News:Chris Neil (upper body), who left Sunday's Game 3 victory over the Penguins during the second overtime period, practiced Tuesday.
Analysis: The report adds that Chris Neil is cleared to play in Wednesday's Game 4, suggesting that the pesky forward could have returned to Game 3 with more time.
News:Chris Neil, who left Sunday's win over the Penguins in overtime with an upper-body injury, was on the ice Tuesday morning, reports Sportsnet's Ian Mendes.
Analysis: That bodes well for Chris Neil's chances of suiting up for Wednesday's Game 4. The gritty forward, who has three assists in eight playoff games to date, is the postseason leader in PIM and hits, with 33 and 50, respectively.
News:Chris Neil (upper body) left Sunday's victory over the Penguins during the second overtime period, and did not return.
Analysis:Chris Neil slid hard into the boards after a check from Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik, and appeared to be favoring his left arm as he skated to the Senators dressing room. The gritty winger has chipped in three assists so far in the playoffs to go along with his league-leading 33 PIMs.
News: After the morning skate on Saturday, Chris Neil was unexpectedly listed as day-to-day due to him taking a skate blade to the foot earlier this week. However, Neil played in Saturday's contest against the Leafs and with 15:04 of ice time seemed to be OK even if he wasn't 100 percent.
Analysis:Chris Neil has been wildly inconsistent this year fantasy-wise, so this is good news for Ottawa, but probably irrelevant for most fantasy owners.
Senators' Neil (Ankle) Downgraded To Game-Time Decision
News: Updating a previous report, Chris Neil (ankle) will be a game-time decision Saturday, the Ottawa Citizen's James Gordon reports.
Analysis: The Senators' official twitter account declared Chris Neil good to go Friday night, but all reports Saturday morning list him as a game-time decision.
News:Chris Neil will play Saturday against Toronto.
Analysis:Chris Neil caught a skate-blade from New York's Anton Stralman in the ankle Thursday night. Neil left the game for a bit, but returned and notched two points. It's unlikely you're playing him, but if you are, you'll be glad to know he isn't going to be sidelined after the cut.
News:Chris Neil picked up two assists -- one on an empty-netter -- in Thursday's 3-0 win over the Rangers.
Analysis: It was his first multi-point game of the season. After a surprising 28-point effort last year, Chris Neil's got just 10 points in 34 games even with the big night Thursday.
News:Chris Neil agreed to a three-year, $5.75 million contract extension with the Senators on Tuesday, sportsnet.ca reports.
Analysis:Chris Neil had one year left on his current deal worth $2 million. He totaled 28 points and 178 penalty minutes in 72 games last season for the Senators.
News:Chris Neil scored a goal in Ottawa's Game 6 loss to the Rangers; the goal was his second of the series.
Analysis: There is some debate as to whether Chris Neil should have been even playing in the game considering the hit he laid on the Rangers' Brian Boyle in Game 5, but Neil escaped a Shanaban. Neil likely won't score too often, but he has found some opportune moments to score in this series.
News:Chris Neil will not face discipline for his hit Saturday that concussed the Rangers' Brian Boyle, ESPN.com reports.
Analysis:Chris Neil, who enters Monday's Game 6 with a goal and an assist in the postseason, has obviously brought it physically in the series so far, having recorded a team-high 23 hits.
News:Chris Neil's hit that concussed the Rangers' Brian Boyle in Saturday's game will likely be reviewed by the NHL.
Analysis: It wasn't late and he isn't a repeat offender. And the injury appeared to be the byproduct of a legal hockey play. But the Raffi Torres suspension was delivered earlier in the day and Rangers' coach John Tortorella drew a parallel between the hits during his post-game news conference. Expect an announcement before Monday's Game 6.
News:Chris Neil scored the game-winner in overtime Saturday in a 3-2 victory over the Rangers. He also picked up a fighting major.
Analysis: It was only fitting for Chris Neil to get the goal in a game that was played with Hudson's Bay rules -- what a fight-filled and chippy affair.
News:Chris Neil says he's fine after crashing into the boards during practice Friday and then missing the regular season finale against the Devils on Saturday, according to SLAM! Hockey. "I'm feeling pretty good. Things are looking good for Thursday," said Neil.
Analysis: The Sens-Rangers series likely isn't going to turn on Chris Neil's scoring, but if the team is going to pull off an upset, the tough, veteran presence that Neil provides can only help in that quest.
News:Chris Neil (undisclosed) will not play against New Jersey on Saturday, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis:Chris Neil took a bad fall in practice Friday. Consider him day-to-day.
News:Chris Neil scored the Senators' only goal Saturday in a 2-1 loss to the Ducks.
Analysis: He is on pace to come close to 30 points and almost 200 PIMs. He clearly provides more offense than your average goon.
News:Chris Neil showed off his scoring touch Saturday when he took a sharp pass, split the Sabres' defense and roofed a pretty breakaway goal. He also picked up six penalty minutes.
Analysis: The pride of little Flesherton, Ontario looked like a right-handed Rick Nash as he bulled his way in. He has actually been quite productive of late -- he has two goals, three assists and 11 PIMs in his last six games. And three of those points have come on the power play. There's sneaky short-term value here. Get on board.
News:Chris Neil (ankle) played 9:11 Saturday in his return from injury. He fired two shots, laid two hits and picked up two penalty minutes.
Analysis: Get him back in there if you're using him for his brawn.
News:Chris Neil (ankle) will return to the lineup for Saturday's game against the Capitals, according to the Senators' official Twitter page.
Analysis:Chris Neil will be back in action after missing the Senators' last nine games. Expect him to fill a wing spot on either the third or fourth line.
News:Chris Neil (ankle) will take part in his first practice since suffering an ankle injury in a game against the Rangers on November 9, reports the Ottawa Citizen.
Analysis: He's likely a few games away from getting back into the starting lineup, but this is encouraging news nonetheless. In 16 games, Chris Neil has three goals and four assists to go along with 52 penalty minutes and a minus-1 rating.
News:Chris Neil (ankle) did not accompany the team on its three-game Western road trip reports the Ottawa Sun.
Analysis: He already sat out Ottawa's last two games and there is no timetable for his return. If it's a high ankle injury, then Chris Neil could be out for an extended period of time. The veteran winger has played very well in the early going this year with three goals and four assists in 16 games.
News:Chris Neil suffered an ankle injury in Wednesday's 3-2 loss to the Rangers and will not play this weekend reports Sportsnet's Ian Mendes.
Analysis: The injury doesn't sound too serious at this point for the 32-year-old Chris Neil. He has three goals and four assists through 16 games this year.
News:Chris Neil scored twice in Saturday's preseason win over Montreal.
Analysis: He's not your typical sniper -- he only had six last season and 10 the year before. We'll be thrilled if he gets 20 points and 175 PIMs (and about 250 hits, too). There's value in that in deep formats.
News: Neil grabbed two goals in Thursday's 3-1 win over New Jersey, his first since February 5.
Analysis: Neil isn't going to score two goals most nights, he's not going to get a point most nights, but he helped the Senators impede New Jersey's improbable playoff run. He's recently returned from a nagging injury, but don't expect much production from the gritty veteran checker.
News: Neil (lower body) will return to the Ottawa lineup Tuesday against the Bruins, the Senators' official site reports.
Analysis: In 49 career games against the Bruins, Neil has racked up just nine points, but he has accumulated 159 penalty minutes in that span.
News: Neil (lower body) is expected to play Tuesday against the Bruins, TSN's Brent Wallace reports.
Analysis: Good news for those who count on his PIMs. Neil has spent 157 minutes in the penalty box in 60 games to date.
News: Neil (lower body) won't play against Buffalo on Friday, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis: It's not known whether the penalty machine is expected back for Saturday's game against Philadelphia.
News: The Rangers are interested in acquiring Neil, according to the Daily News.
Analysis: The Rangers are also interested in acquiring a puck-moving defenseman as they figure to be quite active at the trade deadline.
News: Neil (upper body) will be in the starting lineup for the Sens when they host the Stars on Wednesday night reports the Ottawa Citizen's James Gordon.
Analysis: Neil suffered an undisclosed upper-body injury in Monday's 3-2 win over Los Angeles after tussling with Kris Westgarth. The injury's obviously not that bad and Neil will be good to go for Wednesday's contest against Dallas.
News: Neil (upper body) missed practice Tuesday, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis: Even with the absence from Tuesday's practice, Sens head coach Cory Clouston is optimistic that Neil will be able to play Wednesday night against the Stars.
News: Neil left Monday's win over the Kings with an upper body injury, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: Neil earned his goon points first before getting hurt, getting into a fight with the Kings' Kevin Westgarth in the second period.
Ottawa's Neil Will Line Up On Second Line Saturday Night
News: If Thursday's game is any indication then Neil will play on a line with Nick Foligno and Mike Fisher when Ottawa plays Montreal on Saturday night.
Analysis: In Thursday's 3-2 win over Carolina, Neil was moved up to play on Ottawa's second line and proceeded to provide a huge spark as Fisher went on to score two goals while Foligno added an assist. Neil is good for the occasional goal and should be fired up to play against a division rival Saturday night.
News: Neil left Saturday's game with a lower-body injury, reports the Ottawa Sun's Bruce Garrioch via Twitter.
Analysis: Neil was speared in the first period by Derek Boogaard and was in considerable pain. He left in the second period for precautionary reasons; he should be fine with some ice and one of those doughnut cushions they give new mothers right after birth.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil was credited with a bizarre goal and chipped in with two assists as Ottawa easily handled the Panthers on Tuesday night. Neil's goal came when Florida's Keith Ballard grabbed the puck out of midair and threw it into his own net. Neil also had a fight with Nick Tarnasky.
Analysis: With his 21 points, even plus/minus and 167 PIM, Neil is having a pretty solid season. He remains a reliable start in all leagues that reward bad behavior.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil scored his eighth goal of the season Saturday and then dished out a nasty head shot to Toronto's John Mitchell in a 2-1 loss.
Analysis: Neil is known more for his physical presence than his goal scoring, and he could well face a suspension for his hit. He should be OK to start in deeper leagues that reward PIM for Fantasy Week 21 (March 8-14) though, as it might take a bit for his hearing.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil scored a goal and finished at plus-1 on Thursday against the Capitals. Neil drew Ottawa even at four with 1:56 left in the second. It was his seventh goal and first goal since scoring in consecutive games on Dec. 26-28.
Analysis: Neil will never be mistaken for an elite offensive player. He usually bides his time on the checking line, where he is quite a nuisance. Neil is the Senators' top enforcer and best used in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil failed to record a point and finished at minus-1 on Monday against the Bruins. He also spent two minutes in the penalty box. Neil has no goals, two assists, a minus-5 rating and a season-high 45 penalty minutes in nine January games.
Analysis: Neil has had a tough time keeping his composure in January, but it's good to see the enforcer hasn't lost his edge. Neil isn't much of a goal scorer and remains a flier in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Ottawa RW Chris Neil scored a goal and had an assist on Monday in a 4-2 win over the Canadiens. His goal came on a tip-in in the third period and proved to be the game-winning foal. He increased his points total on the season to eight with six goals and two assists.
Analysis: Neil is not much of an offensive contributor most of the time, so a two-point game is really out of the ordinary. He is far more useful as an enforcer and should only really be active in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Ottawa winger Chris Neil will join teammates Jarkko Ruutu and Chris Kelly on the third line for Wednesday's game against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Neil had been on IR but was activated on Wednesday.
Analysis: Being an enforcer is what Neil does best, so Fantasy owners in leagues that reward heavily for PIM can get him active once again.
News: Ottawa RW Chris Neil is out two weeks because of a knee injury he suffered on Wednesday. He was injured during a collision with Andrew Peters of the Devils.
Analysis: Neil has already racked up 76 penalty minutes this season. Being an enforcer is what Neil does best, so Fantasy owners in leagues that reward heavily for PIM need to find another enforcer for Fantasy Week 9 (Nov. 30-Dec. 6).
News: Senators RW Chris Neil spent more time in the penalty box than on the ice during Thursday's game against the Lightning. While Neil had no points in 9:45 of ice time, he totaled 21 penalty minutes. He got 10 of those on a game misconduct in the third period. Neil is up to 25 penalty minutes in six games.
Analysis: It was only a matter of time before Neil had his first meltdown and it came in Game 6. Neil will contribute some offense from his checking-line position, but he is mostly on the ice for his enforcer skills. Consider Neil primarily a viable Fantasy option in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News:Newsday reports the Senators have re-signed enforcer Chris Neil to a four-year contract worth $8 million.
Analysis: It's very surprising that Ottawa finally came to terms with Neil after they were pretty much just looking to give him a short-term contract. Oh well, things happen. Neil has racked up 100-plus penalty minutes for seven straight seasons. He has some offensive skills, but is primarily in the lineup as an enforcer. Consider Neil primarily a viable Fantasy option in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Senators RW Chris Neil may yet avoid having to pack up and move. "I don't think it's finished," Murray said of negotiations with the team enforcer, who can become an unrestricted free agent July 1. "We made a proposal and we're not as far apart as we were. Both of us moved and we are closer. I'm just waiting to see if they will make one more adjustment. If they will, we can do the deal. If they won't, we probably can't."
Analysis: Neil and the Senators continue to be at ends, much like they were at the trade deadline. Ottawa was considering trading their top enforcer in fear they couldn't re-sign him but opted to stick with him. However, Neil had just 10 points in 60 games. It tied his career low. He also had a career-worst three goals. Neil did rack up 100-plus penalty minutes for the seventh straight season. Wherever Neil plays in 2009-10, he will be asked to stand up for his teammates more than provide an offensive presence. Consider Neil primarily a viable Fantasy option in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News:The Sports Xchange reports just a few weeks earlier, it looked as if Chris Neil would be wearing a sweater other than that of the Senators when he reached career game No. 500. But there the 29-year-old right-winger was Saturday night, scoring a big goal in an Ottawa victory against the Islanders and feeling right at home at Scotiabank Place after reaching the milestone. "It's pretty exciting to be around this long and play 500. When you first come into the league, it's exciting to get your first game under your belt. Then you keep your eye on the 100 mark and before you know it, you're at 500, so time flies," Neil said. "It's been exciting so far and hopefully I've got lots left."
Analysis: Neil's unrestricted free agent status had him ticketed to be on the way out of Ottawa before the March 4 trade deadline. However, general manager Bryan Murray decided against dealing the team's resident tough guy, and the two sides will continue negotiations over a new contract. Keeping Neil, who has a goal and three assists during a four-game point streak, is proving to be a wise decision. However, Neil is still not an impressive offensive player and is more on the ice to act as an enforcer. He remains a solid Fantasy flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil played Thursday against the Bruins for the first time since Feb. 7 because of a calf injury. He didn't have a point in 5:18 of ice time and finished at minus-1, but he managed to fight with Milan Lucic.
Analysis: Neil now has 14 major penalties on the season and 132 infraction minutes. Neil wasn't dealt at the trade deadline as expected and will finish out the season with Ottawa. He won't be much of an offensive presence, but remains a solid Fantasy flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: The Wednesday trade deadline passed and Senators RW Chris Neil was not traded. The soon-to-be unrestricted free agent also wasn't signed to an extension.
Analysis: There were a lot of rumors that Neil was traded to the Panthers, but they never came to fruition. It appears he will finish out the season with Ottawa and possibly work out a contract extension. Neil is still currently on IR with a calf injury, but is close to returning. He is primarily a flier in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: TSN.ca reports little progress has been made in the contract negotiations between Chris Neil and the Senators. Neil's agent, Todd Reynolds, met with Senators general manager Bryan Murray Tuesday in what might be a final push to keep Neil in Ottawa. The rumors are that Neil's camp wants more than $2 million per season, while the Senators have countered with the $1.5 million that enforcer Georges Laraque is making with the Canadiens.
Analysis: Sources say Murray has received considerable interest in Neil, who is still several days away from returning from a serious leg laceration. Included among the interested teams are the Sharks and Red Wings. Even though he might head to a top contender, Neil's Fantasy value will hardly change as he will still be a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News:The Calgary Sun reports the Senators and RW Chris Neil, who is a free agent in the offseason, aren't close to agreeing on a new contract. The rumors are that Neil's camp wants more than $2 million per season, while the Senators have countered with the $1.5 million that enforcer Georges Laraque is making with the Canadiens.
Analysis: Neil has been out since early February with a back injury, but even if he is not 100 percent by the March 4 trade deadline, a contender still might take a chance on him. It's believed the Sharks and Red Wings are both interested in the enforcer. Neil's Fantasy value will hardly change as he will still be a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News: Ottawa RW Chris Neil was unable to return to action on Thursday against the Canucks with a back injury, missing all of the team's most recent five-game road trip as well. It is unknown when he will be able to return, as the Senators have not yet said when he will be able to return.
Analysis: Neil has been the subject of trade rumors lately and may end up playing for another team before returning to the Senators lineup. He has been trying to work out a contract extension with the team, but there's not word on that either. Neil is a player best reserved for leagues that reward heavily for PIM when he does eventually return.
News: Sportsnet.ca reports Senators forward Chris Neil will miss the team's upcoming five-game road trip and be out at least 10 days after suffering a laceration to his right calf Saturday against the Sabres.
Analysis: Neil, who is not expected to play again until at least Feb. 19 vs. Vancouver, missed time earlier in the season because of a right knee injury. He sat out six games in December before of the ailment. Neil has been trying to work out a contract extension with the Senators, but it seems likely he will be moved at the trade deadline. This injury, however, could mess up those plans. Even if Neil is dealt at the trade deadline, it will be to a team that is looking for added muscle. Neil's Fantasy value will hardly change as he will still be a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Sportsnet.ca reports Senators RW Chris Neil's name continues to appear in trade rumors. "It's definitely flattering to have other teams show interest in me, especially with the frustrating season we've had so far," Neil said. "But I try not to pay attention to that kind of stuff." The 29-year-old will be an unrestricted free agent in the offseason if he doesn't come to terms with the Senators before the March 4 trade deadline. Ottawa GM Bryan Murray said he has been in contact twice with Neil's representation on a new contract, but the two sides are not close to terms. "He is not on the market at this point. Obviously, I have to get a contract done with him," Murray said. "Those are the decisions we have to make with each and every player that becomes unrestricted. I would like -- if he is not going to agree to terms with us -- that I would get something for him."
Analysis: Neil, who has played his entire seven-year career with the Senators, hopes a deal gets worked out. But won't cry over spilt milk. "If it's not meant to be, then I'll move on," admitted Neil, who leads the team with 127 PIM this season. "But for the most part, my heart is in it here and this is where I want to be. If Bryan (Murray) wants to get a hold of him, I'm sure he'll get a hold of him. It's one of those things where I just got to go out and play and not worry about that stuff." Even if Neil is dealt at the trade deadline, it will be to a team that is looking for added muscle. Neil's Fantasy value will hardly change as he will still be a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Craig Hartsburg lasted less than one season with the unraveling Ottawa Senators, who suddenly have a revolving door behind the bench. Unable to turn around a team that reached the Stanley Cup finals in 2007, Hartsburg was fired as coach Monday just 48 games into a season in which the Senators have the NHL's third worst record. The Senators made their first trip to the finals two years ago and now are likely to miss the playoffs for the first time in 13 seasons. The decision to replace Hartsburg with Cory Clouston was made by general manager Bryan Murray after Ottawa lost 7-4 at Washington on Sunday. Hartsburg signed a three-year contract in June. "We kept hoping there would be some change in our performance, which didn't seem to be taking place," said Murray, who coached the club to the finals before taking over as GM. "We just weren't making any progress. We're struggling to keep up."
Analysis: Clouston, promoted from the AHL's Binghamton Senators, is the team's fourth coach since Ottawa lost in five games to Anaheim in the 2007 finals. Murray returned behind the bench for the final 18 regular-season games (7-9-2) after he fired first-year coach John Paddock in February. The momentum of the finals appearance carried into last season when the Senators won 15 of their first 17 games. Since then, they have had a losing record and barely managed to hang on for a playoff spot last spring. The Senators were swept out of the first round in four games by Pittsburgh. The slide continued this season, even with a fresh voice in Hartsburg behind the bench. Scoring is down for the club's three offensive stars -- Daniel Alfredsson, Dany Heatley and Jason Spezza. There has been little offense as well from Mike Fisher, Antoine Vermette, Chris Neil and Chris Kelly. The once-feared Ottawa attack has become among the lowest-scoring in the league, and many point to the failure of defensemen to move the puck. In recent years, Zdeno Chara, Wade Redden, Andrej Meszaros and Joe Corvo have been among the defensemen who have left Ottawa either by trade or through free agency. Ottawa hasn't gotten much production from their blue line outside of Filip Kuba. Clouston will likely let the Big Three fire at will, but it will be interesting to see if he can get the other supporting characters back to being viable Fantasy options.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil returned to the lineup Tuesday against the Devils after missing one game with the flu. He didn't record a point in 9:11 of ice time and finished at even. Neil did get into a fight with David Clarkson for his 13th major penalty.
Analysis: Neil had all of 18 fights over his previous two seasons, but is well on his way to breaking that mark in 2008-09. Neil has good two-way skills, but has been more of a fighter than scorer this season. He is still best used in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Sportsnet.ca reports that Senators RW Chris Neil has the flu and won't play in Tuesday's game vs. Washington.
Analysis: Neil has just six points this season, but he has racked up 106 penalty minutes and could get close to his career high of 231 PIM. He remains a solid start in formats that reward bad behavior, and should be back after the All-Star break.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Senators RW Chris Neil had his 11th fight of the season Sunday against the Devils, eclipsing by two the number of times he dropped the gloves in 2007-08. Neil fought David Clarkson after he had thrown a hit on D Andy Greene that also caught him a piece of team mate Nick Foligno, whose nose was cut on the play.
Analysis: Neil has racked up 97 penalty minutes this season and continues to be one of the Senators' top checking-line forwards. He does have some offensive skills, but remains primarily a Fantasy option in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Senators RW Chris Neil was involved in his 10th fight of the season when he tangled with Darcy Hordichuk in the third period Sunday against the Canucks. Neil, the Senators all-time penalty minutes leader, only had nine fights all last season.
Analysis: Neil has racked up 88 penalty minutes this season and continues to be one of the Senators' top checking-line forwards. He does have some offensive skills, but remains primarily a Fantasy option in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil has three fights in his three games since returning from knee surgery and has racked up 19 PIM during those contests.
Analysis: Neil is not much of an offensive player and is primarily on the ice to stir trouble. Consider Neil nothing more than a flier in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil was able to make it through a second straight game Monday against the Panthers after missing several weeks following mid-November knee surgery. He didn't have a point in 8:52 of ice time and finished at minus-1 while racking up seven penalty minutes -- including a major for fighting with Tanner Glass.
Analysis: Neil has fought in both games since returning to the ice and appears OK following the surgery. He is not much of an offensive player and is primarily on the ice to stir trouble. Consider Neil nothing more than a flier in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: TSN reports that Senators RW Chris Neil tore meniscus in his right knee Saturday in a loss to the New York Islanders and will undergo surgery. "It's disappointing," said Neil, who will miss a few weeks of action. "(But the) bottom line is, it's early in the season. I can get it done with and get back in the lineup."
Analysis: Neil only has three points this season, but he can score in the high-20s and also rack up the penalty minutes, which makes him a useful low-end Fantasy forward in leagues that reward bad behavior when healthy. Keep him benched for the next few periods, however.
News: The Ottawa Sun reports that Senators RW Chris Neil will have an MRI on his injured knee Tuesday. Neil was injured on Saturday and is still limping.
Analysis: Neil has some offensive skill, but is mostly on the ice to act as an enforcer. Neil remains just a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil was not in the lineup Monday against the Rangers after leaving Saturday's game with a leg injury. He remains day-to-day and questionable for Thursday against the Canadiens.
Analysis: Neil has some offensive skill, but is mostly on the ice to act as an enforcer. Neil remains just a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News: Ottawa forward Chris Neil sustained a leg injury during the game against the Islanders on Saturday night. Coach Craig Hartsburg wasn't sure of the extent of it. Neil picked up seven minutes of penalty time in the game.
Analysis: Neil has some offensive skill, but is mostly on the ice to act as an enforcer. Neil remains just a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM. Check back to find out the extent of this injury but consider him a threat to miss some time in Week 7 (Nov. 17-23).
News: Senators RW Chris Neil got his first point of the season during Friday's 4-3 loss to the Ducks when he scored at the 10:48 mark of the third period. He didn't have a point in his first six games. Neil also got into a fight with George Parros Friday.
Analysis: Neil got his first major penalty Friday after picking up three minors in the first six games. He has some offensive skill, but is mostly on the ice to act as an enforcer. Neil remains just a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Through five games this season, Senators RW Chris Neil has zero points and a minus-four rating.
Analysis: Neil is fighting for a spot on the fourth line in Ottawa right now, yet he's still owned in 24 percent of leagues. He's worth holding on to in deeper formats just in case he somehow finds himself on a higher line in Ottawa thanks to injuries, but don't just hand him a valuable roster spot if you can't afford it.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Senators RW Chris Neil is entering his contract year and needs to bounce back from a disappointing, six-goal season and play more like he did in 2005-06 and 2006-07, when he had 16 and 12 goals, respectively. Neil showed signs he's ready to resume contributing offensively and in fisticuffs department when he scored twice and fought Arron Asham in a preseason victory over Philadelphia.
Analysis: The Senators have Neil ready to open the season on their checking line with Mike Fisher and Jarkko Ruutu. Neil is a solid two-way player and could do well playing alongside Fisher, who also has solid offensive talents. Neil remains a low-end Fantasy flier in standard formats, but is a must-have in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News:Chris Neil will make a surprisingly early return to the Ottawa Senators lineup Saturday against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Neil, who suffered a torn MCL in his right knee on Feb. 21, was originally expected to miss at least five weeks. But after a quicker than expected recovery, Neil will return to the playing roster and probably suit up a line with Mike Fisher and Cory Stillman.
Analysis: Neil is an agitator who usually brings a physical edge to the game. He missed 13 games with the knee injury. He credits a strong workout program with strength and conditioning coach Randy Lee for allowing him to make the early return. He also says the fringe benefit of the injury is the fact that it allowed his other bumps and bruises to also heal. Neil's return to the lineup will bump underachieving forward Randy Robitaille into becoming a healthy scratch.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil has a torn MCL and is out until at least April, reports the Ottawa Sun.
Analysis: Neil is a pretty decent two-way player, but his Fantasy value really lies in leagues that reward heavily for PIM. He should be released in all formats at this time, as he won't help your team this season.
News: Senators right winger Chris Neil has been out of the lineup for five games because of a knee injury that continues to bother him.
Analysis: Neil doesn't have any points in the last seven games he played, but has been in the penalty box for 19 minutes. Neil is a pretty decent two-way player, but his Fantasy value really lies in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Senators right winger Chris Neil was still unable to play Thursday at Philadelphia. A right knee injury has cuased Neil to miss four straight games and his status remains day to day.
Analysis: Neil doesn't have any points in the last seven games he played, but has been in the penalty box for 19 minutes. Neil is a pretty decent two-way player, but his Fantasy value really lies in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Senators right winger Chris Neil did not play again Tuesday in the game at Boston because of a right knee injury. He has now missed the last three games and remains day to day.
Analysis: Neil doesn't have any points in the last seven games he played, but has been in the penalty box for 19 minutes. Neil is a pretty decent two-way player, but his Fantasy value really lies in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Senators right winger Chris Neil did not play Monday against Toronto because of a right knee injury. He has now missed the last two games and remains questionable for Tuesday against the Bruins.
Analysis: Neil doesn't have any points in his last seven games, but has spent 19 minutes in the penalty box during that span. Neil isn't a bad two-way player, but his Fantasy value really lies in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Senators right winger Chris Neil did not play Saturday against Pittsburgh because of a right knee injury. He remains on a day to day status.
Analysis: Neil doesn't have any points in his last seven games, but has spent 19 minutes in the penalty box during that span. Neil isn't a bad two-way player, but his Fantasy value really lies in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Back in the lineup after missing a game with the flu, Ottawa lost right winger Chris Neil again Thursday when he limped off with an injury to his right knee after delivering a check in the first period. Neil did not record a point in 4:56 of ice time.
Analysis: Neil doesn't have any points in his last seven games, but has spent 19 minutes in the penalty box during that span. Neil isn't a bad two-way player, but his Fantasy value really lies in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil assisted twice in a 5-2 win over the Islanders on Tuesday and now has four points in his last three games.
Analysis: Neil only has 18 points this season and is primarily used as a checking forward with the Sens. Continue to view him as a reserve Fantasy defenseman in most formats, with most value in leagues that reward penalty minutes.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil tallied an assist and finished at even during Thursday's game against the Lightning. He now has one goal and two assists in his last five games. Neil also spent two minutes in the penalty box for interference Thursday.
Analysis: Whenever Neil posts a point, it's a bonus for the Senators because he mostly sees time on the checking line. Neil remains just a solid flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil scored a goal and added an assist during Tuesday's game against the Capitals. He finished at plus-2. It was his fourth goal of the season and first since Nov. 19 against the Canadiens.
Analysis: Neil went the entire month of December without a goal and had just three assists in 14 games. Whenever Neil posts a point, it's a bonus for the Senators because he mostly sees time on the checking line. Neil remains just a solid flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM.
News:Chris Neil's first period fight with Florida's Garth Murray Wednesday was his third of the season and 78th of the career for the Senators all-time PIMs king.
Analysis: Neil remains a solid play in most Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Grinding RW Chris Neil was elevated to the first power-play unit Monday at Montreal as coach John Paddock was clearly unhappy with the lack of traffic the Senators were getting in front of the opposition net in man-advantage situations.
Analysis: Neil scored a goal and assisted on another Monday. He remains a solid play in most Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Daniel Alfredsson and Chris Neil scored goals 1:40 apart in the third period to lead Ottawa to a 3-1 win over Montreal on Saturday. Neil gave Ottawa the lead when he beat Cristobal Huet with a shot from the right faceoff circle with 3:30 left for his second goal. "You could feel the momentum changing in the third period and we just had our foot on the gas pedal and kept going," Neil said.
Analysis: Both of Neil's goals have come in the last seven games. However, scoring is not his forte. Getting into trouble is. Neil remains a solid play in most Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes, but that is pretty much it. He spent four minutes in the penalty box on Saturday because of two penalties.
News: When Chris Neil plays like he did Saturday night against the Rangers, few are better at their jobs. The rugged right winger knocked Sean Avery out of the game with an open-ice hit early in the first period -- before the Rangers pest could even try to annoy any of the Senators. With Avery in the locker room nursing a shoulder injury, Neil lifted his teammates and the crowd out of their seats again in the first period, this time fighting Jason Strudwick. eil clearly distracted the Rangers in his 16 shifts and 10:23 of ice time, which included 13 penalty minutes. Along with a couple of shots on net, he leveled Peter Prucha with a big check in the third period.
Analysis: Neil was called for elbowing on both that one and the hit on Avery, but he and his teammates insisted the blows were clean. "He played great (Saturday)," captain Daniel Alfredsson said of Neil. "A couple of big hits, and he was skating and forechecking really well. It was his best game throughout camp and so far this season. (The hit on Avery) definitely lifted us up, there's no question. It was a clean hit ... it's nice to see (Neil) looking like he is." The Senators can live with the penalties, especially the way they're playing while shorthanded. They need Neil's physical presence. They are a team that doesn't have a lot of it up front. Neil remains a solid play in most Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Neil was scoreless in Wednesday's regular season opener at Toronto. That was not a surprise, but the fact he stayed out of the penalty box all night is a shocker. Wade Redden, not Neil, got into a pair of fights in the overtime win.
Analysis: Neil will earn his fair share of major penalties and game misconducts, so don't you worry. He remains a solid play in most Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Chris Neil, Dean McAmmond and Jason Spezza scored goals 1:16 apart early in the third period, leading the Ottawa Senators to a 5-2 win over the New York Islanders on Thursday night.
Analysis: Neil also had a plus-2 rating in just 9:49 of ice time. His Fantasy value remains limited to the largest of Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Chris Neil has picked up just one assist over the past nine games. To make matters worse for his Fantasy owners, he has just nine penalty minutes in the past eight contests.
Analysis: Neil is normally a highly-coveted player for his mix of scoring and PIM, but lately he is doing little of both. Keep him reserved in all but the largest of Fantasy leagues until he starts scoring or punching someone.
News: Chris Neil has gone 18 straight games without a goal, last lighting the lamp on Dec. 12 at Detroit. He has just three assists and a minus-2 rating during the uneventful stretch.
Analysis: Neil has even stopped producing in the only category he can be relied on and that is penalty minutes. He has just three minor penalties over the past eight games. Reserve him in all Fantasy leagues until he gets back on track.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil, who leads the NHL in hits, delivered one that upset a couple of Thrashers Monday. Moments after drilling Vitaly Vishnevski into the end boards, Neil was crosschecked into the post by Vishnevski, and then, a few moments after that, he was charged at by Atlanta star Ilya Kovalchuk. The Senators couldn't take advantage of the power play they received when Kovalchuk was in the box.
Analysis: Neil is up to 80 penalty minutes on the season and is most useful in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for PIM. Outside of that, he is considered a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward in most leagues.
News: Chris Neil was scoreless in Tuesday's game at N.Y. Islanders, his third straight game without a point.
Analysis: Neil remains a solid Fantasy starter in most leagues, especially those which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Chris Neil has posted six goals and 11 points with a plus-7 rating and 20 penalty minutes over the past 11 games.
Analysis: Neil is a must-start in all Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: The Ottawa Citizen reports coach Bryan Murray will use Mike Fisher with wings Chris Neil and Peter Schaefer on the third line starting with Wednesday's game at Atlanta.
Analysis: Neil has two goals, five points and a team-high 34 penalty minutes through 13 games. In fact, Neil has just as many goals of any of the players on the unit and he is mostly known for his fist play than deft scoring touch.
News: Senators RW Chris Neil (undisclosed injury) did play Saturday against the Hurricanes. He logged 14;35 of ice time, taking one shot and finishing with an even rating.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Neil back in your Fantasy lineup. Neil is a great Fantasy player if your league rewards heavily for penalty minutes.
News: Senators right wing Chris Neil had to be helped off the ice after he was injured while falling behind the net as he set up Tom Preissing's goal with 8.4 seconds remaining in Tuesday's game at Montreal.
Analysis: Neil is considered day to day with an undisclosed injury. He said after the game that he felt fine.
News: Chris Neil and Antoine Vermette each had a goal and assist in Tuesday's win at Toronto.
Analysis: Vermette had just one assist in the first six games, but he has posted three goals and four points in the past two. Neil had just one point (1 G) in the first six games, but he has managed three points (1 G, 2 A) in the past two starts.
News: Chris Neil scored a goal, had a plus-1 rating and picked up four penalty minutes in 9:46 of ice time in Wednesday's regular season opener at Toronto.
Analysis: Fantasy owners might have loved the penalty minutes, but coach Bryan Murray is likely not too pleased with the two undisciplined penalties which gave the Maple Leafs a pair of power plays.
News: The Ottawa Citizen reports veteran Dean McAmmond will center a third line consisting of tough guy Chris Neil and up-and-comer Antoine Vermette.
Analysis: Neil has the most Fantasy value, mostly due to his penchant for racking up penalty minutes. McAmmond and Vermette are worth a look in larger formats, but their value will likely be primarily in the plus/minus category in Roto leagues.
News: Chris Neil has posted 12 goals, 14 assists and a plus-9 rating through 53 games at the Olympic Games break. He also leads the Senators with 141 penalty minutes.
Analysis: Neil has emerged as a must-start Fantasy performer in all leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes, because unlike most goons, he also produces solid offensive totals.
News: Neil (back) was able to play in Monday's game at Minnesota. He was scoreless with an even rating in 11:47 of ice time with two shots on goal.
Analysis: Despite the scoreless game, it appears safe to get Neil back into the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues.
News: The Ottawa Sun reports Neil is probable for Monday's game at Minnesota due to a sore back.
Analysis: If he is able to play, he is expected to skate with Mike Fisher and Dany Heatley. He has posted 12 goals, 22 points and 98 penalty minutes this season and is a great addition in leagues which reward PIM.
News: Chris Neil had an assist and a plus-1 rating in Wednesday's game at Washington.
Analysis: After an 11-game scoreless stretch, Neil has points in each of his past two games. He is only worth Fantasy consideration in larger leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Neil (personal) was back in the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Canadiens. He picked up an assist in 11:54 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Neil back into the active Fantasy lineup in all larger leagues.
News: Neil (flu) returned to the lineup for Tuesday's game against St. Louis. He was scoreless and a minus-1 in 9:37 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Neil back into the active lineup in larger Fantasy leagues which reward PIM.
News: Neil left Thursday's game with a right leg injury. The Toronto Star reports that he will be re-evaluated on Friday. Neil is only useful in leagues that reward penalty minutes.
Analysis:
News: Neil recovered from a hand injury in time to play Tuesday in Buffalo. He was scoreless in the game. Neil is only a useful Fantasy starter in larger leagues that reward penalty minutes.
Analysis:
News: Neil returned from a leg injury Tuesday against the Islanders. He was scoreless in the game, but had two penalty minutes. If you need help in the PIM category, Neil might be worth a pickup in a deeper league, but wait and see if he is still producing useful stats in that category before you consider activating him.
Analysis:
News: Neil (fibula) might return Tuesday in New York against the Islanders. "I want to get out there and play, but if they decide they don't want me to play, then I'll work hard to get into the lineup Thursday (against Florida)," he told the Ottawa Sun. "I know that they want to be cautious with this and they don't want to rush me back." Neil is only worth adding to a Fantasy roster if your league rewards penalty minutes, and it's more recommended you wait and see how he performs in his first few games back.
Analysis:
News: Neil (broken left fibula) skated Sunday, according to the Ottawa Citizen. He is likely to return Tuesday in New York against the Islanders. Neil might be worth picking up as a reserve in a Fantasy league that rewards penalty minutes, but don't activate him for this week.
Analysis:
News: Neil (broken left fibula) is expected to be ready for Saturday's game. "We'll see how he is (Friday)," Senators coach Jacques Martin told the Ottawa Citizen. "But he's maybe the closest of the three (Petr Schastlivy and Martin Havlat are also battling injuries). With him staying home, he was able to get two good skates in with (video coach) Randy Lee, so he's pretty close." Neil might not play regularly once healthy, but he'll have some value in leagues that reward penalty minutes. Consider stashing him on your reserve list.
Analysis:
News: Neil (broken leg) returned to practice on Monday. However, he remains about 10 days to two weeks from returning to the lineup. Neil might be a useful pickup in Fantasy leagues that reward penalty minutes, but only once he is officially activated.
Analysis:
News: Neil (broken fibula) is making a slow recovery. The Ottawa Citizen reports that he was scheduled to undergo another X-ray Monday, but will not be cleared to play for at least another two weeks. Neil might be useful in leagues that reward penalty minutes once healthy, but he's not worth wasting a roster spot on until he officially returns.
Analysis:
News: Neil (broken fibula) is likely out another two weeks. The Ottawa Citizen reports that he tested the injury on Monday. Neil might warrant a little Fantasy attention in leagues that reward penalty minutes, but he's not worth adding to your roster until he officially returns.
Analysis:
News: Neil (broken leg) will resume skating Monday. The Ottawa Citizen reports that he had additional X-rays taken Friday, but the team is unlikely to rush him back, meaning he is unlikely to return before the first week of November. "The doctors are saying I'm maybe two to three weeks ahead of schedule, but it all depends how I feel out there (on the ice)," said Neil. "It just feels like a sprained ankle right now. It's amazing what you can do with treatment. The break has healed just fine. It's just the ligaments right now." Neil might be worth adding to a Fantasy roster in leagues that reward penalty minues once he's healthy.
Analysis:
News: Neil suffered a broken left leg on Saturday and is out at least six weeks. Neil led all NHL rookies with 231 penalty minutes last season.
Analysis:
