News: The Penguins have re-assigned Jason Williams to AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, the team's official site reports.
Analysis:Jason Williams, who has two points in eight NHL games this season for Pittsburgh, could be back at some point down the road when the Penguins are looking for some depth up front.
News: The Penguins recalled Jason Williams from Wilkes-Barre on Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis:Jason Williams may see time on the Irish line with Steve Sullivan and Cal O'Reilly, though Colin McDonald is expected to get first crack. The forward has seven goals and 31 points in 35 games for the Baby Pens, but has yet to get a real opportunity with Pittsburgh -- this may be his best opportunity.
News: The Penguins recalled Jason Williams from AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton on Friday, according to the team's official Twitter page.
Analysis:Jason Williams appeared in seven games with the Penguins earlier this season and picked up a goal and an assist. He will add some depth with Arron Asham sidelined due to concussion symptoms.
News: The Pens demoted Jason Williams to the AHL on Friday, according to the Pens' Web site.
Analysis: He was brought up to help out on the second unit power play and really did show much in limited time. Jason Williams collected a goal and an assist in seven games for Pittsburgh.
News: The Penguins recalled Jason Williams from AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton on Saturday, according to the team's official website.
Analysis:Jason Williams totaled 17 points (3G, 14A) in 17 AHL games. He also appeared in two games with the Penguins earlier this season but did not record a point. Williams will provide depth up front with several Penguins wingers banged up.
News:Jason Williams was sent back to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre of the AHL, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis:Jason Williams was called up to replace Jordan Staal in Saturday's 6-3 win over the Islanders, but is now back with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. He's had a solid season in the AHL thus far, scoring 17 points.
News:Jason Williams will be called up by the Pens for Saturday's game against the Islanders, Sam Kasan of the Penguins' official site reports.
Analysis: He'll replace Jordan Staal in the lineup, although it's unclear which line Jason Williams will be assigned to. Williams will be making his debut with the Pens after racking up 17 points (3 G, 14 A) with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre this season.
News:Jason Williams (groin) has been placed on waivers and will be sent to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre if he clears, the Pens' official site reports.
Analysis: This was the plan all along as he's a bit behind from the groin injury he suffered in late September.
News:Jason Williams (groin) will miss yet another game Friday, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: "Jason Williams is rehabbing his injury right now and won't be on the ice," Pens coach Dan Bylsma said. Williams was hoping to get some preseason action in but will likely open the season playing for AHL Wilkes-Barre.
News:Jason Williams (groin) is unlikely to play Saturday afternoon against the Wild, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Analysis:Jason Williams was thought to be a potential reserve option as a point man on the power play. "I talked to Dan before I signed," he said. "I just thought there would be a good opportunity here. Playing on the point of the power play is something I really thrive on doing." His chances of breaking camp with the team lessen by the day while he sits with a sore groin.
News:Jason Williams will sit out Thursday's game with a sore groin, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: This comes as a blow to Jason Williams' chances of making the team out of camp. Most likely, he'll start the year in the AHL and wait for an untimely injury or two to strike the Pens.
News: Pens coach Dan Bylsma is excited at the possibility of Williams fitting in with the talent on Pittsburgh's team, according to the Penguins' Web site.
Analysis: "Williams is also a guy who has shown he can play with some skilled players," Bylsma said. "He has shown he can play the point on the power play and shown he can add some offensive ability throughout a good lineup. That's something he's going to get a real chance to do in training camp." Williams will get a chance to help the Pens out an underachieving power play.
News: Williams signed a one-year, $600,000 deal with the Penguins on Tuesday, according to USA Today.
Analysis: Williams will be 31 in a couple weeks and hasn't hit the 40-point mark since 2005-06, so this is a fill-in signing for the Penguins. This will be Williams' sixth NHL team and assuming he makes the final roster he'll probably end up as a wing on the third or fourth line, giving the Pens a little more depth after losing some wings to offseason departures.
News: Williams pocketed his first goal of the season Saturday, scoring the game-winner in the third frame as the Stars purloined a win at San Jose.
Analysis: We'll go out on a limb and predict that this first goal will not have a lot of little brothers and sisters the rest of the way. It's unlikely that Williams has any real fantasy value in your league.
News: Williams agreed to a two-way contract with the Stars on Saturday for the remainder of the season, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Williams brings Stanley Cup experience to the Stars, but he hasn't played in the NHL since last season. He has played 17 AHL games this year, however, recording four goals and five assists. The Stars expect him to practice Saturday and be available for Sunday's game against Columbus.
News: Red Wings RW Jason Williams scored a goal during Thursday's game against the Sharks. Williams tied it at 2, with 7:05 left. He beat Evgeni Nabokov with a wrist shot from the right faceoff dot. It wasn't originally called a goal. But after play was halted 12 seconds later, video review showed the puck went in and out under the crossbar. It was Williams' fourth goal.
Analysis: Williams has scored twice in seven games since returning from a broken leg. Unfortunately, he doesn't have any other points in that span. It's easy to say Williams has been a let down in Fantasy the last few seasons since we know he has the ability to put up big numbers. He continues to be a low-end Fantasy flier.
News: Red Wings RW Jason Williams, playing for the first time since breaking his right leg Nov. 7, scored on a power play with 1:33 left in the first period Friday against the Predators.
Analysis: Williams has three goals and eight points in 16 games. The Red Wings are desperate for a reliable scoring presence and hope Williams can be a guy that helps them down the stretch. He is more of a low-end Fantasy flier, but is definitely a player to watch.
News: The Detroit Red Wings have taken forward Jason Williams off injured reserve and sent Justin Abdelkader to the minors. Detroit coach Mike Babcock announced the moves before Friday's game against Nashville.
Analysis: Williams hasn't played since breaking his right leg Nov. 7 at Toronto. He had two goals and seven points in 15 games before being injured. The Red Wings are desperate for a reliable scoring presence and hope Williams can be a guy that helps them down the stretch. He is more of a low-end Fantasy flier, but is definitely a player to watch.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Red Wings RW Jason Williams (broken ankle) will probably will be ready to play Friday against Nashville. Williams has been out since Nov. 7.
Analysis: Williams had seven points in 15 games before getting hurt, but did put up 58 points in his previous full season with the Red Wings back in 2005-06. Hopefully he can stay healthy the rest of the way and claw his way back to be worth using in the majority of leagues. For now, just worry about him in deeper formats.
News: The Detroit News reports that Red Wings RW Jason Williams (ankle) is skating on his own in full pads at practice.
Analysis: Williams probably won't be back in Fantasy Week 15 (Jan. 11-17), but he's definitely getting closer to a recovery. Continue to stash him away in deeper leagues until he's back in action.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Red Wings RW Jason Williams has had the cast removed from his broken ankle.
Analysis: When healthy, Williams is a 20-goal threat, but he remains more of a Fantasy sleeper for deeper formats. Continue to stash him in deeper leagues for at least another few weeks.
News: The Detroit News reports that Red Wings RW Jason Williams has a new cast on his broken ankle. "I'm hoping to be back sometime in mid-January at the latest," Williams said. "I'm drinking as much milk as possible."
Analysis: Williams' injury came at an awful time for him and his Fantasy owners, as he was in line for more playing time with Johan Franzen out. When healthy, Williams is a 20-goal threat, but he remains more of a Fantasy sleeper for deeper formats.
News: Red Wings RW Jason Williams broke his ankle Saturday when he fell awkwardly by the end boards in a loss to the Maple Leafs. Williams is expected to miss 6-8 weeks.
Analysis: Man, Detroit just can't seem to get -- pardon the pun -- a break lately. They are now down three solid forwards in Williams, Johan Franzen and Valtteri Filppula. Williams, who missed only two games last season, had seven points in 14 games before this injury and certainly has some value in deeper leagues as a guy capable of putting close to 50 points when healthy. Stash him away for a while if you have the room.
News: Red Wings RW Jason Williams scored a goal during Saturday's 3-2 win against the Capitals. Williams' power-play goal with 3:34 left in the second period gave Detroit a 2-1 lead. He beat Jose Theodore with a slap shot from just above the right circle.
Analysis: Williams has one goal and two assists during a three-game point streak. Williams has the opportunity to make some noise in Detroit now that Johan Franzen is out with a knee injury. Williams is a 20-goal threat, but remains more of a Fantasy sleeper for deeper formats.
News: Forward Jason Williams is returning to Detroit. The Red Wings announced Thursday that Williams has signed a one-year contract. Other terms were not disclosed. The signing comes days after Detroit inked free-agent right winger Patrick Eaves to a one-year deal.
Analysis: The 28-year-old free agent played 233 games with the club between the 2000-2001 season and the 2006-2007 season, posting 49 goals and 67 assists. The native of London, Ontario, last season played with the Atlanta Thrashers and Columbus Blue Jackets. He also has played for the Chicago Blackhawks. In 376 career NHL games, Williams has 205 points with 85 goals and 120 assists. It's very interesting to see Detroit sign Williams since they said all along they probably couldn't sign him due to money issues. It seems all worked out in the end. Williams had some of his finest seasons with the Red Wings and it's going to help him being on a contender. Williams is definitely a Fantasy sleeper Draft Day. Detroit has to make up for the losses of Marian Hossa, Mikael Samuelsson and Jiri Hudler.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Red Wings have a need for a goal-scorer and have a history of bringing back former players. That could prompt them to sight right wing Jason Williams, who is contemplating their offer of a one-year contract. The Wings are in the market for a goal-scoring winger after losing Marian Hossa, Mikael Samuelsson and Jiri Hudler. Williams (5-foot-11, 185) appeals to the Wings because of his scoring touch, his right-handed shot (they have few right-handers) and his ability to play the point on the power play. Despite his offensive skills, he tends to stay on the perimeter, lacks grit and can be a defensive liability. That is why Detroit dealt him to Chicago the day before the 2007 trade deadline in a three-team swap with Philadelphia that landed the Wings forward Kyle Calder.
Analysis: Williams, who had a career-high 21 goals and 37 assists for the Wings in 2005-06, lasted less than 1 1/2 seasons with the Blackhawks before signing as a free agent with Atlanta in 2008. The Thrashers dealt him to Columbus midway through last season. Williams, who turns 29 on Aug. 11, had 19 goals, 28 assists and a minus-4 rating in 80 games between Atlanta and Columbus last season, when he earned $2.2 million. He did his best work with the Jackets, totaling 29 points in 39 games. Wings general manager Ken Holland said he possibly can spend between $2 million and $3 million but would prefer not to use it all on one player. Williams really loved the move to Columbus because he was being underutilized with the Thrashers and wouldn't mind returning. But it is unlikely since the Jackets don't have the room. Some team will likely invite Williams to training camp, but we just don't know who? Williams remains a risky Fantasy flier until he signs with a team. However, he is a 20-goal threat when active in the NHL.
News:The Sports Xchange reports forward Jason Williams, who had 29 points in 39 games with the Blue Jackets last season after a trade from Atlanta, is likely to move along in free agency. "I've told everybody who asked me that I loved my time in Columbus, loved the organization, was treated great by the fans," he said. "I'd love to go back, but I understand the situation. Their hands are kind of tied in terms of what they want to do."
Analysis: Williams really loved the move to Columbus because he was being underutilized with the Thrashers. He always seems to do better on a contender, similar to that of Mathieu Schneider. Some team will likely invite Williams to training camp, but we just don't know who? Williams remains a risky Fantasy flier until he signs with a team. However, he is a 20-goal threat when active in the NHL.
News: Blue Jackets RW Jason Williams had his six-game point streak end Sunday against the Blackhawks after failing to record a point in 15:58 of ice time. Williams had three goals and five assists in that span.
Analysis: Williams had a season-high 14 points in March and his season really didn't come to life until he left Atlanta. Williams has found a home with a contender like Columbus and that has made him a viable low-end Fantasy forward once again.
News: Columbus RW Jason Williams scored two goals in Thursday's 5-0 win over the Flames. Both of the goals came on power play opportunities. He now has 41 points on the season with 17 goals and 24 assists.
Analysis: Williams has six points in his last seven games including three goals and three assists. He is only barely worth using as a flier in deeper leagues, but not much more.
News: Blue Jackets RW Jason Williams scored and assisted in Saturday's rout of the Red Wings.
Analysis: Williams has 11 points in his last 16 games, which is a great pace for a guy who only has 34 on the season. He's worth using as a flier in deeper leagues right now, but nothing more.
News: Blue Jackets RW Jason Williams scored a goal during Thursday's 4-2 loss to the Predators. Williams scored on a backhander past Pekka Rinne at 11:43 of the second period, and then was denied a second goal on a beautiful stop by Rinne. One of his best saves came during the 5-on-3 after a rebound deflected out to Williams, and he shot just inside the post and was stopped by Rinne's stick. A review came with six seconds left in the 5-on-3 with the no-goal ruling upheld after a closer look.
Analysis: Williams has six goals and eight assists in 22 games since being acquired in a trade from Atlanta. He is doing much better in a Blue Jackets' uniform, but Williams still hasn't taken that step toward elite status. Continue to view him as a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Columbus RW Jason Williams scored with 6:55 to go to give the Blue Jackets a 3-2 victory over Detroit on Friday night, ending the Stanley Cup champion Red Wings' winning streak at six games. Williams, the former Detroit player acquired in a trade with Atlanta on Jan. 15, scored in his third straight game to help the Blue Jackets win their third in a row - all over teams ahead of them in the Western Conference playoff race.
Analysis: Why not make it three straight games with a goal? Williams now has eight points in 12 games since coming from Detroit to Columbus, obviously invigorated by the move. He is playing well now, but is only a low-end option as this roll likely won't last.
News:Andrew Murray, Jason Williams and Fredrik Modin scored third-period goals during Columbus' 3-0 win Tuesday against the Avalanche. Williams, skating in on a 3-on-1 rush after defenseman John-Michael Liles missed a check at center ice on Jakub Voracek, sneaked a shot from the right dot between Peter Budaj's pads for his 11th and a 2-0 Blue Jackets lead at 9:43. "He (Voracek) almost got killed coming through the middle," said Williams, who also finished at plus-2. "I just picked up the puck after he put it to the side and just sort of went down. I tried to give the goalie a fake and get it on net."
Analysis: Williams has scored in his last two games and has seven points in 11 games since joining the Blue Jackets. He has found himself a much better fit in Columbus after struggling in Atlanta. Still, Williams remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Blue Jackets RW Jason Williams scored a goal, tallied an assist and finished at plus-2 during Tuesday's game against the Oilers. Columbus took its first lead of the game with five minutes to play in the second period, when Williams took a shot from in tight that Dwayne Roloson waved at with his glove. Williams has two goals, one assist and a plus-2 rating in his first three games with Columbus.
Analysis: Williams didn't show this much firepower with the Thrashers earlier this season, but he just seems to fit better into Ken Hitchcock's scheme. Williams is playing for his next contract and will be motivated for a big second half. Consider him a low-end Fantasy flier in larger formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the long-rumored trade finally went down for the Blue Jackets. The Jackets acquired Jason Williams from the Atlanta Thrashers for minor-league defenseman Clay Wilson and a sixth-round draft pick, a move they hope will solve both their need at center and on the power-play point. Williams made his Blue Jackets debut in Friday's game vs. the New Jersey Devils, playing on a line with Craig MacDonald and Derek Dorsett. He was also on the No. 1 power-play unit, with defenseman Kris Russell. "I feel like it's a fresh start," Williams said. "I'm with a team now that's right in the middle of the playoffs, and hopefully I can help the cause a little bit."
Analysis: Williams signed a one-year contract worth $2.2 million with Atlanta this summer, but failed to deliver a consistent offensive presence. Perhaps the change of scenery will do him well. Williams is headed for free agency again after the season, so he should be motivated for a big second half. Still, he has low-end Fantasy value.
News: The Blue Jackets have acquired C Jason Williams from the Atlanta Thrashers for defenseman Clay Wilson and their sixth-round pick in the 2009 draft. Columbus General Manager Scott Howson announced the trade Wednesday. The Blue Jackets had received the sixth-round pick a year ago when they traded Jody Shelley to San Jose. The 28-year-old Ontario native has played 337 games in the NHL for Atlanta, Chicago and Detroit.
Analysis: Williams has seven goals and 11 assists in 41 games with Atlanta this season. He remains a low-end option unless a change of scenery changes his ability to put up points.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Thrashers C Jason Williams continued his scoring woes -- he has just one goal in the last 14 games after not lighting the lamp Saturday against the Bruins. In Saturday's loss, Williams managed just one shot. The only notable statistic for Williams: He won 8 of 13 faceoffs.
Analysis: Williams has just one 20-goal season in his career and his injury has really been sidetracked because of injury. He does better when he is on a top contender, so Williams remains a low-end Fantasy option for deeper leagues.
News: Thrashers RW Jason Williams completed a fine week Sunday with a goal and an assist in a win over the Hurricanes. Williams had four goals and an assist in Fantasy Week 5 (Nov. 3-9).
Analysis: Williams has 10 points in 15 games this season, which puts him on pace to get close to the career-high 58 points he managed in 2005-06. Give him a look in deeper formats and start him if he stays this productive.
News: Thrashers RW Jason Williams scored two goals in Friday's game at Buffalo, giving him goals in his last two games. He attempted seven shots in 18 minutes of ice time.
Analysis: Jason Williams continues to thrive as part of the first line and has emerged as a quality pickup off the waiver wire. Give him a look in deeper formats and start him if he stays this productive.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that the Thrashers have made some switches in their lines after losing 7-0 to Philadelphia on Tuesday. The first line will feature Ilya Kovalchuk, Erik Christensen and Jason Williams, while the second line will be Slava Kozlov, Todd White and Bryan Little.
Analysis: Williams gets the biggest boost in Fantasy value, as he had been languishing on the third line. He remains a low-end Fantasy option, but someone worth keeping an eye on. Christensen also gets a boost as he will now play alongside Kovalchuk, who remains a must-start Fantasy forward. Christensen, meanwhile, is still only worth starting in the largest of leagues. White and Little both drop off the top line, which drops their value slightly. Little remains a nice sleeper option in most leagues, while White is only worth owning in bigger formats. Kozlov's value remains the same.
News: Thrashers RW Jason Williams scored a goal during Saturday's 5-4 loss to the Thrashers. Atlanta moved ahead 1-0 on Williams' power-play goal with 4:57 left in the opening period when he banged a rebound behind goalie Manny Fernandez from the edge of the crease. It was his first goal since Oct. 11.
Analysis: Williams has two points in his last two games after not getting any in his previous four. He has yet to have a multi-point game with his new team. Williams should give Atlanta's power play a boost this season, but he still remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: RW Jason Williams, signed as a free agent by Atlanta during the offseason, picked up his first goal as a Thrasher in Saturday's loss to Florida. Atlanta trailed 2-1 before Williams tied it at 16:57 of the second period. He tipped in Ron Hainsey's long pass from the point after Jim Slater won the faceoff. Williams picked up an assist in his Atlanta debut a night earlier.
Analysis: The Thrashers signed Williams late in the offseason to give them some offensive punch alongside Ilya Kovalchuk and he has done just that two games into his Atlanta career. Williams should also give Atlanta's power play a boost since he has 22 power-play goals in his seven-year career. If healthy, he could be a nice Fantasy option at times.
News:The Sports Xchange reports RW Jason Williams joined Atlanta during the offseason after netting 13 goals in just 43 games with Chicago last season. If he can remain healthy (he missed 39 games with a groin injury), expect the 27-year-old to add some offensive punch.
Analysis: Williams should also give Atlanta's power play a boost since he has 22 power-play goals in his seven-year career. He could see time on the team's top line eventually, but consider Williams more of a low-end Fantasy forward to open the season.
News: Free agent RW Jason Williams, who scored 13 goals for Chicago last year despite missing nearly half the season with an injury, signed Monday with the Atlanta Thrashers.
Analysis: The 27-year-old right wing also had 23 assists in 43 games for the Blackhawks last season. He missed 39 games after injuring his groin, then having surgery for a sports hernia. Williams has 66 goals and 158 points in 296 career games with Chicago and Detroit. Consider him a nice low-end starting Fantasy forward in deeper formats heading in to 2008-09.
News: Blackhawks Jason Williams had a goal and an assist in Tuesday's 4-2 win over the Wild and now has six points in his last three games. The goal came on a bit of a lucky play when Williams' centering pass ricocheted off Minnesota's Eric Belanger and past a surprised Niklas Backstrom.
Analysis: If Williams hadn't got hurt earlier this season, who knows how many points the former Red Wing could have put up. He has 28 in 27 games this season, a year after getting 32 in 78 games. While his ownership percentage might be low, he could be a very useful starting Fantasy forward down the stretch in deeper leagues.
News: Blackhawks RW Jason Williams tallied two assists and finished at even during Sunday's game against the Canucks. He extended his points streak to five games. He has two goals and five assists in that span.
Analysis: Williams now has at least one point in five of six games since returning from a groin injury that kept him out 35 games. He now has 26 points in 26 games this season. Chicago must be pretty pleased as it appears Williams is getting back on track. Consider Williams a solid high-end Fantasy forward when healthy.
News:Jason Williams scored the noly goal the Chicago Blackhawks needed to beat the Phoenix Coyotes 1-0 on Wednesday night. Patrick Lalime did the rest of the work to earnt eh shutout. Williams scored 7:58 into the game when he deflected in a cross-ice feed from Dave Bolland. The puck slipped past Bryzgalov after also deflecting off the skate of Phoenix forward Joel Perrault.
Analysis: The goal was the second for Williams in four games after he missed 35 due to a groin injury and sports hernia surgery. Chicago must be pretty pleased as it appears Williams is getting back on track. He has points in three straight games and in five of six. Consider Williams a solid high-end Fantasy forward when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Blackhawks RW Jason Williams was again on the second line against the Kings Saturday, his second game back after hernia surgery. Both Williams and coach Denis Savard had doubts Williams could play back-to-back games. Savard said he might drop Williams to the fourth line and use him primarily on the power play in Sunday's game at Anaheim.
Analysis: The Blackhawks are just being a little cautious with Williams so he doesn't land back on IR. He scored a goal Saturday against the Kings and that is a great sign he is getting back on track. Consider Williams a solid high-end Fantasy forward when healthy. He has 20 points in 22 games this season.
News: Blackhawks C Jason Williams returned after missing 35 games following a groin injury and sports hernia surgery. Williams played 13:32 minutes for 19 shifts and took one shot on goal in Chicago's 3-0 win over Minnesota on Wednesday.
Analysis: Williams originally tried to return in January before opting for surgery. He said the hernia procedure has been a blessing in disguise. Williams recorded 19 points in 20 games before exiting the lineup. He was a key part of the power play with five of his seven scores coming with the man advantage. He will be thrust back onto the power-play unit as soon as he is healthy, but should only be used in the deepest of formats as a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports Blackhawks coach Denis Savard said Tuesday that RW Jason Williams will return to action Wednesday night against the Wild after missing more than two months with a groin/hernia issue.
Analysis: Williams originally tried to return in January before opting for surgery. He said the hernia procedure has been a blessing in disguise. Williams recorded 19 points in 20 games before exiting the lineup. He was a key part of the power play with five of his seven scores coming on the man advantage. He will be thrust back onto the power-play unit as soon as he is healthy, but should only be used in the deepest of formats as a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Blackhawks RW Jason Williams (groin) did not come off injured reserve Tuesday against the Blues. He has not played since late November, but is skating with the team and is expected to return within the week.
Analysis: Williams has been on IR since Dec. 6 with what he thought was a groin injury. He tried to return in January before opting for surgery. He said the hernia procedure has been a blessing in disguise. Williams recorded 19 points in 20 games before exiting the lineup. He was a key part of the power play with five of his seven scores coming on the man advantage. He will be thrust back onto the power-play unit as soon as he is healthy.
News: Injured Chicago forwards Jason Williams (sports hernia surgery) and Ben Eager (concussion) were both out Sunday against the Avalanche, but are expected to return within a week.
Analysis: Williams has been on IR since Dec. 6 with what he thought was a groin injury. He tried to return in January before opting for surgery. He said the hernia procedure has been a blessing in disguise. Williams recorded 19 points in 20 games before exiting the lineup. He was a key part of the power play with five of his seven scores coming on the man advantage. He will be thrust back onto the power-play unit as soon as he is healthy. Consider him an injury-risk start for Fantasy Week 21 (Feb. 18-24).
News:The Sports Xchange reports Jack Skille and Jason Williams, rehabbing from hernia surgery, were the Blackhawks other scratches against Columbus Wednesday. Coach Denis Savard said Williams has a "slim chance" of returning to the lineup for Sunday's home game against Colorado.
Analysis: Williams has been on IR since Dec. 6 with what he thought was a groin injury. He tried to return in January before opting for surgery. He said the hernia procedure has been a blessing in disguise. Williams recorded 19 points in 20 games before exiting the lineup. He was a key part of the power play with five of his seven scores coming on the man advantage. He will be thrust back onto the power-play unit as soon as he is healthy, and now is the time for Fantasy owners to take a flier on Williams. He could have a huge impact down the stretch. He is on the verge of returning.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times is reporting that injured Blackhawks RW Jason Williams, recovering from hernia surgery, began skating with the team Friday. Williams, who has not played since Nov. 28, is targeting his return for Sunday against the Avalanche. "(Hawks assistant trainer) Jeff Thomas thought I could come back then," Williams said. "I'll need a good week and a half skating with the team and getting into some kind of practice mode. I'll need to take some kind of contact and see how I react to that."
Analysis: Williams has been on IR since Dec. 6 with what he thought was a groin injury. He tried to return in January before opting for surgery. He said the hernia procedure has been a blessing in disguise. "It went well; I didn't expect (to be skating) this early," he said. "I'm trying not to push too much. I don't want any setbacks, but I do see some light at the end of the tunnel." Williams recorded 19 points in 20 games before exiting the lineup. He was a key part of the power play with five of his seven scores coming on the man advantage. He will be thrust back onto the power-play unit as soon as he is healthy, and now is the time for Fantasy owners to take a flier on Williams. He could have a huge impact down the stretch.
News: Chicago Blackhawks forward Jason Williams will be out at least six weeks after surgery Friday to repair a sports hernia. Williams scored seven goals, including two game-winning shotsm this season.
Analysis: Williams last played Nov. 28, getting an assist in the Blackhawks' 5-1 defeat over the Tampa Bay Lightning before injuring his groin. He has appeared in 20 games, earning 12 assists for 19 points. The groin injury has put a real damper on a nice start to the season for Williams. He is a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Blakchawks RW Jason Williams has resumed skating. Williams has been out of the lineup since Nov. 28 because of a groin injury.
Analysis: The groin injury has put a real damper on a nice start to the season for Williams. He is a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: The Blackhawks were hoping to have Jason Williams (groin) back in the lineup Sunday against the Red Wings, but the seventh-year forward was unable to come off IR and play against his former team. He has been out of the lineup since Nov. 28 because of a groin injury.
Analysis: The groin injury has put a real damper on a nice start to the season for Williams. He is a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy. Head coach Denis Savard believes Williams will be back in the coming weeks, but keep him reserved for Fantasy Week 15 (Jan. 7-13) at this juncture.
News: Chicago coach Denis Savard also said veteran winger Jason Williams might play when the Hawks return home for Sunday night's game against the Detroit Red Wings at the United Center. Williams has missed 17 of the last 18 games with a groin injury.
Analysis: The groin injury has put a real damper on a nice start to the season for Williams. He is a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy, so keep an eye on his situation Sunday and start him in Fantasy Week 14 (Jan. 7-13) if he plays a decent amount of minutes.
News: Blackhawks C Jason Williams missed his fourth straight game Friday against the Ducks and eighth in the last nine with a nagging groin injury. The team said he is out indefinitely.
Analysis: The groin injury has put a real damper on a nice start to the season for Williams. He is a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy, but that seems to be a problem at this time.
News: Blackhawks C Jason Williams missed his third straight game Wednesday against the Canucks and seventh in the last eight with a groin injury.
Analysis: Williams has one goal and six assists in his last six games. He is a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy, but that seems to be a problem at this time.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Blackhawks C Jason Williams' lingering groin injury has flared up again. He was held out of the Phoenix game on Friday, and although he's listed as day to day, his return to the lineup is uncertain. He did not play Saturday against the Blues.
Analysis: Williams thought he survived a scare Wednesday against the Lightning when he was able to return after leaving the game in the second period. How wrong he was. He has one goal and six assists in his last six games. Williams is looking more like the player who tallied 58 points in his breakout season with the Red Wings in 2005-06 and not like the guy who reverted to 32 points in his first season with Chicago last year. He is a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy, but that seems to be a problem at this time. Consider him an injury-risk start for Fantasy Week 10 (Dec. 3-9).
News: Chicago center Jason Williams left Wednesday's game late in the second period after being high-sticked in the face by Tampa Bay's Paul Ranger, but returned. Williams had missed the Blackhawks' previous four contests with a groin injury. Williams had an assist and finished at plus-2 in 17:25 of ice time.
Analysis: Williams survived quite a scare Wednesday and almost had to miss even more time. That would have put a real black mark on such a fine start to the season. He now has one goal and six assists in his last six games. Williams is looking more like the player who tallied 58 points in his breakout season with the Red Wings in 2005-06 and not like the guy who reverted to 32 points in his first season with Chicago last year. He is a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Blackhawks RW Jason Williams (groin) did not return to action Sunday against the Canucks. He is still considered day to day. Williams has one goal and five assists in his last five games. He has seven goals and 11 assists in 19 games.
Analysis: Williams is looking more like the player who tallied 58 points in his breakout season with the Red Wings in 2005-06 and not like the guy who reverted to 32 points in his first season with Chicago last year. He is a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Blackhawks RW Jason Williams (groin) did not return to action Saturday against the Oilers. He is still considered day to day and questionable for Sunday's game against the Canucks. Williams has one goal and five assists in his last five games. He has seven goals and 11 assists in 19 games.
Analysis: Williams is looking more like the player who tallied 58 points in his breakout season with the Red Wings in 2005-06 and not like the guy who reverted to 32 points in his first season with Chicago last year. He is a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Blackhawks RW Jason Williams (groin) is still considered day to day after missing Thursday's game at Calgary.
Analysis: Williams was enjoying a bounce back season prior to the injury, so it is a shame this latest setback slowed him down. The groin injury doesn't appear to be too serious, but Williams should be reserved in all Fantasy leagues until further notice.
News: Blackhawks C Jason Williams missed Saturday's game against the Red Wings because of a groin injury. Williams has one goal and five assists in his last five games. He has seven goals and 11 assists in 19 games.
Analysis: Williams is looking more like the player who tallied 58 points in his breakout season with the Red Wings in 2005-06 and not like the guy who reverted to 32 points in his first season with Chicago last year. The groin injury doesn't appear to be too serious, but Williams remains an injury-risk start for Fantasy Week 8 (Nov. 19-25). He is a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: F Jason Williams, with a goal and an assist, was the only Hawk with a multiple-point game against Nashville Thursday.
Analysis: Williams has seven goals right now, and he's worth using in all Fantasy leagues as a solid No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: The Sports Xchange notes: F Robert Lang and F Jason Williams each had two assists. Lang also won 7-of-10 faceoffs and Williams led the team with a game-high five shots.
Analysis: Williams has six goals right now, and he's worth using in all Fantasy leagues as a solid No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: C Jason Williams had a game-high six shots against Nashville Sunday.
Analysis: Williams has 45 shots on goal so far this season, which ranks him among the top 30 in the NHL. He has six goals right now, and he's worth using in all Fantasy leagues, since you can't score if you don't shoot! Williams is a solid No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Jason Williams scored his second goal with 20.4 seconds left and the Chicago Blackhawks snapped a nine-game losing streak in Dallas, beating the Stars 5-4 on Wednesday. James Wisniewski fired a long pass to Williams, who fired a wrist shot from the right circle past goalie Mike Smith to give the Blackhawks their first win in Dallas since 2001. Williams tied the game 2:42 earlier. Williams finished with a plus-2 rating.
Analysis: Whatever has gotten into Williams is working. After starting the season without a point in four games, he now has at least one point in seven of his last eight games. He has six goals and six assists in that span. He is already off to a better start in his second year with Chicago. He had a disappointing 32-point effort last season, but is trying to erase that memory. Williams is a solid No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Blackhawks RW Jason Williams connected on a power-play goal during Saturday's 3-2 loss to the Thrashers. He also had one assist and finished with an even rating. Williams has three goals and six assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Williams already has 10 points in 11 games and is already off to a better start in his second year with Chicago. He had a disappointing 32-point effort last season, but is trying to erase that memory. Williams is a low-end Fantasy flier at this time.
News: NHL.com reports Jason Williams has been named as the league's third star for the past week after he managed two goals and six points. The week was highlighted by a four-point performance (1 G, 3 A) in a win at Toronto on Oct. 20.
Analysis: Williams has managed three goals and seven points through eight games. Fantasy owners are starting to take notice, too, as his ownership in CBSSports.com leagues has risen to 31 percent from a mere seven percent last week.
News: Williams (toe) was able to play in Tuesday's game against the Kings despite a broken left big toe. He was scoreless with one shot on goal in 20:03 of ice time.
Analysis: He played more than 20 minutes, so it is safe to say he is healthy enough to be re-inserted into the active Fantasy lineup in all larger leagues.
News: According to Chicagoblackhawks.com, Williams is probable for Tuesday's game against Los Angeles. He suffered a broken left big toe in Sunday's game against Ottawa, but was able to participate in the team's morning skate on Tuesday.
Analysis: Williams remains a solid play in all larger Fantasy leagues unless he suffers some sort of a setback during the game.
News: Blackhawks RW Jason Williams scored two goals against his former team, the Red Wings, in a 6-2 loss Friday. He also finished with a plus-1 rating. Williams now has 13 goals on the season.
Analysis: The Blackhawks got a good player in Williams when they dealt for him at the trade deadline. If he keeps on scoring, his Fantasy value will increase, but for now he is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: LW Kyle Calder, D Lasse Kukkonen and RW Jason Williams were involved in a three-way trade involving the Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings and Philadelphia Flyers. Calder goes to the Red Wings, Kukkonen ends up with the Flyers and Williams moves to the Blackhawks.
Analysis: General manager Ken Holland must see something in Calder that he doesn't see in Williams. We personally think that the Blackhawks are the winner in this three-way deal, as we'd rather have Williams than Calder. However, only time will tell. Fantasy owners have to dislike this trade, as his plus/minus rating will take a dip in the Windy City.
News: Williams posted a goal, assist and an even rating with three shots on goal in 17:12 of ice time in Sunday's game against Calgary.
Analysis: Williams ended an 11-game scoreless drought with the solid peformance. He remains a solid Fantasy option in most leagues despite the poor stretch.
News: Red Wings RW Jason Williams (flu) was able to play Friday against the Blues. He logged 9:34 of ice time and finished with a minus-1 rating.
Analysis: It appears safe to insert Williams back into active Fantasy lineups. When healthy, he is a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: The Detroit Free Press is reporting Williams missed practice on Thursday due to the flu and he is likely a gametime decision for Friday's game against the Blues.
Analysis: If Williams is able to play against St. Louis, keep him in the active lineup for Fantasy Week 19 (Feb. 5-11) in all leagues.
News: Jason Williams has posted nine goals, 23 points and a solid plus-11 rating through 44 games at the All-Star break.
Analysis: Williams has gone scoreless in seven of the past eight games, but he had a two-goal effort against the Blackhawks on Jan. 13 during the stretch. He has the potential to score points in bunches, but can be rather erratic. He remains useful only as a No. 4 or 5 Fantasy forward in most leagues.
News: Williams has managed six goals and 20 points with a plus-11 rating through the first 35 games.
Analysis: Williams has two goals and eight points with a plus-6 rating over the past nine games. He remains a decent No. 4 or 5 Fantasy forward in most leagues.
News: Red Wings RW Jason Williams (leg) returned to action on Saturday against the Sharks. He played for 14:51 and finished with a minus-2 rating.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Williams back into active Fantasy lineup.
News: Red Wings RW Jason Williams (leg) missed Friday's game against the Wild.
Analysis: Williams had just returned from injury before getting injured once again on Monday. He is once again considered day to day. Keep him reserved until further notice.
News: Williams was helped off the ice on Monday as he favored his right leg after a hit by Dallas' Niklas Hagman late in the second period and was diagnosed with a charley horse.
Analysis: Williams was playing his fifth game after missing three following a concussion. He is once again considered day to day.
News: Red Wings RW Jason Williams (concussion) played on Saturday against the Oilers. He was on the ice for 15:23 and finished with a minus-2 rating.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Williams back into your active Fantasy lineup.
News: Red Wings RW Jason Williams (concussion) did not play Friday against the Flames.
Analysis: Continue to keep Williams reserved until he returns to action.
News: The Detroit News reports Jason Williams (concussion, facial lacerations) is out until at least Friday's game at Calgary at the earliest.
Analysis: With Holmstrom nursing an injury and Jason Williams (concussion, facial) out until at least Friday, the team recalled Josh Langfeld from the AHL just as a precaution.
News: Detroit right wing Jason Williams was taken off the ice on a stretcher and left Joe Louis Arena in an ambulance in the second period. After Williams tried to put in a wraparound attempt midway through the period, the Oilers' Raffi Torres leveled him with a hard shoulder check to the face. Williams went flying to the ice and appeared to land face first. He then lay motionless in the corner. Williams had a large cut above his left eye and was secured on the stretcher. He moved his feet while he was being tended to on the ice and waved his hand as he was being taken off the ice. It was announced between the second and third periods that Williams was conscious and doing well and had been taken to Detroit Medical Center for precautionary tests.
Analysis: Williams was having a solid start to the season with three goals and five assists through 15 games. He also had a plus-7 rating. The Red Wings had nothing to say immediately after the game on how long Williams would be out. Daily league players should take Williams out of your lineup immediately and weekly leagues should take him out for the next Fantasy period. Keep him on the bench until he returns to the ice and proves he has fully recovered from his head injury.
News: Jason Williams has averaged a point per game through five starts this season, posting three goals to go along with two assists and a plus-3 rating.
Analysis: Williams is a decent Fantasy option after posting a career-high 58 points in 2005-06. He is a solid No. 3 or 4 wing in all formats.
News: RW Jason Williams had both of Detroit's goals on Friday, but it wasn't enough as the team lost 3-2 to the Sabres in a shootout. He finished with a plus-2 rating in only 16:27 of ice time. Williams now has three goals and two assists through four games.
Analysis: If Williams keeps playing well, the Red Wings might be inclined to give him more time on the ice. He is coming off a breakout season where he posted 58 points, by far his best season in his five-year career. He remains a solid No. 3 or 4 Fantasy wing in all formats.
News: Williams has had a breakout season, scoring 13 goals to go along with 30 assists and a plus-3 rating through 57 games at the Olympic Games break.
Analysis: Williams has already shattered his previous career-high of 13 points set in 2003-04. He is on pace for 19 goals, 43 assists and 62 points. He remains a solid No. 3 or 4 Fantasy wing in all formats.
News: Williams picked up an assist, his fourth in as many games, in Wednesday's contest against the Predators in 14:06 of ice time.
Analysis: Williams has failed to post a goal in 13 straight games, but he continues to produce by way of the assist lately. He remains a top Fantasy forward in most formats despite a bump in the road recently.
News: Williams had an assist and plus-1 rating with two shots on goal in Wednesday's game at Columbus in 15:28 of ice time.
Analysis: Williams entered Wednesday's game with a three-game scoreless streak, which is the longest dry spell of the season.
News: Williams scored a goal in Tuesday's game at Atlanta, but he also was stuck with a minus-3 rating.
Analysis: Williams has 11 points (4 G, 7 A) over the past 10 games. He is owned in 91 percent of SportsLine.com leagues and starting in only 79 percent. If he is still available in your league, consider adding him, as he has been producing at nearly a point per game.
News: Williams scored three goals in Saturday's game at Columbus, his first three times lighting the lamp this season.
Analysis: Williams entered the game with eight assists and no goals. He is getting plenty of ice time from coach Mike Babcock and he taking the bull by the horns. He is a decent No. 4 or 5 Fantasy forward in all leagues right now.
News: The Detroit Free Press is reporting Williams is expected to skate on one of he top two lines with with Red Wings. Coach Mike Babcock plans to use Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg together and Brendan Shanahan and Robert Lang on a line. Williams is expected to serve as the right wing on one of those lines.
Analysis: Williams should see a huge jump in Fantasy value this season, regardless of which line he lands on. As long as he remains on a top two line in Detroit, he is worth adding on Draft Day.
News: Williams (groin) was able to play on Wednesday. He had an assist in 9:18 of ice time.
Analysis: Williams is not a useful Fantasy player in most leagues.
News: Williams (groin) practiced on Sunday but is unlikely to play Monday against Chicago, according to the Detroit News.
Analysis: Reserve Williams for the week in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Detroit will send Williams to Grand Rapids of the AHL on Wednesday. The Detroit Free Press reports that he needs to get in some playing time. Williams has no Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Williams was moved onto a line with Sergei Federov and Brendan Shanahan Sunday in Anaheim, according to the Detroit Free Press. While Williams is not a useful Fantasy player right now, he is worth watching in the next few games, as this line assignment might mean a slight improvement in his point total.
Analysis:
