News:Erik Cole made his debut with Dallas on Thursday and went minus-2 with one shot on goal in 14:58 of ice time in a 5-1 loss to the Oilers.
Analysis: There was no instant payoff on the change of scenery for Erik Cole, but he's been put on a line with youngsters Cody Eakin and Reilly Smith -- a depth line, but one with real offensive upside.
News:Erik Cole, acquired Tuesday from the Canadiens, is expected to make his team debut Thursday against the Oilers, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Erik Cole sat out Wednesday's skate but should be ready to go right away for the Stars. Coach Glen Gulutzan envisions him primarily as a right wing, but it remains unclear which line he'll be used on with his new team.
News: The Canadiens have traded Erik Cole to the Stars in exchange for Michael Ryder and a third-round draft pick, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Erik Cole scored 35 goals and 61 points for the Habs last season, but was limited to just six points in 19 games this year. Perhaps a change of scenery will jump-start the 34-year-old winger's season and fantasy value.
News:Erik Cole scored a goal and assisted on another Saturday night in Montreal's 3-0 win over the Rangers. He skated on a new line with Lars Eller and Alex Galchenyuk, which produced all three Montreal goals.
Analysis:Erik Cole has been largely invisible during the first 17 games of the season before breaking out a bit Saturday. The points he had Saturday were his first in 10 games.
News:Erik Cole skated with a new line during Friday's practice, the Montreal Gazette reports. Cole skated with Lars Eller and Alex Galchenyuk on Friday.
Analysis: Brendan Gallagher will return from a concussion Saturday and is expected to skate with Erik Cole's normal partners, David Desharnais and Max Pacioretty. Cole is off to a bad start with just four points and a 5.6 shooting percentage through 17 games.
News:Erik Cole skated a season-low 11:09 in Saturday night's 6-0 loss to Toronto.
Analysis:Erik Cole, who led Montreal last season with 35 goals, has just four points through the season's first 11 games. The entire line of Cole, David Desharnais and Max Pacioretty has not performed as it did last season, so it wouldn't be surprising to see a shake-up there.
News:Erik Cole scored a goal Tuesday night in Montreal's 4-3 win over Winnipeg. It was the first goal of the season for Cole, who led the Canadiens with 35 in 2011-12.
Analysis: The Canadiens' top line has struggled as Erik Cole, David Desharnais and Max Pacioretty has one goal in 23 shots on net. And now the top unit is without Pacioretty (appendectomy) for a month. There's been no talk of changing the lines, nor should there be as the Canadiens have won four straight.
News:Erik Cole registered his first point of the season Thursday night, assisting on Andrei Markov's power play goal in Montreal's win over Washington.
Analysis: The Canadiens have won two straight without any goal-scoring from their top line of Erik Cole, David Desharnais and Max Pacioretty. These three generated much of the team's offense last season, but this season has started differently, with scoring coming from from guys (Tomas Plekanec, Brian Gionta) that underachieved last year or were injured (Markov).
News:Erik Cole has backed off last week's suggestion that he might retire at the end of the season, the Montreal Gazette reports. "It's just after the season we had last year and then being injured all summer and then having the lockout, it just kind of took my heart out of it a little bit," Cole said. "But being back here with the guys ... obviously gets you excited again about playing."
Analysis:Erik Cole added that he just wants to focus on the upcoming season and let that good hockey feeling creep back. We suspect Cole's retirement talk was the product of the lockout and that once the season gets rolling, he'll want to play out the final years of his contract with Montreal.
News:Erik Cole said he is considering retirement and will review his situation at the end of the season, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Erik Cole cited family considerations as well as elements of the new collective bargaining agreement he's not happy with as reasons he'll consider skating away from the game after the 2012-13 season. Cole, who signed a four-year contract with Montreal last season, is entering the second year of his deal.
News:Erik Cole, who had a lingering lower-body injury from April through October, is healthy and will hit training camp in full form, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Erik Cole led the Canadiens with 35 goals and equaled his career best with 61 points last season while developing good chemistry with Max Pacioretty and David Desharnais.
News:Erik Cole (lower body) will meet with the Canadiens' team doctor Friday and expects to receive a clean bill of health, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Erik Cole said he doesn't plan to cross over to Europe and play hockey, preferring to keep in shape by going to the gym.
News:Erik Cole is currently rehabbing a lower body injury, the Montreal Gazette's Dave Stubbs reports.
Analysis: At this point the consensus is that the NHL's season won't start on time, so Erik Cole should be a full go when (and if) the season begins.
News:Erik Cole capped a career season by scoring on a breakaway in the third period of Montreal's 4-1 win over the Maple Leafs on Saturday night.
Analysis: His 61 points this year match his career high, set during the Hurricanes' 2006-07 campaign. More impressive, he's had 82 games played in each of the past two seasons. Just remember on your next draft day that he turns 34 in November, and his principal asset is his speed. That doesn't last forever.
News:Erik Cole scored two more goals -- one on the power play -- in Wednesday's win over Tampa Bay, extending his career-high total to 34.
Analysis:Erik Cole has not been shy about putting pucks home this month, as he's got a whopping 12 goals (and two assists) in 16 games, including seven goals in his last six outings. Fantasy owners should be wary of buying high on Cole next year, however, as even modest regression would make him a relatively mediocre fantasy option.
News:Erik Cole scored his career-best 31st goal of the season Tuesday night in Montreal's 3-2 shootout loss to Florida.
Analysis: When they begin to review the team's assets after Montreal's disappointing season, Erik Cole's name will be at the top of the list, alongside Max Pacioretty, David Desharnais and Carey Price.
News:Erik Cole scored a natural hat trick Friday night as Montreal dumped Ottawa, 5-1.
Analysis: He scored the first three goals of the game and it took him less than six minutes to do so. Erik Cole now has 30 goals on the season. He had entered Friday night's action with no points in his last three games.
News:Erik Cole posted a goal and an assist in Monday's loss to Buffalo, giving him three goals in the last two games.
Analysis:Erik Cole appears to be cresting into one of his patented streaks, as the veteran power forward has four points in the last two games and six over the last five. If you throw out the first month of the season, Cole's numbers have been serviceable, especially if you are in a league that rewards hits.
News:Erik Cole scored twice, including the game-winner, in Montreal's 4-1 win at Vancouver on Saturday. He fired six shots and finished the night plus-2.
Analysis: One surprising aspect of his steady play this season is his team-high plus-9 rating. That doesn't sound like much over the course of a season until you consider that he plays for one of the weakest teams in the league. His next point will bring him to the 50-point plateau for the fifth time in his career.
News:Erik Cole scored a goal Wednesday night in Montreal's 4-3 shootout loss to Boston.
Analysis:Erik Cole has goals in three straight games and points in four consecutive. He added five hits in a game that wasn't the most physical between these two rivals, but it certainly had its moments.
News:Erik Cole snagged one of Montreal's three goals in Monday's loss to Carolina, giving him points in three straight games.
Analysis:Erik Cole has scored in two straight games and has had stretches of productivity followed by bouts of futility this season. He appears to be on an upswing and remains one of Montreal's top scoring threats.
News:Erik Cole had a goal and two assists Wednesday night in Montreal's 7-2 win over Pittsburgh.
Analysis:Erik Cole has points in three straight games, having scored twice and assisted on four more during his run.
News:Erik Cole scored a goal and assisted on another while skating a forward-high 21:53 in Friday night's shootout loss to the Penguins.
Analysis:Erik Cole continued his physical power forward play with a couple of minor penalties and two hits while playing at plus-1 for the night. He's been the best thing about Montreal's forward corps this season.
News:Erik Cole tallied three assists Sunday against the New York Rangers, giving him 16 helpers on the season.
Analysis:Erik Cole also has 17 goals to go with those 16 assists in his 45 games played. After dealing with injuries, he may be finally finding his old form again.
News:Erik Cole stretched his point streak (four goals, three assists) to five games Saturday when he scored a third-period, power-play goal to clinch Montreal's 3-1 win over Tampa Bay.
Analysis:Erik Cole played nine minutes less than his 27-minute stint against Winnipeg, but was just as effective with four hits and his team-leading 17th goal of the season.
News: Canadiens interim head coach Randy Cunneyworth double-shifted Erik Cole during Montreal's 7-3 win over Winnipeg and may continue that practice in Saturday's game against Tampa Bay, the Montreal Gazette reports. Cole played 27 minutes (3:48 on powerr play) and had two assists against the Jets.
Analysis: Cunneyworth likes the idea of dressing seven defensemen, giving him some flexibility on the blue line, but that requires a forward to double-shift if the coach wants to roll four lines. "We might use Erik in the same role," Cunneyworth said. "I don't know if he'll play 27 minutes again, but if you ask him he wasn't complaining (about his ice time)."
News:Erik Cole's goal Saturday stretched his goal streak to three games. He has three goals in that span.
Analysis: He has been sniping a lot in December -- he has eight goals in his last 11 games. Be sure to have him on your active roster while he's playing this well.
News:Erik Cole potted a goal while adding an assist in Tuesday's win over Ottawa, ending a two-game pointless drought.
Analysis:Erik Cole remains one of Montreal's top offensive options with 14 goals and 25 points. On the whole, the numbers are not overwhelming, but the first several weeks of the season can be thrown out for Cole, who has been much steadier the last month.
News:Erik Cole potted one of Montreal's two goals in its 3-2 loss to Boston, his fourth goal in the last five games.
Analysis: Following a woeful start that frustrated fantasy owners and the Montreal media, Erik Cole has been lighting the lamp often. The veteran has 13 goals in 34 games and remains one of the Habs' more consistent offensive players. He's shown the poor start was a thing of the past and he has three power-play points in the last five games.
News: According to the team's official site, Erik Cole's coach Jacques Martin has been relieved of his duties as head coach on Saturday.
Analysis: With a 13-12-7 record and just 33 points, the Canadiens are currently sitting in last place in the Northeast and 11th in the conference. They have also now lost four of their last five. Assistant coach Randy Cunneyworth has been named interim coach and is expected to take the reins through the end of the season. Martin was in his third season at the helm of the Canadiens in 2011-12. In 196 games behind the Montreal bench, he led the team to 96 wins, 75 losses and 25 overtime losses. As for Erik Cole, he'd been on a roll lately with eight points in seven December games entering Saturday, so it'll at least be worth watching to see if Cunneyworth gives him similar ice time and power play time. Cole had seen 4:37 or more in PP time the last three games.
News:Erik Cole scored a goal for the fourth consecutive game on Thursday in Montreal's 4-3 loss to Philadelphia.
Analysis: He has six points in his four-game streak and moves past Max Pacioretty as the team leader with 12 goals.
News:Erik Cole scored a goal in his third consecutive game Tuesday night in Montreal's 5-3 win over the Islanders.
Analysis: The big winger, who had six shots on goal and six hits in the win, has a total of five points in his three-game run. He leads the Habs with 103 shots. And though head coach Jacques Martin was reluctant to use him on the man advantage to start the season, Erik Cole has a team-leading four power-play goals and is second with seven points. So far in his first season in Montreal, Cole is earning every dollar of his contract.
News:Erik Cole notched a goal and an assist in Thursday's shootout loss to Vancouver, giving him six points in the last six games.
Analysis: The stat line for Erik Cole is deceptive as those six points have come from two-point efforts in three games and not six consecutive contests. Cole has rebounded from an abysmal start to post 13 of his season's 17 points since November 10.
News:Erik Cole registered a goal and an assist in Thursday night's 4-3 shootout loss to the Sharks.
Analysis: Health permitting, Erik Cole is on pace to flirt with the 50-point range by the end of the regular season. Such a figure is not unlike what he was accustomed to providing in the past as a member of the Hurricanes.
News:Erik Cole grabbed a power-play goal and added an assist in Monday's 3-2 shootout loss to the Sabres.
Analysis: After a slow start, Erik Cole has been playing solid hockey of late and has three points in the last two games. Cole converted a one-timer from the circle for Montreal's first goal and figures to factor in the team's attack much. Play him if you need to, but beware of his propensity to disappear for stretches.
News:Erik Cole played awfully well Tuesday night against the Oilers, only to get stymied at the net by Nikolai Khabibulin.
Analysis:Erik Cole created four great scoring opportunities, which is more than can be said for the vast majority of the Habs' skaters.
News:Erik Cole scored a goal with three shots on goal and three hits in Montreal's 2-1 win over Ottawa on Friday.
Analysis: It seems that Erik Cole's better play has had in impact on the Canadiens' fortunes. Cole has been a contributor in all facets of the game over the past two weeks. He has three goals and four points in the past five games for the Canadiens, who have now won four straight.
News:Erik Cole had five hits and four shots on goal in Saturday's 4-2 win over Boston.
Analysis: After a rocky start to the season, Erik Cole is doing something right in each game, whether it's creating space and opportunities with his physical play or getting pucks to the net. Cole has 22 shots in the past four games and finally showing us why the Canadiens inked him this past offseason.
News:Erik Cole had a goal and six shots on net in Montreal's 2-1 win over Boston on Thursday. He now has points in each of the last three games.
Analysis:Erik Cole, who had nine shots in the first seven games, has been much better of late with two goals, an assist and 18 shots in three games this week. "It's slowly getting there," Cole told the Montreal Gazette. "It's been almost a month into the regular season and I feel like I'm gaining some confidence, but I go home every night and look at my shifts and see where I can do better."
News:Erik Cole grabbed Montreal's lone goal in Monday's 2-1 loss to Florida, his first of the season. The goal is notable in that it came on the power play, as head coach Jacques Martin had not been using Cole in man-advantage situations.
Analysis:Erik Cole's lack of production has been much discussed by the fervent Montreal media and the Habs are hoping their high-priced acquisition can display a scoring touch on a regular basis. Cole has been throwing his body around with 21 hits on the season, but he has been one of the early-season disappointments. Good news is, he's a prime buy-low candidate or possibly available on your waiver wire.
News:Erik Cole skated 18 shifts for 11:08 of ice time, all at even strength, in Saturday night's 5-4 overtime loss to Toronto. He added a team-high five hits.
Analysis:Erik Cole, a prized free-agent signing in the offseason, has just one point with nine shots on goal and is minus-3 through seven games. While his production doesn't scream "play me on the power play," it is odd that Cole can't crack the man-advantage unit while fourth-liner Mathieu Darche plays 3:12 on the power play.
News:Erik Cole has replaced Andrei Kostitsyn on the line with Tomas Plekanec and Michael Cammalleri, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Erik Cole will also get the power-play role that was occupied by Kostitsyn, so adjust your lineups and evaluations accordingly. Montreal head coach Jacques Martin came under a lot of questioning about Cole's usage, after Thursday's season-opening loss to Toronto.
News:Erik Cole, who was on the third line in Thursday night's loss to the Maple Leafs, skated with Tomas Plekanec at Friday's practice, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis: It didn't take long for Montreal head coach Jacques Martin to tweak his lines. Andrei Kostitsyn skated with Plekanec and Michael Cammalleri on Thursday.
News:Erik Cole did not register a shot on goal and was a minus-1 in 14:38 of ice time in Montreal's season-opening shutout loss to Toronto on Thursday. He skated for much of the game on what is considered Montreal's third line with David Desharnais and Mathieu Darche.
Analysis:Erik Cole did have an open look in close on a first-period power play, but rushed his shot and missed the net. He played just 1:04 on the power play, a unit that went 0-for-5 on the night. In fairness, Cole wasn't the only member of the Canadiens not performing up to par Thursday.
News:Erik Cole scored a goal and added an assist in Saturday's win over the Lightning.
Analysis: He's just what the doctor ordered -- a big body to augment the little forward ranks in Montreal. If he can stay healthy, he could be a 60-point winger in his new digs.
News:Erik Cole had two assists and scored the shootout winner Friday night in Montreal's preseason win over Ottawa.
Analysis:Erik Cole, who signed with the Canadiens as a free agent in the offseason, has made himself a very welcome guest in Montreal with a goal and two assists in his first two preseason games.
News:Erik Cole scored Montreal's first goal of the preseason in Tuesday night's loss to Dallas.
Analysis:Erik Cole, who left a good thing in Carolina to sign a four-year deal with the Canadiens in the offseason, gets rolling early for his new team. His goal started a quick three-goal outburst that put Montreal back into the game.
News: Cole has signed a four-year contract with the Canadiens worth $18 million, the Raleigh News & Observer reports.
Analysis: "We were not able to keep Erik Cole," Canes GM Jim Rutherford said. "We took a last-ditch effort at it and we changed our position considerably. But he's gone to another team ..." But Carolina's loss is Montreal's gain as the Habs now have a proven scorer for the top two lines. Cole is 10 points shy of 400 for his career.
News: Cole apparently will try to gauge his market value in free agency, which begins July 1, the Raleigh News & Observer reports.
Analysis: Cole is likely to become an unrestricted free agent this Friday, as GM Jim Rutherford has reportedly expressed pessimism in being able to re-sign the nine-year veteran. "Erik wants to see what the options are on July 1st," Steve Bartlett, his agent, said. "That is in no way a slam on the Hurricanes or his appreciation of the role they have played in his career. He has never really explored free agency in his career and feels that he is at the age when it makes sense to see all offers before deciding on what he wants to do."
Cole Not Close To Contract Extension With Carolina
News: GM Jim Rutherford understands the contract demands of Cole, who can become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, but apparently the Hurricanes are not close to striking a deal with the 32-year-old veteran, the Raleigh News & Observer reports.
Analysis: "We expected to hear something by now, but we have not," Rutherford said of the forward who brought in $3 million last season. Cole played in all 82 games last season and had 52 points (26 G, 26 A) to show for it, but he is just one of several key Hurricanes with expiring contracts. Any of Joni Pitkanen, a blueliner, and forwards Erik Cole and Chad LaRose can also become unrestricted free agents if deals cannot be reached by the first day of July.
News: It appears that Cole, who would be eligible to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, will return to the Hurricanes next season, Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer reports.
Analysis: The report states that "some verbal offers have been made" to Carolina forwards Cole, Chad LaRose and Cory Stillman, but the following questions remain: at what cost will Cole stay with the Hurricanes, and by how many years would his contract be extended? Cole banked $5.8 million in two years on his current contract, which expires soon. His 2010-11 campaign was the only season that the oft-injured Cole played all 82 games, and he had 26 goals and assists apiece to show for it.
News: Re-signing Cole is a top priority for Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford, Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer reports.
Analysis: The veteran forward, who will be an unrestricted free agent, reportedly pulled in $3 million this season. He played in all 82 regular season games for the first time in his career, delivering 52 points (26G, 26A) in the process.
News: Cole provided the game-winning goal in Carolina's 6-1 rout over the Thrashers.
Analysis: As the owner of nine game-winning goals this season, Cole has been a true difference maker for the Red, White and Black. But better yet, he's on the verge of playing the whole regular-season schedule for the first time in his career.
News: Cole added a goal in Carolina's 3-0 win over the Red Wings on Wednesday.
Analysis: The left-handed shooter reached the 25-goal mark with the score in the third period. His ability to play in 80 games -- the most he's played in any given season since 2003-04 -- has undoubtedly had a positive impact on his fine season.
News: Cole reached 20 goals on the season with a score in Friday's 3-2 overtime win over the Islanders.
Analysis: Cole is not the most durable skater, but has managed to play in all 72 games this season. As a result, he should be able to finish near the 50-point range by the end of the regular season, making him a serviceable fantasy option in most league types.
News: Cole scored his 19th goal of the year Wednesday night in Carolina's 3-2 overtime loss to Atlanta.
Analysis: He's having a decent season fantasy-wise with 42 points in 67 games, and it's his best point total since 2007-08 when he scored 51 points (22G, 29A) in 73 games.
News: Cole had a goal and an assist in Carolina's 4-1 win over Pittsburgh on Friday.
Analysis: He's notched 14 points (5G, 9A) in his past 14 games and has been a big reason why Carolina's in the playoff hunt.
News: Cole posted two assists in Tuesday's shootout loss to the Rangers, giving him six points in the last six contests.
Analysis: Cole's name has been bandied about in trade rumors, but the veteran is being steady, if unspectacular for a Carolina squad clinging to the East's final playoff spot.
News: Cole sank the game-winning goal Friday night against the Flyers.
Analysis: Cole has posted three goals in the past five games, giving him a total of 17 on the season. As a player with an outside chance to record 50 points by season's end, Cole is a decent fantasy option for deep leagues.
News: Cole scored the game-winner with just over a minute left in regulation time to give the Hurricanes a 3-2 win over the Thrashers on Sunday afternoon.
Analysis: Cole's marker was his second in as many days. It is nice to see him get a game-winner but there are many fantasy players ahead of him on the depth chart.
News: Cole had a goal and an assist to go with a plus-2 rating in a 4-3 overtime loss to Tampa Bay on Saturday.
Analysis: Cole looks set to surpass his point totals for the last two seasons and his improved health is a major reason for that. That said, there are many other players to choose from fantasy wise as he does not get on the scoreboard enough to warrant consistent starts in shallower formats.
News: Cole had two assists in Tuesday's loss to Boston.
Analysis: Cole has points in three straight games, but overall he's had a poor season -- 30 points in 51 games -- and there are better fantasy options out there.
News: Cole recorded two assists Wednesday night as Carolina defeated the Islanders 4-2.
Analysis: It's been a relatively quiet fantasy season for Cole with 13 goals and 15 assists on the season, but he does have a two-game point streak entering the All-Star break.
News: Cole deposted the puck into an empty net Monday for a 6-4 win over the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: The freebie score saved his fantasy night and put an end to his four-game pointless streak. Now, Cole has 13 goals and assists apiece in 2010-11.
News: Cole registered three assists Saturday in a 6-4 win over the Lightning.
Analysis: Cole is quietly getting it done for the 'Canes, providing a nice blend of goals and assists this season. If you can tolerate streaky play, he is a good bet to snag 45-50 points by season's end.
News: Cole is turning his season around with six points (4 G, 2 A) over the last five games.
Analysis: Cole has stepped up offensively ever since mid-December, and is now earning time on the top line with captain Eric Staal and rookie Zach Boychuk. On the downside, Cole isn't much of a power-play producer based on the fact that more than 80 percent of his points have been put up at even strength.
News: Cole scored both of his goals in the last three minutes of the game in Florida on Friday night.
Analysis: Cole scored his first goal of the game on a nice feed from Jeff Skinner and then scored an empty net marker two minutes later. The empty netter was short-handed and ended up being the game-winning goal so if you had Cole playing, you cashed in big. He can be a decent secondary scorer but there are many options ahead of him in terms of fantasy value.
News: Cole assisted on two of Carolina's three goals Monday in the overtime loss to Florida.
Analysis: Cole's best offensive days are behind him, as he has 18 points in 38 contests this season. He's a solid all-around player but won't light up the scoresheet.
News: Cole added more cushion to Wednesday's 4-0 win over the Senators by potting his eighth goal of the season.
Analysis: Cole comes up big every now and then, but his capricious style of play can be frustrating to fantasy owners.
News: Cole provided his seventh goal of the season Thursday, but it wasn't enough as the Hurricanes lost to the Canadiens, 3-2.
Analysis: Cole has four points in the past five games, but he commonly mixes such hot streaks with bouts of inconsistency. On a positive note, Cole has been healthy, having appeared in all 33 games for the 'Canes to date.
News: Cole lit the lamp to help the Hurricanes edge the Panthers on Wednesday by a score of 4-3.
Analysis: Given the overall depth at his forward position, Cole's 32-point pace generally isn't enough to garner a serious look from owners of fantasy hockey leagues.
News: Cole did not partake in what the Raleigh News & Observer called a "strenuous, physical practice," on Wednesday, but he reportedly is available for Thursday's workout ahead of Friday's game against the Avalanche.
Analysis: Whatever Cole was dealing with must not be too serious. After starting the year on a hot streak, he has cooled off considerably as of late. Since it's very tough to predict when he'll pitch in, we can only recommend him in deep fantasy leagues at this point.
News: Cole picked up an assist in Saturday's 3-2 win over the Panthers.
Analysis: Points are always nice, but Cole deserves some recognition for sporting a plus-8 rating, despite the Hurricanes playing with a high degree of inconsistency as a team. Cole's always had game, though his ability to stay healthy for the whole season is questionable; so far, so good.
News: Cole potted a game-winning goal on the man advantage Friday as the Hurricanes clipped the Rangers, 4-3.
Analysis: Cole is healthy and off to a fast start this season with six points (2G, 4A) in nine games. He's worth owning in the majority of fantasy pools when he's this hot.
Canes' Cole: Sporting Respectable Plus/Minus Number
News: Currently a plus-6, Cole is performing better than all Hurricanes in the plus/minus category after seven games.
Analysis: This is an encouraging start for Cole, who finished with a minus-9 rating last season. Still, to keep it up, he must steer away from the injury bug that was largely responsible for having limited him to 57 games in his previous two seasons.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole returned to the lineup on Thursday against the Penguins after missing one game with an illness. He tallied an assist and finished at even in 12:38 of ice time. He also took four shots. The assist was Cole's first points since a hat trick on Dec. 5 against the Canucks.
Analysis: Cole only returned to action after the Olympic break since he missed several weeks with an upper-body injury. The 2009-10 campaign will be a year Cole will like to erase from his memory, but it will be an all too chilling reminder that the veteran forward continues to be mired in a career decline. Cole continues to have shaky Fantasy appeal.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole did not play in Wednesday's game against Washington due to an illness.
Analysis: Cole has been limited to just 24 games this season thanks to an upper-body injury that shelved him for almost three months. A guy with 60-point talent, Cole has only three points in his last nine games. He is a low-end Fantasy option in deeper leagues when healthy.
News: The Hurricanes' official web site reports that LW Erik Cole is sick and won't play Wednesday at Washington.
Analysis: Cole has been limited to just 24 games this season thanks to an upper-body injury that shelved him for almost three months. A guy with 60-point talent, Cole has disappointed over the last couple of seasons and remains just a low-end option in deeper leagues when healthy.
News: Carolina winger Erik Cole finally returned to action on Tuesday night in Toronto following the Olympic hockey break. Cole, who has been suffering from an upper-body injury and has not played in a game since Dec. 9, has eight points on the season in 20 games.
Analysis: Cole has low-end Fantasy appeal unless he really begins to heat up.
News: The Hurricanes' official web site reports that LW Erik Cole (upper body) is not expected to return to action before the Olympic break.
Analysis: Cole looked close to making a return toward the end of Fantasy Week 18 (Feb. 1-7), but he never did make it on to the ice. A low-end option in deeper leagues when healthy, Cole can continue to be stashed away for the time being.
News: The Raleigh News & Observer reports that Hurricanes LW Erik Cole (upper body) is still not ready to return. There was speculation Wednesday that he could have returned on Friday night at Buffalo.
Analysis: Cole has missed out on Carolina's hottest spell of the season, and his owners will be hoping the team can continue to play reasonable hockey at least until Cole is healthy. He remains just a low-end option in deeper leagues when healthy.
News: The Raleigh News & Observer reports that Hurricanes LW Erik Cole (upper body) could be back in the lineup Friday at the Sabres.
Analysis: Cole is missing out on Carolina's hottest spell of the season, and his owners will be hoping the team can stay hot at least until Cole is healthy. He remains just a low-end option in deeper leagues for the time being.
News: The Raleigh News & Observer reports that Hurricanes LW Erik Cole (upper body) will not play in Monday's game at Edmonton.
Analysis: Cole has appeared to be close to a return for a couple of weeks now, but has yet to step back on the ice. Continue to stash him away in deeper formats until he's finally back.
News: The Raleigh News & Observer reports that Hurricanes LW Erik Cole (upper body) won't be back in action until next week at the earliest.
Analysis: Last week, it looked like Cole could be back in Fantasy Week 16 (Jan. 18-24), but that's not going to happen now. Unless we hear something concrete before Monday's lineup deadline for Week 17 (Jan. 25-31), you're better off just leaving Cole on your bench for the scoring period if you own him in a deeper format.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Hurricanes RW Erik Cole, who hasn't played in a month because of an upper-body injury, has resumed limited practice activity. He could be back in game action within a week.
Analysis: Eric Staal came back from his personal leave on Sunday, so Carolina could wait until the duo practice a few times before getting Cole active. Carolina is at its best when Cole and Staal are playing well together on a line. Cole has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole did not return from an upper body injury on Friday against the Avalanche. He has been removed from IR, but Cole still hasn't played since Dec. 9.
Analysis: The Hurricanes could be waiting to bring back Cole once Eric Staal returns from his personal leave. But the team isn't sure when Staal will be back, so it will be interesting to see how much longer Cole is sidelined. Cole has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole did not return from an upper body injury on Thursday against the Predators. He has been removed from IR, but Cole still hasn't played since Dec. 9.
Analysis: Cole has been injured more often than not this season, and hasn't exactly produced when he has been playing, with just eight points in 20 games. He will only be useful in deeper leagues when healthy.
News: The Hurricanes have removed LW Erik Cole from injured reserve. Cole has been out since Dec. 9 with an upper-body injury.
Analysis: Cole has been injured more often than not this season, and hasn't exactly produced when he has been playing, with just eight points in 20 games. He will only be useful in deeper leagues when healthy, but don't risk him in Fantasy Week 14 (Jan. 4-10) as it's no guarantee when he'll return.
News: The Carolina Hurricanes placed forwards Erik Cole and Chad LaRose on injured reserve Friday and called up two players from the minor leagues. The Hurricanes said Cole is expected to miss up to three weeks because of an upper- body injury, and LaRose could be out up to four weeks with a lower-body injury.
Analysis: This injury just adds further insult for the 31-year-old forward. Cole did have a hat trick on Dec. 5, but he has only six goals in 20 appearances this season. He has spent as much time on IR as he has been on the ice. Cole's career decline has happened over the last few seasons and he is a low-end Fantasy flier when healthy.
News: The Hurricanes' official Web site reports that LW Eric Cole (upper body, out 2-3 weeks) and Chad LaRose (lower body, out 3-4 weeks) will soon be placed on IR.
Analysis: Cole missed almost a month earlier this season, and now this. When healthy, he can be a useful option in deeper leagues, but just can't seem to stay on the ice lately. LaRose has six points and a minus-14 this season, so continue to ignore him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole scored a crucial goal during Thursday's 6-5 shootout win against the Maple Leafs. Ian White put the Maple Leafs ahead 5-4 with 29.9 seconds remaining, but Cole tapped in a rebound with 2.9 seconds left to force overtime. He also spent seven minutes in the penalty box, including five minutes for fighting with White.
Analysis: Cole has had a slow start to the season for two reasons -- one he missed time with a broken leg and second is that linemate Eric Staal has been out with an injury of his own. Once Staal is healthy that will help Cole find his offensive game. Until then, Cole has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News:The Sports Xchange reports RW Erik Cole will have to work his way back into game shape, but it's something the Hurricanes understand. He missed 10 games with a broken leg. "I don't think he's moving as well as he will," coach Paul Maurice said. Cole turned 31 Friday and followed that the next night by scoring his first goal of the season.
Analysis: It also doesn't help Cole that linemate Eric Staal is out a few weeks with an injury. Cole usually does his best work alongside Staal. Cole is merely a low-end Fantasy flier until further notice.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole scored his first goal of the season Saturday in a loss to the Blue Jackets.
Analysis: Cole is recovering from a broken leg and is playing a few shifts less than he usually does when he's at full strength. Cole has been a 60-point guy in the past, so keep a very close eye on his numbers, although the Hurricanes are really struggling so far. Only start him in deeper leagues for the time being.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole returned to the lineup on Sunday against the Sharks after missing 10 games with a broken leg. He managed no points in 20:24 of ice time and finished at minus-1. Cole doesn't have a point in four games.
Analysis: As Cole returned to the lineup on Sunday, his buddy Eric Staal exited with an injury of his own. We hope it isn't long term since Cole does his best work alongside Staal. Cole can be a viable low-end Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: The Raleigh News and Observer reports that Hurricanes LW Erik Cole (broken leg) practiced again Thursday and could return to the lineup this weekend.
Analysis: Cole can be a very effective scorer when healthy, but it might take him a couple of weeks to get up to full speed. Consider him a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward when he does get back to his full capability.
News: The Raleigh News & Observer reports that Hurricanes LW Erik Cole skated at practice Wednesday for the first time since breaking his leg earlier this month. "It was just a pregame skate so we knew it wouldn't be anything too strenuous," Cole said. "I was on the ice beforehand, so it was to see if I could do some regular drills, the skating drills."
Analysis: Cole can be a very effective scorer when healthy, but is likely still out for another couple of weeks. Consider him a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward when he does return.
News: NHL.com reports Hurricanes LW Erik Cole is out 4-6 weeks after it was revealed Sunday that he suffered a fracture in his lower left leg from Saturday's collision with Boston's Dennis Wideman. Tuomo Ruutu practiced on the first line Sunday with Eric Staal.
Analysis: The Hurricanes are already off to a bad start at 0-2. Now, they are going to be down at least a month without one of their top wingers. Cole can be a very effective scorer playing alongside Staal when healthy, but needs to be kept reserved until further notice. He is more of a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Carolina LW Erik Cole was helped off the ice with an apparent leg injury in the closing minutes of Saturday's loss to the Bruins after a collision with D Dennis Wideman.
Analysis: Cole stayed healthy last season, but put up a disappointing 42 points in 80 games. He is a top-line winger in Carolina and only two seasons removed from a 60-point campaign, so does have value in deeper leagues as a starting forward. Follow his progress heading into Fantasy Week 2 (Oct. 12-18).
News:The Sports Xchange reports Hurricanes LW Erik Cole canceled an appearance to throw out the ceremonial first pitch for a Durham Bulls game in the International League playoff baseball game Sept. 9 because of an unexpected personal development. A team official said it wasn't a major issue and nothing that should prevent him from being ready when the first training camp session is held on the weekend. Cole has previously said that he's feeling good despite the relatively short offseason and has seemed ready for the start of training camp.
Analysis: Cole seems at home with the Hurricanes after experiencing some rough times with the Oilers in 2008-09, after he was picked up in an offseason trade. He recorded two goals and 13 assists in 17 regular-season games with Carolina following a trade deadline deal last season, but had just 18 goals and 42 points on the season. In 498 career NHL games with Carolina and Edmonton, Cole has notched 322 points (147 goals) and 479 penalty minutes. The fact he will play alongside Eric Staal will help Cole's Fantasy value heading into 2009-10, but he still passes more as a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward Draft Day.
News: Last offseason, the Hurricanes made the choice to trade forward Erik Cole to Edmonton for some help on their blue line. This year, they made sure Cole didn't leave Carolina a second time. Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford announced Wednesday that the team re-signed Cole to a two-year contract worth $5.8 million. "Erik clearly had an instant impact on our team when he returned to Carolina in March," Rutherford said. "He has been an important piece for our franchise for a long time and we are pleased that he has decided to remain at home in Raleigh."
Analysis: The 30-year-old forward found his way back to Carolina at the trade deadline after his time in Edmonton was pretty much a complete failure. He recorded two goals and 13 assists in 17 regular-season games with Carolina, and had just 18 goals and 42 points on the season. In 498 career NHL games with Carolina and Edmonton, Cole has notched 322 points (147 goals) and 479 penalty minutes. The fact he will play alongside Eric Staal will help Cole's Fantasy value heading into 2009-10, but he still passes more as a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward Draft Day.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the role of LW Erik Cole could be the most complex off-season situation for the Hurricanes to resolve. Cole is committed to playing with the organization and seemed pleased to return via a trade in early March. But his production waned so much in the postseason that the team's other salary demands would likely mean a substantial pay cut if Cole is to remain with the Hurricanes.
Analysis: Cole was sent packing to Edmonton prior to the 2008-09 season, but when he never found his rhythm with the Oilers, the team was happy to send him back to Carolina. Cole was right at home again playing alongside Eric Staal. He recorded two goals and 13 assists in 17 regular-season games with Carolina. However, he had just 18 goals and 42 points on the season. It was his lowest output since 2003-04. Cole is a good all-around player, but picked a bad season to have a down year. Cole is going to have low-end Fantasy appeal Draft Day.
News: Carolina LW Erik Cole was able to return to the Hurricanes lineup for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals on Thursday after leaving Game 1 with an injury. He failed to record an offensive stat in the game, getting 15 minutes of ice time.
Analysis: Cole was considered a No. 5 or 6 option with the Hurricanes when the season came to an end, and we think he'll retain that low-end status heading into the 2009-2010 season.
News: Carolina lost RW Tuomo Ruutu (first period) and Erik Cole (third) to unspecified injuries. Hurricanes coach Paul Maurice wouldn't speculate if they would play Thursday.
Analysis: Cole finished the regular season as a No. 5 or 6 Fantasy LW. The Hurricanes will need his services in Game 2. Cole will enter next year as a low-end Fantasy option once again best left for deeper formats.
News:Erik Cole assisted on all three of Eric Staal's goals and finished with four assists during Tuesday's 9-0 rout of the Islanders. Staal polished off his record hat trick before the second period was over. He stretched Carolina's lead to 2-0 midway through the first, when he took a feed from Cole, faked a pass from the left circle and shot the puck around defenseman Mark Streit and past Yann Danis. His backhander past Joey MacDonald made it 4-0 early in the second. Then he completed his eighth career three-goal game at 16:51 of the second, taking a pretty pass from -- who else? -- Cole and one-timing it by MacDonald for his 39th goal. "It's a pretty good glimpse of the chemistry that we have together," Staal said of his linemate.
Analysis: Cole has managed a pair of four-assist games since returning to Carolina and joining Cole's line in early March. He has five assists in his last two games after going five games without a point. Cole's season has been revived since rejoining the Carolina lineup and he has returned to being a viable No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Hurricanes LW Erik Cole was without a point Monday night at Florida, ending his three-game points streak. Since joining the team in an early March trade, he has 10 points (two goals, eight assists) in 10 games.
Analysis: Cole, a key member of Carolina's 2002 and 2006 teams that played in the Stanley Cup Finals, has found his offensive game now that he is back in a familiar setting. He has the speed to keep up with Eric Staal and that is going to benefit Cole tremendously down the stretch. Consider him a viable Fantasy flier with point-per-game production.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole produced four assists and finished at plus-2 during Saturday's game against the Lightning. In his first two games with the Hurricanes, he has one goal and four assists. He has a three-game point streak (two goals, five assists) dating back to his time with Edmonton.
Analysis: Cole, a key member of Carolina's 2002 and 2006 teams that played in the Stanley Cup Finals, has found his offensive game now that he is back in a familiar setting. Don't expect many four-point nights from Cole, but he can definitely pass as a viable Fantasy option down the stretch.
News:Ray Whitney's hat trick and Cam Ward's 21-save effort made for a happy homecoming for forward Erik Cole, who scored a first-period goal Friday against the Flames in his first game back with the franchise after a trade-deadline deal with Edmonton on Wednesday. "He didn't disappoint," Whitney said. "He played the game that we thought he would. Getting a goal, I thought, was big for him to ease any pressure he might have felt."
Analysis: Cole, a key member of Carolina's 2002 and 2006 teams that played in the Stanley Cup Finals, scored his 17th goal of the season and fourth in six games. Cole is back in a familiar setting and alongside Eric Staal. Hopefully, the combination can get Cole back on track because he has what it takes to be a viable Fantasy option.
News: The Kings traded Patrick O'Sullivan and a second-round pick to the Hurricanes Wednesday in exchange for injured forward Justin Williams, who is out with a broken hand. The Hurricanes then turned around and dealt O'Sullivan to the Oilers for former Carolina winger Erik Cole.
Analysis: Cole was traded to Edmonton in the offseason, but never found his footing with the Oilers. He had just 16 goals and 11 assists in 63 games. He now heads back to Carolina where he reunites with coach Paul Maurice. Cole spent the first few seasons of his career with Maurice, but didn't have his breakout 30-goal season in 2005-06 until Maurice left. Heading back to a familiar setting in Carolina could spark Cole's game, but he still remains a low-end Fantasy forward until further notice.
News:The Calgary Sun reports with all the talks about Oilers LW Erik Cole being traded to Boston, a couple of new suitors have entered the picture. It's believed the Penguins are likely willing to pay the price to land Cole, so he can play on Sidney Crosby's left wing. The Canadiens might also have interest in landing Cole, who has just 14 goals in 59 games.
Analysis: Cole hasn't had a very successful first season with the Oilers and it appears he doesn't have much of a future with the team. They appear to be willing to trade the former 30-goal scorer before it's too late. For Fantasy purposes, we would like to see Cole playing on a wing with Crosby, but we guess any trade is a good one if it gets Cole on track. Right now, he has low-end Fantasy appeal since he is floundering with the Oilers.
News: Oilers LW Erik Cole scored his 13th goal of the season and first in February as Edmonton fell to the Sharks on Tuesday.
Analysis: Cole has been the subject of trade rumors lately and could see his value increase if he ends up on a more offensively-talented team than the Oilers. For now he remains a low-end Fantasy forward, but he's someone worth keeping an eye on.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Oilers RW Erik Cole will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, but it doesn't mean the Oilers are going to try to get something for him at the trade deadline. GM Steve Tambellini says they acquired him for crunch time, which is right where they are now. If Edmonton stays in the playoff chase, Cole stays in Edmonton. "You acquire them in order for them to help you," he said. "We're right in the middle of a playoff race, and Erik has played very well for us. He's energized and he's going to the net. I'm very happy with his play; he's a big part of us going forward."
