Height/Weight: 6-2/218
| Birthdate: 9/26/1980
| Birthplace: San Francisco, CA, USA
| Team: Pittsburgh Penguins
| College: Boston College
| NHL Experience: 9
| Salary: $3,750,000
| Owned/Started%: 14/9 | Average Draft Position: 165.04
News:Brooks Orpik scored 7:49 into overtime to give the Penguins a 4-3 win in Game 6 of Pittsburgh's first-round series against the Islanders on Saturday. The win propels the Penguins into the second round of the playoffs.
Analysis: This was Brooks Orpik's first postseason tally ever -- he has only 11 goals in 631 career regular-season contests. Pittsburgh will take on Ottawa and its hot goaltender, Craig Anderson, in Round 2. The Pens beat Anderson in each of the three regular season games he started against Pittsburgh.
News:Brooks Orpik (lower body) will play Tuesday against the Islanders.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik doesn't bring a whole lot to the table on offense, but his shot-blocking and hitting ability add grit to the Penguins' blue-line mix.
News:Brooks Orpik (lower body) was on the ice for warmups prior to Tuesday's game against the Islanders, Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: As is James Neal, with Molinari pointing out that if the duo both suit up Tuesday, the Penguins "can have their lineup of choice intact for the first time since before the NHL trade deadline."
News:Brooks Orpik (lower body) participated in the team's optional practice Monday.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik is participating fully, but this by no means guarantees that he will suit up Tuesday against the Islanders. Even if he does play, the blueliner probably isn't worth picking up in any leagues since he only has eight points in 46 games this season.
News:Brooks Orpik (lower body) did not participate in practice Saturday, according to the team's official website.
Analysis: The Pens' leading hitter and shot blocker hasn't played since April 23 and will likely miss yet another game Sunday on Long Island.
News:Brooks Orpik (lower body) will not play in Friday's Game 2 against the Islanders, Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik was a game-time decision heading into Wednesday's tilt, but he did not end up playing and wasn't even on the ice for pregame warmups Friday. Continue to consider him day-to-day. Friday was the first time in 75 playoff games that Orpik did not play.
Pens' Orpik (Lower Body) Not Expected To Play Friday
News:Brooks Orpik (lower body) is not expected to play in Friday's Game 2 against the Islanders, Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: With Brooks Orpik not taking part in Friday's pregame warmups, it's very likely that he sits again in Game 2.
News:Brooks Orpik (lower body) won't play Wednesday against the Islanders, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.
Analysis: As a result, Deryk Engelland will replace Brooks Orpik on one of the Pen's top-four blueline pairings, along with Paul Martin.
News:Brooks Orpik (lower body) is a game-time decision for Wednesday's playoff opener against the Islanders.
Analysis: With just eight points in 46 regular season games, Brooks Orpik doesn't possess a lot of upside on offense, but we suppose that he's an option for those in deeper playoff formats confident that the Penguins' postseason run will be a long one.
News:Brooks Orpik (lower body) skated on his own prior to Monday's practice.
Analysis: Even if Brooks Orpik returns, his fantasy value should continue to be minimal, considering he only had eight points in 46 games for the Pens this season.
News:Brooks Orpik (lower body) sat out Saturday's game against the 'Canes.
Analysis: The team hasn't stated what's wrong with Brooks Orpik, but he was able to walk onto the ice Saturday for a post-game fan appreciation giveaway with no apparent limp or gait issue. He should be good to go for the playoffs, provided his injury is a minor groin injury and not an oblique-related ailment. Orpik underwent separate sports hernias in the summers of both 2010 and 2011.
News:Brooks Orpik (lower body) will not play in Thursday's game against the Devils.
Analysis: With just eight assists in 46 games to date, Brooks Orpik's biggest fantasy contributions have come in the form of his hits (119), blocks (114) and a solid plus-17 rating.
News:Brooks Orpik left Tuesday's game after the first period with a lower-body injury.
Analysis: He'll be re-evaluated Wednesday, at which point we'l presumably find out more information. As usual, Brooks Orpik's been of more service to the Penguins as a quality defender than he has to fantasy owners, collecting just eight points (all assists), 32 PIM and a plus-16 rating this year.
News:Brooks Orpik led Penguins skaters with five hits and five blocked shots Wednesday against Montreal.
Analysis: His 112 blocked shots are just two behind Andrew MacDonald (114) for the NHL lead. Brooks Orpik's overall play has likely come down a notch in 2013, but his increased shot-blocking numbers continue to help fantasy owners. He has eight assists, 115 hits, 30 PIMs and a plus-16 rating in 43 games for the Pens.
News:Brooks Orpik led all Pittsburgh skaters in ice time (27:02) and hits (7) Friday night against the Rangers.
Analysis: His ice time has increased due to injuries to both of Pittsburgh's usual ice leaders, Kris Letang and Paul Martin. Brooks Orpik blocked three shots Friday and now leads the NHL with 101.
News:Brooks Orpik picked up his eighth point (all assists) in Tuesday's win over Montreal.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik switched things up with six hits and one blocked shot. The defenseman's hits are down (76) on a year-over-year basis, but his 89 blocked shots led all NHL players entering Tuesday's action.
News:Brooks Orpik led all NHL defensemen with a combined total of 398 hits and blocked shots in 2011-12.
Analysis: The Penguins blueliner finished with 259 hits and 139 blocked shots despite missing nine regular-season games. After undergoing surgery for sports hernias in each of the last two summers, Brooks Orpik is finally healthy -- a scary thought for opponents venturing into Pittsburgh's end of the ice but a good one for fantasy owners whose leagues count hits and blocked shots.
News:Brooks Orpik says he's finally healthy after undergoing sports hernias in consecutive offseasons the past two summers, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: "I feel a lot better than I did the last couple summers when I had surgery," Brooks Orpik said. "Looking back, I probably rushed myself after those surgeries. Now I'm at the point where I don't have to think about it that much. I do just preventative stuff. I'm beyond the point where I worry about it. Besides those couple of things, I've been lucky." The Penguins defenseman has averaged 22 points, 236 hits and 117 blocked shots over the last three seasons.
News:Brooks Orpik was given a five-minute major and a game misconduct Thursday after making a knee-on-knee hit on the Rangers' Derek Stepan.
Analysis: There could be a suspension in the works for Brooks Orpik, who's not a first-time offender. Stepan didn't return to the ice after the hit.
News:Brooks Orpik (upper body) will play Saturday against Tampa Bay, the Pens' Twitter Feed reports.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik will collect his fair share of hits and provide goalie Marc-Andre Fleury with solid defense.
News:Brooks Orpik, who missed Tuesday's game with an upper body injury, returned to practice Thursday, Penguins.NHL.com reports.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik is still day-to-day heading into Saturday's game against the Lightning, however.
News:Brooks Orpik (upper body) will not play against the Rangers on Tuesday, Penguins.NHL.com reports.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik's injury is believed to be a short-term issue, but that has been the only disclosure regarding it at this point. He's undergone surgery for sports hernias in each of the last two offseasons.
News:Brooks Orpik went pointless Saturday but finished plus-4 with six hits against the Flyers.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik has registered 15 hits in the last two games alone. He entered Saturday ninth in the NHL with 181 hits. His total of 28 shots, however, represents the second fewest of any of the league's top 50 hitters.
News:Brooks Orpik led the Pens in minutes played (28:44), blocked shots (eight) and hits (nine) Wednesday.
Analysis: The Pittsburgh veteran blueliner probably played the best game of any Penguins player against the Blues. He means more to his team than fantasy owners except in leagues that use blocks and hits.
News:Brooks Orpik played in his first game of the year Thursday against Montreal after missing the Pens' first eight games due to offseason sports hernia surgery. He went plus-1 and blocked a shot in the win.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik is a rock on the blue line for Pittsburgh and the Pens sure are glad to have him back, but you can't expect much offensively, which limits his value from a fantasy standpoint except in leagues that count hits.
News:Brooks Orpik (hernia) will make his season debut Thursday night, according to the Penguins' official Twitter page.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik is ready to go after recovering from offseason sports hernia surgery. Expect him to reclaim his spot soon, if not immediately, on the Penguins' top defensive pairing.
News:Brooks Orpik (abdomen) did not travel with the team on their two-game road trip, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: The Bruins will be in Winnipeg on Monday and Minneapolis on Tuesday but Brooks Orpik, obviously, will not be playing. Orpik skated over the weekend, but it is uncertain when he will be able to practice. Orpik has appeared in 63 or more games each of the past seven years.
News:Brooks Orpik (sports hernia) will miss Saturday's game but is inching closer to a return, according to coach Dan Bylsma, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: "Other than Brooks skating harder today on the ice, I don't have an update on how he felt on the ice, I'll get that later," Bylsma said. The Pens may be forced to call up a seventh defenseman, such as Brian Strait, because the team plays a league-high 13 times in October.
News: Head coach Dan Bylsma said Tuesday that Brooks Orpik (hernia) is improving, but still not ready to return to the ice, according to the Penguins' official Twitter page.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik will have to get some practice time in before returning to game action, but the Penguins have yet to announce where he stands in his recovery. Orpik remains sidelined for the time being.
News:Brooks Orpik (sports hernia) will not play in Thursday's opener against Vancouver, Josh Yohe of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik is practicing with the Pens and could return as soon as Saturday. That said, Deryk Engelland will partner with Kris Letang in Orpik's absence.
Penguins' Orpik Returns to Practice, Unlikely to Play in Opener
News:Brooks Orpik (hernia surgery) returned to practice Saturday and felt fine after the workout, but remains unlikely to play in the regular season opener on October 6 against Vancouver, The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik indicated that he will continue to be patient with his injury. "I'm probably a little paranoid after the last two summers. I'm trying to just learn from that, (and) as soon as something starts hurting, don't be stubborn and try to battle through it," Orpik said.
News:Brooks Orpik (hernia) won't play Tuesday and might not be ready for Opening Night, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Pens' coach Dan Bylsma hasn't ruled his toughest blueliner out just yet. "We're still preparing like he could be there for us at the start of the season," Bylsma said. Even so, poolies might want to look elsewhere for hits in Week 1 and Week 2.
News:Brooks Orpik (hernia) admits that he's less than 100 percent right now but hopes to be ready for the start of the regular season, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis:Brooks Orpik underwent hernia surgery July 20 for the second time in as many summers. "I'm definitely not 100 percent," Orpik said. "It's getting there. That's the plan (to be ready for regular season). Hopefully they said by eight weeks I should be good." The big blueliner was able to take part in the team's scrimmage and drills during Day 1 of training camp Saturday.
News: Orpik's need for hernia surgery is troubling because the rugged defenseman underwent a sports hernia operation last summer and missed nearly three months of action.
Analysis: Orpik had surgery in early June of 2010 and missed the first six games of the season. The 31-year-old defender has missed 28 games the last two years. He's a decent fantasy source for hits and blocked shots, but there's a fairly good chance he won't be ready Opening Night in Vancouver.
News: Orpik underwent surgery Wednesday to repair a hernia in his lower abdomen, which is expected to sideline him for 6-to-8 weeks, Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.
Analysis: Orpik is a shutdown style of defenseman, and has contributed just 93 points (9 G, 84 A) in 512 career contests with the Penguins. This is a discouraging development, as the recovery time could overlap with training camp.
News: Orpik led all skaters with more than 40 minutes (40:32) of ice time Wednesday night.
Analysis: The Penguins defenseman blocked five shots and played the shutdown-type defense he's become well-known for. Orpik finished the game pointless with no shots on goal and an even plus-minus rating.
News: Orpik has three assists in three playoff games.
Analysis: He's the leader of Pens' defensive corps, but finds himself in the unusual position as the team's leading playoff point-getter, along with Arron Asham. Pittsburgh relies on Orpik for his bone-crunching checking ability, but the assists are a nice bonus.
News: Coach Dan Bylsma said Orpik (finger) will play Sunday against Florida, the Penguins' official site reports.
Analysis: Orpik will make his return after missing the last 13 games. He'll be paired with Kris Letang for the matchup against Florida.
News: Pittsburgh hopes Orpik (finger) can return for the final five or six regular season games, PittsburghPenguins.com reports.
Analysis: Orpik took part in Thursday's game-day skate after participating fully in practice Wednesday. He said he needs a few practices before returning, making Sunday or Tuesday a realistic goal.
News: Orpik, who is recovering from a broken finger, returned to practice Wednesday, but is not expected to return Thursday against the Flyers, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: This should be considered progress for Orpik, who sustained the injury exactly one month ago. However, the Penguins only have nine games left in the regular season, so fantasy owners will need to decide if its worth taking a chance on an injured player like Orpik, even if he is expected to return soon.
News: Coach Dan Bylsma said Monday that Orpik (finger) "will definitely play" before the regular season ends, the Penguins' official site reports.
Analysis: Bylsma noted that Orpik is "going to have a full practice with the players (Monday) in Pittsburgh and will return to practice with the team next week." With just 12 points in 56 games, Orpik isn't a big fantasy factor, but the return of his physical presence will be a big boost to the Pens as they embark on their playoff run.
News: Orpik is dealing with a broken finger and is expected to miss about four weeks, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Orpik has just 12 points in 56 games, but his absence will represent a big hit to Pens' blue line, which will certainly miss his physical presence.
News: Orpik (hand) did not participate in practice Thursday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: The fear is that Orpik suffered a broken hand or forearm. Pittsburgh has yet to update his status.
News: Orpik left Wednesday's game after taking a slap shot to his right hand.
Analysis: The loss of Orpik would hurt goalie Marc-Andre Fleury's numbers if the injury proves to sideline the veteran defenseman.
News: Orpik led the Pens with five hits in Sunday's loss to the Rangers, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Analysis: Pittsburgh allowed three power-play goals for the first time in 2010-11. "With the lineup we're putting on the ice right now, there's no way we can allow ourselves to take that many penalties if we want a realistic chance of winning," Orpik said. "Our discipline has to be better. You almost have to play a perfect game. Right now, there's not a lot of room for error."
News: Orpik collected 12 penalty minutes -- including a game misconduct -- and an assist Saturday against Carolina.
Analysis: Orpik scuffled with Eric Staal at the 20-minute mark of the third period. Even after Saturday's outburst, Orpik has totaled only 48 penalty minutes. Once upon a time, the rugged blueliner was a solid PIMs play, but at this stage of his career he's more of hard hitter who takes pride in limiting his recklessness as an assistant captain. Orpik has 10 points (1, 9), 120 hits, and 73 blocked shots.
News: Orpik, who missed Sunday's practice because of illness, took part in the Penguins' morning skate and should be available for Monday's game against the Bruins, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: With eight points in 37 games, Orpik's fantasy value is limited, but he did score the last time he faced the Bruins and has scored three goals (his high mark) in 22 games against Boston overall.
News: Orpik sat out Sunday's practice due to illness, the Penguins' official site reports.
Analysis: Teammates Chris Conner and Evgeni Malkin are feeling under the weather as well, though at this point it's unclear if either of the three is in danger of sitting out Monday's game against the Bruins.
News: Orpik was stuck in traffic due to an accident Monday and isn't injured, according to the Penguins' Web site.
Analysis: Good news for the Penguins and goalie Marc-Andre Fleury, who will have Orpik on the blue line Monday night.
News: Orpik did not take part in the team's game-day skate Monday, according to the Penguins' Web site.
Analysis: Pittsburgh has a heavy four-game slate in Week 11, but it wouldn't be surprising to see Orpik sit out Monday's game.
News: Orpik (undisclosed) returned to practice Friday and looks good for Saturday's tilt in Buffalo, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Analysis: The Pens simply gave the physical Orpik a maintenance day off Thursday. He'll form his usual pairing with partner Kris Letang, who also was given a maintenance day Thursday.
News: Coach Dan Bylsma expects Orpik (undisclosed) to practice Friday and play in Buffalo on Saturday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Bylsma gave Thursday off as a maintenance day. He underwent surgery for a sports hernia in the off-season, but it's not known whether that was the reason he didn't practice Thursday.
News: Orpik missed Pittsburgh's practice Thursday morning, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Analysis: Orpik has played in 24 games, collecting seven points (1, 6), 80 hits, 42 blocked shots and a plus-10 rating.
News: Orpik (illness) practiced with the team Saturday, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: Orpik sat out Friday's practice with a cold. The rugged defender has collected six points, 76 hits and 41 blocked shots through 21 games.
News: Orpik scored a rare goal, his first of the season, in Wednesday's loss to the Bruins.
Analysis: Orpik, who played three collegiate seasons for Boston College, now has nine goals in 459 career regular-season contests.
News: After missing six games with a groin injury, Orpik skated 24 shifts in Pittsburgh's 1-0 loss at St. Louis on Saturday.
Analysis: There's really only one reason to own him, and that's for his penalty minutes. He chipped in one two-minute minor on Saturday.
News: Orpik (groin) is expected to play Saturday against St. Louis, according to coach Dan Bylsma, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: "I haven't talked to Brooks, but hopefully Saturday will be the day for him to get back in there," Bylsma. The Pittsburgh defender hasn't played since the second game of the year. Provided that Orpik does indeed return, then either Ben Lovejoy or Deryk Engelland would sit out.
News: Orpik (groin) downplayed his chances of playing on Thursday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: "I think I'd be capable (but) I think I'd be pushing it a little bit," he said. "With an injury like this, you're probably better off playing it safe." The next possible return date is Saturday, when the Pens travel to St. Louis.
News: Orpik (groin) took part in practice for the second straight day Wednesday morning and looks ready to return Thursday night, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Orpik has played in parts of just two games so far this season. He adds hits, penalty minutes and blocked shots to fantasy league categories when healthy.
News: Orpik (Groin) was out of the lineup once again Monday night.
Analysis: Orpik skated before the team practiced Monday, but still wasn't ready to go. The Pens don't play again until Thursday and there's a decent chance he'll be available. The rugged blueliner hasn't played since the second game of the season against Montreal, back on Oct. 9.
News: Orpik (groin) remains day-to-day, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Analysis: The Pens need Orpik's physical style of play, but risk a possible injury aggravation if they bring the blueliner back too soon.
News: Orpik (groin) is out for Tuesday's tilt against the Leafs, according to the Penguins' Official Twitter Feed.
Analysis: The Pens are a bit banged up heading into this one, with Zbynek Martinek also out and Mike Comrie a game-time decision. Plus, Arron Asham and Jordan Staal are on the IR.
News: Orpik (groin) won't play Wednesday and is listed as day-to-day, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Pittsburgh will need to rely on offense against Toronto Wednesday night, as neither Orpik nor Zbynek Michalek (shoulder) will be in the lineup.
News: Orpik didn't play in Monday's matinee because of an undisclosed injury.
Analysis: Orpik has dealt with a recent groin injury and underwent surgery for a sports hernia over the summer. These types of ailments have a way of lingering, making it imperative that the Pens give Orpik more than enough rest to fully recover.
News: Orpik (groin) took part in practice Monday, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Analysis: Orpik missed Sunday's game with a sore groin. He collected two goals and 25 points in 73 games last year, but he could provide added fantasy value in certain leagues where the number of hits are counted as a category. Orpik finished 2009-10 with a team-high 255 hits.
News: Orpik (groin) sat out the Penguins' preseason finale against the Red Wings Sunday, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: Orpik is still expected to be ready for the team's season-opener Thursday.
Orpik Likely to Play Thursday to Open Consol Energy Center
News: The Penguins expect Orpik (groin) to be ready for the season opener Thursday night, according to coach Dan Bylsma, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: "He just needed to rest," Bylsma said. It's hard to see Orpik sitting out the team's first regular season game at Consol Energy Center if he can lace his skates.
News: Orpik missed his third straight day of practice Saturday with a groin injury, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.
Analysis: On the plus side, coach Dan Bylsma said the injury is on the opposite side of the body from where Orpik underwent sports hernia surgery in the offseason. He hopes to return to practice Tuesday, but because he is coming off surgery in a similar area (albeit on the opposite side), the situation is still worth monitoring.
Pens' Orpik Given Clean Bill of Health for Start of Camp
News: Orpik has recovered from sports hernia surgery that the defender underwent in June, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Analysis: Orpik, the most physical blueliner Pittsburgh has, played the last three months of the 2009-10 season with a sports hernia. "It's not a pleasant surgery, that's for sure," Orpik said. "The first week or so is pretty tough. After that, it's slow. I had the luxury of having it in the summer instead of in the season, so I was pretty patient with it. I think I've got everything going on the right track. I have to put in a little extra time every day, but skating-wise, I feel pretty good." Orpik has been told it takes about six months to totally feel normal.
Orpik Recovering Nicely From Sports Hernia Operation
News: Pens GM Ray Shero expects Orpik (sports hernia) to be healthy in time for the start of training camp, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Orpik underwent sports hernia surgery in June after playing with the ailment for the final three months of last year. Orpik collected a career-high 25 points (2, 23) in 73 games, but his physical style of play makes him more important to the Penguins than fantasy owners.
News: Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik has undergone surgery to repair a sports hernia and will require a month to six weeks of rehabilitation. A sports hernia occurs when there is a weakening of the muscles or tendon in the lower abdomen.
Analysis: Orpik played with the injury during the second half of the NHL season, including the Olympics in Vancouver. He played for the silver medalist United States. General manager Ray Shero said Orpik is expected to be ready for the start of training camp in September. Despite the injury Orpik netted a career-high 23 assists in 73 games in 2009-10. He continues to be more of a defensive presence for Pittsburgh, so Orpik will continue to have low-end Fantasy appeal in 2010-11.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik scored a goal and finished at plus-1 on Sunday against the Predators. Orpik scored for the first time in 112 games, the defenseman firing a slap shot from the center point that appeared to deflect off Dan Ellis' stick and into the net 4:51 into the third.
Analysis: Orpik has three points in his last five games and 19 through 54 contests. He has tied his career high from last season and should pass it down the stretch. However, Orpik is not a great scorer, as you can tell by his long scoring slump. Also, he is not a one-trick pony and works on an all-around game. He has become a decent two-way player for Pittsburgh, but he just have minimal Fantasy appeal since he isn't an elite offensive player.
News: Noteworthy during Sunday's Penguins-Capitals clash were the 74 minutes in penalties, including four misconduct calls. Alex Ovechkin threw probably the best punch, knocking Kris Letang to the ice and jumping on top of the Penguins defenseman, a bit of aggression that was deemed worthy of just a roughing penalty. The final infractions were whistled against Penguins D Brooks Orpik, who lashed out at Alexander Semin for overacting to get the high-sticking call in overtime. "He does it all the time. The kid's a baby," said Orpik, who drew a game misconduct from the penalty box because he kept complaining to the officials. "He does it all game long. I've got zero respect for the kid."
Analysis: The Penguins-Capitals rivalry is already a good one because of Ovie and Evgeni Malkin. But now Orpik going after Semin should just add more fuel to the fire. Orpik is a pretty clean player most of the time after taking a lot of dumb penalties early in his career. He has become a decent two-way player for Pittsburgh, but he just have minimal Fantasy appeal since he isn't an elite offensive player.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik returned to the ice on Tuesday against the Islanders after missing 10 days with an undisclosed injury.
Analysis: Orpik is a low-end Fantasy option best used in leagues that reward heavily for PIM and short-handed stats.
News: The Penguins' official web site reports that D Brooks Orpik thinks he will return to action on Tuesday after missing 10 days with an undisclosed injury.
Analysis: When healthy, Orpik is a low-end Fantasy option best used in leagues that reward heavily for PIM and short-handed stats.
News: Penguins D Brooke Orpik (undisclosed) missed Saturday's loss to the Canucks. He has now missed four straight games.
Analysis: Orpik hasn't scored in 42 games, but he does have 15 assists and a plus-5 rating this season. Orpik is a low-end Fantasy option best used in leagues that reward heavily for PIM and short-handed stats.
News: Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik remained out due to an undisclosed injury on Thursday against the Oilers. He has missed the last three games.
Analysis: Pittsburgh remains on the road through Saturday, so it wouldn't surprise us if Orpik doesn't play again until he gets on home ice. Orpik hasn't scored in 42 games, but he does have 15 assists and a plus-5 rating. Orpik is a low-end Fantasy option best used in leagues that reward heavily for PIM and short-handed stats.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik failed to play on Wednesday against the Flames because of an undisclosed injury. He has missed the last two games.
Analysis: Pittsburgh has two more road games and it wouldn't surprise us if Orpik doesn't play again until he gets on home ice. Orpik hasn't scored in 42 games, but he does have 15 assists and a plus-5 rating. Orpik is a low-end Fantasy option best used in leagues that reward heavily for PIM and short-handed stats.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik did not play on Monday against the Wild because of an undisclosed injury. He is day to day.
Analysis: Pittsburgh was confident Orpik wouldn't play Monday, but they have been happy with his progress since getting injured on Saturday and the injury doesn't appear to be serious. Orpik hasn't scored in 42 games, but he does have 15 assists and a plus-5 rating. Orpik is a low-end Fantasy option best used in leagues that reward heavily for PIM and short-handed stats.
News: Pittsburgh D Brooks Orpik left Saturday's win over the Wild midway through the game with an undisclosed injury.
Analysis: Orpik is having a nice season by his standards, with 15 assists, but he's never had more than 20 points in his five previous NHL seasons. When healthy he's only worth using in leagues that rewart heavily for PIM and short-handed stats.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik tallied a pair of assists and finished at plus-1 during Saturday's game against the Rangers. He has three assists in five games since returning from a lower-body injury.
Analysis: Orpik is one assist away from his third straight season of double-digit helpers. He already has nine points in 23 games and is well on his way to shattering his career-high of 19 points, which he set last season. Orpik has marginal offensive skills and is more on the ice for his defense. He has low-end Fantasy appeal and is pretty much worth using in leagues that rewart heavily for PIM and short-handed stats.
News: Pittsburgh D Brooks Orpik was able to return to action on Saturday against the Thrashers after missing less than two weeks with a lower body injury. He failed to record a point in the game.
Analysis: Orpik is mainly an enforcer for the Penguins and is not on the ice for his offensive value. He has low-end Fantasy appeal and is worth using in leagues that rewart heavily for PIM.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that Penguins D Brooks Orpik will miss the next two weeks with a lower-body injury.
Analysis: Orpik is mainly an enforcer for the Penguins and is not on the ice for his offensive value. He has low-end Fantasy appeal, when healthy.
News: Pittsburgh lost D Brooks Orpik during the 1st period of their loss at Boston on Tuesday night. Orpik suffered an unspecified injury and is day to day.
Analysis: Orpik is mainly an enforcer for the Penguins and is not on the ice for his offensive value. He has low-end Fantasy appeal, when healthy.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik tallied a pair of assists and finished at plus-3 during Thursday's game against the Panthers. He has 15 assists on the season and three in his last six games.
Analysis: Orpik benefited Thursday from a little extra playing time as Sergei Gonchar was on a personal leave. While Orpik does have a career-high 17 points in 2008-09, he is still not an elite offensive player. He is more on the ice for his defensive presence, so Orpik has low-end Fantasy value.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik returned to the lineup Friday against the Devils after missing three games with a groin injury. Orpik saved a goal early, blocking Brian Gionta's shot with Fleury out of position, but failed to record a point in 18:28 of ice time. He also finished at plus-1 and spent two minutes in the penalty box.
Analysis: Orpik has a career-high 12 points in 2008-09 and is one assist shy of setting a new high in assists. He has been a pretty good overall player the last two seasons, but Orpik is still most valuable on the defensive end. Orpik is a low-end Fantasy option and also worth a flier in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Penguins D Brooks Orpi practiced Thursday and says he's ready to return Friday vs. Columbus.
Analysis: Orpik is not an offensive threat as his presence defensively is far more valuable to the Penguins. He is only worth owning in leagues that heavily reward short-handed stats. Other than that, he is just a very low-end option in most leagues.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik could not return to action on Wednesday night in the Penguins' first game after the All-Star break against the Rangers. It was his third game in a row that he has not played. Orpik was hurt Friday against Anaheim but said he does not expect to miss significant time.
Analysis: Orpik is not an offensive threat as his presence defensively is far more valuable to the Penguins. He is only worth owning in leagues that heavily reward short-handed stats. Other than that, he is a very low-end option in most leagues.
News: Penguins defensemen Brooks Orpik (undisclosed) and Rob Scuderi (illness) did not practice Monday, but Scuderi might play Wednesday against the Rangers. Coach Michel Therrien classified Orpik as "day-to-day."
Analysis: Orpik has done well for himself offensively in 2008-09, but he is still by no means a Sergei Gonchar or Ryan Whitney. He remains just a low-end Fantasy option for the deepest of Fantasy leagues when healthy. Orpik is also worth a flier in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik could not return to action on Tuesday night in a loss to the Hurricanes with an undisclosed injury. It was his second game in a row out and second game all season long. Orpik was hurt Friday against Anaheim but said he does not expect to miss significant time.
Analysis: Orpik has three assists in his last four games and a career-high 12 points on the season. But he is still one of those players that is more on the ice for his defensive skills. He remains just a low-end Fantasy option for the deepest of Fantasy leagues when healthy. Orpik is also worth a flier in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Penguins D Brooks Orpik did not play Sunday against the Rangers. Orpik missed his first game of the season due to an undisclosed injury, believed to be of the upper-body variety. Orpik was hurt Friday against Anaheim but said he does not expect to miss significant time.
Analysis: Orpik has three assists in his last four games and a career-high 12 points on the season. But he is still one of those players that is more on the ice for his defensive skills. He remains just a low-end Fantasy option for the deepest of Fantasy leagues when healthy. Orpik is also worth a flier in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik couldn't return from an undisclosed injury in time for Sunday's win over the Rangers.
Analysis: Orpik has three assists in his last four games and a career-high 12 points on the season. But he is still one of those players that is more on the ice for his defensive skills. He remains just a low-end Fantasy option for the deepest of Fantasy leagues when healthy. Orpik is also worth a flier in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik left Friday's game against the Ducks during the second period because of an undisclosed injury. He did not return after getting no points and a plus-1 rating in 9:23 of ice time.
Analysis: Orpik has three assists in his last four games and a career-high 12 points on the season. But he is still one of those players that is more on the ice for his defensive skills. He remains just a low-end Fantasy option for the deepest of Fantasy leagues. Orpik is also worth a flier in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: Pittsburgh D Brooks Orpik broke a six-game pointless streak on Saturday with a two-assist performance in a 3-5 losing effort at Colorado. Orpik now has 11 points on the season with two goals and nine assists.
Analysis: Orpik is far more appealing to the Penguins for his defense than he is to your Fantasy team. He is just a low-end option best-reserved for only the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik has managed no goals, one assist and a minus-3 rating in seven December games. He has seven points in 30 contests.
Analysis: Orpik is having one of his better offensive seasons with the Penguins since their blue line is a little beat up, but seven points as a "better season" is still pretty pathetic in Fantasy. Orpik is still lauded more for his defense than offense and has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: Pittsburgh D Brooks Orpik scored a goal and added an assist in Wednesday's win over the Islanders, 5-3. Orpik's second goal of the season came in the 2nd period to make the score 3-1 Islanders. His assist tied the game when he found Evgeni Malkin for the goal.
Analysis: Orpik has six points on the season and these were his first in a while for the Penguins. He remains more of a defensive-minded player and is only a low-end option in Fantasy.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik scored a goal and setup the game-winning score in overtime during Tuesday's 3-2 win against the Flyers. Orpik opened the scoring at 14:12 of the second period after Tyler Kennedy's faceoff win set up Kris Letang's pass to Orpik at the left point and the defenseman's first career power-play goal in 301 games, and only his fifth career goal.
Analysis: Orpik is playing the point because of injuries to defensemen Sergei Gonchar and Ryan Whitney. He is logging more than 22 minutes per game, but his offensive game has still be slow to develop. He still remains more of a defensive-minded player and is a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Pittsburgh signed a six-year, $22.5 million contract with defenseman Brooks Orpik, considered by Penguins general manager Ray Shero to be a "mainstay." The deal averages $3.75 million per year, or less than Orpik was offered elsewhere.
Analysis: Orpik played 78 games last season, recording a goal and 10 assists. The 27-year-old defenseman ranked fifth in the NHL with 239 hits. Orpik is one of the Penguins' top checking defenseman and is not often filling the stat sheet. He remains just a low-end Fantasy flier in leagues that reward heavily for penalty minutes.
News: Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik scored his first goal of the season in Thursday's 4-2 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes. Orpik's goal was his first in 181 games.
Analysis: Orpik is one of the Penguins' top checking defenseman and is not often filling the stat sheet. He remains just a low-end Fantasy flier in leagues that reward heavily for penalty minutes.
News: With many of his teammates out, Penguins D Brooks Orpik will move to the left wing for Tuesday night's game at New Jersey, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
Analysis: If your league rewards scoring by defensemen handsomely and you need help at the D position, you might want to consider picking Orpik up for Fantasy Week 18 (Jan. 28-Dec. 3). Beware, however, as Orpik has the second-longest goalless drought in the league at 172 games.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik tallied an assist and finished at plus-3 during Thursday's game against the Maple Leafs. He now has two assists and a plus-3 rating in his last six games.
Analysis: Orpik is still looking for his first goal this season, but does have six assists. Orpik is one of the Penguins' top checking defenseman and is not often filling the stat sheet. He remains just a low-end Fantasy flier in leagues that reward heavily for penalty minutes.
News: Penguins D Brooks Orpik tallied an assist and finished at even during Saturday's game against the Islanders. It was his fifth assist this season and first point in seven December games. He still doesn't have a goal.
Analysis: Orpik is one of the Penguins' top checking defenseman and is not often filling the stat sheet. He remains just a low-end Fantasy flier in leagues that reward heavily for penalty minutes.
News: Defenseman Brooks Orpik recorded two assists against New Jersey Monday to give him three on the season.
Analysis: Orpik has little Fantasy value outside of PIM leagues despite this sudden outburst of points.
News: Brooks Orpik (upper body injury) was back in the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Devils.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Orpik back into the active Fantasy lineup in all deeper leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik left Saturday's game against the Toronto Maple Leafs after getting hit with a stick midway through the second period. Orpik was injured while trying to hit Maple Leafs winger Simon Gamache, who appeared to catch Orpik with his stick. The Penguins defender fell to the ice and stayed there for several minutes.
Analysis: A stretcher was wheeled out, but Orpik was helped off the ice by his teammates. The game was tied 3-3 at the time. Orpik had zero points in three games coming into Saturday's tilt. Not surprising. He had just 25 points in 219 career games coming into this season. He is best used in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for penalty minutes when healthy. He is day to day.
News: Brooks Orpik was a healthy scratch for Saturday's game at Toronto with Josef Melichar (knee) back from injury.
Analysis: Orpik has been rumored to be headed elsewhere and now that Josef Melichar (knee) is back from injury, his days might be numbered in Pittsburgh.
News: Brooks Orpik has not posted any goals and he has just four assists with a minus-1 rating and 51 penalty minutes through 35 games.
Analysis: Orpik is only worth a look in the largest of Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Brooks Orpik (hand) made his regular season debut on Monday at Anaheim. He was scoreless with a plus-1 rating in 11:25 of ice time and he blocked a pair of shots.
Analysis: Orpik is only worth considering in larger Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports Brooks Orpik (hand) will make his regular season debut on Monday at Anaheim.
Analysis: Mark Eaton was injured on Saturday, so Orpik will take his place in the lineup. He is only worth a look in larger Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports Brooks Orpik will miss the regular season opener on Thursday due to a right hand injury. He will be re-examined to determine whether corrective surgery is required.
Analysis: General manager Ray Shero said he was injured in a training camp scrimmage and is has gotten worse during practice. Noah Welch will replace him on the active roster and Kristopher Letang take on more responsibilities in Orpik's absence.
News: Brooks Orpik (suspension) was scoreless with a plus-1 rating in Sunday's game against the Flyers in his return to the lineup.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Orpik back into the active Fantasy lineup in all larger leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Brooks Orpik has been suspended for three games for hitting Carolina's Eric Cole from behind and causing a neck injury which is expected to keep him sidelined six to eight weeks.
Analysis: Orpik is eligible to return March 12 against the Flyers. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes.
News: Brooks Orpik has posted just two goals and four assists through 44 games with a minus-3 rating at the Olympic Games break, but he has managed 79 penalty minutes.
Analysis: Orpik is no stranger to dropping the gloves and he can be a cheap source of PIM in Roto leagues if you need help in that category. Don't expect much else from the scrappy rearguard, however.
News: Brooks Orpik, who missed 12 games due to a broken foot and shoulder injury, is back in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Flyers.
Analysis: Orpik is only worth using in the largest of Roto leagues if you need help in the penalty minutes category.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports Brooks Orpik (broken right foot) was nearing a return to the lineup over the weekend, but he suffered a separated shoulder in practice and remains sidelined.
Analysis: Keep Orpik reserved in all larger Fantasy leagues which heavily reward penalty minutes until he can officially return. That might be early February or perhaps after the Olympic Games break at this rate.
News: Brooks Orpik was out for Tuesday's game against the Maple Leafs and he is expected to be out at least two more weeks due to a cracked bone in the bottom of his right foot after blocking a shot in Friday's game.
Analysis: Orpik will basically rest and let the injury heal on its own until he can play without pain. Reserve him in all larger Fantasy leagues which reward penalty minutes.
News: Brooks Orpik has just one assist over his past 18 games, as he continues to stumble.
Analysis: Orpik started with three points over the first seven games, but he has been useless in Fantasy leagues since.
News: The Penguins have re-signed with Brooks Orpik for one season.
Analysis: Orpik had the most penalty minutes for the Penguins in 2003-04. His Fantasy value is limited to leagues which heavily reward the PIM category.
News: Brooks Orpik was suspended for one game by the NHL for kneeing the Kings' Tim Gleason in Friday's game.
Analysis: Orpik does not warrant any Fantasy consideration.
