News:Marian Gaborik (abdomen) underwent successful surgery Thursday, the Columbus Dispatch reports.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik is expected to require three-to-four weeks of recovery time from the injury and be perfectly healthy come training camp in September.
News:Marian Gaborik is dealing with an abdominal injury that will require surgery, the Blue Jackets' official site reports. "Marian experienced some soreness towards the end of the season and after undergoing his exit physical and further examination today, it was decided that surgery is the best option for a quick and full recovery," Blue Jackets President of Hockey Operations John Davidson said Wednesday. "Marian will have the surgery and after a three to four week recovery period will be able to resume off-season training."
Analysis: As a result, Marian Gaborik will be unable to play in the upcoming IIHF World Championships, but barring any setbacks, the procedure will not affect his status for the 2013-14 campaign.
News:Marian Gaborik will be examined by a specialist in Philadelphia about possible abdominal surgery, the Columbus Dispatch reports.
Analysis: If he doesn't need surgery he'll likely suit up for Slovakia at the World Championships. Given that Marian Gaborik wasn't mentioned as one of the Blue Jackets' skating wounded at the end of the season it doesn't seem as though Gaborik's injury is serious.
News:Marian Gaborik grabbed a goal in Columbus' win over St. Louis on Friday, giving him six points in five games with the Jackets.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik is enjoying life in Columbus, whether it's being reunited with his old teammates or it's playing for a coach that lets him use his offensive ability, Gabby has been doing much to keep Columbus in the playoff hunt with three goals in five games.
News:Marian Gaborik picked up a goal and an assist Tuesday in a 4-0 win over the Sharks.
Analysis: Gabby's appeared revived in Columbus, notching five points in his first four games, a welcome sight for fantasy owners who suffered through his yearlong slump with the Rangers.
News:Marian Gaborik grabbed an assist on Columbus' only goal in Friday's loss to St. Louis, giving him three points in two games with his new club.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik appears to be enjoying being anywhere but Madison Square Garden, as he had fallen out of favor with coach John Tortorella. Gaborik is adapting nicely to his top-line duty in Columbus with three points in his first two games as the Jackets make a push for the playoffs. Don't discount the edge Gaborik will play with, considering he wants to prove himself to his new teammates and prove his former coach wrong.
News:Marian Gaborik netted a goal and an assist in Thursday's win over the Preds, his first game in a Blue Jackets uniform.
Analysis: He seemed to get on well with old mate Brandon Dubinsky, who made Gabby's goal happen with some great forechecking and assisted with him on James Wisniewski's power-play tally. Could be the move to Columbus will rejuvenate the Czech winger; he may be more comfortable outside of New York's bright lights.
News:Marian Gaborik is expected to skate on a line with Ryan Johansen and R.J. Umberger in his Blue Jackets debut on Thursday, the Columbus Dispatch reports.
Analysis: It's an interesting mix, as Johansen is the club's top prospect while Umberger is a steady, gritty veteran, but Marian Gaborik may work with other linemates on the power play. Either way, the lack of offensive talent on the Jackets mean that if Gaborik is going to turn his season around, he'll mostly have to do it on his own.
News:Marian Gaborik has waived his no-trade clause and will be traded to Columbus for Derick Brassard, John Moore and Derek Dorsett, reports TSN's Darren Dreger.
Analysis: The paperwork still needs to be filed, but the deal is done. Marian Gaborik will instantly step into the Jackets' first line, and we'll see if the change of scenery helps.
News:Marian Gaborik has been traded to Columbus, pending the trade call, according to ESPN's Katie Strang. Strang also reports that Derick Brassard, John Moore and Derek Dorsett are coming back to the Rangers.
Analysis: Gabby has a no-trade clause, so he has to sign off on the deal -- and it's certainly conceivable he might not want to go to Columbus -- but it appears his time in New York is over. He punched his own ticket out of Madison Square Garden this year, scoring just nine goals and 19 points in 35 games.
News:Marian Gaborik's demotion to the fourth line lasted just one shift Saturday. He was quickly reunited with Brad Richards, but was still held off the score sheet in a 3-0 loss to Montreal.
Analysis: The sniping winger has a paltry 19 points in 34 games and is nowhere near the top-50 league scorers. Something has to give (besides your sanity).
News:Marian Gaborik scored his first goal since March 7 against the Panthers on Thursday, but it was the Rangers' only goal in a 3-1 loss.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik had been in a five-game drought without a single point, but after failing to put a shot on goal against New Jersey on Tuesday, he fired eight on Jacob Markstrom and finally got one through. Still, he's in the midst of a terribly disappointing season, and his every-other-year scoring trend may be on the verge of running him out of New York if the Rangers can find a trade partner.
Rangers' Gaborik Snaps Goal Drought With OT Winner
News:Marian Gaborik scored his first goal in nine games Thursday, a power-play goal to sink the Islanders just 42 seconds into overtime.
Analysis: This makes it points in three straight for Gabby, who seems to finally be coming out of the funk in which he's been ensnared pretty much all year long. He's been a little more active, a little harder on the puck.
News:Marian Gaborik was a plus-1 with an assist and a team-high five shots on goal in Tuesday's 4-2 win over Philadelphia.
Analysis: That's four points in as many games for Marian Gaborik. With his goal-scoring drought at eight games, any production from the Czech winger is welcome at this point.
News:Marian Gaborik had two assists in the Rangers' 3-2 shootout win over Buffalo on Sunday night.
Analysis: An awakening should come as no surprise to anyone. Gabby now has 142 points (70 goals, 72 assists) in 152 career March games, dwarfing production in any other month of the NHL season. We're not saying it's guaranteed to continue, but tendencies are tendencies.
News:Marian Gaborik played just 11:03 in Saturday's loss to Montreal and was benched for the entire third period. He finished at minus-1 with no shots and one minor penalty.
Analysis: He's mired in a four-game point slump and has just three points in his last 12 games. In fact, eight of his 11 points came in a three game stretch at the start of the season. He should come out of it, but this type of performance is torching his owners, particularly in head-to-head formats. We'd recommend sitting him if his name wasn't Marian Gaborik. Then again, maybe that day is coming. Yikes.
News:Marian Gaborik scored a goal and added an assist in Thursday's 4-3 shootout loss to the Islanders.
Analysis: Having scored just one goal in his previous seven games, this is a good sign for both Gabby and the Rangers. It was the winger's first multi-point game of the month, giving him 10 points (seven goals, three assists) in 13 games this season.
Rangers' Gaborik Scores Goal In Rangers Win Over Isles
News:Marian Gaborik scored a goal in the Rangers' 4-1 win over the Isles Thursday.
Analysis: The goal snaps a four-game pointless streak for Marian Gaborik who was in a bit of a dog house with head coach John Tortorella prior to the game.
Tortorella, looking to shake things up, toyed with the notion of scratching Gaborik,
tweeted Steve Zipay of Newsday before Thursday's game. Despite his recent slump, Gaborik now has six goals, three assists and is a plus-4 on the season.
News:Marian Gaborik keyed the Rangers to a come-from-behind win over the Leafs on Saturday night. He scored twice, including the game-winner, and added two helpers on the night. He finished plus-4.
Analysis: He's on a three-game point streak in which he has picked up all eight of his points this season. He is really clicking with linemates Brad Richards and Rick Nash, and could deliver at a higher point-per-game pace than his previous best seasons on Broadway.
News:Marian Gaborik delivered a hat track -- including the game-winning goal in overtime -- against the Bruins on Wednesday night.
Analysis: After being held without a goal in the Rangers' first two games, Marian Gaborik had two tallies in the first period Wednesday as part of the reshaped top line with Rick Nash and Brad Richards. Should that trio remain intact, there's reason to believe that plenty of production will follow given the matchup issues they present the opposition.
Rangers' Gaborik To Join Nash And Richards On Top Line
News:Marian Gaborik is expected to join Rick Nash and Brad Richards on the Rangers' top line for Wednesday's game, the Bergen Record reports.
Analysis: This was the line many envisioned coming into the season, but it wasn't until the Rangers dropped their first two contests before it came to fruition. Carl Hagelin will head back to the second line with Marian Gaborik filling in at left wing, giving each member of the All-Star trio a small bump in value.
News: Rangers head coach John Tortorella confirmed Monday that Marian Gaborik (shoulder) will be ready for the start of the season, Steve Zipay of Newsday reports.
Analysis: There was some doubt about Marian Gaborik's availability for the start of the season if the lockout had concluded in December, but apparently he's going to be fine upon arrival in New York. Gaborik was not one of the Rangers on the ice Monday, as he's currently in the process of returning from Slovakia, according to Andrew Gross of the Bergen Record.
News:Marian Gaborik says his shoulder is improving but indicated he was uncertain if he could play if an NHL season were to begin in December, New York Newsday reports.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik has been skating for just under three weeks after undergoing surgery to repair a torn labrum in June. Gaborik proved to be an ironman last season by playing in all 82 games, but it seems likely that he'll need to get a few more weeks of rehab in before any return to game action (if an end to the NHL labor dispute was imminent).
News:Marian Gaborik underwent successful surgery on Wednesday to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder, according toThe Bergen Record.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik tallied 41 goals as he played in all 82 regular season games for the Rangers, but admitted to having a shoulder injury for the final two months of the season. He will reportedly miss five to six months, meaning he won't be ready for the start of the 2012-13 campaign.
News:Marian Gaborik will undergo surgery next week to repair a torn labrum in his shoulder, Yahoo! Sports reports.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik played in all of the Rangers' 82 regular season games, as well as all of the team's 20 playoff games, but he admitted to playing through the shoulder injury for the final two months of the campaign. Gaborik will be out several months (some have speculated up to six, but it's probably too early to pinpoint a specific timetable) while recovering from the procedure, which puts his status for the beginning of next season in doubt.
Rangers' Gaborik Scores In Loss To Devils Wednesday
News:Marian Gaborik tied the game at three goals apiece only 17 seconds into the third period Wednesday night, but the Devils scored the next two goals to take a 5-3 win in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals.
Analysis: It was Marian Gaborik's first point of the Eastern Conference Finals as he entered Wednesday's game pointless in four straight games. He'll need to be much better in Game 6 if the Rangers hope to extend the series to seven games.
News:Marian Gaborik scored the Rangers' only goal Wednesday night in a 2-1 loss to Washington in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semifinal series. Game 7 goes Saturday night.
Analysis: The goal came with only 51 seconds left in the third period, but Washington held off the Rangers to take the win. Marian Gaborik's played well against Washington this series, scoring three goals and adding three assists in six games.
News:Marian Gaborik put seven shots on goal in Monday's Game 5 win over Washington in their Eastern Conference semifinal series but did not register a point.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik had one of his best games of the series, as he was buzzing around the puck and the goal, giving the Rangers numerous scoring chances. He did some good work on both sides of the puck and likely won't be held off the scoresheet for too long if he continues to get seven shots a game.
News:Marian Gaborik scored at the 14:41 mark of the third overtime period Wednesday night to give the Rangers a 2-1 win over the Capitals in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinal series.
Analysis: He also had an assist on New York's first goal of the game and was named the game's first star. The goal was Marian Gaborik's second of the playoffs and only his first since scoring in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinal series against Ottawa.
News:Marian Gaborik assisted on Brad Richards' first-period goal during in the Rangers' 3-2 Game 2 loss to the Capitals.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik's assist was his second in as many games and is a great sign for the Blueshirts after their star forward only registered two points in the Rangers' seven-game first-round series against Ottawa.
News:Marian Gaborik picked up an assist Saturday in the Rangers' win over the Capitals.
Analysis: It's just his fourth point in eight playoff game this year. The Rangers need a whole lot more from him in order to push through to the Cup; so do you if you took him in your postseason format.
Rangers' Gaborik Nabs Two Points In Defeat Wednesday
News:Marian Gaborik assisted on two power-play goals Wednesday night, but the Rangers were downed by the Senators 3-2 in overtime as Ottawa evened the Eastern Conference quarterfinal series at two games apiece.
Analysis: Apart from the two assists, Marian Gaborik was fairly quiet Wednesday night as he had only two shots on net and a blocked shot. The assists were his first points since Game 1 of the series.
News:Marian Gaborik scored the Rangers' second goal in Thursday's 4-2 win over Ottawa in Game 1 of their playoff series.
Analysis: It was a gorgeous goal, as the Senators allowed Marian Gaborik some space with the puck, and he skated right up to Craig Anderson, then faked him out badly with a hesitation move for the first of what could be many playoff goals.
News:Marian Gaborik posted a goal and an assist in Tuesday's win over Philadelphia, extending his points streak to six games.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik has 10 points over the last six games and has scored six goals over that span. These are the kind of numbers we expect from Gaborik when he is healthy, so it shouldn't surprise many people that a player with his skill set is producing. The goal itself was a beauty, as in the span of about 0.2 seconds, he neatly corralled a puck while not fully facing the net and fired a quick snap shot that beat Ilya Bryzgalov high.
News:Marian Gaborik scored a goal Sunday against Boston, giving him 40 goals on the season.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik managed to stay healthy en route to a great season, and he's played quite well recently, as he has eight points in his last five games.
News:Marian Gaborik scored twice in Saturday's shootout win over the Maple Leafs. He was stopped in the shootout but the Rangers went on to win because Brad Richards and Ryan Callahan both scored.
Analysis: He snapped a four-game goal drought with the duo and now has 37 on the season. Forty is within sight. We're loving it.
News:Marian Gaborik scored a goal and assisted on another in Thursday's loss to Pittsburgh.
Analysis: The sniper was also robbed by a beautiful Marc-Andre Fleury glove stop, so he could have easily had a pair of markers in this one. Marian Gaborik's got a four-game points streak in which he's racked up three goals and five assists.
News:Marian Gaborik scored a goal and collected a pair of assists in Tuesday's win over the Hurricanes.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik finally showed great chemistry with Brad Richards, who was brought in to pass him the puck in the first place, and the similarly speedy Carl Hagelin. With 34 goals, Gaborik's tied with Corey Perry and Phil Kessel for third in the NHL, and he's got 11 points in eight March games.
News:Marian Gaborik scored the game-winner in overtime versus the Islanders on Sunday. He also had an assist.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik now has 33 goals, which is the fifth best total in the league, and 61 points in 68 games.
News:Marian Gaborik scored his 32nd goal of the season in Sunday's 4-3 win over Boston.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik has been on fire as of late, and has found the back of the net in five of his last six games. He's currently among the league leaders in goals scored and looks to have a solid chance at matching his career high of 42. The Rangers' winger is as hot as they come right now, and remains a must-start.
News:Marian Gaborik scored a goal and picked up an assist in Thursday's 3-2 win over Carolina.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik continued his strong play as of late, as he now has 12 points in his last 11 games. The goal was Gaborik's 30th of the season, which marks the seventh time in the his eleven-year career that he has reached that plateau. The Rangers' winger remains among the league leaders in goals scored and has cemented himself as an important asset for any fantasy roster.
News:Marian Gaborik notched his 28th goal of the season Friday night, but the Rangers still fell to the Islanders 4-3 in a shootout. He also added an assist and had four shots on net.
Analysis: He's leading all Rangers in scoring with 52 points, eight more than Ryan Callahan who's second. Marian Gaborik's goal Friday night was his first since February 11 and only his third for the entire month of February.
News:Marian Gaborik scored a goal and added three assists in Saturday's 5-2 victory over Philadelphia.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik's four points matched a season-high and he even provided an extra bonus to his owners, as two of the four points came on the power play. The The Rangers' sniper's assists have been down this year compared to his career numbers, so it's also nice to see him post the trifecta in the assist column.
Rangers' Gaborik Tallies Goal, Assist In Sunday Victory
News:Marian Gaborik notched a goal and an assist in Sunday's 5-2 win over the Flyers.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik has already surpassed his goal total from a year ago, and has a very real chance at setting a career-high for goals scored. The Rangers' winger is among the league-leaders in goals scored and should be permanent fixture in any fantasy lineup.
News:Marian Gaborik notched two assists in the Rangers' 4-3 shootout loss to New Jersey.
Analysis: The recently anointed All-Star Game MVP, Marian Gaborik has seven points in the last six games. Gaborik remains one of the leagues better offensive talents and should continue producing for the Rangers.
News:Marian Gaborik was named the MVP of Sunday's NHL All-Star Game after recording a hat trick and an assist.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik helped Team Chara pick up a 12-9 win over Team Alfredsson. The 29-year-old winger has 39 points (25G, 14A), 24 PIMs, and a plus-12 rating through 47 games this season. He's only 10 points away from surpassing his point total from a year ago.
News:Marian Gaborik scored two goals, including the game-winner, in Saturday's 3-2 overtime victory over the Bruins.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik has stepped up his play as of late, as he now has five points in his last four games. The Rangers' winger is treating his fantasy owners to one of the league's top goal-scoring campaigns, and is on pace to break the 40-goal plateau for the season.
News:Marian Gaborik assisted on the lone Ranger goal in Thursday's 4-1 loss to Pittsburgh.
Analysis: It looks like the winger is starting to heat up, as he now has an assist in three straight games. This was only his fourth point since the start of 2012, but Marian Gaborik tends to be a streaky player and his owners may soon be rewarded with yet another hot streak.
News:Marian Gaborik scored his 23rd goal Thursday against the Panthers, a sniper's shot that won the game in overtime.
Analysis: Although it was his only point in the game, Marian Gaborik continues to play at an extremely high level, as he was able to generate quality scoring chances earlier in this one with his speed and stickwork, only to be stonewalled by Florida's Scott Clemmensen. If he stays healthy, reaching 40 goals is all but certain, and 50 isn't out of the question.
News:Marian Gaborik scored the eventual game-winner at the 1:48 mark of the second period to help lift the Rangers past the Flyers 4-2 on Friday night. He now has goals in four straight games.
Analysis: To say Marian Gaborik is hot right now is an understatement. He's scored six goals over his last four games and now has 10 for the month of December. Friday night's goal also vaulted him to the front of the pack in the chase for the Rocket Richard trophy as he now has 21 goals on the year, one more than his next closest competitors.
News:Marian Gaborik scored his 20th goal of the season in Thursday's win over the Isles, tying him with Jonathan Toews, Steven Stamkos and Phil Kessel for the NHL lead.
Analysis: The Rangers' star player has come on spectacularly of late, as this was his ninth goal of December and fifth in his last three games. It was a beauty, too, coming right off a faceoff in the offensive zone.
News:Marian Gaborik posted his second-straight two-goal effort Tuesday, posting two tallies in a win over New Jersey. He also notched an assist.
Analysis: If you want to nitpick, the second goal was an empty-netter with his team up by two, but Marian Gaborik has four goals in the last two games. He's playing at close to a point-per-game pace with 30 in 31 contests and his 19 goals are among the NHL's best marks at this point of the season. When healthy, few have more potential than Gaborik.
News:Marian Gaborik scored twice Saturday, including once on the power play, in a win over Phoenix.
Analysis: He's within sniping distance of the league leader now (he has 17; Steven Stamkos has 21). December has brought six goals in nine games -- roll him and enjoy while he's healthy.
News:Marian Gaborik found the back of the net for his 15th goal of the season Sunday against Florida. He also had an assist.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik is ninth in goals scored this season, and with 25 points in 27 games he looks primed for another high offensive output this season. Provided he stays healthy, of course.
News:Marian Gaborik scored in the Rangers' 4-2 loss to Toronto on Monday, his fourth goal in the last seven games.
Analysis: Gabby remains the Rangers' top threat and is enjoying his life at the Garden a bit more this season. A healthy Marian Gaborik is one of the league's top players and he is showing what he can do this season with 13 goals through 24 games.
News:Marian Gaborik scored his 12th goal of the season and added an assist Thursday against Carolina.
Analysis: A healthy Marian Gaborik is a high scoring Gaborik, and having Brad Richards by his side can only help. He could be in for a big season.
News:Marian Gaborik posted a goal and an assist in Tuesday's win over Pittsburgh, giving him four points in the last four games.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik has been playing solidly and somehow, inconceivably, staying healthy. Embarrassingly enough, Gaborik missed an empty-netter as time was expiring Tuesday, but he did his damage earlier in the game.
News:Marian Gaborik had two goals Wednesday night as the Rangers downed the Senators, 3-2.
Analysis: It was a solid fantasy outing for the right winger as he finished the game with a plus-3 rating and five shots on net.
News:Marian Gaborik scored a goal and handed out two assists in Saturday's loss to the Senators.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik's first multi-point game of the season gives him eight points through nine games. He and Brad Richards skated on separate lines Saturday with good results - Richards also totaled three points - so don't be surprised if the Rangers roll with that lineup over the next several games.
News:Marian Gaborik scored a goal for the third consecutive game Thursday in Calgary, putting home his fourth of the year on a first-period power play.
Analysis: That was the first power-play goal of the season for the Rangers, in fact, so it's good for Marian Gaborik and the Rangers to get that monkey off their backs. He looked particularly active and strong on the puck in this one, and it showed up in the box score in the form of eight shots on goal.
News: Saturday night against the Islanders, Marian Gaborik scored his second goal in three games. He also was shooting from everywhere, compiling eight shots on goal in 18:43 of ice time.
Analysis:Marian Gaborik and new center Brad Richards had some nice moments together in the Rangers' opening two games in Stockholm. After a week of rest and practice before facing the Islanders on Saturday night, the pair showed much better chemistry as Richards' beautiful pass to Gaborik set him up for a breakaway on the goal he scored.
News:Marian Gaborik scored in the third period of the Rangers' 3-2 overtime opening game loss to the LA Kings. He also had five shots on goal, in 17:09 minutes of ice time.
Analysis: The Rangers' unveiled their new top line of Marian Gaborik, Brad Richards and Brandon Dubinsky. After a very weak first period the trio bounced back to show some real nice work the rest of the game. All three had a hand in Gaboriks' goal. It had to be a good sign, that as the game progressed the line drove to the net more, as was evident on the goal they scored.
News: After teammate Henrik Lundqvist had a homecoming to Sweden, days later Marian Gaborik had his own homecoming as he assisted on a goal in the Rangers' 4-1 preseason victory over HC Slovan in Slovakia this weekend.
Analysis: It was a somewhat emotional homecoming for Marian Gaborik as there was a huge tribute poster for his very good friend and countrymen, Pavol Demitra. Gaborik admitted to it being a difficult summer in losing two close hockey friends in Demitra and Derek Boogaard. Although it's not expected to be an issue, fantasy owners might want to keep an eye out for a possible sluggish start because of it.
News:Marian Gaborik had a goal and an assist Friday night as the Rangers downed the Devils 4-3.
Analysis: Injuries always seem to bother Marian Gaborik, but when healthy he's one of the top fantasy wingers in the league. With Brad Richards likely to be his center, Gaborik should put up very nice numbers in 2011-12.
News:Marian Gaborik was listed in the group scheduled to skate Saturday morning but was absent from practice, Steve Zipay of Newsday reports.
Analysis: Zipay reports that Marian Gaborik's absence likely is not due to injury, but it's still odd. Health has been an issue for Gaborik in the past, so this is something to watch.
News: Gaborik's fantasy value -- as long as he can stay healthy -- got a serious boost Saturday when Brad Richards agreed to terms with the Rangers.
Analysis: Gabby has never before had an elite center on his line and he's still been an exceptional performer (when healthy, of course). Richards will help Gaborik at even strength and on the PP where the former's ability to run the five-man unit from the point is among the league's best. Injuries will always be a possibility but keeper leaguers should go calling to see if they can get Gabby in trade right now. It won't take long for his owner to realize he's on a gold mine.
Rangers' Gaborik Scores First Of Playoffs Wednesday
News: Gaborik scored his first goal of the playoffs Wednesday night, but it was not enough as the Capitals roared from behind to down the Rangers 4-3 in double-overtime.
Analysis: Gaborik played well early, but eventually trailed off by the end of the game, finishing minus-1 on the night. For the Rangers to have a chance, Gaborik has to be better.
News: Gaborik admitted to reporters he's been pressing after Game 2 of the Rangers' opening round series against the Capitals.
Analysis: Goal-less in 11 games, Gaborik suggested he was "squeezing his stick" and maybe he'd do better if he'd "close his eyes" when shooting. Gaborik has had a couple of golden scoring opportunities in this series and hasn't been able to cash in for the offensive-starved Rangers.
News: Gaborik scored again in the Rangers' 6-3 victory over Montreal. He now has 21 goals on the year, one behind team leader Ryan Callahan.
Analysis: Gaborik now has four goals in his last four games. Vaclav Prospal's post All-Star Break return appears to be the biggest factor in Gaborik scoring coming around. The last three games the Rangers' have reunited, last season's, Erik Christensen-Prospal-Gaborik line. The line has combined for 13 point in the last three games.
News: Gaborik scored twice in Tuesday's win over the Islanders.
Analysis: With the two goals, Gaborik now has 20 on the season. It's a far cry from the 42 he scored last year, but hopefully for both the Rangers and fantasy owners, he can got hot down the stretch.
News: Gaborik scored a power play goal, in the Rangers' 5-2 loss to Anaheim
Analysis: It's no secret the Rangers' need Gaborik to become at least legitimate constant threat to score like he was last year, if they are to secure a playoff spot. If he can draw opponents' top checkers and still produce, that should provide even better match-ups for "grinding scorers" like Brandon Dubinsky and Ryan Callahan.
News: Gaborik (concussion) did not record a point in his first game back after missing six games.
Analysis: Gaborik played just over 14 minutes in his return, recording four shots and getting a two-minute roughing penalty. Gaborik was pleased with his performance, although he did admit that his timing was a bit off. He played on a line with Vaclav Prospal and Sean Avery. The Rangers' other three line combinations have settled, or are as close to settled as coach John Tortorella gets. Meaning this Avery-Prospal-Gaborik line should get a good long look at staying together. If the line does not come together at all, look for Erik Christensen to be reinserted back into the lineup and replace Avery on this line at center, moving Prospal back to LW.
News: The Rangers' official site confirms that Gaborik (concussion) will return to the lineup Sunday against the Flyers.
Analysis: In his return to action, Gaborik is slated to skate on a line with Vinny Prospal and Sean Avery on Sunday.
News: Newsday's Steve Zipay reports that Gaborik (concussion) is in for Sunday's game against the Flyers.
Analysis: Assuming no setbacks in warmups, it looks like Gaborik is primed to see his first action for the Rangers since Feb. 20.
News: Gaborik skated for the fourth straight day Saturday, fueling speculation he could return for Sunday afternoon's game against Philadelphia, according to New York Post.
Analysis: Although Gaborik has been skating for four consecutive days, he reported minor symptoms as recently as Friday. There has been no word how he felt after Saturday's skate but it still should be considered unlikely for Gaborik to play before Wednesday's game in Anaheim.
News: Gaborik (concussion) skated Friday and did not have any symptoms, according to Newsday.
Analysis: The Rangers will wait wait to see how Gaborik reacts Saturday but are optimistic that he could possilby play on the Rangers west coast trip which begins Wednesday.
News: Gaborik (concussion) won't play this weekend, according to the New York Post.
Analysis: There had been some hope that Gaborik might come back as early as Friday, but those hopes have been dashed as he is still suffering headaches related to his concussion.
News: Gaborik (concussion) is not feeling as good Thursday as he did while skating Wednesday, Newsday's Steve Zipay reports.
Analysis: Gaborik, who is dealing with some headaches and pressure, noted "I'm not there yet, obviously...it comes in waves." That said, he plans to make the trip to Ottawa, where the Rangers play Friday, but whether Gaborik has a legit shot to play then is another story altogether.
News: Gaborik (concussion) was on the ice with the other players at practice Wednesday, according to Newsday.
Analysis: This is a good sign as perhaps there is a light at the end of the tunnel and Gaborik might be able to get back into the lineup within the next week. He has already been ruled out of Thursday's game against the Wild.
News: Gaborik (concussion) won't play against Minnesota on Thursday, Newsday's Steve Zipay reports.
Analysis: It's not clear when Gaborik might be able to return for the Rangers, though it's generally hoped to not be too far off.
News: Gaborik (concussion) is still experiencing headaches, according to the Daily News.
Analysis: Apparently Gaborik is only having those headaches at night but they are getting less and less severe. GM Glen Sather doesn't expect Gaborik to be out long, but you can ask Sidney Crosby about timetables for concussions.
News: Gaborik (concussion) will not play Sunday against the Lightning, the Rangers' official site reports.
Analysis: Gaborik, who last played Feb .20, remains day-to-day for the Rangers.
News: Coach John Tortorella called Gaborik (concussion) day-to-day, the Rangers' official site reports.
Analysis: Gaborik skated on his own Friday, but did not skate Saturday, leaving his availability in question for Sunday's game against Tampa Bay. Gaborik owners should probably plan to be without him.
News: Gaborik (concussion) was said to be feeling better but will miss his second consecutive game Friday night against the Capitals, per coach John Tortorella, the Bergen Record reports.
Analysis: The oft-injured Gaborik set a career-high in points last season at 86, so fantasy owners who bought high on his services ahead of 2010-11 are likely disappointed with his current 53-point pace.
Rangers' Gaborik Believes He Suffered Concussion Over A Week Ago
News: Gaborik believes he suffered his concussion over a week ago, according to the New York Post.
Analysis: Gaborik took a hit from the Penguins' Brooks Orpik in a game on Feb. 13. He left practice early the Tuesday after but wasn't actually diagnosed with a concussion until this past Sunday. Either way there is still no timetable for his return.
News: Gaborik (concussion) will be evaluated by a doctor again Tuesday, according to Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer, citing Rangers coach John Tortorella in his report.
Analysis: Hopefully this latest evaluation will lead to new information regarding Gaborik's status, which is very cloudy at this point. One thing is for certain: the sniper will not lace up his skates Tuesday against the Hurricanes because he did not travel with the team to Raleigh, as previously noted by the Bergen Record.
News: Gaborik (concussion) did not travel to North Carolina with the Rangers ahead of Tuesday's game against the Hurricanes, the Bergen Record reports.
Analysis: Contrary to an earlier report, the Rangers are not exactly sure when Gaborik initially sustained the concussion. Nor is the team aware of how long he will be out. At any rate, he should not be in any fantasy lineups while he undergoes further evaluation.
News: There is no timetable for Gaborik's return from a concussion injury, according to coach John Tortorella, Andrew Gross of the Bergen Record reports.
Analysis: Gabby injured himself in Sunday's game against the Flyers, but it's still not clear how it happened. Without knowing how long the sniper will be sidelined, it would be a great risk to start him for the upcoming scoring period.
News: Coach John Tortorella confirmed Sunday that Gaborik has a concussion, the Rangers' official site reports.
Analysis: It's unclear as to when or how Gaborik's bell was rung, but this news obviously clouds the sniper's availability for the coming week.
News: Gaborik left Sunday's game against the Flyers in the second period with an undisclosed injury, ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: More on the specifics of his injury as it becomes available, but for now consider Gaborik day-to-day.
News: Gaborik didn't come out for the second period of Sunday's game against the Flyers.
Analysis: No word yet on what the injury is, but it certainly comes at a bad time for Gaborik, who looked to finally be getting his legs under him of late, recording points in eight of 10 games for a Rangers team that's fighting to cling to a playoff spot. We'll update his status as more information comes in.
News: Gaborik scored his first goal since Jan. 24 in Thursday's shootout win over the Kings.
Analysis: It was a classic Gaborik goal, as he took a long feed from Michael Sauer for a breakaway and snapped a beautiful wrister over the blocker side on a standing Jonathan Bernier. That's the kind of sniping the Rangers want to see more from him. Despite his problems putting puck in net recently, Gabby does have points in eight of his last nine games, and has been generally more active on the offensive end lately.
News: Gaborik scored the Rangers' lone regulation goal in Monday's shootout win over the Capitals.
Analysis: Despite his four-goal outburst last week against Toronto, it's been relatively quiet on the goal front since Gaborik returned from his latest nagging injury. His points come in bunches and often leave owners wanting more from this immensely talented forward. A shred of consistency would be nice.
News: Gaborik exploded for four goals and an assist in the Ranger's 7-0 drubbing of the Leafs on Wednesday night.
Analysis: A game after being benched during large parts of a 3-2 loss to Philadelphia on Sunday night, Gaborik responded with easily his best game in quite some time. He had only three points over his last 10 games entering Wednesday night's contest.
News: Gaborik made the scoresheet for the first time in four games with an assist in Saturday's win at St. Louis.
Analysis: His modest point total (11-12-23) at the midway point of the season masks his true value, because he's only played in 29 games -- 28 if you don't count the game in October where he was hurt early in the contest. Along with Brandon Dubinsky, he's one of only two Rangers who's close enough to throw rocks at the point-per-game mark. If for some reason he's left in your league's pool, unclaimed and lonely, it's time to make a move; if he's on someone's roster, you might be able to get him cheaply in trade because of his recent drought and the deceptive scoring totals.
News: Gaborik scored the Rangers' only goal in Saturday's OT loss to the Lightning.
Analysis: He has two goals and one assist in his last three games; get him back in there if you haven't already.
News: Gaborik (groin) notched a goal and an assist Monday in the win over the Islanders.
Analysis: Gaborik has been dinged up a little this season, which should surprise no one, but is also hovering near a point-per-game pace, which also shouldn't surprise anyone. He has 21 points in 23 games; Monday's tally was his first since returning from a minor groin injury. You know what you'll get when Gaborik's healthy, but you also know he has a tendency to land on the injured list.
News: Coach John Tortorella said he expects Gaborik (sore groin) to play Monday against the Islanders, the Bergen Record reports.
Analysis: Gaborik missed Thursday's game, but the holiday break should give him enough time to rest up before Monday's game. Owners in weekly lineup leagues should feel safe to use him.
News: Gaborik (groin) will not play Thursday against Tampa Bay, the Rangers' official site reports.
Analysis: With Gaborik missing at least one contest, Mats Zuccarello has been recalled by the Rangers to add depth at forward. After Thursday, the Rangers are off until Monday, so getting as much as a five-day break should help the oft-injured winger get back closer to 100 percent.
News: Gaborik (groin) missed practice Wednesday, New York Daily News writer Jesse Spector reports.
Analysis: It's not clear whether Gaborik is in danger of missing Thursday's game against Tampa Bay, but the Rangers did recall Mats Zuccarello-Aasen from the AHL, perhaps in response to Gaborik's status.
News: Gaborik scored three goals, including the game-winner with 5:25 remaining in the third, and added an assist in Thursday's win over the Islanders.
Analysis: Gaborik has had a bit of an odd season so far, as he's been slowed by injury and illness, and has just two multi-point games -- but they're both hat tricks.
News: Gaborik snapped a five-game goal drought, grabbing the Rangers' only goal Monday in a loss to Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Gaborik's status was somewhat doubtful as he's battling an illness, but the larger issue was his lack of production since returning from his most recent injury. Gaborik's far too skilled of a player to have a slump of five games, although he did have three helpers over that span. With the Rangers having three more games this week, he's a heady play.
News: Gaborik (illness) is on the ice for Monday's pre-game warm-ups and will play against the Penguins, according to Steve Zipay of Newsday.
Analysis: The Rangers have four games this week, so even if Gabrorik might be a little winded for this one, you definitely want to use him for your weekly lineups based off the news he's playing Monday.
News: Gaborik (flu) is a game-time decision for Monday's game against Pittsburgh, the Rangers' official site reports.
Analysis: The announcement was made following the morning skate. Gaborik's absence Saturday was a last-minute change of course, but with a four-game week on tap, owners in weekly leagues should roll him with confidence in hopes of getting at least three games from him in the next seven days.
News: Gaborik has the flu and will be a late scratch from Saturday's contest in Nashville, according to Steve Zipay of Newsday.
Analysis: The early Saturday games might have screwed up a lot of people here if there was an early deadline, but go ahead and make a late switch on Gaborik if you can. The Rangers are back at it Monday, so we'll see if Gaborik can get enough soup and fluids to be able to skate in that one.
News: Gaborik will not play Saturday due to the flu, the Rangers' official site reports.
Analysis: With Michal Rozsival returning to action, the Rangers will have seven blueliners available and seemingly need to move one to a forward spot to account for Gaborik's absence. Consider him day-to-day at this time.
Rangers' Gaborik Nets Fourth Goal of Season Wednesday
News: Gaborik scored a goal in the Rangers' 3-2 loss to the Bruins on Wednesday night.
Analysis: The goal was his fourth in three games and he looks to have fully overcome his recent shoulder injury.
News: Gaborik scored a hatrick in Sunday's 8-2 win over Edmonton.
Analysis: Gaborik, playing in his second game since returning from a shoulder injury, scored three in New York's thumping of the Oilers. The goals were Gaborik's first of the season. Injuries have plagued the Rangers early this season so a healthy Gaborik is a ray of sunshine.
News: Gaborik returned to he lineup for Thursday's win over the Sabres after missing three weeks with a shoulder injury.
Analysis: He skated 18:40, took three shots on goal and was minus-one. The two-time 40-goal scorer has yet to hit the back of the net in his four games so far this year.
News: Gaborik (shoulder) returns to the lineup Thursday against Buffalo, the Rangers' official site reports.
Analysis: Gaborik is an offensive force. It remains to be seen how much ice time he'll see in his first game back. However, if Gaborik plays, he's worth starting.
News: Gaborik (shoulder) said after Wednesday's practice that he'll play Thursday against Buffalo, Steve Zipay of NY Newsday reports.
Analysis: Be ready to activate him immediately after Gaborik increased his practice participation recently and tested out his shoulder with contact this week. Gaborik played in just three games while picking up a pair of assists before suffering the injury against the Leafs on Oct. 15.
News: Gaborik (shoulder) was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, the Rangers' official site reports.
Analysis: He's taking contact again, which is a big step in the process of getting him back on the ice for game action. The Rangers haven't revealed anything regarding their plans for Gaborik against the Sabres on Thursday night, but it sounds like there's a chance he'll be coming back from IR in the very near future.
Rangers' Gaborik Will Not Play Tuesday, but Could Still Return Soon
News: Gaborik (shoulder) will not play against the Capitals on Tuesday night, the Rangers' official website reports.
Analysis: Tuesday's game will be the 12th straight Gaborik has missed, but he has been able to practice the last couple days and could return to action later this week. Continue monitoring his status so you can activate him when he comes off injured reserve.
News: Gaborik (shoulder) does not think he'll play Tuesday against the Capitals but wants to in the next "couple of games," according to Andrew Gross of the Bergen Record.
Analysis: He was originally expected to be out 2-4 weeks stemming back to mid-October, so this is all starting to fall in line with the normal timetable. You probably shouldn't expect to activate Gaborik for this week's slate in weekly lineups, but it'd be great if he can get into a game by the weekend, giving you the green light for next week's use.
News: Gaborik skated with the Rangers on Thursday for the first time since suffering his shoulder injury, Newsday's Steve Zipay reports.
Analysis: As far as a timetable for his return to game action, we still don't have one, but he's been able to skate on back-to-back days (Wednesday on his own, Thursday with the team). If he continues this progress, he could be back in less than two weeks, but again, the Rangers have not announced an expected return date.
News: Gaborik (shoulder) skated on his own -- in full equipment -- prior to Wednesday's practice, Steve Zipay of Newsday reports.
Analysis: It's progress, but the Rangers haven't provided an updated timetable for Gaborik's return just yet. The speculation to this point has been that he'll be back during the second week of November, which could put him back in game action in 7-to-10 days if that estimate holds up.
News: Gaborik skated Monday for the first time since injuring his shoulder, the New York Post reports.
Analysis: There's still no timetable for his return although it is expected that Gaborik will return sometime around the second week of November.
News: Gaborik (shoulder) said Tuesday that he hopes to resume skating in the next few days, according to the Rangers' official Twitter page.
Analysis: Gaborik will likely miss another week or two, but how many more games he sits out will depend on how quickly he can get back on the ice and work his way back into playing shape.
News: Gaborik (shoulder) was told that he should return in 2-4 weeks, the New York Daily News reports.
Analysis: Gaborik was previously given a window of 2-3 weeks for a return. Either way, the winger is out until further notice.
News: Gaborik injured his left shoulder separation in Friday's game against the Leafs and will miss the next 2-3 weeks, according to Andrew Gross of the Bergen Record.
Analysis: Just a horrible night for the Blueshirts, as they lost the game in overtime and two-thirds of their top line, as Chris Drury suffered an even worse injury.
News: Gaborik left Friday's game against the Maple Leafs after injuring his shoulder in the second period, the anadian Press reports.
Analysis: The extent of Gaborik's injury was not yet available, so consider him day-to-day until further tests are done.
News: Gaborik scored his third preseason goal in New York's 5-1 win over Detroit Wednesday night.
Analysis: Gaborik seems to have picked up right where he left off last season, when he scored 42 goals. He's a must own on all fantasy teams, even given the little bit of injury risk he carries.
News: Gaborik (back) practiced on Saturday, the Bergen Record's Andrew Gross reports.
Analysis: Gaborik didn't skate Friday due to a sore back, but the injury was never expected to be serious.
News: Gaborik was on the ice Friday, but did not do any testing with the rest of the team because of a sore back, Newsday's Steve Zipay reports.
Analysis: This certainly doesn't sound like a major injury, but we'll let you know if that assessment changes.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik played 20 minutes in a loss to the Capitals on Saturday as he returned from a lower-body injury sustained during the Olympics.
Analysis: Gaborik missed time before the break with a lacerated thigh, but this injury is unrelated. He should be activated in all Fantasy formats for Week 21 (March 8-14), as he's having a great first season in the Big Apple.
News:Marian Gaborik missed the New York Rangers' first game back from the NHL's Olympic break Tuesday night in Ottawa due to an unspecified lower-body injury. Gaborik, who leads the Rangers with 35 goals and 69 points, missed two of New York's last three games before the two-week break and was limited to four total minutes due to a cut on his right knee. The Slovakian right wing played through that injury during the Olympics and had four goals and one assist in seven games, including Slovakia's loss to Finland in the bronze medal game Saturday.
Analysis: Just when it looked like the fragile Gaborik was going to put together a rare full season of action, he's now missed one game on either side of the break and could miss more time. Hopefully he can shake this issue off and return later in Fantasy Week 20 (March 1-7), otherwise he could have a zero-point week. When healthy, Gaborik is a must-start option in all formats.
News: According to the Rangers' official web site, RW Marian Gaborik will not play at Ottawa on Tuesday because of a lower-body injury. “I don’t think that I’m at the point where I can come in and really help the team out there,” Gaborik said Tuesday. “It’s a day-to-day thing, so hopefully I feel better every day this week. It’s frustrating, but I just have to stick to thinking positive.”
Analysis: Gaborik played very well at the Olympics but he clearly tweaked something while starring for his home country of Slovakia. Just when it looked like the fragile Gaborik was going to put together a rare full season of action, he's now missed one game on either side of the break and could miss more time. Hopefully he can shake this issue off and return later in Fantasy Week 20 (March 1-7), otherwise he could have a zero-point week. When healthy, Gaborik is a must-start option in all formats.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik (thigh) ended up playing all seven games for Slovakia in the Olympics, picking up four goals and an assist.
Analysis: Gaborik was expected to miss the first two group games in Vancouver, but he ended up recovering sufficiently from his lacerated thigh to play in every game for the somewhat surprising Slovaks. Gaborik should play Tuesday at Ottawa and there doesn't seem to be a reason why he won't continue his fantastic first season in New York. Get him back active in all Fantasy formats as a must-start option.
News: The Rangers' official web site reports that RW Marian Gaborik (lacerated thigh) will miss both of Slovakia's group games against Russia and Latvia.
Analysis: This isn't a huge deal for Slovakia, as they weren't expected to upset the Russians and get a first-round bye in the knockout stages anyway. His leg should feel a lot better by the second round and that will be the biggest game for Gaborik and his countrymen. It looks like the Rangers star should be ready to return after the break, so plan on getting him back active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik did not play on Sunday against the Lightning because of a thigh injury. He had missed Wednesday's game against Nashville and tried to play Friday against the Penguins, but he lasted only six shifts.
Analysis: Gaborik is headed to the Olympics to play for Slovakia, so we expect him to be back after the Olympic break unless he damages the thigh even more. That is the risk of letting NHL players skate in the Olympics and something Fantasy owners have to endure. Pray for the best since Gaborik is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News:Newsday reports that Rangers RW Marian Gaborik (lacerated thigh) will not play on Sunday vs. Tampa Bay.
Analysis: If the Rangers want to have any chance of making the playoffs, they will need Gaborik to be healthy and productive come March. This injury shouldn't be the type to linger, so plan to have him in all lineups when the Olympic break is over.
News: Rangers star Marian Gaborik dressed for Friday's game against the Penguins and had 4:02 of ice time over six shifts during the first period after being a game-time decision. But that was it for the Rangers' leading scorer. He missed a home game Wednesday night against Nashville after cutting his right thigh during a collision with goalie Henrik Lundqvist in practice a day before.
Analysis: Gaborik was clearly trying to push himself back into action with the Olympics right around the corner, but the injury proved to be too much. He will have one more chances to play on Sunday against the Lightning, but it wouldn't be surprising if Gaborik sat that game out. The injury-plagued forward is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: The Rangers' official web site reports that RW Marian Gaborik (lacerated thigh) will try to skate on Friday. He did some work on the stationary bike Thursday.
Analysis: Gaborik continues to be listed as day-to-day, and the main issue right now for him is making sure the cut doesn't get infected. He should be OK for the Olympics, but Gaborik's status for the rest of Fantasy Week 19 (Feb. 8-14) is up in the air. He remains a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Rangers leading scorer Marian Gaborik missed New York's game against Nashville on Wednesday night because of a cut on his right leg caused by the skate of teammate Henrik Lundqvist one day earlier in practice. Gaborik, who has a team-high 35 goals and 69 points, was ruled out by Rangers coach John Tortorella about two hours before game time. Gaborik was injured Tuesday during a breakaway drill when he tried to jump over Lundqvist, but collided with the goalie. Tortorella wasn't at practice Tuesday when Gaborik was hurt because he attended the funeral in Massachusetts for Brendan Burke, the son of Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brian Burke. Tortorella said he spoke to team trainer Jim Ramsay on Tuesday night and again Wednesday morning and determined that Gaborik wouldn't be able to play against Nashville. "It wasn't a good chance because it just swelled up," Tortorella said. "It's a pretty nasty gash. We're fortunate it wasn't more serious than it was. After a couple of days, I think it'll calm down."
Analysis: Tortorella listed Gaborik's status as day to day, and hopes the star forward will return Friday night at Pittsburgh. The Rangers will also play Tampa Bay at home on Sunday before the NHL breaks for the Vancouver Olympics. Gaborik is expected to play for Slovakia at the Winter Games. There is no thought by the Rangers to keep Gaborik out until the break. "Not a chance," Tortorella said. "If he can play, he'll play. He's our best player." We are always concerned when it comes to Gaborik since he has his history of injury issues. But it seems he dodged a serious ailment. Perhaps he would miss more time if the Olympics weren't around the corner, but there is no way Gaborik wants to miss playing for Slovakia. Gaborik has six goals and eight points during a five-game point streak and is heating up again after a slump. He is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News:Newsday reports that Rangers RW Marian Gaborik (lacerated thigh) will not play Thursday vs. Nashville.
Analysis: Gaborik appears to have dodged a big bullet with this injury, and if the swelling is reduced he could return on Friday. He should be OK for the Olympics and will remain a must-start Fantasy forward after the break as long as he doesn't get hurt in Vancouver.
News: Sportsnet.ca reports that Rangers RW Marian Gaborik suffered a deep laceration of his thigh but no tendon damage when he got caught by Henrik Lundqvist's skate during Tuesday's practice. He's listed as day to day.
Analysis: Gaborik's owners can take a deep sigh of relief at this news, which could have been a lot worse after Gaborik hobbled off the ice on Tuesday morning. The elite Fantasy forward might miss a game or two with this cut on his leg, but he should be fine for the Olympics and there shouldn't be any long-term ramifications. Continue to roll with Gabby in all Fantasy formats.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik left practice early Tuesday after injuring himself while jumping over G Henrik Lundqvist in a one-on-one drill. The Bergen Record reports that the injury isn't anything more serious than a laceration.
Analysis: Gaborik's Fantasy owners have been holding their breath most of this season, hoping that the oft-injured stud would be able to stay healthy in 2009-10. So far, he's only missed two games and has a superb 69 points in 57 games, but this problem might cause him to sit for a little bit. We'll keep you posted on Gaborik's status when we get more information. When healthy, he's a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik scored in Tuesday's loss to the Kings, giving him five goals in his last three games.
Analysis: Gaborik is earning his paycheck in the Big Apple so far and has managed to stay relatively healthy. Continue to consider him a must-start Fantasy forward in all formats.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik had his 10th career hat trick as New York ended a five-game losing streak with a 3-1 victory over the Avalanche on Sunday night.
Analysis: Gaborik leads the Rangers in points (65), goals (33) and assists (32), as he continues to be the only real elite offensive contributor for the struggling Manhattan team. Continue to consider him a must-start Fantasy forward in all formats.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik scored just his fourth January goal in Saturday's loss to the Coyotes.
Analysis: Take away Gaborik's seven-point, two-game spell on Jan. 17 and 19 and he's having an absolutely miserable first month of 2010 along with the rest of the Rangers. Still, Gaborik is too good to bench in most formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports RW Marian Gaborik, the Rangers' slumping leading scorer with one goal in his last 11 games, was shifted to left wing for the first time this season on Wednesday against the Hurricanes. "I know he cares," coach John Tortorella said. "I've had a couple of meetings with him through all this. He knows where he's at. He knows what he means to the club. He certainly doesn't hide from some of the deficiencies in his game, and he'll correct them."
Analysis: It's not right to single out Gaborik since the entire Rangers team is having their offensive woes. It's just Gaborik gets the brunt of the attention because he is New York's top dog. Don't be concerned about the on-ice shift. As long as Gaborik is active he is a big-time threat in Fantasy.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik recorded four assists on Tuesday in an 8-2 win over Tampa Bay. He now has six assists and seven points in his last two games.
Analysis: Gaborik has recorded 31 assists on the season to go with 29 goals and is among the top Fantasy option in the NHL. Start him in all leagues as a No. 1 option.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik scored a goal, tallied two assists and finished at plus-3 on Sunday against the Canadiens. Gaborik scored on a 2-on-1 break for his 29th goal of the season, breaking a five-game scoreless streak.
Analysis: The Rangers have really been mired in an offensive funk and it has been evident in Gaborik's recent stat lines. Teams have been taking Gaborik out of the equation and forcing the other Rangers to step up. It hadn't happened until Sunday, when New York won 6-2. Hopefully, this will again spark Gaborik, who remains a high-end Fantasy flier.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik recorded two assists on Thursday in a 2-1 win over the Hurricanes. He increased his points total to 51 on the season with 26 goals and 25 assists.
Analysis: Gaborik has been a monster in his first season with the Rangers, putting up 51 points in 38 games so far. He is an obvious must-start in all Fantasy formats as long as he remains healthy and active.
News: Rangers winger Marian Gaborik played well in a 3-1 win over the Hurricanes on Monday night. The winger registered two points in the win as he notched his 25th goal of the season in the 2nd period and added an assist later in the game on Brandon Dubinsky's goal in the 3rd.
Analysis: Gaborik has 25 goals and 47 points on the season for the Rangers and remains a must-start Fantasy option for use in all leagues at all times.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik scored a goal and tallied two assists during Thursday's game against the Islanders. Gaborik ripped a one-timer from inside the blue line at 3:37 of the third period after a slew of roughing penalties left the Islanders two men short. Gaborik has three goals and seven points in his last five games.
Analysis: Gaborik is less than halfway through the season and is already past 20 goals and 20 assists. The best news of all is that he has hardly been injured in his first year with the Rangers. New York has invested wisely. Continue to start Gaborik in all Fantasy formats.
News: RW Marian Gaborik, who leads the NHL with 22 goals, scored once and assisted on the Rangers' other goal in a 3-2 loss Saturday against Buffalo. Gaborik found skating room while the Rangers enjoyed a 4-on-3 advantage and scored his NHL-leading 22nd. Gaborik moved into the left circle and snapped in a shot with 7:43 left. Gaborik had a scare just over a minute later when Derek Roy was shoved into him. Gaborik received treatment near his shoulder and neck on the bench and returned during the period.
Analysis: All Fantasy owners held their collective breath when Gaborik went down, but it seems the injury was minor and it won't keep the talented scorer sidelined. Gaborik has 41 points in his first 29 games with New York and has been worth every penny they doled out. Continue to start him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik scored twice during Monday's game against the Penguins. Gaborik scored both Rangers goals to push his NHL-leading total to 21, but New York dropped its third straight. Gaborik started the scoring at 3:12 when he deflected a pass from Vaclav Prospal into Marc-Andre Fleury and then put the puck past him with a second whack. His second goal came on the power play at 18:42 of the second. Gaborik has five two-goal games this season.
Analysis: In just his 25th game with New York, Gaborik reached the 20-goal mark for the sixth time in his nine NHL seasons. Every time Gaborik has hit that milestone, he has netted at least 30. The best news is that he has stayed relatively healthy in 2009-10 and has emerged as one of the elite Fantasy forwards.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik scored twice, added two assists and finished at plus-3 during Monday's game against the Blue Jackets. Gaborik started New York on their comeback with his 17th goal 11:29 into the first. He then added his 18th goal 7:23 into the second. Gaborik has four multi-goal games, with two in his last three appearances.
Analysis: Gaborik has seven goals and six assists during a seven-game point streak. We knew Gaborik would be a nice fit for the Rangers and he has been relatively healthy in 2009-10. Gaborik continues to be a Fantasy star.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik scored his 16th goal of the season in Saturday's loss to the Panthers, extending his point streak to six games.
Analysis: So far, so good for Gaborik who has managed to stay mostly healthy this season. Continue to use him in all formats as an elite Fantasy forward.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik gave it his best effort on Tuesday night but New York still lost to the Capitals, 4-2. The Rangers right winger scored twice in the game. He netted the game's first goal in the 1st period and added another off a power play in the 3rd period to tie the score before Washington scored the game's final two goals. He now has 15 goals on the season for the Rangers.
Analysis: Gaborik has recorded points in five straight games and nine of his last 10. He now has 27 points on the season and is playing like the must-start Fantasy option that he is. Continue to start him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik scored the only goal in Sunday's 1-0 in over the Rangers as he returned to the ice after missing two games with a leg injury.
Analysis: Gaborik is off to a great start this season and his owners will be very happy to see the injury-prone winger back on the ice Sunday. Get him active in all Fantasy formats for Week 5 (Nov. 2-8).
News:Marian Gaborik returned to Minnesota, but only as a spectator. In his first season with the New York Rangers, Gaborik has 10 goals and eight assists in 12 games. The former franchise player for the Wild is fourth in the NHL with 18 points. Gaborik was scratched and did not dress for the Rangers' only regular-season game against Minnesota because of injury. He hurt his leg Monday night in a collision with a Phoenix player and missed a game Wednesday night against the New York Islanders. Gaborik participated in the Rangers' morning skate in Minnesota, but wasn't able to play. Many Minnesota fans booed when Gaborik's status was announced at Xcel Energy Center. "It would be nice to play, but I don't want to put myself into position of it getting worse," Gaborik told reporters after the Rangers arrived Thursday night.
Analysis: Gaborik said he is enjoying the experience of a new style and a new team. "It's very exciting. So far things are good. I like the team, the guys, the organization," said Gaborik, who signed a five-year, $37.5 million contract with the Rangers this summer. "Everything's been super so far." He was asked if the Rangers are a better fit for his skills. "I really like our system. We're a fast team. We're skating a lot," Gaborik said. "I think the Eastern Conference is a little different. It's not as much tight hockey, especially throughout the neutral zone." The Rangers play once more in Week 4 (Oct. 26-Nov. 1) on Sunday against the Bruins. If Gaborik is not back by then, he is an injury-risk start for Week 5 (Nov. 2-8). He is a must-start Fantasy option when active.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik won't get to take on his former team, the Wild, on Friday night as his injured leg is still bothering him.
Analysis: The Rangers are clearly going to take things easy with the fragile Gaborik, who was ridiculed at times in Minnesota because of his inability to stay healthy. New York plays again on Sunday, so hopefully Gaborik can back on the ice and not force his Fantasy owners to make a critical lineup decision on Monday.
News:Newsday reports that Rangers RW Marian Gaborik (right leg) will make the trip to Minnesota and skate prior to Friday's game, but his status for the contest is still up in the air.
Analysis: Gaborik would obviously love to play against his former team, but it's probably only right that he miss the game injured after all the issues he had while in the Twin Cities. Continue to stash Gaborik away in all leagues and hopefully he'll be ready for Fantasy Week 5 (Nov. 2-8).
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik was held out of Wednesday's game against the Islanders because of a lower-body injury. He is day to day.
Analysis: It is unclear how long Gaborik will be out but the forward, who has 10 goals, will surely want to play Friday at Minnesota when New York takes on his former team. Gaborik spent his first eight NHL seasons with the Wild. We expect these kind of injury issues with the veteran forward, but when he is on the ice, he is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Rangers coach John Tortorella announced Wednesday that RW Marian Gaborik (lower body) will not play Wednesday at the Islanders.
Analysis: Uh oh, here we go again. Gaborik was off to a great start this season, but you knew it was only a matter of time before his injury history caught up with him. Hopefully this is nothing major, but you have to be seriously concerned if you own the veteran in Fantasy play. Gaborik is clearly a must-start option when healthy.
News:Marian Gaborik vaulted to the top spot on the NHL goal list and earned first star honors with a performance that helped the New York Rangers snap a three-game losing streak. But Broadway's newest flashy forward didn't get a chance to celebrate his big night on the ice because of an injury that ended it early. Gaborik scored two goals, moving him into a tie for first in the NHL with 10, and added an assist in the Rangers' 5-2 victory over the Phoenix Coyotes on Monday night. He was on the ice when teammate Enver Lisin closed the scoring with 8:13 left, but didn't finish the game. He limped to the dressing room, creating concern throughout Madison Square Garden. There was no definitive word on what ailed Gaborik, but he said it wasn't related to his groin or hip that caused him to miss significant time in previous seasons. "We'll see how everything is in the morning," Gaborik said. "I collided with one of their players, but it's nothing major. It happened with about 5 minutes left and the game was pretty much over."
Analysis: Gaborik has 16 points in 12 games, quickly paying dividends on the big free-agent contract the Rangers gave him this summer to pry him from the Minnesota Wild. "He adds a different level that we haven't had since (Jaromir) Jagr," said Henrik Lundqvist, who made 30 saves. "He brings it every night. He has been huge for us." Gaborik has been everything and then some for the Rangers in 2009-10. But they knew when they signed him in the offseason that he has a long history of injury problems and it was likely to rear its ugly head at some point. Now, they pray it is just a minor issue as Gaborik believes it is. Gaborik is clearly a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik scored and assisted in Saturday's OT loss to the Canadiens, giving him 15 points on the young season.
Analysis: Gaborik has been tremendous to open up the the 2009-10 season with his new team. Fantasy owners who took the risk on him are reaping the rewards in a big way. Keep Gaborik active in all formats as long as he maintains this hot streak and stays healthy.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik scored his seventh goal of the season Thursday in a loss to the Devils. He now has 13 points in 10 games.
Analysis: Gaborik has been tremendous to open up the the 2009-10 season with his new team. Fantasy owners who took the risk on him are reaping the rewards in a big way. Keep Gaborik active in all formats as long as he maintains this hot streak and stays healthy.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik had a two-assist game on Saturday in a 4-1 win over the Maple Leafs. He increased his points total on the season to 12 with six points and six assists.
Analysis: Gaborik has been tremendous to open up the the 2009-10 season with his new team. Fantasy owners who took the risk on him are reaping the rewards in a big way to open the year. Keep Gaborik active in all formats as long as he maintains this hot streak to open the year.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik scored and assisted in Monday's rout of the Maple Leafs. He now has nine points and a plus-7 rating in his first six games with his new team.
Analysis: Gaborik is thriving in his new surroundings so far, and the Fantasy owners who took him as an injury-risk flier in their drafts will be hoping he can just somehow manage to stay healthy. Continue to start the veteran in all formats.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik scored twice in Thursday's win over the Capitals.
Analysis: Gaborik now has four goals on the year and appears to be settling in very nicely since his move to the Big Apple. If he can stay healthy, Gaborik could be in for a huge season, so keep him active in all formats.
News: The sellout crowd at Madison Square Garden came to cheer Marian Gaborik, the Rangers' major free-agent signing over the summer, only to see him upstaged by linemates Brandon Dubinsky and Vaclav Prospal. Dubinsky scored twice and Henrik Lundqvist made 32 saves Saturday to help the Rangers win their home opener, 5-2 over the Ottawa Senators. Gaborik scored for a second straight game, a goal that padded the Rangers lead to 4-1 after his linemates had already done the heavy lifting. He likes the offensive potential the Rangers have shown in their first two games. "I think our lines have a lot of speed and we can handle the puck down low," Gaborik said. "We create a lot of chances."
Analysis: Gaborik has produced from the get-go with his new team, producing two goals and an assist in two games. He has a plus-3 rating to boot, taking 13 shots on goal combined. He should be an immense offensive force with the Rangers this season and is a must-start Fantasy option as long as he can stay healthy.
News:Sidney Crosby and Tyler Kennedy scored 1:08 apart in the second period to give the Penguins a 3-1 lead and allow them to withstand Marian Gaborik's first goal for the Rangers during a 3-2 win Friday against New York. Gaborik cut it to 3-2 at 5:56 of the third as he beat goalie Marc-Andre Fleury on a wrister.
Analysis: The Rangers underwent a major retooling after a disappointing end to last season. They cast off scoring leaders Scott Gomez and Nikolai Zherdev, plus Markus Naslund and seven other players from last season, and added Gaborik, the former Minnesota star and the top free agent on the market. Gaborik matched the Penguins' stars speed, starting several up-ice rushes while taking a game-high eight shots, but once again a Rangers team that ranked 28th last season with a 2.44 goals-against average had trouble finishing plays. We hope that trend will change as the season progresses since coach John Tortorella wants to play an up-tempo game. Gaborik can score on every night, but his biggest obstacle remains injury. Gaborik is a must-start Fantasy option as long as he is healthy.
News: This is the Marian Gaborik the New York Rangers hope they see all season. Just two preseason games into his Broadway debut, the Rangers' best offensive threat is showing the form that made him a 40-goal scorer with the Minnesota Wild. Gaborik scored his first two goals with the Rangers, including an unassisted short-handed tally in the second period, and Christopher Higgins snapped a tie with 70 seconds left to lift New York to a 3-2 exhibition victory over the Washington Capitals on Thursday. Gaborik helped set up the winning goal, that was created when teammate Brandon Dubinsky was leveled in front by Milan Jurcina. The puck popped free and caromed off Higgins' stick and past goalie Jose Theodore. "It is exciting," said Dubinsky, who made his preseason debut after a long contract negotiation produced a deal last week. "(Gaborik) is one of those game-breakers that we didn't have last year. He is a guy who is going to score big goals for us."
Analysis: Gaborik gave the Rangers (3-2-1) a pair of one-goal leads in the second period, but New York couldn't protect them. The Rangers' top scoring threat hopped onto the ice and immediately had the puck bounce to him at the Washington blue line after Higgins forced John Erskine into a neutral-zone turnover. Gaborik darted in alone and snapped a shot from the slot that easily beat Theodore between the pads 36 seconds into the period during Michal Rozsival's hooking penalty. "I knew I was going to celebrate with him because he is such a phenomenal talent," Higgins said. "It is pretty much a guaranteed goal." In two games after shaking off groin soreness that developed during training camp, Gaborik has two goals and two assists. "If I play with him, I will try to get him the puck as much as I can in scoring areas and I will find myself some assists," Dubinsky said. We all know Gaborik is an amazing talent. But his injury woes are always a concern on Draft Day. Continue to treat Gaborik as a high-risk, high-reward Fantasy player.
News: Rangers RW Marian Gaborik shook off a groin injury to assist in Monday's preseason win over the Red Wings.
Analysis: Gaborik's problem has never been putting up points. His issue has always been staying healthy for an extended period of time. Maybe this is the year he does that, but who knows. Continue to draft him in all formats as a solid Fantasy forward, but one with an injury risk.
News: For the second straight night, the Rangers were without leading forward Marian Gaborik (groin soreness) during Wednesday's preseason game against the Devils. The New York Daily News reports that Gaborik took the ice Monday for conditioning drills for the first time since training camp opened Saturday. Gaborik said he is suffering from "a little tightness, soreness" after arriving two weeks early and taking part in informal skates. "I know the start of training camp is critical at times. The first couple days was tough skating, I don't want to overdo things," Gaborik said. "I don't want to push too quick too hard. I have a history with these things. I don't want to hurt myself."
Analysis: Gaborik said his surgically repaired hip is fine, but this is the last thing the Rangers want to see after Gaborik's tenure in Wild came to an end because of nagging groin injuries. It seems barring a setback that Gaborik will be ready for the opener, but as always, he remains a high-risk, high-reward Fantasy forward on Draft Day.
News: Once the New York Rangers got out from under Scott Gomez's expensive contract, they turned to Marian Gaborik and gave him the money they suddenly saved. One day after trading Gomez and the five years and $33.5 million left on his contract to the Montreal Canadiens, the Rangers signed the 27-year-old Gaborik away from the Minnesota Wild with a five-year, $37.5 million deal. "He is an exciting guy to watch play," Rangers general manager Glen Sather said Wednesday night. "He can skate and does a lot of great things. He's a great player and he's young. I certainly think he's in the top 10 in this league." After netting a career-high 42 goals in the 2007-08 season with the Wild, he was limited to 17 games last season due to injuries. He still managed to score 13 goals in that span. Gaborik has scored at least 30 goals in five of his eight NHL seasons. Sather said the Rangers talked with doctors who performed Gaborik's hip surgery that kept him off the ice most of last season. The doctor is confident he will be back in top shape in New York. "He is very healthy," Sather said. "Mario Lemieux had the surgery that he had. We don't expect that there are going to be any problems."
Analysis: New coach John Tortorella, who took over for the fired Tom Renney in February, lamented the lack of scoring punch in the postseason and plans to fully implement a hard-charging attack next season. Gaborik is now at the forefront of the Rangers' offense. He already proved he could score under the defensive-style system run by former Wild coach Jacques Lemaire. "Gaborik played under that system and he's got almost a point a game," Sather said. "He's been very productive, so it's going to be very interesting to watch to see how he does with Tortorella's system. As Torts has described, we're going to have a very uptempo, speed game. This guy fits the bill to a T." Gaborik has been limited by injuries in recent seasons, but he is Minnesota's all-time leading scorer and one of the NHL's elite skaters when healthy. Like every season, Gaborik is going to be a high-end, injury-risk Fantasy forward Draft Day.
News:Marian Gaborik is officially a free agent. The Minnesota Wild's cornerstone forward had his contract expire when the NHL's offseason formally began Wednesday. Gaborik is the only remaining player from their original team, and was their first draft pick nine years ago. Gaborik wanted to test the market, so the Wild had little chance to lock him up.
Analysis: The 27-year-old Gaborik has been limited by injuries in recent seasons, but he is Minnesota's all-time leading scorer and one of the NHL's elite skaters when healthy. New general manager Chuck Fletcher has hinted he'll be active with his roster, so if Gaborik goes somewhere else the Wild will likely chase other high-profile players. Gaborik still has a long history of injury problems and that could make teams hesitant. Like every season, Gaborik is going to be a high-end, injury-risk Fantasy forward Draft Day -- no matter where he plays.
News: The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports Marian Gaborik's agent, Ron Salcer, said the soon-to-be-free-agent forward has not "closed the door on the Wild." "You never know what can happen," Salcer said. "Right now, the only team we can talk to is the Minnesota Wild. I don't like to say anything's a foregone conclusion (that he's leaving) because until July 1, it's not going to be. But free agency is very enticing. To find out what's available out there in a free market with 29 other teams would be interesting. But you never burn bridges and you wait to see what happens. So we'll see where it goes."
Analysis: Gaborik, 27, rejected a 10-year, $78.5 million deal last fall from the Wild because of concerns about the long-term direction of the team. However, Minnesota recently lost defensive-minded Jacques Lemaire and replaced him with offensive-savvy Todd Richards. Another wrinkle to the report is that Gaborik recently bought a home in Vancouver and could reunite with best friend and former teammate Pavol Demitra, who signed a four-year deal with the Canucks last offseason. Gaborik only played 17 games last season because of a hip injury, but totaled 13 goals and 23 points. He was extremely explosive offensively upon his return late in the season and that's good news for him heading into free agency. However, he still has a long history of injury problems and that could make teams hesitant. Like every season, Gaborik is going to be a high-end, injury-risk Fantasy forward Draft Day.
News:Marian Gaborik is finally healthy, skating and shooting as if he doesn't want the season to end. Gaborik kept up his remarkable scoring rate with a goal and two assists, and the Minnesota Wild avoided elimination from the playoff chase for at least three more days with a 3-1 victory over the Dallas Stars on Tuesday night. "It's always nice to score ... but we got two points. We got a great win. It's huge," Gaborik said, hardly exaggerating. Gaborik, who became the second player in Wild history to appear in 500 games with the team, set the tone late in the first period by poking in a perfect touch pass from Andrew Brunette while James Sheppard screened Dallas defenseman Andrew Hutchinson. Gaborik has frequently been a streaky scorer, but when on the ice this season he hasn't had any lulls. "He's well-rested," said Brunette, grinning as he teased his friend. Brunette added: "When he's going like he is right now, going to the net and finding holes and stuff, he's unstoppable."
Analysis: Gaborik has scored in five straight games and has eight goals and 13 points in nine games since returning from a 38-game absence due to hip surgery. Gaborik has been great since returning to the lineup. He has been as explosive as ever and it doesn't appear the long layoff has bothered him. Gaborik will once again be an injury-risk sleeper heading into 2009-10.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik scored in Friday's win over the Flames, giving him six goals in his last six games.
Analysis: Gaborik has been great since returning from a hip injury. He has been as explosive as ever and it doesn't appear the long layoff has bothered him. If you haven't already, make sure Gaborik is active in all Fantasy formats.
News:Marian Gaborik had a goal and an assist and the Minnesota Wild remained in the tight Western Conference playoff race with a 3-2 victory over the Edmonton Oilers 3-2 on Sunday night. The Wild restored their two-goal cushion 4:13 into the third with an extra man on the ice due to a delayed penalty call. Gaborik used a screen in front and deftly picked the corner for his seventh of the season.
Analysis: Gaborik has four goals and three assists in five games since returning from a hip injury. He has been as explosive as ever and it doesn't appear the long layoff has bothered him. If you haven't already, make sure Gaborik is active in all Fantasy formats.
News:Marian Gaborik had two goals and two assists, and the Minnesota Wild beat the New York Islanders 6-2 on Wednesday to snap a five-game road losing streak. Gaborik tied it at 1 at 11:46 of the first with his second goal in two nights. He redirected Marek Zidlicky's pass in front for his fifth goal. Gaborik scored on the power play with 1:17 remaining to make it 6-2.
Analysis: In his third game after missing 38 following hip surgery, Gaborik continued to provide much-needed offense for the defensive-minded Wild. Minnesota was again without captain and leading scorer Mikko Koivu, sidelined by a knee injury. He has five points since returning to the lineup and Wednesday's game pretty much proved Gaborik is back to full strength after a long layoff. For those Fantasy owners still alive in the playoff chase, consider taking a flier on Gaborik, who has high-end potential.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik scored his team's only goal during Tuesday's 2-1 loss to the Rangers. Gaborik, who scored five goals against Henrik Lundqvist and the Rangers in the teams' last meeting on Dec. 20, 2007, lifted the Wild into a 1-1 tie when he scored on a snap shot 1:31 into the second. It was Gaborik's first goal since returning Sunday from a 38-game absence following hip surgery.
Analysis: The Wild will need Gaborik's offense to help offset the loss of captain and leading scorer Mikko Koivu, who will be out at least a week due to a knee injury sustained Sunday. Gaborik has six points in the eight games he has played this season and is still flashing point-per-game potential. For those Fantasy owners still alive in the playoff chase, consider taking a flier on Gaborik, who has high-end potential.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik made his much-anticipated return to the lineup Sunday against the Oilers. It was just the seventh game of 2008-09 for Gaborik, who played the first two games in October, missed two months, played four games in December (scoring twice), and had been out again since just before Christmas after having hip surgery. He will be a free agent at the end of the season and turned down a contract extension during training camp. That, and the fact that he's missed 94 games due to injury since 2005, has drawn the ire of many Wild fans. Still, Gaborik was greeted mostly with cheers, drowning out a smattering of boos, when he was introduced on Sunday. "I was a little nervous before the game, but as soon as I hit the ice, everything went well," said Gaborik, who played just shy of 18 minutes and had six shots.
Analysis: Gaborik couldn't return at a better time for the Wild and Fantasy owners. Minnesota is vying for a playoff berth and Fantasy leagues are in the midst of their playoff runs. The fact Gaborik wasn't hesitant to shoot the puck Sunday only signifies good things to come. We just have to hope he doesn't suffer another injury setback. Now is the time for Fantasy owners to add and start Gaborik. He has high-end Fantasy potential when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild RW Marian Gaborik (hip surgery) practiced for a fourth straight day Sunday, but coach Jacques Lemaire doesn't think he's close to returning. "Not at all," Lemaire said. Asked if there's pressure for Gaborik to rush back with the Wild's playoff life teetering, Lemaire said, "None whatsoever."
Analysis: At this juncture, we were hoping to hear Gaborik is close to suiting up following hip surgery in January. But it just doesn't seem in the cards. Keep Gaborik reserved heading into Fantasy Week 24 (March 16-22). He has high-end Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Minnesota RW Marian Gaborik is practicing for the first time since sustaining a hip injury in December, but there's no timetable for his return. Injuries have limited Gaborik to six games this season.
Analysis: When Gaborik does return, he'll be playing for a contract next season. He was not dealt at the deadline and could give the Wild's offense some spark if and when he does return. He has high-end appeal and is worth hanging on to if there's an extra spot on your bench.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik is scheduled to travel with Minnesota to Colorado as they face the Avalanche Thursday. Gaborik, who has missed all but six games this season because of groin and hip problems, will resume practicing "when ready," according to the team.
Analysis: Gaborik is set to return from hip surgery later this month and is expected to give the Wild a jolt up front. Despite not being traded at the deadline, he is still playing for his next contract and will be plenty motivated with Minnesota in the playoff hunt. Gaborik has high-end Fantasy potential when healthy and could be a nice addition for those owners still left in the playoff mix.
News: The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports injured Wild RW Marian Gaborik (hip) was in play at Wednesday's trade deadline, but Minnesota couldn't find a suitable deal for the former 40-goal scorer.
Analysis: Gaborik is set to return from hip surgery later this month and is expected to give the Wild a jolt up front. Despite not being traded, he is still playing for his next contract and will be plenty motivated with Minnesota in the playoff hunt. Gaborik has high-end Fantasy potential when healthy and could be a nice addition for those owners still left in the playoff mix.
News:Marian Gaborik's long recovery from hip surgery got a little bit shorter on Monday when he returned to the Twin Cities to get ready to rejoin the Minnesota Wild. The star right wing has missed all but six games this season and had surgery in January to repair a torn labrum and damaged cartilage in his left hip that was causing chronic groin problems. Gaborik spent the next eight weeks in Colorado to begin rehabilitating, and now is back in St. Paul to ramp up his workouts and return to a team that desperately needs his scoring punch. "I'm going to come back and skate hard, skate with the gear on and obviously progress; and when that time will come I'm definitely looking forward to it," Gaborik said. "So hopefully it's going to be towards the end of the month and, hopefully, earlier. We'll see how everything feels and so far everything feels good. I'm really confident about the situation and going forward."
Analysis: After having the same procedure done on his right hip last summer, Gaborik started experiencing more and more pain at the start of the season. General manager Doug Risebrough said he would have liked to see Gaborik try to play through it, but the 26-year-old who is in the final year of his contract decided to have the second surgery in hopes of putting this issue behind him for good. "That's what I hope," Gaborik said. "That's what the doctor hopes and I really feel strong about that. It's been a chronic problem, and things are looking very good. So that's what I believe." Doctors told him it would take 10 to 14 weeks to recover, and Gaborik said Monday he feels like he is "ahead of schedule." The return of his injury problems likely have seriously damaged his value on the open market. "What happened, happened. I'm not looking back, I'm just looking at what's ahead," Gaborik said. "I'm very happy I had this procedure done. I think it's going to bring me to another level and to feel better than ever. That's how I feel. I'm confident and things are looking good." Minnesota could still deal Gaborik as the March 4 trade deadline approaches, but it does appear he will likely finish out the season with the Wild. Gaborik has high-end Fantasy potential when healthy and could be a nice addition for those owners still left in the playoff mix.
News: The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports Wild GM Doug Risebrough said Sunday that injured forward Marian Gaborik, who has been out since early January following hip surgery, is skating. Risebrough maintains he expects the former All-Star to eventually return to the Wild's lineup and not be subject to trade at the March 4 deadline. He added that Gaborik has an important physical he needs to pass March 3 before he can increase his training regimen.
Analysis: Even though Risebrough says Gaborik is staying put, don't you find it a bit ironic that his most important physical comes one day before the trade deadline? Never say never in hockey, so Gaborik still could be traded away. However, his return date from hip surgery is yet to be determined. He is not expected back until early March, but it's looking more like mid-March at this stage. Continue to keep the gifted goal scorer reserved in Fantasy.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik has begun rehabilitation from surgery on his left hip. The Minnesota Wild reported late Monday the operation to repair a torn labrum and damaged cartilage went "as expected." Gaborik started rehab immediately after the procedure in Colorado, done by the same specialist who performed a similar operation on his right hip last summer. Groin pain persisted for Gaborik this season, and he played in only six games before being diagnosed with a deficiency in his hip.
Analysis: The Wild wanted Gaborik to try to play through the pain this season, but he elected surgery instead, further incensing an organization that isn't a big fan of his. Gaborik is estimated to need 10 to 14 weeks to return. He can begin skating in six weeks, near his 27th birthday. He is in the final year of his contract. He is only worth holding on to in keeper and deeper seasonal leagues.
News: Minnesota Wild star Marian Gaborik will have surgery on his injured left hip on Monday and is expected to be out for about 10 weeks. Gaborik's injury is a "deficiency" in his hip that has caused his chronic left groin pain, the team said on Friday. The last original member of the Wild has missed 30 of 36 games this season. Since the league lockout in 2005, the winger has missed 86 games because of upper-leg injuries.G aborik had a similar procedure on his right hip last summer, and then had what the team thought were more groin problems at the start of this year. He met on Dec. 24 with the same doctor who performed the right hip surgery and elected to have the procedure done on his left side.
Analysis: General manager Doug Risebrough said Gaborik could have tried to play through the pain, but wouldn't have been at 100 percent. "I'm disappointed he won't be here for us through this part of the season, but this is the choice Marian has made," Risebrough said in a conference call. The situation casts further doubt on Gaborik's future with the team. He is in the final year of his contract and has turned down offers for an extension. Risebrough declined to comment on Gaborik's long-term status. "All I'm worried about is just getting him back and hopefully he's able to play," Risebrough said. This is devastating news for Fantasy owners as we might not see Gaborik again until early March. He has been a huge Fantasy disappointment in 2008-09 because of injury and this is just icing on the cake. Gaborik is a top-notch option when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports in what's becoming a tired, tired story, Wild star Marian Gaborik is on the shelf again. After playing four straight games and even scoring a goal and an assist in his last game, a 3-2 win over Carolina on Dec. 23, Gaborik was supposed to be shut down to rest his sore groin only two games after the NHL's Christmas break. But Wednesday night against San Jose, Gaborik missed his third. The team says he's hurting again, although Gaborik declined to comment, which is causing conspiracy theorists to wonder if something else is going on, like a potential trade. In the past, Gaborik has said he doesn't want to play until he's "100 percent." Asked if Gaborik is a player unwilling to play unless 100 percent, coach Jacques Lemaire said, "Well, (Owen) Nolan is not 100 percent and he asked me to play (Wednesday). And I know he's not 100 percent because he only had that little practice (Wednesday)."
Analysis: Asked if that was an indictment on Gaborik, Lemaire backtracked, saying, "Nobody knows how he feels. ... I know he wants to play." In a contract dispute with the Wild, Gaborik is on the trading block. But he has such a propensity for injuries, some wonder if the Wild is just making him sit until it can orchestrate a trade. Regardless, Lemaire's tired of the on again-off again Gaborik story. "I don't want to think (about Gaborik) 'til he comes on the ice with us," Lemaire said. "I started to think about him: Where's he going to play? Who's he going to play with? When's he going to play? And now he's out, he's out." It seems a happy resolution for all parties, including disgruntled Fantasy owners, would be a quick trade of Gaborik. It seems all sides are unhappy and they should just do their best to part ways. There is no telling when Gaborik might be back, so if he can't play by the weekend, he remains a poor start heading into Week 14 (Dec. 5-11).
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik, who was a game-time decision for Wednesday's game against the Sharks, was scratched with a lower body injury. He remains questionable for Saturday's game against Detroit. Gaborik has now missed 30 games due to injury this season.
Analysis: Gaborik is in a contract year and all these injuries aren't helping him financially. If he wants to land a big deal next offseason, he'll need to have a strong finish. If he does turn it on in the second half of the season, Fantasy owners could reap the benefits. Although he is porned to injury, Gaborik remains a must-start when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports asked if Wild RW Marian Gaborik, who has been held out the last two games to rest his sore groin and has missed 29 games, will be able to play Wednesday against San Jose, GM Doug Risebrough said, "It's how he's feeling. I'm not judging it as anything more than well let's call him at the end of each day and see where he's at."
Analysis: Gaborik is picking a really bad time to deal with a rash of injuries since he is in the final year of his contract. He is going to need to have one heck of a second half to land a huge free-agent deal. That could be good for Fantasy owners since Gaborik should be highly-motivated. The injury-risk forward is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Wild RW Marian Gaborik is dealing with some lower-body soreness and will not skate again until Wednesday.
Analysis: This latest issue for Gaborik is reportedly soreness related to the injury that kept him out for two months already this season. You're better off benching him in Fantasy Week 13 (Dec. 29-Jan. 4) as he might not play at all in the period.
News: RW Marian Gaborik missed 27 games with a lower body injury, but needed less than three periods to notch a goal. Gaborik's goal late in the third period helped send the Wild's game against Calgary into overtime, but the Wild couldn't hang on for the win. Gaborik also added an assist to his stat sheet. "It was so exciting to score, especially after I was out for a couple months," Gaborik said. "It's always good to get out there. When you get a goal or a point, it's always a bonus. It's too bad we couldn't get two points, but every point counts in this situation we are in right now."
Analysis: Gaborik is back and apparently there's not much rust on those skates. Gaborik tripled his point total on the season with the spirited performance. He's played three games this year and has three points. Gaborik can score goals when healthy, so think about getting him active for Week 12 (Dec. 22-28).
News:Marian Gaborik is set to return to the Minnesota Wild. The star right wing says he's planning to play Wednesday night at Xcel Energy Center against the Calgary Flames. Gaborik suffered an unspecified injury to his lower body and has missed the last 27 games since appearing on Oct. 14.
Analysis: Fantasy owners have been waiting a very long time for Gaborik to get his act together, and it does appear he will play for the Wild before a potential trade to a contender. Gaborik is a solid scorer when healthy and should be activated for Fantasy Week 12 (Dec. 22-28) if he makes it through the next couple of games unscathed.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild RW Marian Gaborik (lower body) has missed 27 out of 29 games but said, "I'm hoping I can be in the lineup this week (Dec. 15-21). It's my goal to play this week, definitely."
Analysis: Fantasy owners have been waiting a very long time for Gaborik to get his act together, and it does appear he will play for the Wild before a potential trade to a contender. Gaborik is a solid scorer when healthy, but is still considered a risky start Week 11 (Dec. 15-21). However, Fantasy owners should start scooping him up in all formats since a return is near.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild RW Marian Gaborik missed his 27th straight game Sunday against the Ducks with a lower body injury, but he's working his way back and has practiced with the team four days in a row. He's aiming to return during the upcoming homestand, which starts Wednesday against Calgary.
Analysis: Fantasy owners have been waiting a very long time for Gaborik to get his act together, and it does appear he will play for the Wild before a potential trade to a contender. Gaborik is a solid scorer when healthy, but is still considered a risky start Week 11 (Dec. 15-21). However, Fantasy owners should start scooping him up in all formats since a return is near.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Wild RW Marian Gaborik (lower body), who practiced Tuesday, will not play on Minnesota's upcoming road trip that spans Dec. 11-14.
Analysis: Gaborik might be a go for Fantasy Week 11 (Dec. 15-21), but who knows if the Wild will want him to play or not. The mystery behind this injury and whether Gaborik will stick around in Minnesota continues, so just follow along and insert him into your lineup when he's good and ready to play.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Wild RW Marian Gaborik (lower body) returned to practice Tuesday for the first time since Oct. 12.
Analysis: OK, let the games begin! Will the Wild want to showcase Gaborik for a possible trade, or will they want to keep the circus surrounding him away from a team that is currently just two points of first in the Northwest? We'll just have to see, but Gaborik is a must-start Fantasy forward when healthy. He could be back for Fantasy Week 11 (Dec. 15-21), so keep a close eye on his progress.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Wild RW Marian Gaborik (lower body) skated before practice on Wednesday.
Analysis: The Gaborik situation has turned ugly in Minnesota and we might not see the free-agent-to-be back in action until he is dealt to a new team. Gaborik clearly wants out of Minnesota, but he has to pass a physical before that happens. He is an elite Fantasy option when healthy, but with no return date in sight, continue to keep Gaborik stashed away in Fantasy.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik missed his 21th straight game Monday against the Avalanche with a "lower body injury." The Sports Xchange reports Gaborik continues to experience soreness and is not even skating on his own anymore.
Analysis: The Gaborik situation has turned ugly in Minnesota and we might not see the free-agent-to-be back in action until he is dealt to a new team. Gaborik clearly wants out of Minnesota, but he has to pass a physical before that happens. He is an elite Fantasy option when healthy, but with no return date in sight, continue to keep Gaborik stashed away in Fantasy.
News: TSN reports that Wild RW Marian Gaborik could be traded any moment by Minnesota.
Analysis: Gaborik is a free agent at the end of the year and the Wild are clearly trying to get something for him before he just walks away after the season. Gaborik had offseason surgery to repair a nagging hip problem that bothered him throughout 2007-08, when he scored a career-high 42 goals, but is currently sidelined with a lower-body injury. He is a must-start guy when healthy, regardless of where he plays, so a trade wouldn't change his Fantasy value too much.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Wild RW Marian Gaborik will miss the rest of his team's current four-game road trip. The next home game for Minnesota is on Nov. 13 vs. Phoenix.
Analysis: This injury is really a shame since Gaborik is in his free agent year. He is without a doubt a dynamite Fantasy option when healthy, but continues to be a Fantasy headache at times. Keep him reserved until further notice.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild assistant GM Tom Lynn said RW Marian Gaborik suffered a slight setback Thursday and will be evaluated this week. Gaborik missed his eighth consecutive game Saturday against the Coyotes due to an unspecified lower-body injury. "Having him practice (Thursday) was a bit of a trial balloon," Lynn said. "It didn't come out as well as we hoped, so we'll rest him some more."
Analysis: Lynn doesn't think there is any danger of Gaborik being shut down for a long period of time like he was two seasons ago, when he missed 34 games with a groin injury. "It seemed a lot worse off two years ago," Lynn said. "He was walking with a limp. He wasn't doing anything for weeks. He wasn't on the verge as much as he is now." It sounds as though Gaborik could miss a few more games, so Fantasy owners will likely want to keep him reserved Week 5 (Nov. 3-9). Gaborik's propensity of injury continues to annoy Fantasy owners, but there is no denying when he is healthy that he is one of the best Fantasy forwards on the market.
News: Minnesota RW Marian Gaborik missed his 8th consecutive game Saturday against the Coyotes due to an unspecified lower-body injury. He was recently placed on IR, but can come off at any time. He remains day to day and is questionable for Thursday at San Jose.
Analysis: The Wild are still giving no timetable for Gaborik's return, and this injury is really a shame since Gaborik is in his free agent year. He is without a doubt a dynamite Fantasy option when healthy, but continues to be a Fantasy headache at times. Keep him reserved until further notice.
News: Minnesota RW Marian Gaborik missed his seventh consecutive game Thursday against the Canadiens due to an unspecified lower-body injury. He was recently placed on IR, but can come off at any time. He remains day to day and questionable for Saturday's game against the Coyotes.
Analysis: The Wild are still giving no timetable for Gaborik's return, and this injury is really a shame since Gaborik is in his free agent year. He is without a doubt a dynamite Fantasy option when healthy, but continues to be a Fantasy headache at times. Keep him reserved until further notice.
News: Minnesota RW Marian Gaborik missed his sixth consecutive game Wednesday against the Stars due to an unspecified lower-body injury. He was recently placed on IR, but can come off at any time. He remains day to day and questionable for Thursday's game against Montreal.
Analysis: The Wild are still giving no timetable for Gaborik's return, and this injury is really a shame since Gaborik is in his free agent year. He is without a doubt a dynamite Fantasy option when healthy, but continues to be a Fantasy headache at times. Keep him reserved until further notice.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik missed his fifth straight game Monday against the Blackhawks because of an unspecified lower-body injury. He was recently placed on IR, but can come off at any time. He remains day to day and questionable for Wednesday's tilt with Dallas.
Analysis: The Wild are still giving no timetable for Gaborik's return, and this injury is really a shame since Gaborik is in his free agent year. He is without a doubt a dynamite Fantasy option when healthy, but continues to be a Fantasy headache at times. Keep him reserved until further notice.
News: Minnesota Wild star Marian Gaborik was placed on injured reserve because of an unspecified lower-body injury that has kept him out of four straight games. Moves are made retroactively, though, so because Gaborik has not played since Oct. 14, he could come off IR at any time.
Analysis: This is always the risk we run with drafting Gaborik -- the injury problems. He is without a doubt a dynamite Fantasy option when healthy, but continues to be a Fantasy headache at times. Continue to track his progress leading up to Week 4 (Oct. 27-Nov. 2).
News: Minnesota played its third game in a row without RW Marian Gaborik (lower body) during a 4-3 overtime loss Thursday against the Sabres. He remains day to day and questionable for Saturday against the Blue Jackets.
Analysis: This is always the risk we run with drafting Gaborik -- the injury problems. He is without a doubt a dynamite Fantasy option when healthy, but continues to be a Fantasy headache at times. Continue to track his progress leading up to Week 4 (Oct. 27-Nov. 2).
News: Minnesota RW Marian Gaborik missed the Wild's game Saturday against the Lightning because of what the team called a lower-body injury. Gaborik, set to become an unrestricted free agent during the offseason, played in both of Minnesota's first two games but has now missed the last two. Gaborik set Minnesota franchise records for goals (42) and points (83) last season when he played in 77 games. It was the first time in four seasons the eight-year veteran had played more than 65 games.
Analysis: Many Fantasy owners were a little hesitant coming into the season with Gaborik because of his injury past, and it is once again rearing it's ugly head. Gaborik is obviously a fantastic offensive player when active, but all these injury concerns continue to frustrate Fantasy owners. He'll be an injury risk for Fantasy Week 3 (Oct. 20-26).
News: Minnesota right wing Marian Gaborik missed the Wild's game Thursday night against Florida because of what the team called a lower-body injury. Gaborik, set to become an unrestricted free agent during the offseason, played in both of Minnesota's first two games. Gaborik set Minnesota franchise records for goals (42) and points (83) last season when he played in 77 games. It was the first time in four seasons the eight-year veteran had played more than 65 games.
Analysis: Gaborik scored Minnesota's second goal Tuesday against the Thrashers, his first of the season. Many Fantasy owners were a little hesitant coming into the season with Gaborik because of his injury past, and it is once again rearing it's ugly head. Gaborik is obviously a fantastic offensive player when active, but all these injury concerns continue to frustrate Fantasy owners. Keep an eye on Gaborik's status leading up to Week 3 (Oct. 20-26).
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik scored Minnesota's second goal Tuesday against the Thrashers, his first of the season. He created the play all on his own, lifting the defender's stick and popping the puck into the net. Gaborik, coming off a career season that included 42 goals, 41 assists and 83 points, continued to dominate Atlanta, scoring his eighth point (five goals) in six games against the Thrashers. "He was responsible on our end," head coach Lemaire said. "He made some beautiful plays."
Analysis: Gaborik continues to be at ends with the Wild on a new contract and it appears as though he might be traded at some point this season. Regardless of where he plays, he is still playing for his next contract and Gaborik is highly-motivated for a big season. Continue to start him in all Fantasy formats.
News: On the eve of the season opener, the Minnesota Wild were all but certain to miss their first goal. Marian Gaborik has begun the final year of his contract without an extension in place, a potential distraction both sides vowed to avoid. But Gaborik insisted this week he's not thinking about his status, even though the possibility of a trade has now increased. The team doesn't want to lose him next summer to free agency, without getting any players or draft picks back. "I just want to play, you know?" he said. "Enjoy it. Have fun. I've said it numerous times: I'm going to go out there, have fun, work hard -- and that's all I want to do." When asked whether he was bracing himself for the extra attention as long as a deal remains unsigned, Gaborik repeated his claim. "I'm not just saying that. It's how I feel," he said.
Analysis: So as the Wild charged toward Saturday night's opener against Boston, they were still unsure whether the franchise's original and only true star would finish the season in Minnesota -- let alone his promising career. "If it's affecting our team and affecting what's going on in the dressing room, I have confidence that Gabby's going to just get rid of it," center James Sheppard said. "He's not going to let it affect the team. He's a guy that I have confidence in. I'm sure that he wouldn't want that to happen." Gaborik, who has been known to be an injury-prone player, has a lot to play for in 2008-09 and should be fully motivated to have a big season. Now, if he can just avoid the injury bug. Continue to start Gaborik in all Fantasy formats.
News: Minnesota RW Marian Gaborik made his first appearance of the preseason in a win over the Blackhawks. The veteran sat out the first three games with a quadriceps injury.
Analysis: Gaborik had offseason surgery to repair a nagging hip problem that bothered him throughout 2007-08, when he scored a career-high 42 goals. But this is the same old story with Gaborik. In the Wild's view, health is the only barrier to Gaborik becoming a 50-goal scorer. Nagging groin injuries limited him to 65 games in 2005-06 and 48 in 2006-07. However, Gaborik played in 77 games last season while totaling a career-high 83 points. Gaborik continues to negotiate with Minnesota on a new long-term deal as he enters the final season on his current contract. Fantasy owners should hope Gaborik goes into the season as a soon-to-be free agent so he is motivated by another big season. Consider Gaborik a high-risk, high-reward Fantasy forward on Draft Day.
News: The Wild were without RW Marian Gaborik during Wednesday's preseason game against the Blue Jackets because the All-Star forward was nursing a quadricep injury. Gaborik has not been active since camp opened Saturday.
Analysis: Gaborik had offseason surgery to repair a nagging hip problem that bothered him throughout 2007-08, when he scored a career-high 42 goals. But this is the same old story with Gaborik. In the Wild's view, health is the only barrier to Gaborik becoming a 50-goal scorer. Nagging groin injuries limited him to 65 games in 2005-06 and 48 in 2006-07. However, Gaborik played in 77 games last season while totaling a career-high 83 points. Gaborik continues to negotiate with Minnesota on a new long-term deal as he enters the final season on his current contract. Fantasy owners should hope Gaborik goes into the season as a soon-to-be free agent so he is motivated by another big season. Consider Gaborik a high-risk, high-reward Fantasy forward on Draft Day.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Wild continues to work hard at trying to sign RW Marian Gaborik, who can become a free agent next summer, to an extension. Assistant GM Tom Lynn flew to Los Angeles on Sept. 10 to meet with Gaborik's agent, Ron Salcer, for a few days. The Wild is trying to sign Gaborik to a long-term deal worth more than $8.5 million. It's possible negotiations will continue into training camp, scheduled to begin Sept. 19. But at some point soon the Wild must know concretely whether Gaborik is willing to sign or not. If he's not, the Wild will likely investigate his trade value before the season. "There will come a time where we're going to want to know what's happening, but we haven't set that time yet," Lynn said. "We'll see how things go. Right now, we're worried more about what we're trying to do, which is signing Marian. That's our primary goal. We're putting all our efforts there."
Analysis: Gaborik has been non-committal on the contract talks. "I'm willing to stay, but I know what my options are if we won't agree on terms," Gaborik said. "And they know that I know my options. I have one year left on my contract. That's all I'm thinking about. I'm going to leave everything out there, work hard and enjoy it. And I'm going to try the best I can to help the team win this year like I've done always." If there's an impasse, Gaborik knows the Wild might be forced to trade him to avoid a season-long distraction and to ensure it receives assets in return for a talent like Gaborik. "I'm not thinking that far right now. I can't control that," Gaborik said. "I'm just here to play hockey." Gaborik's main concern is that Minnesota is not an offensive-minded team. It's true coach Jacques Lemaire preaches defense, but Gaborik still had 40-plus goals in 2007-08. Wherever Gaborik plays, as long as he is healthy, he remains a must-have Fantasy option.
News: The Minnesota Wild hope to make Marian Gaborik an offer he won't refuse. Their first step was a visit to Slovakia for a face-to-face meeting with their franchise player. President and general manager Doug Risebrough and assistant GM for hockey operations Tom Lynn traveled to Gaborik's home in Trencin last week, armed with data and ready to listen. They shared inside information about their philosophy and plans, used statistics to sell the 26-year-old right wing on how he fits in Minnesota's system, and took time to answer Gaborik's questions about the team's strategy and direction. They didn't talk contract yet. They just wanted to give him their side before the negotiation process begins. "He's going to make a decision, and we want him to make that decision with all the information that's out there and not base it on any misconceptions or myths," Lynn said Monday.
Analysis: One of their primary objectives was to convince him he can still thrive as a scorer in the more-rugged Western Conference with a Wild team that has always emphasized defense first under coach Jacques Lemaire. Gaborik has publicly acknowledged in the past he's wondered how productive he could be in a more offensive system. But Lynn argued against that, citing Gaborik's NHL rank in goals per game (fourth) and even-strength goals (first) since the lockout. In the team's view, health is the only barrier to Gaborik becoming a 50-goal scorer. Nagging groin injuries limited him to 65 games in 2005-06 and 48 in 2006-07. However, Gaborik played in 77 games last season while totaling a career-high 83 points (42 goals). He did all that with a nagging hip injury. He had surgery in the offseason and is expected to be ready for training camp. Whether he has a new contract or not, the injury-risk Gaborik is still a must-own Fantasy forward.
News: Minnesota Wild star winger Marian Gaborik had minor arthroscopic surgery on his right hip on Friday to relieve "irritation" that bothered him for most of the season. The surgery was performed at Steadman Hawkins Clinic in Vail, Colo., and the team expects Gaborik to be ready for training camp. The surgery was to repair a torn labrum and relieve some pressure on Gaborik's hip. The injury will keep him from playing for Slovakia in this month's hockey world championships. Gaborik, who is entering the final year of his contract, will spend 10 days to two weeks in Colorado and then return to the Twin Cities to continue his rehabilitation, Wild general manager Doug Risebrough said.
Analysis: Risebrough said Gaborik felt "irritation" nearly all of last season, when he scored a career-high 42 goals, including five in one game against the New York Rangers. But Gaborik decided to play through it and said it didn't affect him in the playoffs, when he was held without a goal in a six-game loss to Colorado in the opening round. "It was just more of an irritation," Risebrough said. "It wasn't affecting his skating, and he skated well in the series." Gaborik's desire and work ethic has sometimes been called into question, but never has his talent. He is one of the best skaters in the NHL and is coming off a career-best 83-point season. Injuries have been a problem at times for Gaborik over his career, but he should be able to go by training camp. He will be an elite Fantasy forward come Draft Day 2008.
News:Marian Gaborik has a hip injury that will keep him from playing for Slovakia in hockey's world championship tournament next month. The Minnesota Wild said Thursday their star right wing will undergo further medical consultation before a decision is made on how to treat the injury. The Wild issued a brief news release that revealed Gaborik has a "hip deficiency attributable to overuse."
Analysis: After a career-best 42 goals during the regular season, Gaborik did not score in the first-round playoff series against the Colorado, which the Avalanche won in six games. He is entering the final year of his contract. Gaborik's desire and work ethic has sometimes been called into question, but never has his talent. He is one of the best skaters in the NHL and is coming off a career-best 83-point season. Injuries have been a problem at times for Gaborik over his career, but he should be able to go by training camp. He will be an elite Fantasy forward come Draft Day 2008.
News:Marian Gaborik scored two goals, including the winner in overtime, and the Minnesota Wild celebrated clinching a playoff spot by beating the Colorado Avalanche 3-2 on Sunday. Pavol Demitra set up Gaborik on a two-on-one breakaway three minutes into overtime. The winner was Gaborik's career-high 40th goal and his franchise-record 80th point. Gaborik's first goal came on the power play from the top of the slot at 8:19 of the first period.
Analysis: Gaborik now has two multi-goal games in his last seven contests to go along with five assists. Gaborik is having the best year of his career because for once in four seasons, he has stayed healthy. Gaborik is arguably the best skater in the NHL and that makes him dangerous every time he touches or is near the puck. It is safe to treat him as a must-start Fantasy option.
News:Marian Gaborik reaches the 40-mark for assists with a pair on Friday night to help the Minnesota Wild beat the Vancouver Canucks 4-0. Gaborik also needs two more goals to get to the 40-goal mark for what would be a very balanced and fine season.
Analysis: Gaborik has stayed relatively healthy this season, and is having himself quite a campaign. Everyone knows what he's capable of when he's on the ice, but most of his career has been injury-riddled. For now, he is a solid No. 1 starting forward in most formats.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik reached the 75-point mark for the first time in his career Saturday when he assisted twice in a 5-4 loss to the Flames. His 37 assists are also a new career high.
Analysis: Gaborik has stayed relatively healthy this season, and is having himself quite a campaign. Everyone knows what he's capable of when he's on the ice, but most of his career has been injury-riddled. For now, he is a solid No. 1 starting forward in most formats.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik scored twice Wednesday in a 4-3 shootout loss to the Sharks to tie his single-season best goal mark of 38.
Analysis: Gaborik needs just one more goal and one more assist to set new marks in all three scoring categories this season. While he is always an injury risk, Gaborik should be a starting forward in all Fantasy formats until further notice.
News:Nicklas Backstrom's first shutout since October and Marian Gaborik's 200th NHL goal helped the Wild snap a five-game losing streak with a 2-0 victory over the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday night. Gaborik, who had played a sloppy game for the first 56 minutes with two penalties and two turnovers in Minnesota's zone, sealed the much-needed win on an odd-man rush with 4 minutes to go. He snapped a wrist shot over Erik Ersberg's glove for a 2-0 lead, then received a standing ovation from the crowd when his milestone was announced. "Especially to score it in a winning game when we haven't won in a while," Gaborik said. "This is a huge two points for us. It's nice to get that goal in a two-point game. It's huge."
Analysis: The newly bald Gaborik had his girlfriend shave his head after getting a bad haircut earlier in the day. He has now scored in consecutive games and has at least one point in seven of his last eight contests. He has three goals and five assists in that span. Gaborik sometimes lacks work ethic, but he is one of the best skaters in the NHL and can turn on the scoring at any time. He still remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News:Marian Gaborik scored his team-leading 35th goal for the Wild, but it came in an eventual 4-3 shootout lost to the New Jersey Devils on Thursday night. It was Gaborik's first goal in five games.
Analysis: If you want to have a balanced offensive player, Gaborik is your man. That's 35 goals and matching 35 assists this season, which is about as good as it can get from a Fantasy perspective. He is on pace to reach 80 points which would be a career best.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik extended his points streak to four games by assisting on Mikko Koivu's 10th goal of the season in Thursday's 3-2 loss to the Hurricanes.
Analysis: If you want to have a balanced offensive player, Gaborik is your man. He has 34 goals and 34 assists for the season, and that's about as good as it can get from a Fantasy perspective. He is on pace to reach between 75-80 points which would be a career best.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik made it four points in his last three games and tied his career high of 67 points with an assist in a 4-2 loss to the Blackhawks on Tuesday night. Before this streak, he had gone four games without a point.
Analysis: Gaborik has always been an injury risk guy, but it appears he might actually get over the 65-game mark this season for the first time in four campaigns and set career bests in goals, assists, points and plus/minus rating. Continue to start him as a top-two Fantasy forward in all formats while he's healthy.
News:Martin Skoula scored with 1:15 left in overtime and Minnesota gained sole possession of the division lead with a 2-1 win over the Los Angeles Kings on Sunday. Marian Gaborik also scored for Minnesota. Standing at the right of the crease, Skoula took a pass from Gaborik below the goal line and poked the puck between the pads of Erik Ersberg. "This is a good way to learn how to play under pressure a little bit and when there's a tight game," Gaborik said. "We need to do a big push, and I think this is going to be a good learning experience for us to go to playoffs." In his first career game as team captain, Gaborik -- who also had an assist -- deflected a shot from Brent Burns over the left shoulder of Ersberg early in the second period to tie the game.
Analysis: Gabroik now has one goal and two assists in his last two games after not getting a point in the four previous contests. The Wild have struggled offensively in recent weeks and that has been a reason for some low outputs from Gaborik. However, he is too valuable of a Fantasy option to bench in any format. He can break out at any time.
News: Minnesota Wild coach Jacques Lemaire has never been one to heap praise on his star players. Sometimes they give him no choice. Marian Gaborik had one of those performances Sunday night, scoring with 4.4 seconds left in overtime and lifting the Wild to a 5-4 win over the Nashville Predators. On a 2-on-1 break, Gaborik took a cross-ice pass from Pavol Demitra and tipped it past Predators goalie Chris Mason, giving the Wild the win after Nashville tied it with a three-goal third period. Gaborik finished the game with two goals and an assist -- including his third overtime game winner and second this season. "He's playing his best hockey since he's been here," Lemaire said.
Analysis: Lemaire's statement is saying a lot considering Gaborik is the franchise leader in goals, assists, power-play goals, and game winners. The Slovakian winger helped the Wild salvage two points after uncharacteristically giving up a third-period, two-goal lead -- twice. Gaborik, who finished at plus-3, is now on a five-game points streak. He has four goals and three assists in that span. He has managed to play 54 games this season and has stayed relatively injury-free. Continue to start him in all Fantasy formats.
News:Marian Gaborik celebrated his 26th birthday by scoring his 30th goal when he cut between Willie Mitchell and Sami Salo in the slot off a rush and snapping a low shot past Roberto Luongo's blocker. Gaborik reached the 30-goal plateau for the third straight season and for the fifth time in his career. Minnesota went on to a 5-4 win over Vancouver in the shootout.
Analysis: Gaborik has some nice balanced numbers with the 30 goals and 29 assists. He was sidelined for a period of time earlier in the season with a groin injury, but has played in 52 games. When healthy and on the ice, he is one of the fastest skaters in the NHL and a top points producer. He remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik scored his team's lone regulation goal during a 2-1 shootout win Sunday against the Blues. Gaborik's first goal in four games put the Wild ahead at 5:21 of the first period, a shot from the left circle that beat goalie Manny Legace to the near post. Gaborik has three goals and two assists in four games against the Blues, and also had two good scoring opportunities in the scoreless second period. He had another great scoring option as the Wild nearly ended it with their only shot of overtime, but Legace thwarted Gaborik on a breakaway and rebound with 13.8 seconds to go. The play was so close it had to be reviewed.
Analysis: Gaborik now has 29 goals on the season to go with 28 assists. He is one of the fastest skaters in the NHL and a top points producer when healthy. He missed some time earlier in the season with a groin injury, but has played in 51 games. He remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik scored twice Saturday in a 4-1 win over the Blue Jackets to take his tally to 28 on the season.
Analysis: Gaborik missed some time earlier in the season with a groin injury, but has still managed to post 55 points in 47 games. Gaborik should be started in all Fantasy formats.
News:Marian Gaborik ended a five-game run without a goal with his 26th of the season to help the Wild beat the Ducks 5-1 on Wednesday. Talk about being a consistent player, Gaborik now has 26 goals and 27 assists this season. This is the type of evenly balanced production most Fantasy owners desire.
Analysis: Gaborik missed some time earlier in the season with a groin injury, but has still managed to post 53 points in 46 games. He is having an outstanding January with seven goals and 10 assists in 12 games. He was recently challenged by head coach Jaques Lemaire because he lacked effort on some nights, but the Czechoslovakian native has gotten the message. Gaborik should be started in all Fantasy formats.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik scored a goal and finished at minus-1 during the 56th All-Star game Sunday. Gaborik scored on a wrist shot at the 10:57 mark of the third period and gave the Western Conference their only lead at 7-6. They would eventually lose 8-7.
Analysis: Gaborik missed some time earlier in the season with a groin injury, but has still managed to post 52 points in 45 games. He is having an outstanding January with six goals and 10 assists in 11 games. He was recently challenged by head coach Jaques Lemaire because he lacked effort on some nights, but the Czechoslovakian native has gotten the message. It is safe to start him in all Fantasy formats.
News:Marian Gaborik has been pretty consistent, to say the least, since his coach criticized him recently. Gaborik assisted on Brian Rolston's goal on Tuesday in the 2-1 loss at Calgary. Gaborik has three goals and five assists in the last six games. He also has balanced numbers for the season, with 25 goals and 26 assists.
Analysis: Gaborik has at least one point in 10 of the last 12 games. This is the type of response Jacques Lemaire was hoping for. He's rewarded Gaborik for the hard work by using him on the penalty kill. Gaborik seems to have answered the challenge and remains a must-start Fantasy option as long as he is healthy.
News:Marian Gaborik has stepped up his game since his coach criticized him last week. Although in a 3-2 shootout losing effort to Calgary on Wednesday, Gaborik assisted on both Wild goals durign regulation. Gaborik has points ( 4 goals, 6 assists) in five straight games.
Analysis: Gaborik has at least one point in eight of his last nine games. This is the type of response Lemaire was hoping for. He's rewarded Gaborik for the hard work by using him on the penalty kill. Gaborik seems to have answered the challenge and remains a must-start Fantasy option as long as he is healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild coach Jacques Lemaire made headlines last week when he publicly implored star Marian Gaborik to "work harder." Message received. In the last four games, Gaborik's scored four goals, bagged nine points, a shootout winner and is a plus-9 after being a minus-8 in the seven games since burying five goals against the Rangers. "I'm trying to do some things differently," said Gaborik, whose 25 goals rank third in the West and 47 points rank eighth in the West. "I'm trying to pay more attention in our zone or make that extra step on the backcheck and work."
Analysis: Gaborik scored a goal, tallied an assist and finished at plus-2 during Sunday's game against the Coyotes. He now has at least one point in seven of his last eight games. This is the type of response Lemaire was hoping for. He's rewarded Gaborik for the hard work by using him on the penalty kill and in the waning minutes of Friday's game when protecting a lead. "Look at the way he works," Lemaire said. "Once in a while he has to." Gaborik seems to have answered the challenge and remains a must-start Fantasy option as long as he is healthy.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik scored a goal, tallied an assist and finished at plus-2 during Sunday's game against the Coyotes. He now has at least one point in seven of his last eight games. He has seven goals and six assists in that span. He also has managed multi-point outings in three straight games.
Analysis: Wild head coach Jacques Lemaire recently voiced his displeasure with Gaborik's work ethic, citing that he could be one of the dominant players in the NHL if he just gave 100 percent every night. Gaborik seems to have answered the challenge. He remains a must-start Fantasy option as long as he is healthy.
News: Martin Gaborik scored an empty net goal to cap the scoring for the Wild in Friday's 5-2 win at Chicago. Gaborik also had a goal in the first period and is now up to 24 for the season. He now has five goals and five assists in his last five games.
Analysis: Wild head coach Jacques Lemaire recently voiced his displeasure with Gaborik's work ethic, citing that he could be one of the dominant players in the NHL if he just gave 100 percent every night. Gaborik doesn't exactly have the right attitude, but he is being challenged by his coach and is too valuable to sit in Fantasy leagues as long as he is healthy.
News: Martin Gaborik scored on the final attempt in a shootout, lifting the Minnesota Wild to a 6-5 win over the Detroit Red Wings on Thursday night. Gaborik also had a goal in the first period on a snap shot past Chris Osgood and finished with two assists. He now has four goals and five assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Wild head coach Jacques Lemaire recently voiced his displeasure with Gaborik's work ethic, citing that he could be one of the dominant players in the NHL if he just gave 100 percent every night. Gaborik doesn't exactly have the right attitude, but he is being challenged by his coach and is too valuable to sit in Fantasy leagues as long as he is healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild coach Jacques Lemaire isn't happy with the work ethic of star winger Marian Gaborik. Think you've heard this before? Bingo. It's been a recurring theme this season. And there are signs that Lemaire's relationship with Gaborik is strained as a result. Monday, after the morning skate, it happened again when Lemaire implored Gaborik to "work harder." "The skilled players, sometimes they want to use only their skills," Lemaire said. "But in (Monday's) game (against Dallas), the guys are too good, they work too hard. It's not only your skill that's important. You have to work with that skill, and work and work and work harder. Gabby's working, but it's not hard enough -- plain and simple. It's got to be harder."
Analysis: The stats bear out Lemaire's lament. Since Gaborik scored five goals against the Rangers, he has three goals with three assists and is a minus-eight in seven games. The result has been steadily declining ice time. Gaborik's response? "You want to play more than you're playing," he said. "It's up to them. I try to go out and play my best games. Sometimes, it just doesn't work. There's 82 games. Sometimes you don't feel as good. Sometimes, of course, there can be a little more effort. But when you're out there more and more, you get into the tempo, you get into the flow, you feel much better." Gaborik doesn't exactly have the right attitude, but he is being challenged by his coach and is too valuable to sit in Fantasy leagues as long as he is healthy.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik scored twice and added an assist Thursday night as Minnesota took care of the Dallas Stars 6-3. Gaborik now has three goals and two assists in his last three games after having only one point in three games following his five-goal output back on Dec. 20.
Analysis: One of Gaborik's goals Thursday came short-handed. "I don't usually play short-handed," Gaborik said. "It was good to get out there. It felt good to get on the ice in that situation and hopefully I will see ice there even more." You know coach Jacques Lemaire will want to get Gaborik on the ice as much as he can, even if it means in penalty-killing situations. Consider him a must-start in all formats while he remains healthy.
News:Marian Gaborik posted the NHL's first five-goal game in a decade, lifting the Minnesota Wild to a 6-3 win over the New York Rangers on Thursday. Gaborik's outburst was the biggest in the league since Sergei Fedorov scored five for Detroit on Dec. 26, 1996, in an overtime game against Washington. Pittsburgh's Mario Lemieux was the last to net five in regulation, pulling off the feat on March 26, 1996 versus St. Louis. Gaborik had a goal in the first period, two on power plays in the second, and found the net twice more in the third to set the team record for tallies in a game. No Wild player had ever had four goals in a game.
Analysis: With an assist on Pierre-Marc Bouchard's power play goal in the second period, Gaborik tied his career high with six points. That was established on Oct. 26, 2002, at Phoenix. It was his best offensive game since he scored three goals and helped set up another on April 9, 2006, at Colorado. He extended his points streak to six games. He also has at least one goal in four straight games. He has eight goals and three assists during the points streak. Gaborik now has 33 points in 29 games and has been nothing short of spectacular since returning from a groin injury in mid-November. His propensity for injury will frustrate Fantasy owners, but as long as he is healthy, he needs to be starting in all Fantasy formats.
News:Marian Gaborik scored at Los Angeles Saturday. Gaborik opened the scoring 3:48 in on Minnesota's first shot. Teammate Kim Johnsson made a clearing pass off the boards from behind his net, and Gaborik caught up to the puck before skating in alone on G Jean-Sebastien Aubin. He beat him high to the stick side for his 12th goal.
Analysis: Gaborik has 14 goals in 22 games against Los Angeles. He is healthy and he needs to be in all Fantasy lineups since he can break out with a hat trick at any point.
News:Marian Gaborik hasn't scored a goal in five games, including Tuesday's loss at San Jose.
Analysis: Gaborik is healthy and he needs to be in all Fantasy lineups since he can break out with a hat trick at any point.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik tallied an assist and a plus-1 rating during Saturday's game against the Blue Jackets. He now has a point in six of his last seven games. He has three goals and three assists in that span.
Analysis: Gaborik frustrated Fantasy owners as he missed some games in November, but since he has been back in the lineup, he has shown why he is one of the top forwards in the game. He is healthy at this time and needs to be in all Fantasy lineups.
News:Marian Gaborik did it again. Gaborik's wrist shot with 2:39 to play in overtime gave the Minnesota Wild a 3-2 victory over the St. Louis Blues on Friday night. Gaborik corralled the puck about 5 feet inside the Minnesota zone, wheeled, and saw nothing but open ice in front before he turned on the jets. One of the fastest skaters in the NHL, Gaborik skated in on Manny Legace and beat him on the stick side. It was the third straight game with a goal for Gaborik, who also has five total goals in his last five games.
Analysis: Gaborik has shown the kind of explosiveness expected from him in his last five games when he is not battling an injury. As long as he is healthy, Gaborik is one of the top players in the NHL. He is healthy at this time and needs to be in all Fantasy lineups.
News:Marian Gaborik scored his fourth goal in four games on a breakaway in a win against Phoenix Wednesday. Gaborik, who leads the Wild with nine goals, took advantage of Steve Reinprecht's turnover at the blue line to beat Ilya Bryzgalov on a breakaway in the second period. After some fancy stickwork, Gaborik tucked a low shot past Bryzgalov. Bryzgalov, claimed off waivers from Anaheim on Nov. 17, finished with 25 saves.
Analysis: Gaborik has four goals in his past four games. Despite his propensity for injury, he is still worth the risk in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Against Vancouver Wednesday, Marian Gaborik scored twice for the Wild, who lost for the first time in four home games.
Analysis: Gaborik has six goals and three assists in his past six games. Despite his propensity for injury, he is still worth the risk in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik returned from a three-game layoff due to a groin injury Thursday against the Oilers. He returned in great fashion by scoring a goal, adding an assist and finishing at plus-1. He also spent two minutes in the penalty box for tripping. He now has four goals and three assists with a plus-5 in his last three games.
Analysis: There is no denying that Gaborik has a knack for scoring. He has five goals and 10 assists in 13 games this season. In fact, he has 346 career points in 421 games. His only problem is that he has trouble staying healthy. Despite his propensity for injury, he is still worth the risk in all Fantasy leagues. It appears safe to activate him in Fantasy formats.
News: Sportsnet.ca posted video of Minnesota Wild forward Marian Gaborik apologizing to Fantasy owners for playing in a defensive system on Thursday. "When developing this team it is obvious that management paid no attention to fantasy owners, but instead selfishly decided that winning games was more important," Gaborik said in a prepared statement.
Analysis: "I will continue to help you out when I can," Gaborik said. "But I am afraid management is obsessed with giving Minnesota fans a Stanley Cup." He has 13 points in 12 games, but he's not in the top five in every offensive category. The tongue-in-cheek statement is certainly humorous -- at least to everyone that didn't spend an early draft pick on him. He has been battling a groin injury recently, which has kept him out of all but two games this month. Gaborik hopes to play Thursday in Edmonton. When healthy, he is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: The Wild were again without two-thirds of their top line Tuesday at Calgary with Marian Gaborik and Pavol Demitra still out with groin injuries, which have sidelined them for the past three games. "It's hard to watch the guys working and you can't go out there and help," Gaborik told The Sports XChange. "Of course, I'd love to play every game. I want to go out there and help the team. But when I'm close to 100 percent, I help the team and also feel good about myself."
Analysis: Asked how the injury affects his skating, Gaborik said, "The first three strides are better than the fourth or fifth. That's when I feel it, because my first two or three strides are short. When I totally extend my legs, that's when I feel it... The main thing for me is to get confidence in it." Gaborik hopes to play Thursday in Edmonton. When healthy, he is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: The Sports Xchange notes: RW Marian Gaborik has missed four of the last six games with a groin injury, but he's getting closer to returning. "It's 85 percent, but I don't think it's enough," Gaborik said. "We'll just wait a couple more days. It's going to get better. Also, I want to feel comfortable that I don't make it worse. It's just not there yet."
Analysis: Gaborik says he expects to play during this road trip. Gaborik hasn't played more than 65 games since the 2002-03 season. When healthy, he is a must-start Fantasy option. He heads into Fantasy Week 7 (Nov. 12-18) as an injury-risk option.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik (groin) did not return to action Sunday against the Avalanche. He has now missed four games due to a groin injury.
Analysis: Gaborik hasn't played more than 65 games since the 2002-03 season. When healthy, he is a must-start Fantasy option. He heads into Fantasy Week 7 (Nov. 12-18) as an injury-risk option.
News: Marian Gaborik was out for the third time Monday against Edmonton due to a groin injury.
Analysis: After scoring three goals and five points in two games last week, Marian Gaborik was named the NHL's third star of the week. "He wanted to skate (Monday) morning, but he's sore and we told him not to," said Wild assistant GM Tom Lynn. Gaborik missed two games last week because his groin was sore.
News: The Minnesota Wild activated forward Pavol Demitra from injured reserve before Thursday's game against St. Louis, clearing the way for his return from a strained groin. Demitra missed the last four games with the injury, the same condition that kept Marian Gaborik -- his partner on Minnesota's top line -- out of the last two games. Gaborik was expected to play against the Blues.
Analysis: Gaborik hasn't played more than 65 games since the 2002-03 season. When healthy, he is a must-start Fantasy option. He has one goal and seven assists in 10 games this season. He is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy, so check his playing status through the weekend to make sure he's getting regular ice time.
News: Marian Gaborik and Pavol Demitra each had a goal and an assist in their returns for Minnesota on Thursday against the Blues. Demitra, activated from the injured reserve before the game, missed four straight games because of a strained groin. Gaborik missed two straight with a similar injury, and was bothered by leg issues in his previous two games. He missed 34 games last year due to a groin injury. Less than five minutes into the game, the pair gave Minnesota a 1-0 lead. A shot by Demitra from the lower right circle deflected off the stick of Jay McClement and popped up in front of Manny Legace. Standing beside the crease, Gaborik whacked the puck in at thigh-level.
Analysis: Demitra and Gaborik showed Thursday why they are must-start Fantasy options when healthy. Despite a minor layoff, they both returned to put points on the board and looked as though they never had any injuries. Both players finished with a plus-2 on the night, and Gaborik even spent four minutes in the penalty box. It is safe to insert both players back into active Fantasy lineups.
News:The Sports Xchange notes: Marian Gaborik had only scored one goal this season before he was pulled from the lineup Sunday with a sore groin muscle. Wild general manager Doug Risebrough said the injury was "minor" in nature. But let's be frank. No groin pull is minor when it comes to Marian Gaborik. Gaborik, who has a history of abdominal and groin pull injuries, missed 17 games because of two injuries during the 2005-06 season. Last season? He hurt his groin and was designated day-to-day by the Wild. Oh, and he missed three months and 34 games. "I know my body well," Gaborik insisted. "Nobody can feel what I feel, really. Definitely, I'm not going to miss 40 games or whatever. It's a day-to-day situation. You've got to be confident, and that's what I am and that's what I need to be."
Analysis: Gaborik has gotten off to a very slow start, scoring-wise, with just one goal and seven assists in 10 games. He said his legs have felt tired the past two games. He tried to practice Saturday morning, but 15 minutes in he skated over to Wild coach Jacques Lemaire and asked to leave. Gaborik will be examined by wild doctors on Monday. Risebrough, while calling the injury minor, also insisted that Gaborik would not be put back on the ice until he's 100 percent. After returning fully healthy last season, he helped fuel the Wild's strong finish by scoring 26 goals and getting 50 points in 41 games after his return. "It had benefits last year when we said, 'We're going to miss a chunk of games, whatever it is, to get him back in the lineup," Risebrough said. "I feel being conservative again is going to be a positive." Gaborik hasn't played more than 65 games since the 2002-03 season. When healthy, he is a must-start Fantasy option. He has one goal and seven assists in 10 games this season. He is an injury-risk start for Fantasy Week 5 (Oct. 29-Nov. 4) though.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik did not play during Sunday's 3-1 loss to the Avalanche because of a groin injury. According to the St. Paul Pioneer Press, Gaborik pulled up lame during Saturday's practice. Wild GM Doug Risebrough made the decision to sit Gaborik on Sunday as a precautionary move. Gaborik is being listed as day-to-day. He was in a similar situation last season when he wound up missing 34 games.
Analysis: The good news here is that Gaborik told the Pioneer Press that he doesn't believe this injury is as serious as the one last season. Let's hope so. Gaborik hasn't played more than 65 games since the 2002-03 season. When healthy, he is a must-start Fantasy option. He has one goal and seven assists in 10 games this season. He is an injury-risk start for Fantasy Week 5 (Oct. 29-Nov. 4).
News: Marian Gaborik picked up two assists with a plus-1 rating in Wednesday's at Calgary in 19:53 of ice time. He didn't seem too affected by the fact Pavol Demitra (strained adductor muscle) was out of the lineup.
Analysis: Gaborik sits with one goal and eight points over the past seven games. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues with or without Demitra. The Wild will be back in action on Thursday night at Edmonton.
News: Pavol Demitra, Marian Gaborik and Wes Walz were back skating together on the team's top scoring line in Tuesday's game at Los Angeles. Demitra potted a goal and Gabby and Walz picked up assists. All three skaters finished with a minus-1 rating in the shootout loss.
Analysis: Demitra and Gaborik remain must-starts in all Fantasy leagues, while Walz is only worth a look in the deepest of formats. The Wild will be back on the ice for Saturday's game at St. Louis.
News: Marian Gaborik had two assists, and he and Pavol Demitra -- his fellow Slovakian star -- recorded their first points after going without any in the first two games. They were skating with new linemate Mikko Koivu, whom Demitra really likes. "I hope they're just going to keep him there for the rest of the season," Demitra said, adding: "We just need a couple games, and he can learn. Just see how Jacques [coach Lemaire] is going to react (Thursday)."
Analysis: Despite a slow start, we all know what Demitra and Gaborik are capable of doing. It appears they are very comfortable with Koivu, too, so if he remains, look out. Both Demitra and Gaborik are must-starts in all Fantasy leagues. The Wild will be back on the ice on Saturday at Phoenix.
News: Coach Jacques Lemaire was frustrated in Thursday's regular season opener against the Blackhawks, despite a 1-0 win. The first line of Marian Gaborik, Pavol Demitra and center Wes Walz totaled only two shots. "We had to stop the morning skate because they were flying. (Thursday night) comes? No legs. No legs. We couldn't skate with those guys," Lemaire said.
Analysis: Despite the slow start for Gaborik and his linemates, he remains a dangerous sniper who has point-per-game ability. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. The Wild will be back on home ice on Saturday against the Blue Jackets.
News: Mikko Koivu has posted a team-best three goals (two PPG) in two preseason games for the Minnesota Wild. He is making a strong case for center duties on the top scoring line between Pavol Demitra and Marian Gaborik.
Analysis: It doesn't matter to Demitra and Gaborik who centers their line, as they remains must-starts in all Fantasy leagues heading into the regular season. However, it appears Koivu is ready for a big year and this might be quite the impressive line if Demitra and Gabby can finally stay healthy.
News: Pavol Demitra and Marian Gaborik each posted a minus-3 rating in Thursday's game at Calgary. Demitra was scoreless, while Gaborik picked up an assist.
Analysis: The dynamic duo for Minnesota will look to bounce back in Saturday's game at Colorado. Despite the poor game, each remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik and Pavol Demitra have been on the same NHL team for 75 games, but they're making plays like a duo that's skated together for years. Gaborik scored twice and Demitra had a goal and two assists as the Minnesota Wild won their franchise-record eighth consecutive game, beating the St. Louis Blues 5-1 on Thursday night. "I try to look for him every time when I have a puck," said Gaborik, who has combined with Demitra for 66 points in Minnesota's last 24 games. "I make those three or four steps, and I know the puck's going to be there. It's good to know that. We've been great that way, and it's working."
Analysis: Gaborik has been on a roll as of late. He has at least one goal in the last four games and one assist in six of the last seven games. Not to mention he is on a seven-game points streak. He has five goals and seven assists during that stretch. Needless to say, he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik and Pavol Demitra each had a goal and an assist on Tuesday night in the Wild's seventh straight win and 43rd victory this season. "I don't pay attention to these records," said Gaborik, one of three players who has been with the Wild since the club's inception in 2000. "We can't get that stuff into our head."
Analysis: Gaborik has three goals, nine points and a plus-7 rating during his current six-game point streak. Needless to say, he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Pavol Demitra and Marian Gaborik each had two assists and a plus-2 rating in Sunday's game against the Avalanche.
Analysis: Both Demitra and Gaborik remain must-starts in all Fantasy leagues. Gaborik has four goals and nine points with a plus-2 rating over the past nine games.
News: Marian Gaborik had two goals and an assist, and the Minnesota Wild beat the Edmonton Oilers 5-0 Thursday night. He now has five goals and four assists in his last seven games.
Analysis: Gaborik remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, especially while he is rolling right along. He is such a fantastic player, but his propensity for injury always makes him a risk.
News: Marian Gaborik has five goals and three assists in the past four games, and his 19th of the season had given the Wild life late in the second period of Sunday's game at St. Louis. Off a set play, Gaborik busted through the Blues' defense to beat Manny Legace with a high shot.
Analysis: Gaborik remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, especially while he is rolling right along. He is such a fantastic player, but his propensity for injury always makes him a risk.
News: Marian Gaborik broke a 1-1 tie with a power-play goal at 11:59 of the third period, and the Minnesota Wild ruined Forsberg's Nashville debut with a 4-1 victory over the Predators on Saturday night. Gaborik also had an assist.
Analysis: Gaborik has been unstoppable as of late. He has seven goals and five assists in his last seven games. He is currently on a three games points streak. Needless to say, he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik celebrated his 25th birthday with a goal and an assist against Vancouver Wednesday. It was his 20th point in the 17 games he's played since missing more than two months with a groin injury. He was one overtime goal short of having a perfect birthday. "I'd have rather come up with a win, but I guess it wasn't meant to be," Gaborik said.
Analysis: Gaborik's second-period assist was the 300th point of his NHL career. Needless to say, he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik had two-power play goals and an assist on Saturday as Minnesota (31-22-4) won for the fifth time in six games, 5-4 over Carolina. He'll try to carry that momentum into Wednesday's game against Vancouver.
Analysis: Gaborik has stayed hot with 12 goals and six assists over the past 14 games, leading the Wild to a 10-3-1 mark. Needless to say, he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik scored twice on the power play to highlight a four-goal first period by Minnesota, and the Wild hung on to beat the Carolina Hurricanes 5-4 on Saturday night. Minnesota, which is 10-3-1 in its last 14 games, is 11-0 when Gaborik gets a goal. He also had an assist Saturday.
Analysis: Gaborik has five goals and four assists in his last seven games. He has gone quickly from Fantasy castaway to Fantasy savior. He is once again a must-start Fantasy forward.
News: Marian Gaborik has proven to the Minnesota Wild, and every opponent they face, that the impact of his absence was not overstated. Since returning a month ago from a nagging groin injury that kept him out for 34 games, Gaborik's presence has energized Minnesota's attack and helped push the Wild forward in the Western Conference playoff race. He's still prone to flat performances, as coach Jacques Lemaire is never hesitant to point out, but his team's 10-0 record this season when he scores a goal is certainly not coincidental. Minnesota went 15-18-2 without Gaborik, including the Oct. 20 game in which he was initially hurt. When the foundation of the franchise is on the ice, the Wild are 15-4-2. "I try not to think about it and just try to go out there and work hard and have fun," Gaborik said.
Analysis: Gaborik has three goals and three assists in his last six games. He has gone quickly from Fantasy castaway to Fantasy savior. He is once again a must-start Fantasy forward.
News: From little things come big results. The Minnesota Wild converted a strong defense and an opportunistic offense into a slim margin of victory Saturday night. Marian Gaborik scored early in the second period, and Niklas Backstrom stopped 29 shots for his second shutout of the season in Minnesota's 1-0 victory over the Phoenix Coyotes on Saturday night. From the opening face off of the middle period, Gaborik broke down the right side, took a pass from Pavel Demitra and sent a wrist shot from 15 feet that went between Curtis Joseph's pads and into the net 12 seconds into the period.
Analysis: It was Gaborik's 14th goal of the season and third in his last two games. Gaborik's goal set a franchise record for the fastest tally at the start of a period. Wes Walz set the previous mark, 20 seconds into a period, on Dec. 8, 2001, at Philadelphia. Gaborik has quickly returned to form and is once again a must-start Fantasy forward.
News: Marian Gaborik scored two goals -- and teammate Mikko Koivu added another two -- to help the Wild to a 5-3 win over the Colorado Avalanche on Thursday night. "I am back," Gaborik said with a grin. "I feel good."
Analysis: Gaborik has been hampered by a groin injury that forced him to miss 34 games earlier in the season. Even though this was his 12th game back, Gaborik hadn't shown his usual explosiveness -- until now.
News: Marian Gaborik scored two goals to lead the Minnesota Wild to a 3-0 victory over the slumping Chicago Blackhawks on Friday night.
Analysis: Gaborik extended his point-scoring streak to five games, with seven goals and an assist during the span. Friday's game was his seventh after missing 34 with a strained groin. Gaborik has quickly returned to form and is once again a must-start Fantasy forward.
News: Pierre-Marc Bouchard, Marian Gaborik and Walz all scored goals in regulation in Sunday's shootout win at Chicago.
Analysis: Gaborik has scored five goals over the past three games. Sunday's game against the Blackhawks was actually the worst of the three starts, as he managed just one goal and an evening rating. He has re-emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues since returning from his groin injury.
News: Marian Gaborik scored twice and the Minnesota Wild beat the Edmonton Oilers 4-2 on Friday night, earning their second straight road win.
Analysis: Gaborik has four goals and a plus-3 rating in the past two games after going scoreless in his first two starts after returning from a groin injury. He has re-emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik scored twice to help the Minnesota Wild snap an 11-game winless streak on the road with a 5-2 win over the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday night.
Analysis: Gaborik, who added an assist, was playing just his third game since returning to the Minnesota lineup after missing 34 games with a serious groin injury. The right winger, who went without a point in his first two games back, now has six goals and 10 points this season. It appears safe to get Gaborik back into all active Fantasy lineups. He is usually a must-start Fantasy forward.
News: Marian Gaborik returned to the Minnesota Wild lineup Saturday night after a 34-game absence caused by a nagging groin injury. The 24-year-old right wing, who signed a three-year, $19 million contract last summer, has been missed by the Wild, who were 6-0 when he got hurt on Oct. 20 at Anaheim. They went 15-18-2 without him, including the 2-1 loss against the Ducks that he left in the third period. The Wild originally pegged his recovery time as 10 to 14 days, but Gaborik - who sat out 17 games last season with a groin injury - was slow to heal. He joined his teammates for practice briefly in early December, but still had trouble and went back to rehabilitation.
Analysis: After frequent visits to specialists and hours and hours of skating on his own, Gaborik finally was in uniform again for Minnesota's game against Colorado. The crowd at Xcel Energy Center gave him a loud cheer when he stepped on the ice for the Wild's fourth shift in the first period. Gaborik had four goals and three assists in seven games before getting injured. He is a solid Fantasy option when healthy and it appears safe to get him back into active Fantasy lineups. He is owned in just 69 percent of Fantasy leagues at this time, so if he is available in your league, consider adding him to your roster.
News: Marian Gaborik (groin) will have to wait at least one more game to return to the Wild's lineup. General manager Doug Risebrough and coach Jacques Lemaire ruled him out for Thursday's home game against Tampa Bay. Gaborik will miss his 34th game - out of 41 - since hurting his groin at Anaheim on Oct. 20.
Analysis: Gaborik skated with the team in practice Wednesday for the third straight day, but his bosses don't think he's in game shape. Lemaire said after practice he didn't feel pressure to play Gaborik with the team doing well. Minnesota has won eight consecutive home games and play twice more at Xcel Energy Center this week. Lemaire said he might feel differently when the Wild begin a four-game road trip next week.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik, out 26 games with a strained groin, is in Los Angeles being treated by a soft tissue specialist until Friday.
Analysis: Gaborik's long layoff looks as though it will continue until the upcoming scoring period (Dec. 25-31). Continue to keep him reserved in all Fantasy formats. The last time Gaborik took the ice was on Oct. 20 against the Ducks. Before the injury, he was off to a great start with seven points (4 G, 3 A) in seven games. When healthy, he is a solid Fantasy option.
News: Marian Gaborik (groin) remained on injured reserve and was unable to play in Tuesday's game against the Canucks.
Analysis: Gaborik might be back into the lineup soon enough, but keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Minnesota's Marian Gaborik, who was supposed to star on a line with fellow Slovakia native Pavol Demitra, missed his 22nd game on Saturday due to a nagging groin injury and is not expected to travel with the team on next week's three-game road trip.
Analysis: Gaborik should be kept reserved in all leagues for Fantasy Week 11 (Dec. 11-17). He might make his return on Dec. 19 against the Canucks, but keep him reserved until it looks as though he is back to 100 percent.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports Marian Gaborik (groin) was able to skate for an hour before Tuesday's morning skate, but he is still considered doubtful for Thursday's game against the Flames.
Analysis: Gaborik should be kept reserved in all leagues for Fantasy Week 11 (Dec. 11-17) unless he returns Thursday or Saturday against the Blackhawks with a bang. He'll need at least a game or two to shake off the rust and gel with Pavol Demitra, who is also nearing a return from a concussion.
News: Marian Gaborik (groin) was able to participate in practice on Monday, but he has yet to get clearance for contact. "I looked at him for the first time and said, 'Geez, he's skating like before he got injured,' " coach Jacques Lemaire told the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. "Myself, he looked like he's ready to play, but they want to take their time."
Analysis: The team is taking it slow with their star player, as he has missed 15 straight games and it is uncertain when he will be able to get back into the lineup. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik (groin) missed his 15th straight game on Friday against the Coyotes.
Analysis: The Wild have still not said when they expect Gaborik back, so continue to keep him reserved in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports Marian Gaborik (groin) was able to rejoin the team on Tuesday after spending time in the past week with a physiotherapist in Vancouver, although he did not play in San Jose. Assistant general manager Tom Lynn said Gabby will work off the ice before heading back to Vancouver on Monday. "From all indications, things are going fine," Lynn said. "He's got exercises laid out for him for the next week and then he'll go back there in hopes of taking it to another level and to get back on the ice. Once he's ready to practice, he'll jump back into the team."
Analysis: It appears that the earliest possible date we could see Gaborik skate in a game would be Nov. 14 at Phoenix, with a more realistic return of Nov. 18 against Colorado. Keep the brittle star reserved in all leagues for Fantasy Week 7 (Nov. 13-19) until he can officially return to game action and prove his health in consecutive starts without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Marian Gaborik (groin) was unable to play in Tuesday's game at San Jose, although he might be able to return for the teams' next game.
Analysis: Gaborik will have four more days to rest until Saturday's game at Los Angeles. If he is unable to play in that contest, keep him reserved for Fantasy Week 7 (Nov. 13-19).
News: Wild RW Marian Gaborik (groin) has missed six straight games after not playing for the Wild on Saturday.
Analysis: The Wild are 4-2 without their star forward, but it is likely Fantasy owners haven't fared as well. Keep him reserved until he can officially return and prove his health. It is not sure if he will be back for the next Fantasy scoring period, so plan to be without his services.
News: Marian Gaborik (groin) missed the past five games due to a groin injury and he is not expected to play Saturday against Nashville.
Analysis: The Wild are 4-1 without their star forward, but it is likely Fantasy owners haven't fared as well. Keep him reserved until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Minnesota has struggled before with Marian Gaborik out. In the past, though, the Wild never had depth quite like they do now. The star right wing went down last Friday at Anaheim with a familiar groin strain in the third period of Minnesota's only defeat this season. But the Wild have won both games since, scoring a total of seven goals in victories over San Jose and Los Angeles. "When you lose your best player, it's tough," forward Pierre-Marc Bouchard said. "Gabby's a big piece for a team, so that's why I think everybody's got to work harder and bring more to the table -- and that's what the guys have been doing." Gaborik is expected to miss another week or two.
Analysis: Gaborik has been skating on a line with fellow Slovakia native Pavol Demitra, who was acquired in an offseason trade. Keep him reserved in all formats for at least the Week 5 scoring period (Oct. 30-Nov. 5). When healthy, he's one of the top sharpshooters in the NHL.
News: Minnesota Wild star right wing Marian Gaborik will probably be out for another 10 to 14 days because of a mild groin strain. Gaborik was hurt in the third period of Friday's game at Anaheim and did not play Saturday against San Jose.
Analysis: Gaborik is second on the team with four goals and also has three assists. He's been skating on a line with fellow Slovakia native Pavol Demitra, who was acquired in an offseason trade. Keep him reserved in all formats for at least the Week 4 scoring period (Oct. 23-29).
News: Marian Gaborik had an MRI on his strained groin muscle on Sunday and is awaiting test results. The injury forced him to miss Saturday's game at San Jose. "It's frustrating, obviously. Upset," Gaborik told the St. Paul Pioneer-Press. "Just try to stay positive, heal it and get back 100 percent. Rather it happen now than when it's going to be much more important."
Analysis: Gaborik might be forced to miss Wednesday's game against the Kings, which is the next time the Wild take to the ice. If you like to roll the dice, start Gaborik at your own risk in Fantasy Week 4 (Oct. 23-29).
News: Marian Gaborik scored 25 seconds into overtime, helping Minnesota to a 2-1 victory Wednesday night for its franchise-record sixth consecutive win. "We tried to work a give-and-go, and it worked out perfectly," he said.
Analysis: Gaborik now has four goals this season and seven points. He's still a must-start Fantasy forward in all leagues because of his uncanny ability to dent the twine.
News: Pavol Demitra and Marian Gaborik had an assist and minus-1 rating with five shots on goal each in Thursday's game against Washington.
Analysis: The two Slovakian forwards are both must-starts in all Fantasy leagues. They'll look for more points together in Saturday's game against Columbus.
News: Marian Gaborik had a goal and assist with an even rating in 20:54 of ice time in Thursday's regular season opener against the Avalanche. He also had a game-high eight shots on goal.
Analysis: Gaborik is a must-start in all Fantasy leagues skating on the Slovakian line. The Minnesota top scoring unit was hitting on all cylinders, at least for a night.
News: Throughout their existence, the Wild have relied heavily on Marian Gaborik for offense. The third overall pick in 2000, Gaborik is the team's all-time leading scorer with 134 goals and 174 assists. He also is coming off his most successful season -- despite playing in just 65 games, Gaborik posted a career-high 38 goals.
Analysis: The Wild open their sixth season Thursday when they welcome the Colorado Avalanche to the Xcel Energy Center in a matchup of Northwest Division teams. Gaborik remains a must-start forward in all Fantasy formats.
News: Marian Gaborik had a pair of goals in Tuesday's preseason game against the Red Wings. He appears to be ready for big things skating on a line with fellow countryman and offseason acquisition Pavol Demitra.
Analysis: If Gaborik can stay healthy, a 50-goal and 90-point season would not be out of the realm of possibility for the still 24-year-old forward. He is just starting to hit his stride and appears ready to take that next step to superstardom in the NHL.
News: The Los Angeles Kings traded Pavol Demitra to the Minnesota Wild on Saturday for the 17th pick overall (Trevor Lewis, C) and minor-league prospect Patrick O'Sullivan, as the Slovakian will be re-united with countryman Marian Gaborik in St. Paul.
Analysis: If the tandem can stay healthy, they might be one of the more dangerous new lines in the Western Conference along with Calgary's Jarome Iginla-Alex Tanguay pairing. The biggest key to his Fantasy value is health, which has been a problem recently.
News: Marian Gaborik finished in the team lead for goals with 38, despite the fact he missed 17 games due to injury. He also managed 28 assists with a plus-6 rating and 64 penalty minutes.
Analysis: Gabby was third on the team in penalty minutes despite missing time, which was good for Fantasy owners which heavily reward PIM. He remains a solid Fantasy wing in all keeper leagues heading into the 2006-07 season.
News: Marian Gaborik posted three goals to go along with an assist and plus-4 rating in Sunday's game at Colorado in 16:49 of ice time.
Analysis: Gaborik continues to pile up the points, even if the Wild are not going anywhere. In fact, starting players on teams with nothing to play for is better at this point of the season than those with a playoff spot already wrapped up.
News: Marian Gaborik scored a goal and added an assist with a minus-1 rating and two shots on goal in Wednesday's game at Dallas.
Analysis: Gabby has posted 13 points (9 G, 4 A) over the past 11 games. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik scored a goal and added an assist with a plus-3 rating and three shots on goal in 20:20 of ice time in Sunday's game against the Avalanche.
Analysis: Gabby has scored in every game since the Olympic Games break, posting five goals and six points with a plus-2 rating. Unfortunately for Fantasy owners in leagues which penalize PIM, he picked up 16 minutes in the box which might have nullified the effort.
News: Marian Gaborik scored a pair of goals in Wednesday's opening game win against Team Russia in the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin. He also had a plus-2 rating with five shots on goal.
Analysis: Gaborik carried over his momentum with the Wild lately to his national team, helping them pick up a big win. Gabby is tied for the team lead with 24 goals with Team USA's Brian Rolston despite playing 17 less games due to injury. He also has 19 assists and a plus-7 rating, making him a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik scored a pair of goals and he added an assist and five shots on goal in 18:29 of ice time in Tuesday's game against the Kings.
Analysis: Gaborik has goals in five straight games (7 G, 2 A) and he has lit the lamp at least once in nine of his past 11 games.
News: Marian Gaborik, the Wild's third-leading scorer, had his five-game point run end on Friday at Columbus.
Analysis: Despite the slow night, he remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik picked up an assist, plus-2 rating and four shots on goal in Sunday's game at Chicago in 17:12 of ice time.
Analysis: After an eight-game stretch where he picked up just three points, he has four points (2 G, 2 A) over the past three games. He remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik scored a goal and added an assist and plus-1 rating with five shots on goal in 18:45 of ice time in Wednesday's game against the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: Gaborik had just three points (1 G, 2 A) over the past eight games, so this game was a very relieving to his concerned Fantasy owners.
News: Marian Gaborik was whistled for diving against the Senators, his third such unsportsmanlike conduct penalty of the season. Under NHL rules, he draws an automatic fine.
Analysis: If Gaborik is whistled one more time for diving, he will earn an automatic one-game suspension, so monitor him closely the rest of the way.
News: Marian Gaborik was scoreless again with a minus-1 rating on Saturday against the Flames, as he remains mired in a cool streak.
Analysis: Gaborik has posted just three points (1 G, 2 A) and a minus-2 rating over the past seven games. He remains a useful Fantasy option and he should be able to snap out of it shortly.
News: Marian Gaborik was scoreless in Monday's game against the Stars with a minus-1 rating in 17:50 of ice time.
Analysis: The Wild have been playing a lot better lately, but their biggest gun has been misfiring. Gaborik has just three points (1 G, 2 A) and a minus-1 rating over the past six games.
News: Marian Gaborik scored a goal and added an assist in Thursday's game at Pittsburgh. He posted a plus-two rating with a game-high eight shots on goal in 16:30 of ice time.
Analysis: Gaborik entered Thursday's game with just one assist over his past four games, but he turned in perhaps his best game of the season. He now has six multi-point games in six out of his 10 games this season.
News: Marian Gaborik had a goal and an assist in his return to the lineup vs. Edmonton on Wednesday.
Analysis: Gaborik is a decent No. 3 or 4 winger now that he is healthy. It appears safe to activate him in all leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik (hip) was unable to return for any games this weekend.
Analysis: When healthy, Gaborik is a decent No. 3 or 4 winger, but keep him reserved for the current scoring period.
News: The St. Paul Pioneer-Press reports Marian Gaborik (hip) will begin practicing once the Wild is able to return from their road trip in Calgary.
Analysis: After playing the Flames in Calgary, the Wild do not take to the ice again until Saturday against Nashville. Wait and see if Gaborik is able to play then before getting him back into your active Fantasy lineup.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports Marian Gaborik will miss seven to 10 days due to a strained left hip flexor suffered in Sunday's game.
Analysis: Keep Gaborik reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and play in consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury. Mikko Koivu will see increased playing time in his absence.
News: Marian Gaborik (groin) was activated from injured reserve on Wednesday and he made his season debut against the Sharks. He had two assists and a plus-2 with three shots on goal in 13:22 of ice time.
Analysis: Gaborik looked sharp and it appears safe to get the smooth skater into your active Fantasy lineup.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports Marian Gaborik (groin) appears to be ready to make his regular season debut on Wednesday against the Sharks.
Analysis: Gaborik should be kept reserved until he can officially return and play consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Marian Gaborik (groin) might be sidelined for another 10 days, according to published reports. "Marian won't be playing this week," Lemaire said. "I think he will start probably on the next road trip."
Analysis: Gaborik return on Oct. 22 at St. Louis at the earliest. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he is able to officially return and prove his health.
News: The St. Paul Pioneer-Press reports Marian Gaborik (groin) will begin the season on injured reserve. He is expected to miss the first three games of the season and will be eligible to return on Oct. 12 against Vancouver.
Analysis: Reserve him immediately in all Fantasy leagues, as he will not be able to return until at least the second scoring period of the season in weekly formats.
News: Marian Gaborik has been nursing a nagging groin injury during the preseason and his status for the regular season opener might be in doubt. "I don't know. It's just not there," Gaborik told the St. Paul Pioneer Press. "Going on the ice (last week), I tweaked it again. It just (stinks)," he added. "I just want to get it over with, you know?"
Analysis: Gaborik is still a strong Fantasy option for the regular season, but consider dropping him a notch or two on your cheat sheet if it comes down to drafting a healthy player of same value.
News: Marian Gaborik scored three goals and added two points in Tuesday's win over the Senators.
Analysis: Gaborik entered Tuesday's game with only one goal in his past 10 games.
News: Marian Gaborik scored a goal and added an assist in Thursday's game against Vancouver.
Analysis: Gaborik has nine points (5 G, 4 A) in seven games during the month of February.
News: Marian Gaborik (hip) returned to the lineup on Monday against the Blues. He picked up an assist and plus-2 rating in 13:26 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Gaborik back into the active lineup in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik (hip) missed his fifth consecutive game on Saturday.
Analysis: Gaborik remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return to the lineup and play consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Marian Gaborik (hip) will not be ready to play against Montreal Thursday. He did not skate Tuesday and has missed three games already.
Analysis: Gaborik should remain reserved in all leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik (hip flexor) missed his third consecutive game on Monday at Los Angeles.
Analysis: Gaborik is expected to return to the lineup on Thursday against the Canadiens. If he is able to play, get him back into the active lineup.
News: Marian Gaborik (hip) missed his second consecutive game on Saturday.
Analysis: Gaborik remains day to day. Keep him reserved if you have healthier alternatives.
News: The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that Marian Gaborik suffered a left hip flexor strain against Chicago Wednesday. He is listed as questionable at Anaheim Friday.
Analysis: Gaborik should be reserved in daily leagues.
News: Marian Gaborik (groin) was back in the lineup on Wednesday. He was scoreless in 15:04 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to keep Gaborik in the active lineup in all Fantasy leagues.
News: The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that Marian Gaborik (groin) did not skate Tuesday, but is expected to play Wednesday against Chicago.
Analysis: Gaborik remains a must-start player in all leagues when healthy.
News: Marian Gaborik had a pair of assists in Wednesday's game with the Blackhawks.
Analysis: Gaborik only has two multi-point games in 30 this season. He has been a Fantasy disappointment after a lengthy holdout.
News: Marian Gaborik will make his 2003-04 debut Tuesday in Colorado, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. "He's skating good," Wild coach Jacques Lemaire said. "He will go."
Analysis: Gaborik should be activated immediately in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Minnesota signed Marian Gaborik on Friday effectively ending his holdout.
Analysis: Gaborik is a high-scoring winger with plenty of potential. He should be safe to activate in all leagues once again.
News: Marian Gaborik returned to Minnesota for a month, hoping to resolve the impasse with Wild management. The two sides were unable to come to an agreement after two long meetings and Gaborik has decided to leave the area for the time being. "I am very disappointed with these developments, especially after last season's successful playoff run," he said in a statement released by his agent.
Analysis: It does not appear as if Gaborik and the Wild are any closer to a deal than they were when the impasse started. Pascal Dupuis, represented by the same agent, recently inked a three-year deal, leading to speculation Gaborik's signing was just a matter of time. He is still too valuable to let go from a Fantasy squad, but he is determined to sit out the season if he does not get what he deems as fair.
News: Marian Gaborik left Slovakia and arrived in Minneapolis, Minn., late Wednesday night, a sign that progress might be made in his contract discussions, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. "We're hoping to bring this to a healthy conclusion for all parties involved," said David Schatia, Gaborik's agent.
Analysis: There was still no word whether Gaborik's holdout would come to an end in the immediate future, but it sounds possible he might come to terms soon. Once signed, he'll return to his old status as one of the NHL's best up-and-coming superstars.
News: Marian Gaborik's agent said there is a strong possibility he will not sign with the Wild this season. He is a restricted free agent and could miss all season.
Analysis: Gaborik is an offensive superstar when he's on the ice. Keep him reserved in all leagues until more news develops.
News: Marian Gaborik scored two goals on Tuesday playing in his final Slovakian Elite League game, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.
Analysis: Gaborik scored 10 goals in his eight games with the Slovakian team. He had quit playing with that team so he will not have to go through waivers to re-sign with Minnesota.
News: Marian Gaborik's agent told the St. Paul Pioneer Press that the Wild star forward is likely to miss the season opener Wednesday in Chicago due to his holdout. Allan Walsh, Gaborik's agent, said there was no change in his client's contract status.
Analysis: Gaborik is likely to miss at least a few games, and he might be out for a significant portion of the regular season. This might adversely affect his performance even after he returns.
News: Marian Gaborik's agent said that the budding superstar is prepared to miss a good part of the season while he holds out for a better contract. "Marian has been prepared from the start that the situation could last half a year or even the entire season," agent Allan Walsh said.
Analysis: Gaborik is a very underrated Fantasy player when he's not a holdout, but this situation makes him a very risky pick on Draft Day. If he somehow comes to terms in the next few days, he's a great early-round selection. However, with that prospect unlikely, wait until you get a couple top wingmen to stabilize your squad before you consider taking a chance on Gaborik.
News: Gaborik underwent surgery Tuesday to repair some looseness in his right shoulder. He is expected to need four to six weeks of recovery time.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik will have offseason surgery for a sports hernia. According to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, he had the same procedure in 2001 and was forced to miss the season opener. He is having surgery on the right side this time and the injury is not considered as severe. He is expected to be fully recovered for training camp in September.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik had a goal and two assists in Monday's Game 6. Gaborik will need to continue his offensive production in Tuesday's Game 7 if the Wild hope to shock the Avalanche in Denver.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik was benched for most of the third period Monday against Colorado. According to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, coach Jacques Lemaire was not satisfied with Gaborik's effort.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik returned from the flu Tuesday against Edmonton. He had a goal and an assist in the game, and is a must-start every week in all Fantasy leagues.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik missed Sunday's game against Carolina with the flu. His status is day to day, but this doesn't appear serious enough to warrant reserving him in a Fantasy league.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik played on Saturday. He recorded his fifth career hat trick despite missing Friday's practice because of a charley horse sustained the night before. "We did a lot of treatment and it hurt a little bit in the morning, but I tried to warm it up and it felt great tonight." Gaborik's third three-goal game of the season moved him into the NHL scoring lead.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik suffered a leg injury during Thursday's game in Calgary. The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that he was hit by Blake Sloan, but was able to finish the game. However, Gaborik had a severe limp and his leg wrapped in ice following the game, and is doubtful for Saturday's game in Vancouver. He is day to day, and should be kept active barring a setback.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik scored three goals on Saturday. Gaborik's second hat trick of the season and fourth of his career moved him into the NHL lead with 15 goals. He broke a 2-2 tie with his second goal at 1:14 of the third, then scored at 3:24 as the Wild extended their unbeaten streak to five games (3-0-2).
Analysis:
News: Gaborik was named NHL Player of the Week on Monday. He led the league with eight points, including a whopping two goals and four assists Saturday against Phoenix. Gaborik has elevated his game to the point where he is a viable weekly starter in all Fantasy leagues.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik was activated from injured reserve prior to Wednesday's game against Boston. He's only a marginal Fantasy starter in deeper leagues, but you can activate him if you're weak at the wing position.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik says he plans to play in Saturday's season opener in San Jose, although Wild Head Coach Jacques Lemaire is unsure whether Gaborik will be ready. He is listed as day to day.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik was placed on injured reserve by the Wild on Tuesday as he works himself back in shape after undergoing offseason sports hernia surgery. Keep him reserved for the first couple of weeks of the season.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik is questionable for the start of the regular season after he missed the entire exhibition schedule recovering from hernia surgery. You shouldn't put him in your starting lineup for the first scoring period of the Fantasy season as a result.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik will miss the beginning of training camp while he continues his recovery from July hernia surgery. He will be re-evaluated after the Wild's first three exhibition games, and you might want to hold off drafting him until it's clear he'll be ready for the start of the season.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik will undergo surgery for an abdominal strain on Friday in Montreal. He is expected to recover in time for training camp in September.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik is expected to return to the Wild lineup Thursday, after having missed six games with a bruised left leg. He originally suffered the injury when he collided with the Rangers' Tim Taylor in a November 15 game. It looks safe to get Gaborik back in your lineup, although temper your expectations for anyone on Minnesota's roster.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik missed his fifth consecutive game last night against Vancouver. He is suffering from a lower left leg contusion and is listed as day-to-day. As should be the case with any Wild player, keep Gaborik on your bench unless you're absolutely certain he's 100 percent healthy.
Analysis:
News: Gaborik will not travel with the Wild to Buffalo tonight or Boston on Saturday due to a contusion in his lower left leg. He collided with the Rangers' Tim Taylor late in Wednesday night's game. Gaborik should be able to return to action early next week.
Analysis:
