is a good ingredient to have in that room. I think his teammates will appreciate him and appreciate what he brings."
Analysis: Montador signed a two-year deal worth $3.1 million and will take the roster spot of Jaroslav Spacek, who agreed to a three-year, $11.5 million contract with Montreal. Montador started last season with Anaheim and went to Boston at the trade deadline. He finished with four goals, 17 assists, a plus-17 rating and 143 penalty minutes in 78 games. He also added a goal, two assists and 18 penalty minutes in 11 playoff games. "If I can contribute offensively, that's great. If I can add some grittiness, that's something I'm comfortable with, too," Montador said. "I feel there's a few areas I can contribute, and those are just a couple of them." Montador has developed into a solid two-way defenseman, but since his offense isn't anything spectacular, he has low-end Fantasy appeal Draft Day. He also has value in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: The Sabres worked quickly at the beginning of Wednesday's free-agent signing period by landing defenseman Steve Montador. He signed for a two-year deal.
Analysis: Montador finished the 2008-09 season with the Bruins after being picked up in a deadline deal from Anaheim. Montador had four goals, 21 points and a plus-17 rating in 78 games. He also totaled a career-high 143 penalty minutes. Montador has developed into a solid two-way defenseman, but since his offense isn't anything spectacular, he has low-end Fantasy appeal Draft Day. He also has value in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports D Steve Montador, acquired by the Bruins at the trade deadline, was a healthy scratch for the second straight game Sunday against the Devils. He has played in just five of his first nine games with his new team, missing two others with flu-like symptoms.
Analysis: As we figured, Montador wasn't expected to make much of an impact with his new team and would really have to fight for his PT and points. But the fact he continues to be a healthy scratch is not a good sign. Hopefully, you aren't relying on Montador at this stage in the season since he appears to be a risky Fantasy start.
News: Bruins D Steve Montador assisted on a Phil Kessel goal Saturday against the Islanders, his first point with the Bruins since being acquired on trade-deadline day from Anaheim.
Analysis: Despite the move to Boston, Montador's Fantasy value stands to drop since he was logging heavy minutes out with the Ducks. He now has to share offensive chances with two of the best blueliners in the business -- Zdeno Chara and Dennis Wideman. Montador still has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Bruins D Steve Montador returned to the lineup Tuesday against the Blue Jackets after missing two games with the flu. He failed to record a point in 17:25 of ice time and finished at even.
Analysis: Montador has played two games for the Bruins since being acquired at the Wednesday trade deadline from Anaheim. Despite the move to Boston, Montador's Fantasy value stands to drop since he was logging heavy minutes out with the Ducks. He now has to share offensive chances with two of the best blueliners in the business -- Zdeno Chara and Dennis Wideman. Montador still has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Bruins D Steve Montador, acquired Wednesday, missed his second straight game with the flu Sunday as Boston fell to the Rangers.
Analysis: This is the time of year where the flu bug seems to be catching up to everyone and it finally nailed Montador, who didn't record a point in his first game with the Bruins Thursday. Despite the move to Boston, Montador's Fantasy value stands to drop since he was logging heavy minutes out with the Ducks. He has a career-high plus-14 rating and 125 penalty minutes. He could keep up both of those totals, but his points might be scarce since Zdeno Chara and Dennis Wideman are the heavy offensive hitters in Boston. Montador has low-end Fantasy appeal and is a low-risk Fantasy start for Week 23 (March 9-15).
News: Newly acquired Bruins defenseman Steve Montador missed Saturday's game against the Blackhawks with the flu. He remains questionable heading into Sunday against the Rangers.
Analysis: This is the time of year where the flu bug seems to be catching up to everyone and it finally nailed Montador, who didn't record a point in his first game with the Bruins Thursday. Despite the move to Boston, Montador's Fantasy value stands to drop since he was logging heavy minutes out with the Ducks. He has a career-high plus-14 rating and 125 penalty minutes. He could keep up both of those totals, but his points might be scarce since Zdeno Chara and Dennis Wideman are the heavy offensive hitters in Boston. Montador has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Bruins D Steve Montador, acquired in a trade with Anaheim Wednesday, made his Boston debut Thursday against the Coyotes. He failed to stat in 14:26 of ice time and finished at even. Montador, who went from ninth place to first when he went from Anaheim to Boston, said he was excited to be in an Original Six city with a strong hockey tradition. But part of that tradition is a passion that showed itself when the crowd booed the team leaving the ice during a 2-1 loss.
Analysis: Montador might be glad to be with the Bruins, but his Fantasy value stands to drop since he was logging heavy minutes out with the Ducks. He has a career-high plus-14 rating and 125 penalty minutes. He could keep up both of those totals, but his points might be scarce since Zdeno Chara and Dennis Wideman are the heavy offensive hitters in Boston. Montador has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: TSN reports the Bruins have traded C Petteri Nokelainen to the Ducks for D Steve Montador.
Analysis: Nokelainen has been out of action since Feb. 10, when he was hit in the right eye with a stick during a game against the San Jose Sharks. He has three assists in 33 games this season. He could return in the coming days, but he has little to no Fantasy value when healthy. Montador was ice cold until January and then went on a little spurt for a month or or so. Now he has no points in his last seven games. With his combination of semi-decent offensive skills and physical play, Montador remains a nice low-end starting option in leagues that reward bad behavior.
News: Ducks D Steve Montador tallied a pair of assists and finished at even in 20 minutes of ice time Wednesday against the Flames. It was his second two-assist game in February and he has five helpers in his last five outings.
Analysis: Montador has been red hot for the Ducks since the calendar year hit 2009. He has two goals and nine assists in his last 19 games. He is playing strong two-way hockey for Anaheim and could be worth a look in larger Fantasy formats since he has become a top-logging defenseman for the Ducks.
News: Ducks D Steve Montador tallied a pair of assists and got into a fight with Craig Rivet during Monday's 3-2 win against the Sabres. Montador has four assists in his last seven games, but hasn't scored in eight outings.
Analysis: Montador has totaled three goals and seven assists in his last 18 games. He has taken advantage of some extra playing time with all the injuries Anaheim has sustained on the blue line. Montador is getting playing time in all situations and is even getting some top-line power-play minutes on certain nights. Montador has finally settled into his new home with the Ducks, but is still a low-end Fantasy defenseman and flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Montador got his fourth goal of the season against the Red Wings on Wednesday on a wrist shot from the right circle, a score set up by Ryan Getzlaf's cross-ice pass. He now has four goals and eight assists on the season.
Analysis: Montador is not putting up fabulous numbers in Anaheim but remains serviceable as a low-end defenseman. Four of his 12 points on the season have come in the Ducks' last four games.
News: Ducks D Steve Montador scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Friday's game against the Lightning. Montador scored on a wrist shot from the top of the right circle 18:28 into the second period. It was his third goal of the season and second in six games.
Analysis: Montador reached 10 points Friday and has posted a plus-14 rating in his first 43 games with the Ducks. He is not having a bad first year in Anaheim, but Montador still remains more of a low-end Fantasy defenseman.
News: Flyers LW Josh Gratton and Ducks D Steve Montador fought each other in Friday's shootout win by Philadelphia.
Analysis: Gratton has 55 penalty minutes this season, but doesn't put up enough offensive numbers to be worth using in Fantasy play yet. He is only in his second NHL campaign, so he does have time to improve. Montador, with his 88 PIM, has a little more Fantasy value in leagues that reward bad behavior.
News: Ducks D Steve Montador failed to record a point and finished at plus-1 in 18:40 of ice time Sunday against the Wild. He didn't even get a shot on net. Montador has no points in eight games.
Analysis: Montador has seen an increase in playing time since Francois Beauchemin messed up his knee, but he hasn't really picked up the offensive slack. He has just six points, but does have an impressive plus-15 rating. Montador also has 65 penalty minutes. Consider him a flier in leagues that reward heavily for plus/minus and short-handed stats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Ducks D Steve Montador moved up to play right wing on the fourth line Sunday against the Flames because of injuries to RW George Parros and LW Brad May, but also saw time on the blue line because D Kent Huskins missed most of the first period after crashing headfirst into the end boards.
Analysis: Montador is in his first year with the Ducks after spending the previous six with Calgary and Florida. He had a career-high 23 points in 2007-08 with Florida and is still showing a solid offensive game with Anaheim. The more ice time he gets, no matter where, is good for Montador. Still, he remains just a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Ducks D Steve Montador scored his first goal with Anaheim during Friday's 7-6 shootout loss. Montador fired in a rebound 18 seconds after Kevin Bieksa's goal gave Vancouver a 5-2 lead in the second period. Montador now has one goal and three assists in 12 games with Anaheim.
Analysis: Montador had a pair of assists in his first two games with the Ducks, but his offensive production has come back down to level as of late. He remains a lower-pairing defenseman for Anaheim and remains just a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Ducks D Steve Montador tallied an assist and finished at plus-2 in 11:59 of ice time Monday against the Blue Jackets. He took one shot on net and spent two minutes in the penalty box. He had his first point in eight games Monday.
Analysis: Montador had a pair of assists in his first two games with the Ducks, but his offensive production has come back down to level as of late. He remains a lower-pairing defenseman for Anaheim and remains just a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Ducks D Steve Montador made his Anaheim debut Thursday during a 4-1 loss to the Sharks. He had an assist and finished at minus-1 in 16:25 of ice time. He took three shots on net and was called for two minor penalties (hooking, holding).
Analysis: Montador is currently in Anaheim's third defensive pairing, but should average more than 15 minutes per game. Montador, 28, had eight goals, 15 assists and 73 penalty minutes in 73 games with the Panthers last season. He set career highs in most offensive categories, including goals, assists, points, power play goals (2) and shots (96). He is a developing player, but remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: The Ducks signed D Steve Montador to a one-year contract Friday. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Montador played the 2007-08 season with the Florida Panthers.
Analysis: Montador, 28, had eight goals, 15 assists and 73 penalty minutes in 73 games with the Panthers last season. He set career highs in most offensive categories, including goals, assists, points, power play goals (2) and shots (96). The move to Anaheim could help Montador's career, but he still remains a low-end Fantasy flier until further notice. He will be buried behind some great talent out in Anaheim.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Panthers D Steve Montador scored his second goal in the past week Wednesday against the Canadiens, giving him five on the season. Coming into this season, Montador had never scored more than two goals in a single season.
Analysis: Montador continues to add onto his career season. He has the career-high five goals to go along with a career-high 11 assists. He is actually playing some time as a forward and that has helped his offensive progression. Still, he remains just a low-end Fantasy flier at this time.
News: Panthers D Steve Montador tallied an assist and finished at even during Thursday's game against the Thrashers. It was his sixth assist of the season and first point in 11 games.
Analysis: Montador is averaging less than 13 minutes per game and the sixth-year forward continues to be just a fringe player in the NHL. He has little to no Fantasy value at this time.
News: D Steve Montador scored his third goal of the season in the first period against Ottawa Wednesday, his second marker in the past three games.
Analysis: Montador has never scored more than one goal in a season prior to this one. He is far more useful to his real team than to Fantasy owners at this point of his career.
News: Steve Montador, a defenseman who has been used as a wing, gave Florida a 3-2 lead at 10:26 of the second period against Tampa Bay Monday with his first goal of the season. He beat Johan Holmqvist with a high wrist shot from close range. "Everybody does need to contribute," Montador said. "(David) Booth got the game-winner and I got that one. Any way we can chip in offensively we're happy to do so."
Analysis: Montador scored his first goal since Nov. 10, 2006. He is far more useful to his real team than to Fantasy owners at this point of his career.
News: Steve Montador (knee) was able to return from injured reserve to play in Wednesday's game against the Flyers. He managed just nine shifts in 5:26 of ice time, posting a minus-1 rating while going scoreless.
Analysis: Montador is far more useful to his real team than to Fantasy owners at this point of his career.
News: The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports that LWs David Booth (neck) and Rostislav Olesz (right hand) are listed as day to day, as is defenseman Mike Van Ryn (sprained knee). "Team trainer Curtis Bell is helping me out," said Booth. "He's excellent at what he does, so I'm sure I'll be back sooner than expected."
Analysis: Steve Montador will fill in for Booth, if the latter can't go Wednesday against Philadelphia. Montador has been practicing with the offense lately. "It's in my nature to think like a defenseman, but I have to stay open to a new part of the game," Montador said. "I want to make [my play on offense] as instinctive as defense, but that'll just come with time." Booth is in his second year in the NHL, but is not a big points producer at this time. Ignore him in Fantasy leagues until further notice. When healthy, Montador is only worth a look in the deepest of Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes at this point.
News: The Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel reports Steve Montador is out indefinitely after having arthroscopic knee surgery earlier in the week. He will be sidelined at least until late October.
Analysis: When healthy, Montador is only worth a look in the deepest of Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes at this point.
News: Steve Montador (back) remained out of the lineup for Wednesday's preseason game against the Thrashers. He has yet to play during the exhibition season due to his sore back.
Analysis: Montador is expected to be ready for the regular season opener on Oct. 4 at N.Y. Rangers regardless if he is able to return on Wednesday or not. His Fantasy value is limited to the deepest of leagues at this point.
News: The Miami Herald reports Steve Montador might be able to return for Wednesday's preseason game against the Thrashers. He was able to practice on Monday for the first time since suffered a back injury.
Analysis: Montador is expected to be ready for the regular season opener on Oct. 4 at N.Y. Rangers regardless if he is able to return on Wednesday or not. His Fantasy value is limited to the deepest of leagues at this point.
News: Steve Montador (back) was out of the lineup again for Thursday's preseason game at Chicago. He has not skated yet during the preseason due to his sore back.
Analysis: Montador remains day to day. When healthy, Montador is only worth a look in the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News: The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports Steve Montador (back) has not skated during the preseason, as he continues to battle a sore back.
Analysis: Montador remains day to day. The injury is not something expected to hamper him into the regular season. He is worth a look in most deeper Fantasy leagues.
News: General manager and head coach Jacques Martin told the South Florida Sun-Sentinel that the strained back injury for Steve Montador is "nothing serious."
Analysis: Montador is considered day to day. He had an MRI on Friday and was unable to play in Monday's preseason game against the Oilers.
News: The Florida Panthers re-signed Steve Montador to a one-year contract awarded by an arbitrator. "The arbitration was done very professionally by both sides," general manager Jacques Martin told the Miami Herald. "Both sides are probably happy with the judgment of the arbitrator. We kind of expected it would be in this vicinity. We're happy this is done."
Analysis: Montador is only worth a look in the deepest of Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes heading into the 2007-08 season.
News: Steve Montador has posted one goal, four assists and an even rating with a team-high 74 penalty minutes through 40 games at the All-Star break.
Analysis: Montador is only worth a looks as No. 5 or 6 Fantasy defenseman in all larger leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Joel Kwiatkowski, Branislav Mezei, Steve Montador and Ruslan Salei were each scoreless in Florida's 2-1 loss against San Jose on Tuesday night.
Analysis: Of the four defensemen mentioned, only Salei has any Fantasy appeal. He is a decent option in all larger leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Steve Montador picked up an assist in Wednesday's game at Dallas in his debut for the Florida Panthers.
Analysis: Montador saw 17:14 of ice time. He might be worth adding in larger Fantasy leagues if he gets consistent playing time with his new team.
News: Steve Montador and minor-league forward Dustin Johner were traded to the Florida Panthers on Friday in exchange for forward Kristian Huselius.
Analysis: Montador is a serviceable defenseman, but he is far more useful to his real team than to a Fantasy squad.
News: Steve Montador will continue to dress in place of Denis Gauthier (knee).
Analysis: Gauthier is out indefinitely. Neither he or Montador are useful in postseason pools.