Analysis: The Oilers might have acquired Cole for situations like this one, but he sure isn't delivering the goods. He doesn't have a point in nine games and has scored just once in 14 games. Cole wasn't doing much to begin his Oilers career and then finally started to pick up the slack in late December. He remained Fantasy relevant for a few weeks and it appeared he had regained his scoring touch. Unfortunately, that hasn't been the case. Cole has been overly disappointing in 2008-09 and has very low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Oilers LW Erik Cole failed to record a point in 15:19 of ice time and took just one shot Saturday against the Kings. Cole doesn't have a point in eight games and has just two points (one goal) in his last 13 appearances.
Analysis: Cole wasn't doing much to begin his Oilers career and then finally started to pick up the slack in late December. He remained Fantasy relevant for a few weeks and it appeared he had regained his scoring touch. Unfortunately, that hasn't been the case. Cole has been overly disappointing in 2008-09 and has very low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Oilers LW Erik Cole scored his 12th goal of the season in Tuesday's loss to the Sabres.
Analysis: Cole has just 22 goals this season as the Oilers' offensive struggles continue. He remains just a low-end starting Fantasy forward in deeper formats until he shows some signs of returning to his old form.
News:The Sports Xchange reports after scoring three goals in his first 30 games, Erik Cole has eight in his last 14. The turnaround has been remarkable. "Colie has really turned the corner here the last few weeks and been a big factor in any of the wins we've had," said head coach Craig MacTavish, who got an assist from his big winger Friday in Colorado. Cole credits his revival to being paired with center Sam Gagner. That, and just a general comfort level now that he's had half a season to settle in with his new team. "When the team isn't winning and you're not scoring, it's tough," he said. "It's taken a while, longer than I'd hoped, but I'm started to develop chemistry here, especially with Sam, who's a very talented player."
Analysis: Gagner also started slowly, but is also rolling now that he's on a line with Cole. "It couldn't have gotten any worse from where we were at," Cole said. "Any improvement would have looked like a milestone." The fact Cole's confidence is soaring can only help him going into the second half. Still, he remains more of a low-end Fantasy option until the points starts coming in bunches.
News: Oilers LW Erik Cole scored three goals as the Edmonton Oilers beat Washington 5-2 Tuesday night, handing the Capitals their third consecutive loss.
Analysis: Cole, who scored over 50 points in his final three seasons, now has just 20 this season after his hat trick on Tuesday. The Oilers' offensive struggles might be to blame for a lot of Cole's struggles, but he still has to take some responsibility for letting his Fantasy owners down. He remains just a low-end starting Fantasy forward in deeper formats until he shows some signs of returning to his old form.
News: Oilers LW Erik Cole scored a goal in Wednesday's game against Vancouver. He finished the game with a minus-1 rating. It was his fourth game with a goal in his last six contests.
Analysis: Cole has four of his eight goals this season within his last six contests and is benefiting from playing on a different line with Sam Gagner and Robert Nilsson. Cole is capable of a 20-goal season, but he still remains a low-end Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Oilers RW Erik Cole, a major disappointment for the first 33 games of the season, is hot. He has three goals in his last four games after three in the previous 33. He's definitely clicking with new linemates Sam Gagner and Robert Nilsson.
Analysis: The Oilers finally seem to have found a good pairing for Cole and all they had to do was break up The Kid Line. Cole is capable of a 20-goal season, but he still remains a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Edmonton LW Erik Cole helped get the scoring started for the Oilers in Wednesday's 6-4 loss. Cole assisted on Denis Grebeshkov's game-opening goal to put Edmonton up 1-0 with a short-lived lead. In the 3rd period, with the Flames already up 6-3 with just seconds remaining in the game, Cole added his own goal. It was his sixth of the year.
Analysis: Cole has five points in his last three games and that is red hot for a guy with just 14 points on the entire year over 36 games played. Cole has much more potential than he's showed this season but it looks like he might start putting a little run together. He's a low-end Fantasy flier but is gaining worth rapidly with each solid performance.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Oilers LW Erik Cole seems to have finally found his hands. After spending most of the season looking like a $4 million lost cause, he broke through Sunday night against Nashville with a goal and two assists. The three points represent a quarter of his total for the season (12). "When you get the opportunities, you're going to get the results eventually," he said. "Over the last little while, there's been a lot of opportunities to score goals and contribute offensively. It was just a matter of burying the opportunities."
Analysis: The 30-year-old forward just hasn't looked very comfortable north of the border. He has two goals in his last four games and here is hoping that he is ready to take his game back to the level he is capable of. Cole remains a low-end Fantasy flier until he goes on a sustained run.
News: Oilers LW Erik Cole scored a goal in Friday's game against Anaheim. He had not recorded a point in five games.
Analysis: Cole really hasn't made the offensive impact Edmonton thought he would when they traded for him in the offseason. He has been moved back to the right wing, but his offensive production is still lacking. Until Cole starts to heat up, he remains a low-end Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports three goals in 27 games isn't at all what the Oilers were expecting from Erik Cole. It isn't what Cole was expecting, either. "It's no secret that I should be scoring more," said Cole, who hasn't lit the lamp since Nov. 10. "Hopefully as long as I continue to get chances on net, some of them will start going in." The Oilers, near the bottom of the NHL in offense, definitely need more production from him. "The expectations for him were 20 goals," said coach Craig MacTavish. "He had a career year once and scored 30, but outside of that he's been a career 20-goal scorer. That was our expectation. We feel like he's making some strides. Once he gets something positive to happen offensively, he's going to be OK."
Analysis: The Oilers know Cole has got it in him to breakout and be a top scorer. "When he's on his game he's one of the best power forwards in the league. He's proven that -- he just hasn't been able to find his stride," said linemate Ethan Moreau. "It's frustrating for him, it's frustrating for us to watch when a guy is working hard, competing, and things just aren't falling into place for him. You have to think with a guy like that it's only a matter of time. That will be huge for us. It'll be a big boost for our offense." Cole is at best a No. 4 Fantasy forward when he is rolling, so keep him reserved in Fantasy until he hits his stride.
News: Oilers LW Erik Cole scored a goal and finished at even in 15:02 of ice time Monday against the Rangers. Cole opened the scoring just 3:27 in when he steered a shot by Fernando Pisani past Henrik Lundqvist with his left skate. The play was reviewed and it was determined that Cole merely directed the puck in and didn't kick it. It was Cole's third goal of the season and second in five games.
Analysis: Cole really hasn't made the offensive impact Edmonton thought he would when they traded for him in the offseason. He has been moved back to the right wing, but his offensive production is still lacking. Until Cole starts to heat up, he remains a low-end Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Oilers RW Erik Cole seems reborn since being moved back to his natural spot on the right side. Coach Craig MacTavish had him on the left side with Shawn Horcoff and Ales Hemsky, but the chemistry just wasn't there (one goal and one assist in the first six games). Cole, now on the right side with Ethan Moreau and Fernando Pisani, looks like a new player.
Analysis: Cole doesn't have a point in five straight games, so apparently this new Cole isn't a scorer! We'll have to see if his offensive game comes around, so for now consider him a low-end starting Fantasy forward until the points start coming.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Oilers played two players short Saturday in Vancouver. Winger Erik Cole, having a solid game Saturday after being switched to his natural position of right wing, was ejected early in the second period because he got in a fight and his sweater wasn't tied down. And defenseman Jason Strudwick was hurt in the first period (shoulder) and didn't return to the game.
Analysis: Cole doesn't have a point in his last four games and has just one goal in seven contests. He also has 23 penalty minutes. Cole has had some seasons with a decent amount of penalty minutes, but he has never been a big-time brawler. He is mostly on the ice for his scoring presence, which seems to be declining over the past few seasons. Cole is still good for about 50-60 points, so treat him as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: LW Erik Cole made his Oilers debut Sunday against the Avalanche on the first line with Ales Hemsky and Shawn Horcoff. Cole, who was acquired in an offseason trade for D Joni Pitkanen with Carolina, didn't have a point in 17:12 and didn't take a shot.
Analysis: The Oilers didn't bring Cole in to not take any shots on a nightly basis, so that trend has to change and it should. Cole just has to get used to his new surroundings. Consider him a decent No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Edmonton top six forwards consist of Erik Cole, Shawn Horcoff and Ales Hemsky on line one and Robert Nilsson, Sam Gagner and Andrew Cogliano on line two. They should provide Edmonton with the balanced scoring they've been unable to generate the last few years. The talent even trickles down to the third line, where 25-goal man Dustin Penner is currently lining up.
Analysis: Cole has a goal and one assist in three preseason games. The Oilers had to give up Joni Pitkanen to get Cole, but they feel it was well worth it. Cole is a consistent 20-goal scorer and should reach 50 points for a fourth straight season. Consider him a decent No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward to open 2008-09.
News: The Carolina Hurricanes traded LW Erik Cole to the Edmonton Oilers for D Joni Pitkanen on Tuesday.
Analysis: The 29-year-old Cole had 22 goals and 29 assists in his seventh season with the Hurricanes and helped lead them to the Stanley Cup title against the Oilers two years ago, becoming one of the team's most popular players after he returned from a broken neck to skate in Game 6 of the finals. But he was deemed expendable as he enters the final year of a contract that will pay him $4 million next season. Cole is certainly worth drafting in the middle of most drafts as a low-end starting Fantasy forward. The 24-year-old Pitkanen had eight goals and 18 assists in his only season with Edmonton, ranking second among the team's defensemen in scoring after he was picked up in a trade last summer with the Flyers - who selected him with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2002 draft. He is a restricted free agent who made $2.4 million in 2007-08, and Rutherford said preliminary negotiations are under way. Fantasy-wise, Pitkanen is a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy defenseman worth drafting in the mid-to-late rounds.
News:Erik Cole scored his 21st goal, getting an assist from Sergei Samsonov, to give the Hurricanes a 5-2 lead with 5:09 remaining in the Carolina's 5-3 victory over the Atlanta Thrashers on Wednesday night. Since Feb. 21, Carolina has won 10 of 12, including three victories over the Thrashers. The Southeast Division-leading Hurricanes, who improved to 5-1-1 against Atlanta this season.
Analysis: Cole needs four more points and has eight more games to reach 50 points for the third consecutive season. He is a No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News:Erik Cole scored his 20th goal and the surging Carolina Hurricanes beat the Chicago Blackhawks 3-0 on Wednesday night. Carolina won its fifth straight and eighth in nine games to strengthen its hold on first place in the Southeast Division.
Analysis: Although Cole has not been all that productive in Fantasy leagues, he has points in five of the last six games (5 goals, 2 assists). Still, a lot more was expected from a player that has managed 50-plus points in the previous two seasons. Cole is more of a No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News:Erik Cole scored his 18th goal and also added his 25th assist to make his contribution in Carolina's 6-3 win at Atlanta on Wednesday night.
Analysis: Although Cole has not been all that productive in Fantasy leagues, he scored four goals and three assists in the last five games. A lot more was expected from a player that has managed 50-plus points in the previous two seasons. Cole is more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward until he starts to heat up.
News:Erik Cole scored his 16th and 17th goals of the season, but they were not enough for the Hurricanes in Thursday's 4-2 loss at home to the New York Rangers. Cole sent a slap shot from the left wing that deflected off the stick of Daniel Girardi and past goalie Henrik Lundqvist to make it 3-1 in the second period. Cole brought the Hurricanes within a goal early in the third period when he converted on the back end of a high-sticking double minor to Marc Staal. Cole was the recipient of Staal's high stick and went to the dressing room for treatment, but he was back in time to score.
Analysis: Cole has been a somewhat disappointing Fantasy option since the calendar year began. He has just 15 points (9 goals, 6 assists) in 25 games. Much more has been expected from a player that has managed 50-plus points in the previous two seasons. Cole is more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward until he starts to heat up.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole was able to play Tuesday against the Bruins despite missing Monday's game with the flu. He scored a goal and finished at plus-2. He took seven shots in the game. Cole now has three goals and one assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Cole has been a pretty disappointing Fantasy option since 2008 began. He has just 11 points in his last 21 games. Much more has been expected from a player that has managed 50-plus points in the previous two seasons. Cole is more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward until he starts to heat up.
News: Hurricanes F Erik Cole and F Ray Whitney practiced Tuesday and should be OK to play against the Bruins on Tuesday, reports the News and Observer.
Analysis: Cole has been a disappointment this season, but still has value in deeper leagues as a low-end starting Fantasy forward option. If you took a flier on Whitney being healthy this week, then it appears you are in luck. Start him as a No. 2 Fantasy forward in all formats.
News: The Hurricanes were depleted by illness and injury Monday against the Devils. Carolina, already missing captain Rod Brind'Amour with a knee injury Thursday, scratched Ray Whitney (groin) and Erik Cole (flu), removing three of the club's top five scorers from the lineup.
Analysis: Cole has two goals and one assist in his last five games. He has been a pretty disappointing Fantasy option since 2008 began. He has just 10 points in his last 20 games. Much more has been expected from a player that has managed 50-plus points in the previous two seasons. Cole is more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward until he starts to heat up.
News:Erik Cole snapped a long scoring drought with a power-play goals as the Carolina Hurricanes beat the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-2 on Thursday night to vault back into first place in the Southeast Division. Cole put Carolina up 1-0 about three minutes in with a power-play goal for just his second goal in 12 games.
Analysis: Cole has 13 goals and 21 assists for the season. Cole started out the year as an expected starter in Fantasy leagues, but right now he is only good for a No. 3 or No. 4 option.
News:Erik Cole and Andrew Ladd scored first-period goals, and the Carolina Hurricanes beat Washington 2-1 Friday night to retake first place in the Southeast Division from the Capitals. Cole's 12th goal, his first in nine games, gave the Hurricanes a 1-0 lead 3:56 into the game. He skated down the right wing, breezed by Washington's Milan Jurcina, pulled Brent Johnson down and out and pushed the puck in with his right hand.
Analysis: Cole was without a point in the last six games. He has 12 goals and 21 assists for the season. Cole started out the year as an expected starter in Fantasy leagues, but right now he is only good for a No. 3 or No. 4 choice.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole was able to play Monday against the Islanders despite injuring his knee during practice Sunday. Cole did not record a point in 19:23 of ice time and finished at plus-1.
Analysis: Cole was in a bit of a funk earlier this season, but has picked things up in the last few weeks. He has five points in his last three games. He came into this year as a must-start Fantasy forward option, but has now slipped to a No. 3 or No. 4 choice.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole had to be helped off the ice Sunday after injuring his right knee when he collided with the net during practice Sunday, according to the News and Observer. Despite the collision, coach Peter Laviolette said he expects Cole play in Monday's game at the Islanders.
Analysis: Cole was in a bit of a funk earlier this season, but has picked things up in the last few weeks. He has five points in his last three games, but might be considered a risky injury start in Fantasy Week 17 (Jan. 21-27). Keep an eye on more news regarding his knee before the early lineup deadline on Monday.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole had two assists in Friday's win over Edmonton. He's recorded five points in his last three games.
Analysis: Cole was coming off a -1 performance in his last game against Ottawa, but he had scored goals in two previous games. He can be useful as middle-of-the-road starter in Fantasy.
News: LW Erik Cole put eight shots on goal Thursday night against Ottawa, his second-highest total of the season. That came after he had more than two shots only once in the previous five games. Cole has two goals in his last three games.
Analysis: Cole will need to seriously pick up the pace if he wants to get anywhere near the 60 points he's averaged over the past two seasons. He came into this year as a must-start Fantasy forward option, but has now slipped to a No. 3 or No. 4 choice.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole made it back-to-back games with a goal for only the second time this season on Tuesday night when he found the net in a 5-4 loss to the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: Cole will need to seriously pick up the pace if he wants to get anywhere near the 60 points he's averaged over the past two seasons. He came into this year as a must-start Fantasy forward option, but has now slipped to a No. 3 or No. 4 choice.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole scored only his third goal in his last 16 games Saturday in a 5-4 loss to the Colorado Avalanche. Cole has only three points in his last 11 games.
Analysis: Cole is on pace for only 48 points this season, which makes him a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward at best in regular formats.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole ended a five-game slump without a point when he managed a goal and an assist in Carolina's 5-4 OT loss to the Thrashers on Wednesday night.
Analysis: Cole has 27 points in 34 games this season but is having the worst shooting season of his career. He is finding the net on only 8.8 percent of his shots this season, which is awful compared to the 17.5 percent he finished last season with. He only had points in five of 15 December games and should only be starting in the deepest of leagues at the moment as a No. 3 Fantasy center at best.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole tallied two assists and a plus-2 rating during Saturday's game against the Flyers. He now has three goals and three assists in his last five games.
Analysis: Cole has posted some nice numbers since returning from a neck injury in mid-November, but he has been held off the stat sheet in seven of his last 10 games. He is merely a No. 3 Fantasy forward until he picks up the pace.
News: LW Erik Cole scored two goals Sunday at Detroit.
Analysis: Cole has two two-goal games this season, and both have come on the road. Last season, he had four multi-goal games, and they all came at home. Cole recently returned from a neck injury that could have been a whole lot worse than it was. He remains a high-end Fantasy forward, who will likely post another 50-plus point season.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole tallied a goal and an assist during Saturday's game against the Canadiens. He also finished at plus-2 and spent two minutes in the penalty box for tripping. It was his first points in six games.
Analysis: Cole recently returned from a neck injury that could have been a whole lot worse than it was. He is slowly getting his legs back under him, but remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole returned to the lineup Friday against the Lightning after missing four games with a neck injury. He had two assists in his first game back from injury and followed that up with a goal Saturday against the Capitals.
Analysis: Cole was taken from the ice on a stretcher after colliding with Florida Panthers goalie Tomas Vokoun on Nov. 12. The veteran of six NHL seasons is less than two years removed from a serious neck injury. Cole fractured a vertebra on March 2006, when he was hit from behind by Pittsburgh's Brooks Orpik. However, he has shown little rust after taking a few games off and can be inserted back into Fantasy lineups ASAP.
News:Erik Cole is set to rejoin the Carolina Hurricanes after missing four games with a neck injury. The Hurricanes are activating the 29-year-old winger from injured reserve and assigning Ryan Bayda to their American Hockey League team in Albany.
Analysis: Cole was taken from the ice on a stretcher after colliding with Florida Panthers goalie Tomas Vokoun on Nov. 12. The veteran of six NHL seasons is less than two years removed from a serious neck injury. Cole fractured a vertebra on March 2006, when he was hit from behind by Pittsburgh's Brooks Orpik. Cole had been skating well this season leading up to his injury. He had three goals, nine assists and a plus=9 rating. He might be a little rusty since he hasn't played in a few weeks, but is still a must-start Fantasy option when at full strength.
News: The Carolina Hurricanes activated left wing Andrew Ladd on Friday and placed forward Erik Cole on injured reserve.
Analysis: Cole was placed on injured reserve retroactive to Tuesday. He missed the Hurricanes' 6-1 loss at Tampa Bay on Wednesday after injuring his neck two days earlier in a 4-3 win at Florida. He is eligible to return Nov. 21 when Carolina is to host Philadelphia. Cole has been solid with three goals, nine assists and a plus-7 rating in 14 games this season. He is a high-end Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Hurricanes left wing Erik Cole missed Wednesday's game against the Lightning with a neck injury and is listed as day to day. Cole, taken off the ice on a stretcher after crashing headfirst into Panthers goalie Tomas Vokoun during Monday's game at Florida, will be re-evaluated when the team returns home Thursday.
Analysis: Cole has been solid with three goals, nine assists and a plus-7 rating in 14 games this season. He is a high-end Fantasy forward when healthy. He is day to day.
News: Carolina Hurricanes forward Erik Cole was removed from the ice on a stretcher in the third period Monday night and taken to a hospital after colliding with Florida Panthers goalie Tomas Vokoun. Cole was released from the Cleveland Clinic in Weston later Monday night and was cleared to fly after a CT scan was negative. He was expected to join the Hurricanes' flight to Tampa on Tuesday morning and will continue to be monitored by the team's medical staff, Carolina general manager Jim Rutherford said in a statement. Cole was injured at 12:34 as he was driving to the net. He was checked from behind by defenseman Jassen Cullimore and crashed headfirst into Vokoun's pads.
Analysis: "He was saying, 'Something is wrong with my neck,"' Vokoun said after Carolina's 4-3 victory. "He didn't want to move. It's tough. It's a contact game. Things like that can happen, unfortunately." Cole remained motionless for several minutes before being taken off the ice. "From what I understand, he had movement in his limbs," Carolina coach Peter Laviolette said. "He had some pain in his trapezoid area, and I think with his previous injury, not knowing what's going on in there, it's just better to be safe." The veteran of six NHL seasons is less than two years removed from a serious neck injury. "He had a stinger feeling going down both sides of his body," Hurricanes center Eric Staal said. "I know on the ice he had some strength in his arms and movement in his legs." Obviously, the fact that he was released is great news, but expect to reserve him through the week in daily leagues.
News: Erik Cole had to leave Monday's game at Florida in the third period with an upper-body injury. He crashed into G Tomas Vokoun while driving the net and he was shoved into the ice. He laid facedown for several minutes, moving his legs and fingers, while team trainers tended to him, but they called for a stretcher to get him immobilized and moved back to the locker room for further evaluation. Cole was conscious and moving his extremities on the stretch, so that's obviously great news.
Analysis: Cole had a serious neck injury in his past, so this is certainly a scary moment for him and his teammates. When healthy, he's a stellar Fantasy forward on Carolina's prolific offense.
News: Erik Cole and Ray Whitney had goals at Florida on Wednesday. Cole's goal was an easy one on the doorstep as Eric Staal drew two defenders -- and the goalie.
Analysis: Cole remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, especially those which heavily reward penalty minutes. Cole has three goals and five assists in his past six games.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole returned to the lineup Saturday against the Islanders after missing four games with a foot injury and contributed three assists in 13:06 of ice time. He also finished with a plus-4 rating.
Analysis: When healthy, Cole remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, especially those which heavily reward penalty minutes. It appears safe to activate him for Fantasy Week 5 (Oct. 29-Nov. 4).
News:The Sports Xchange reports Hurricanes LW Erik Cole was on the ice Friday morning to work out, and his return from a foot injury could come Saturday against the Islanders. He has missed the last four games.
Analysis: When healthy, Cole remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, especially those which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: The Raleigh News & Observer reports that Erik Cole and MRI revealed a sprained foot. The injured occured before Saturday's game when he was kicking a soccer ball before the overtime loss against the Flyers. "I may have to take a scalpel to the soccer ball," Hurricanes defenseman Mike Commodore joked Sunday, although coach Peter Laviolette said he continues to endorse kicking the ball around as a way to warm up.
Analysis: General manager Jim Rutherford said that he expects Cole to be sidelined at least seven to 10 days, so keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues. The team will also be without Andrew Ladd (ankle) and Scott Walker (chest) for at least the next week or so.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole was scratched before Saturday's game against the Flyers because of a foot injury. He came into the game with two goals, three assists and a plus-3 rating.
Analysis: The Hurricanes were mum on the seriousness of Cole's injury, so Fantasy owners will have to consider him an injury-risk start heading into Week 4 (Oct. 22-28). It might be a risk worth taking seeing how the Hurricanes have four games in the upcoming scoring period. When healthy, Cole remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, especially those which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Erik Cole scored twice and Chad LaRose had three assists, helping Carolina end Ottawa's season-opening five-game winning streak with a 5-3 victory over the Senators on Thursday night. Cole ended up with an even rating with four shots on goal while LaRose managed a plus-2 rating and four shots on net.
Analysis: Cole remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, especially those which heavily reward penalty minutes, although he did not have any infractions on Thursday. Cole was also credited with four hits. The Hurricanes plays in Montreal on Saturday night.
News: Erik Cole opened the NHL regular season with a goal on three shots in Wednesday's opener against the Canadiens in 17:13 of ice time.
Analysis: Cole remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, especially those which heavily reward penalty minutes. The Hurricanes will be back in action on Friday against Sidney Crosby and the Penguins.
News: Erik Cole was scoreless with a plus-1 rating in 18:03 of ice time with two shots on goal and Scott Walker was blanked in 16:23 of ice time with a minor penalty.
Analysis: Cole is a must-start in most leagues heading into Fantasy Week 1 (Sept. 29-Oct. 7), especially in formats which heavily reward penalty minutes. Walker is more of a No. 5 or 6 forward option in leagues of 12 or more teams.
News: Erik Cole picked up an assist in Tuesday's game against the Panthers, his first point in three games since returning from his hip injury.
Analysis: Cole is a valuable Fantasy option in all leagues, especially those which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole (hip) returned to the team's lineup Friday against the Capitals. He played for 15:01 and finished with a plus-1 rating.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Cole back into active Fantasy lineups. When healthy, he is a high end Fantasy option.
News: The Carolina Hurricanes have activated Erik Cole (hip) from the injured reserve. He is expected to play in Friday's game in Washington.
Analysis: Keep Cole reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return to the ice and prove his health in a full game.
News: Erik Cole is on injured reserve due to a torn hip muscle suffered prior to a game with Atlanta on Feb. 20. The left wing is expected to miss another two weeks.
Analysis: Keep Cole reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health in consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Carolina left wing Erik Cole is expected to miss at least two weeks with a hip injury. The team announced on its Web site Wednesday that Cole could miss up to four weeks after tearing a muscle near his hip. Hurricanes general manager Jim Rutherford, who is attending the NHL GMs' meeting in Naples, Fla., said he didn't know how Cole was injured. According to newspaper reports Wednesday, the left winger was hurt during warmups before Tuesday's loss to Atlanta.
Analysis: Cole has 25 goals and 26 assists in 57 games this season. He did not play in the 3-1 loss to the Thrashers. He missed the Toronto loss on Jan. 30 with a hip pointer, then missed three more after aggravating it in an on-ice collision Feb. 8 against Boston. Perhaps some rest will do Cole some good. When healthy, he is a high-end Fantasy option in most leagues. Fantasy owners will have to do without his services until at least early March.
News: Cole was scratched before Tuesday's game against the Flyers due to a lower body injury.
Analysis: The Hurricanes did not make it clear whether or not he aggravated a hip injury which forced him to miss three games last week. He is once again considered day to day.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole (hip) returned to the team's lineup Saturday against the Canadiens. He had one goal and one assist in 14:54 of ice time.
Analysis: Cole missed a few games nursing a hip injury, but it looks as though he has full recovered. He is a must-start when healthy, so feel free to immediately put him back into Fantasy lineups.
News: Erik Cole (hip) missed his third consecutive game on Thursday against the Rangers due to his hip pointer injury.
Analysis: Cole is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all leagues for Fantasy Week 21 (Feb. 19-25) if he is unable to play over the weekend.
News: Erik Cole's lower body injury has been identified as a hip pointer and that ailment kept him from suiting up for Tuesday's game against the Kings.
Analysis: Keep Cole reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can suit up again. He is questionable for Thursday's home contest against the Rangers.
News: Right wing Erik Cole, tied for third on the team with 24 goals, did not play Saturday after injuring his hip Thursday in a 5-2 victory over Boston. He is not expected to play Tuesday against Los Angeles.
Analysis: Keep Cole reserved in all daily Fantasy leagues if you have healthier alternatives.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole (lower body) was not in uniform Saturday against the Wild.
Analysis: Last year, Cole missed the final 22 regular-season games and the first 23 playoff contests. He returned for the last two games of the Stanley Cup finals for the Hurricanes and has 49 points this season. Consider him day to day until he is re-evaluated on Friday.
News: Hurricanes left winger Erik Cole had to be helped off the ice with a lower body injury at 8:46 of the second period of Thursday's game at Boston and he didn't return.
Analysis: Last year, Cole missed the final 22 regular-season games and the first 23 playoff contests. He returned for the last two games of the Stanley Cup finals for the Hurricanes and has 49 points this season. Consider him day to day until he is re-evaluated on Friday.
News: Cole (lower body injury) returned to the lineup on Thursday against the Lightning after missing one game. He was scoreless with three shots on goal in 17:31 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Cole back into the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues, especially those which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Erik Cole missed Tuesday's game against the Maple Leafs due to a lower body contusion.
Analysis: Cole is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all daily Fantasy leagues if you have healthier alternatives.
News: Cole and Scott Walker scored for Carolina, which improved to 17-0 this season when leading after two periods. Cole also had an assist with a plus-1 rating in Tuesday's game at Florida.
Analysis: Cole has four goals, four assists and a plus-5 rating in the past five games. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, especially those which reward penalty minutes.
News: Craig Adams, Erik Cole, Chad LaRose, Scott Walker and Ray Whitney scored for the Hurricanes, who trailed 3-0 after two periods before scoring their first five goals in about a 10-minute span of the third on Thursday against the Panthers.
Analysis: After a six-game stretch with just one point, Cole has three goals and an assist over the past three games. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, especially those which reward penalty minutes.
News: Erik Cole scored two goals and the Carolina Hurricanes snapped out of their scoring slump by beating the New York Islanders 4-2 on Saturday night.
Analysis: Cole now has 18 goals on the season and remains a solid start in most leagues.
News: RW Erik Cole has played during the past week despite take a puck off his ankle Dec. 22 versus the New York Islanders. He was hobbled by the blow.
Analysis: Since Dec. 22, Cole has two goals in four games. He is still worth starting in all Fantasy formats, but keep an eye on his production just in case it starts to dip becuase he is not at 100 percent.
News: Hurricanes LW Erik Cole reached the 20-assist mark on Thursday in his 35th game of the season. That puts him more than two-thirds of the way to his total from last season (29) in 60 regular-season games.
Analysis: Cole has 13 goals to go with his 20 assists and is well on his way to surpassing his career-high 59-point total from a season ago. He has also spent 44 minutes in the penalty box, which could be of help to owners in leagues that reward heavily for PIM. Needless to say, Cole is a must-start Fantasy option at this time.
News: Cole was scoreless with a plus-1 rating and four penalty minutes in 19:46 of ice time in Monday's game against the Sabres.
Analysis: Cole was rambunctious in the game, managing eight hits, but he failed to get on the scoresheet. He still has nine points (4 G, 5 A) over the past five games.
News: Cole scored three goals with a plus-2 rating on four shots on goal in Thursday's game against the Capitals in 20:11 of ice time. "On any given night, it's somebody who chips in and helps out for us," Laviolette said. "(Thursday), Colesy was the guy who scored the goals."
Analysis: Cole has four goals and three assists during his current three-game point streak. It was his fourth career hat trick and first since an 8-2 win over Montreal on Jan. 31, 2006.
News: Erik Cole had an assist and even rating with a shot on goal in Tuesday’s shootout loss at New Jersey in 21:21 of ice time.
Analysis: Cole has managed seven points (2 G, 5 A) over the past five games. He remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues, especially formats which reward penalty minutes.
News: The Carolina Hurricanes set a franchise record by scoring three goals in 43 seconds during the first period against Tampa Bay on Saturday night. The scores by Eric Staal, Kevyn Adams and Erik Cole midway through the period beat the previous record of 63 seconds set by the then-Hartford Whalers against Toronto in January 1987.
Analysis: Staal is a must-start Fantasy player. Cole on most occassions is a good Fantasy play, but he has struggled to start the season. Adams on the other hand is not a viable Fantasy option at this time.
News: Erik Cole left Saturday's game against Washington in the first period after a collision with Richard Zednik and Shaone Morrisonn. He was able to return in the second period.
Analysis: Cole should be fine for Wednesday's game at Florida, but his propensity for injury has to concern Fantasy owners a little bit, especially at this early juncture of the season.
News: Erik Cole (neck) was able to start Wednesday's regular season opener against the Sabres. He is off to a good start, too, as he has scored a power play goal midway through the second period to give the Hurricanes a 2-1 lead with just over six minutes remaining in the second.
Analysis: Cole beat Ryan Miller just as a 5-on-3 situation had expired for the Hurricanes. That is the first of many power play markers for Cole, as long as he can stay healthy and does not suffer any sort of setback related to his neck injury.
News: Erik Cole had a goal and two assists for defending Stanley Cup champion Carolina at Washington Sunday.
Analysis: Cole spent the summer working to rehabilitate and strengthen the neck that he broke last season. The Hurricanes open the regular season against Buffalo on Oct. 4. He's a solid forward in all formats because of his ability to score and pass.
News: After a summer of celebrating with the Stanley Cup, the Carolina Hurricanes trudged back to training camp to play their way into shape for a title defense. All except Erik Cole, who arrived at a near-sprint. "The toughest thing was making sure I didn't squeal the tires on the way out of the driveway," he said. The three weeks of drills and practices that make up training camp hardly rank among the perks of being a professional athlete. But no one can blame the left wing for being so eager to get started on the new season. Not after he lost three months last season to a broken neck, and not after recovering in time to help the Hurricanes close out the Edmonton Oilers in a riveting Stanley Cup finals.
Analysis: "I think I'm a little bit more anxious this year, certainly more anxious than probably any of the other guys in the room," Cole said. "Obviously it was a short summer for a lot of guys, but I had quite a long spring, so the summer didn't seem all that short for me. I'm anxious to get back at it." Cole's comeback in Game 6 of the Cup finals gave the Hurricanes a badly needed spark against the physical Oilers, but it came with the risk he could be hurt again on any hit along the boards. Now, it seems the fleet Cole almost never was gone. Cole spent the summer working to rehabilitate and strengthen the neck for the upcoming season. He said he would probably have another CT scan before the Hurricanes open the regular season against Buffalo on Oct. 4. He's a solid forward in all formats because of his ability to score and pass.
News: Erik Cole (neck) returned for the final two games of the Stanley Cup Finals against the Edmonton Oilers and he led the team with nine hits in Monday's Game 7 win.
Analysis: Cole is a hard-nosed player who is just one good hit away from some serious injury problems. He is a risky Fantasy selection from here on out due to his injury concerns, but he is expected to be ready for training camp.
News: Erik Cole will miss at least the rest of the regular season with a compression fracture in a vertebra in his neck caused when he was driven headfirst into the boards by Brooks Orpik of the Pittsburgh Penguins during a 7-5 Hurricanes victory Saturday night.
Analysis: Cole, tied for second on the team in scoring, will be out at least 6-to-8 weeks. This is a major loss for what currently is the team with the NHL's best record, not to mention Fantasy owners. The Hurricanes have not ruled out Cole returning for the playoffs, which begin in mid-April, but his Fantasy value is obsolete for the remainder of this season. He is only worth hanging onto in larger leagues which heavily reward PIM. Chad LaRose will see more playing time in his absence.
News: Erik Cole has 26 goals, 54 points and a team-best plus-15 rating through 57 games at the Olympic Games break, tied with linemate Cory Stillman for second on the team in scoring. He has already shattered his previous career-best of 42 points in 2003-04.
Analysis: Cole is on pace for 78 points, as he has gelled with Eric Staal and Cory Stillman to form one of the most dangerous scoring lines in the NHL.
News: The Raleigh News & Observer reports Erik Cole, Eric Staal and Cory Stillman played on the team's top line on Sunday at Boston.
Analysis: The triumvirate posted five points and a plus-5 in the shootout loss against the Bruins. The line should be one of the more productive units in the league now that Stillman is healthy again.
News: Cole picked up three goals and he added an assist and plus-3 rating with three shots on goal in Tuesday's game at Montreal.
Analysis: Team USA's Cole has been a ball of fire recently, posting nine goals and six assists and a plus-7 rating over the past 11 games. If he is available in your Fantasy leagues, scoop him up in all leagues which reward PIM.
News: Erik Cole scored a goal, added an assist and had a plus-1 rating with one shot on goal in 15:50 of ice time in Monday's game against the Canadiens.
Analysis: Cole has 10 points (5 G, 5 A) and a plus-5 rating over the past seven games.
News: Erik Cole had two assists and a plus-1 rating in Sunday's game against the Blues in 17:06 of ice time.
Analysis: Cole has posted 16 points (8 G, 8 A) and a plus-4 rating over the past 13 games. He is an outstanding No. 3 or 4 Fantasy wing option in leagues which reward penalty minutes.
News: Cole (head) was able to play in Saturday's game against Montreal. He scored a goal and added an assist in 20:31 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Cole back into your active Fantasy lineup. Hopefully for Cole, he will have an easier week than he did in the final days of December.
News: Cole left Thursday's game against the Flyers after being driven into the boards by Freddy Meyer. He suffered a bloody forehead.
Analysis: Cole was suffered a groin and hip injury in Wednesday's game, so it has not been a good week for the gritty forward.
News: The Raleigh News & Observer reports Erik Cole suffered a groin and hip injury in Wednesday's game against the Senators.
Analysis: Cole was able to suit up for Thursday's game against the Flyers, so it appears safe to keep him in the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues.
News: Cole picked up an assist and was a plus-1 in Saturday's game at Phoenix in 15:38 of ice time.
Analysis: Cole has only four assists over the past 11 games and he has not scored a goal since Nov. 9 at Buffalo. He is only worth using in larger Fantasy leagues which reward PIM.
News: Cole had a goal and two assists in Wednesday's game at Buffalo. He also posted a plus-1 rating with four shots in 19:20 of ice time.
Analysis: Cole has seven points (2 G, 5 A) over the past three games. He is a solid Fantasy pickup if available, especially in leagues which reward PIM.
News: Erik Cole had four assists in Thursday's preseason game against the Lightning.
Analysis: Cole is expected to skate on one of the top two lines for the Hurricanes, so he might be a steal in the later rounds on Draft Day. His plus/minus rating might be a drawback, but he should be especially valuable in leagues which reward PIM.
News: Cole re-signed for one season with the Carolina Hurricanes on Wednesday.
Analysis: Cole is expected to be a vital cog in the Carolina offense this season. He posted 42 points in 2003-04 and will likely play a key role on the power play. He finished with 21 points in the final 21 games.
News: Cole (leg) returned to the lineup on Thursday. He scoreless and minus-1 in 21:05 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Cole back into the active lineup in larger Fantasy leagues for the final week of the regular season.
News: The Raleigh News-Observer reports that Erik Cole (pulled hamstring) did not practice Wednesday.
Analysis: Cole should remain reserved in all leagues.
News: Erik Cole suffered a leg injury in Saturday's game at Ottawa.
Analysis: Coach Peter Laviolette said the injury is not considered serious. He is day to day.
News: Cole scored a goal on Thursday for the second consecutive game. He also had an assist.
Analysis: Cole broke a 26-game scoreless drought with his marker in the last game. Cole might be worth adding to a roster in larger Fantasy leagues if he can continue scoring on a consistent basis.
News: Cole (sprained right elbow) was able to play on Wednesday. He was scoreless with a minus-2 rating in 13:29 of ice time.
Analysis: Despite the poor night, it appears safe to get Cole back into the active lineup.
News: Hurricanes coach Paul Maurice told the Raleigh News & Observer that Erik Cole (sprained right elbow) is probable for Wednesday's game in Washington. Cole made it through Tuesday's practice with no problems.
Analysis: Cole, Carolina's leading scorer, is worth getting back into your active lineup in leagues that allow daily transactions.
News: Cole left Saturday's game against Los Angeles and missed Sunday's game against Tampa Bay with a sprained right elbow. An MRI exam taken Sunday morning showed no serious damage, and the Raleigh News & Observer reports that he has a Grade II sprain.
Analysis: Cole was replaced in the lineup Sunday by Jaroslav Svoboda, and is day to day. Cole's Fantasy owners should play it safe and keep him reserved this week.
News: Cole scored a goal and had two assists in Thursday's game against N.Y. Rangers.
Analysis: Cole now has two goals and three assists in his past three games.
News: Cole scored a goal in Thursday's opener at Florida.
Analysis: Cole missed 29 games last season with a broken leg. He looks to rebound this season and is off to a good start.
News: Cole had left shoulder surgery on Friday. According to the Raleigh News and Observer, he also had left knee surgery. The shoulder serious was the more serious of the two procedures. He had some bone shaved away. He is recovering from a broken left leg and will not return this season.
Analysis:
News: Cole had surgery on his left shoulder and left knee on Wednesday. According to the Raleigh News and Observer, he should be fully recovered in time for next season.
Analysis:
News: Hurricanes coach Paul Maurice says Cole (broken leg) is out for the season. The Raleigh News and Observer reports that he might also need surgery on his knees and shoulders. Cole should be dropped from all Fantasy rosters if you had been keeping him hoping for a quick recovery.
Analysis:
News: Cole might miss two to three months. He left Thursday's game in the second period with a broken bone in his lower left leg after being checked by Tampa Bay's Dan Boyle.
Analysis:
News: Cole recovered from a knee injury and played Tuesday in Nashville. He had a goal in the game, and is still a useful Fantasy starter in a larger league.
Analysis:
News: Cole left Monday's practice with a knee injury. The Raleigh News and Observer reports that the injury is not considered serious, and he will play Tuesday in Nashville. Cole is worth keeping active in a deeper league.
Analysis:
News: Cole left Thursday's game against Buffalo with an apparent charley horse. His injury was believed to be worse than that of Jan Hlavac, who expected to miss three to four days, so Cole should be reserved in all Fantasy leagues.
Analysis:
News: Cole will likely begin the regular season on the Hurricanes' second line with Rod Brind'Amour and Bates Battaglia. Cole is coming off a fine postseason performance last season, and he and Brind'Amour are worth activating this week in a deeper league.
Analysis:
