News:Brian Gionta has undergone successful surgery on his left biceps tear, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Brian Gionta himself relayed that the procedure went well, and with the entire offseason in front of him to recover, the Canadiens' winger should be all systems go by the fall.
News:Brian Gionta will undergo season-ending surgery Friday to repair a torn left biceps, NHL.com reports.
Analysis:Brian Gionta, who had picked up an assist in two playoff games, recorded 14 goals and 26 points in 48 games for the Habs this past season. Note that Gionta tore his right bicep last season, which ended the forward's 2011-12 campaign in January.
News:Brian Gionta (upper body) won't play Tuesday against the Senators, RDS's Renaud Lavoie reports.
Analysis:Brian Gionta returned to the Habs' lineup Sunday after a one-game absence, but it appears as though he has suffered a setback. Consider him day-to-day as Thursday's Game 5 approaches.
News:Brian Gionta (upper body) returned to action for the Canadiens against the Senators for Sunday's Game 3. He picked up an assist.
Analysis: This was Brian Gionta's first point of the playoffs, and he was a game-time decision so he's probably not out of the woods just yet.
News:Brian Gionta (upper body) is in Sunday's lineup against Ottawa.
Analysis:Brian Gionta was a game-time decision heading in, but he evidently made it through warmups without any setbacks, as did Max Pacioretty.
News:Brian Gionta (upper body) took warmups prior to Sunday's game against the Sens, RDS's Renaud Lavoie reports.
Analysis: He was viewed as a game-time decision for the contest, but it looks like he'll be able to suit up for Sunday's Game 3, barring any setbacks in warmups.
News:Brian Gionta (upper body) was back on the ice Sunday and participated in the team's morning skate, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis: After missing Game 2 against Ottawa, Brian Gionta has now skated on back-to-back days with the team and, according to head coach Michel Therrien, could be back in the lineup for Game 3. He'll be a game-time decision and could be a big morale booster for the team should he play.
News:Brian Gionta (upper body) skated Saturday and traveled with the Canadiens to Ottawa for Sunday's Game 3, the Montreal Gazette reports. He's considered day-to-day heading into Sunday.
Analysis:Brian Gionta was not part of a specific line combination during the practice, but head coach Michel Therrien said there's a possibility Gionta and Max Pacioretty (upper body) will play Sunday.
News:Brian Gionta is out for Friday's Game 2 against Ottawa due to an upper-body injury, Arpon Basu of LNH.com reports
Analysis: Max Pacioretty is also dealing with an upper-body injury and will also miss Friday's game. Both are likely day-to-day going forward.
News:Brian Gionta struck for two goals Thursday against Tampa Bay, including the game-winner on a power play with 47 seconds remaining in the third period.
Analysis: That's three goals in the last two games for Brian Gionta, who's been an inconsistent offensive producer for Montreal this year, but has produced a solid seven points in 10 April games.
News:Brian Gionta scored a goal and assisted on another Sunday night in Montreal's 5-2 win over Florida. The Montreal captain had four points in the team's weekend wins over the Lightning and Panthers.
Analysis:Brian Gionta has registered eight points in the last seven games, including six goals during that run.
News:Brian Gionta scored a goal and assisted on another Saturday night in Montreal's 4-3 win over Tampa Bay.
Analysis: After a slow start to the season, Brian Gionta has come on in the last 10 days, scoring five goals in the previous six games.
News:Brian Gionta scored twice Saturday in a 7-6 OT loss to the Penguins. He now has three goals in his last two games.
Analysis: Honestly, we've expected more from this tiny winger this season so it's nice to see him finally get on the board. But he still has just six goals and 11 points in 21 games and that makes him fantasy worthy in only deep formats. He is worth monitoring, though, particularly if this is something he can maintain.
News:Brian Gionta scored a goal and had three shots on net Wednesday night in Montreal's 5-2 win over Toronto.
Analysis: It was the captain's first goal in eight games and leaves him with nine points in 20 games. For now, he's safe on a line with Tomas Plekanec and Brandon Prust, though we'll be interested to see if the addition of Michael Ryder eventually prompts some line shuffling.
News:Brian Gionta set up two Montreal goals in Saturday's 4-1 win over Philadelphia. He now has three goals and five assists in 14 games.
Analysis: He's delivering at a bit better than a 0.5 point-per-game pace, which gives him value in deeper formats.
News:Brian Gionta scored the Canadiens' lone goal in Saturday's 2-1 loss to the Maple Leafs. It was his first goal in over a calendar year.
Analysis: A torn biceps ended his season prematurely last year and the Habs -- and his owners -- are hoping for a bounceback for the tiny dynamo.
News:Brian Gionta, fully recovered from the torn biceps injury that limited him to 31 games in 2011-12, is training in Montreal during the NHL player lockout, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Brian Gionta has been training with teammates in the Montreal area and is itching to play after missing so many games last season. His plan as of this moment is to remain in Montreal to train, but he admits anything is a possibility the longer the lockout drags on.
News: Montreal general manager Marc Bergevin said Brian Gionta has completely healed from a biceps injury that ended last season prematurely, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis: The Habs will be looking for a bounce-back season from Brian Gionta, who is expected to line up with Tomas Plekanec on Montreal's second line.
News:Brian Gionta said his rehab from a torn biceps is on schedule but acknowledged a return to the ice this season is doubtful, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis: When you hear or read about Brian Gionta traveling with his teammates, know it is only to lend moral support, and not a sign of his pending return.
News:Brian Gionta (torn biceps) said he's getting daily treatment and hopes "to play again before the end of the season," the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Brian Gionta, who has been limited to 31 games so far this season, admitted to not having a timetable for a return to the ice.
News:Brian Gionta (biceps surgery) could be out for the remainder of the season, according to a report on TSN during the first period of Thursday's game between Boston and Montreal.
Analysis: This is the first hint at a timetable but it's not a huge surprise. It all depends on whether it was a full tear or a partial one. The former would be the extreme and Brian Gionta wouldn't have complete strength back for up to six to nine months post-op. A partial tear could be significantly less recovery time but the size of the tear and the amount surgically reattached would dictate his time lost. We'll have to hear what his surgeon says; plan for the worst and hope for the best.
News:Brian Gionta underwent successful surgery Wednesday to repair a tear in his right biceps, reports TSN.ca.
Analysis: He will be sidelined indefinitely. He suffered the injury during the third period of Tuesday's game against the Blues.
News:Brian Gionta (upper body) will not play in the next three games for Montreal, CJAD-AM Radio reports.
Analysis: This means no Brian Gionta for games Thursday (at Boston), Saturday (vs. Ottawa) and Sunday (vs. Rangers). Michael Blunden took his spot on a line with Tomas Plekanec and Michael Cammalleri.
News:Brian Gionta sustained an upper-body injury during the third period of Montreal's 3-0 loss to St. Louis, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis: The play looked harmless enough, but Brian Gionta was able to take one more shift before calling it a night. He'll be re-evaluated Wednesday.
News:Brian Gionta (lower body) played 15:37 Saturday in his return to action. He didn't register a point but fired two shots and played 25 shifts.
Analysis: He's been out since early December so expect him to take a few games to get up to playing speed. We're hoping for big things from him over the second half. He scored 29 goals last season and had 28 in an injury-shortened stanza the year before. His eight so far should surely increase. Check your wire in case someone dropped him last month.
News:Brian Gionta (lower body) will return to action Saturday night against Tampa Bay, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Brian Gionta, who will be active for the first time since suffering the lower-body injury Dec. 8 against Vancouver, is penciled in to skate on a line with Michael Cammalleri and Tomas Plekanec.
News:Brian Gionta (lower body) practiced Thursday and is expected to play Saturday night against Tampa Bay, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis: Most of the Canadiens took it easy Thursday, working off-ice in preparation for Saturday's game, but Brian Gionta needs to get some ice time in before returning the game action.
News: The Canadiens are hoping to get a couple of practices in for Brian Gionta (lower body) before a possible return this coming Saturday against Tampa Bay, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Brian Gionta has started skating with his teammates this week, but has been ruled out of Wednesday's meeting with Winnipeg. The Montreal captain hasn't had a good season when healthy, so proceed cautiously here.
News:Brian Gionta (lower body) will not play in Wednesday's game against the Bruins, Dave Stubbs of the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Brian Gionta got a full practice in Tuesday, but the Canadiens will give him a few more days to get back into playing shape before he has to take the ice in a live situation. Pay attention to Gionta's status leading up to the Canadiens' back-to-back games this weekend.
News:Brian Gionta (lower body) took part in Tuesday's practice, Dave Stubbs of the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Brian Gionta practiced with his teammates Tuesday for the first time since injuring his groin Dec. 9. He was a full participant Tuesday, so a return to game action could come as soon as Wednesday.
News:Brian Gionta (lower body) skated after Monday's practice, but did not travel with the team for its game Tuesday night against Ottawa, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Brian Gionta should be back soon, though he will not be available this week, meaning he'll also miss the New Year's Eve meeting in Florida with the Panthers.
News:Brian Gionta (lower body) is expected to miss another week, RDS.ca reports.
Analysis: Look for him to sit until some time after the holiday break next weekend, while the updates on his progress have been few and far between to this point.
News:Brian Gionta (lower body) will miss the Canadiens' next three games, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis:Brian Gionta left Thursday's game and did not travel with the team to New Jersey for Saturday's game. You'll need to make other arrangements for weekly lineups starting Monday.
News:Brian Gionta (lower body) will not travel with the team to New Jersey and won't play Saturday against the Devils, CJAD-AM Radio reports.
Analysis: The 32-year-old Brian Gionta has been strong again this season, posting 15 points (8G, 7A) in 29 games. Consider him day-to-day for now, but make sure he's out of your lineup Saturday.
News:Brian Gionta left Thursday night's shootout loss to the Canucks in the third period with an undisclosed injury, the Montreal Gazette reports.
Analysis: At some point, the tight-lipped Canadiens will shine some light on the nature of Brian Gionta's injury.
News:Brian Gionta scored for the first time since November 19, tying up the game late for Montreal in their shootout loss to Columbus on Tuesday.
Analysis:Brian Gionta hammered home the tying goal in the game's final minute from the blue paint, where the feisty winger has made his living. Gionta had just one point since November 19 and sits with 15 points in 28 games. He's not the scorer he used to be, but he provides strong leadership for Montreal.
News:Brian Gionta scored twice in Saturday's win over the Rangers, his sixth and seventh tallies of the season.
Analysis: He has seven goals and six assists in 20 games this season, a pace that would see him deliver in the low-50 point range this season. Activate him if that fits your format.
News:Brian Gionta had a goal and an assist in Montreal's 3-2 overtime win over Phoenix on Thursday.
Analysis:Brian Gionta's goal was a nice display of determination as he took the puck off Boyd Gordon's stick behind the Phoenix net and beat Mike Smith on a wraparound. Montreal's captain has three goals and three assists in the last six game.
News:Brian Gionta, who has been quiet offensively to start the season, picked up a goal and an assist in Saturday's loss to the Rangers.
Analysis: He had just six points in twice as many games heading into the night. But he may be heating up a little -- he has four points in his last four games. And despite the sluggish start, he's still on pace for more than 60 points.
News:Brian Gionta's goal with 96 seconds remaining broke up the Penguins' shutout bid Thursday in Montreal's 3-1 loss.
Analysis:Brian Gionta has two goals and two assists in the last three games, after a slow first week of the season.
News:Brian Gionta had a three-point night Saturday in a 6-5 shootout loss to Colorado.
Analysis: What a nice way to snap a three-game point streak. Brian Gionta is coming off back-to-back 46-point seasons but the Habs need him to be and do more. We hope he can do it but we're not convinced. Expect a little bit more than 46 but 60 may be a stretch.
News:Brian Gionta scored his first goal of the preseason Saturday, potting a shorthander in the first period of Montreal's win over Tampa Bay.
Analysis:Brian Gionta waited until the preseason finale to make a mark, intercepting a pass at the blue line and scoring on a breakaway. He was also instrumental in setting up another goal with hard battling along the boards for puck possession. Gionta will return to his role on one of the top lines with Scott Gomez and Max Pacioretty -- a trio that developed some chemistry last season.
News: Gionta scored the only two goals of Thursday's Game 1 victory over the Bruins.
Analysis: The 32-year-old Gionta is coming off his highest goal-scoring season since '05-'06, he's healthy, and he appears to be ready to continue his playoff success. Gionta picked up nine goals and 15 points in the postseason last year, and has always seemed to play his best hockey in the spring.
News: Gionta scored twice Saturday to give him 29 goals on the season.
Analysis: It was a Cy Young type year for the winger who once again potted more goals (29) than helpers (17). The Habs will need him to be a productive player in the postseason if they are to go further than the conference finals. Last season, he delivered 15 points (nine, six) in 19 playoff games.
News: Gionta snapped a five-game point drought with two helpers in Saturday's win over New Jersey.
Analysis: He has been an offensive disappointment in Montreal but perhaps he can redeem himself in the playoffs.
News: Gionta posted his 23rd goal of the season in Tuesday's win over Atlanta.
Analysis: The Monteal captain hasn't been lighting it up of late with just one goal in the last seven contests before scoring Tuesday, but he offers more to the Canadiens than his scoring. He appears poised to reach the 30-goal mark for just the second time in his career, but numbers in the mid-20's are rather in line with his career averages.
News: Gionta pocketed a goal Wednesday night, his third in two games, in Montreal's win over Florida.
Analysis: The goal was Gionta's team-leading 19th of the season.
News: Gionta scored twice in Tuesday's win over Washington.
Analysis: Gionta is up to 18 goals on the season, but he has just nine assists and as a result his fantasy value is very limited.
News: Gionta fired eight shots on goal and scored his 10th goal of the season in Montreal's loss to Philadelphia on Wednesday.
Analysis: Gionta was skating with Scott Gomez and Max Pacioretty, a new combination that managed to put a lot of offensive-zone pressure on the Flyers.
News: Gionta notched a goal and an assist Tuesday in the win over Ottawa, his second goal in three games.
Analysis: The Montreal captain will never light up the scoresheet, but he's a veteran leader and contributes when the Habs need it. Gionta has two goals in the last three games and a respectable 18 points in the season.
News: Gionta scored two goals and added an assist Saturday in a 3-1 win over Boston.
Analysis: He started the season quietly but has managed six goals and six assists in 11 games since Nov. 6. The window of opportunity to snap him up is closing.
News: Gionta had a goal and two assists in Tuesday's win over the Flyers.
Analysis: Gionta got off to a dreadful start, but he now has points in five straight games. Overall, he has just 11 points in 18 games this season, but he's showing signs of heating up.
News: Gionta's goal and assist Saturday extended his point streak to four games. He has three goals and two assists in that span.
Analysis: He had a horrible start to the season but is starting to pull his game into shape. It looks like the slump is over; make sure he's active.
News: Gionta has not played well through the first 12 games of the season.
Analysis: In 12 games thus far, Gionta has only one goal and two assists. With 47 shots on goal his shooting percentage is an eye-shutting 2.1%. These are not the numbers the "captain" of your team should be posting. The second line as a whole has been disappointing.
News: Coach Jacques Martin announced that Gionta will be the team's captain for the Habs this season.
Analysis: Usually coach Martin waits until the last day before the start of the season to make such an announcement. Gionta seems like the best fit for the role and it will mark the first captain for Montreal since the departure of Saku Koivu last July.
News: Canadiens RW Brian Gionta scored his first goal in the last six games Saturday as Montreal fell in OT to the Senators.
Analysis: Gionta finished January with nine points in 13 games, which isn't a huge haul, but it is his most since coming over from the Devils. He remains worth using in most leagues and hopefully his production will pick up a little the rest of the season.
News: Canadiens RW Brian Gionta faced the Devils on Friday for the first time in New Jersey since leaving the team last summer as a free agent. He managed an assist to extend his point streak to five games. He has three goals and three assists in that span.
Analysis: Gionta's line, which includes fellow former Devil Scott Gomez and Benoit Pouliot, has been the Canadiens' most productive unit the last few weeks. It definitely shows up in Gionta's numbers. He has 24 points in 31 games this season. He did miss a chunk of time with a broken foot, but Gionta has since returned to form. He is a decent Fantasy start.
News: Montreal RW Brian Gionta scored twice in his 500th career game on Thursday against the Stars. Gionta, who scored a power-play goal in the first period, got his second of the game with the man advantage 7:14 into the third to give the Canadiens their second and final lead. "Obviously, it makes it a little more memorable," Gionta said. "I'm just fortunate to be here. I'm happy that I've been able to play that many games. I'm pretty blessed to be in the league for that long."
Analysis: Gionta, who signed a five-year free-agent contract with Montreal on July 1, has 164 goals and 332 points overall in the regular season since making his debut with New Jersey in 2001-02. He has missed some time in 2009-10 because of a foot injury, but Gionta has produced 12 goals and 20 points in 27 games. He is playing well enough to start in Fantasy when healthy.
News: Canadiens RW Brian Gionta scored into an empty net with 35.9 seconds left, moments after Jaroslav Halak stopped Jordan Leopold's shot from the slot during a 2-0 win over the Panthers on Thursday. Gionta has two goals and three assists in six games since returning from a broken foot.
Analysis: Gionta has been pretty solid since jumping back into the Canadiens lineup. He has 18 points in his first 25 games with Montreal. He is playing well enough to start in Fantasy when healthy.
News: Montreal RW Brian Gionta opened the scoring in Wednesday's 2-1 overtime win with a wrist shot 9:53 into the second period. The goal was Gionta's ninth of the season, with assists from Andrei Markov and Scott Gomez. It was Gionta's 15th overall point of the season.
Analysis: Gionta returned from a broken foot on Monday and it's good to see him take only two games to score another goal. He had an assist in his return, so he has not taken any time getting back to work. Now that he has returned, he can be activated in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Montreal RW Brian Gionta returned from a broken foot on Monday in a 4-2 loss at Ottawa. Gionta finished the game with an assist and two penalty minutes, taking six shots in 16:34 of ice time.
Analysis: Gionta had been out since mid-November with the broken foot and Fantasy owners have waited patiently for him to return. He has the potential to be a high-end Fantasy option now that he is healthy and active, so Fantasy owners should consider activating him in most Fantasy formats for Fantasy Week 14 (Jan. 4-10). Gionta has 14 points in 20 games this season including eight goals and six assists.
News: Canadiens RW Brian Gionta (foot) and D Roman Hamrlik (knee) are both expected to return to action Monday at Ottawa.
Analysis: Get Gionta back active in the majority of Fantasy formats, even though he's been out for almost a month and a half and will certainly be a little rusty. He had 13 points in 19 games before getting hurt. Hamrlik is worth using in deeper formats as a low-end starting defenseman.
News: The Montreal Gazette reports that Canadiens RW Brian Gionta is out indefinitely with a broken bone in his left foot. Gionta said he suffered the injury when he was struck by a shot on Nov. 3 and had been trying to play through the issue.
Analysis: Gionta has a decent 13 points in 19 games this season and should be stashed away in all formats in Fantasy until he's ready to return, as he's a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Montreal RW Brian Gionta was scratched from the lineup on Tuesday in a game against the Hurricanes. He has a foot injury and is day to day.
Analysis: Gionta has a solid 13 points in 19 games since signing a free agent deal this offseason and is worth using in all formats in Fantasy, when healthy.
News: The Montreal Gazette reports that Canadiens RW Brian Gionta's lower-body injury is related to his foot. Gionta has missed one game with the issue.
Analysis: Unfortunately, we're unlikely to get another update on Gionta before Monday's lineup deadline, as the Canadiens have a day off. So, you'll just have to make your own educated decision about whether to start Gionta in Fantasy Week 7 (Nov. 16-22). Gionta has a solid 13 points in 19 games since signing a free agent deal this offseason.
News: Montreal RW Brian Gionta missed his first game of the season when he sat out Saturday's loss to the Predators with a lower-body injury.
Analysis: Gionta is a top-line winger for the Habs and has a solid 13 points in 19 games since signing a free agent deal this offseason. He is usually a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy, but will obviously be a risky start for Fantasy Week 7 (Nov. 16-22).
News: Montreal RW Brian Gionta tried to keep his Canadiens in the game on Tuesday in the 5-4 loss to the Thrashers. Gionta tallied his 5th and 6th goals of the season in the defeat. He scored on a slap shot in the 2nd period and added a wrister to open the scoring in the 3rd.
Analysis: Gionta now has 10 points on the year and six of them have come on goals scored. Tuesday's goals were his first since Oct. 20 also against Atlanta. He is going to be one of Montreal's top offensive players this season, but until he starts filling the stat sheet a little more consistently, consider Gionta a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: RW Brian Gionta leads the Canadiens with three goals after scoring Saturday against the Oilers. Gionta scored with 49 seconds left in the second as he beat Nikolai Khabibulin on a slap shot.
Analysis: Gionta might have three goals in five games, but he is still without an assist. The Canadiens haven't been as efficient offensively as they would like and that's why Gionta's stat sheet is a little thin. He is going to be one of Montreal's top offensive players this season, but until he starts filling the stat sheet, consider Gionta a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Canadiens Brian Gionta has goals in each of the first two games and the 5-foot-6 forward is impressing his new teammates with his willingness to stand in front of the net to create chances.
Analysis: Gionta has always done well picking up the garbage in front of the net, but once New Jersey moved him to the side, he wasn't as effective of a scorer. It seems Montreal wants Gionta to be a top offensive force again and putting him in situations to succeed. We are excited to see what Gionta does in 2009-10. He still has high-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Canadiens RW Brian Gionta made quite a splash in his Montreal debut during Thursday's 4-3 win against the Maple Leafs. Gionta opened the scoring for his new team with a power-play goal 11:05 into the first period.
Analysis: Now that Gionta is out of New Jersey, he is hoping to get back to the time when he was once a 40-goal threat. Scoring on opening night is a great start. We are excited to see what Gionta does in 2009-10. He still has high-end Fantasy appeal.
News:Brian Gionta and Scott Gomez might soon be skating together again. The former New Jersey Devils forwards are suddenly teammates for a second time, two of the newest additions to the restructured Montreal Canadiens. Gomez was acquired as part of a six-player trade on Tuesday, and Gionta made the move north of the border one day later when the Canadiens made sweeping changes as the free agent signing period began. Each player had his best season in 2005-06 with the Devils, when center Gomez had 33 goals and 51 assists and winger Gionta scored 48 goals and added 41 assists. "We grew up playing for USA Hockey together since we were 15, so there's a history there," Gionta said Thursday on a conference call. "And being in New Jersey together, we had some chemistry. Hopefully we can get that back. Everybody knows how Scott can play. He's an extremely talented centerman who sees the ice well and is a great passer."
Analysis: The Canadiens acquired Gomez in the big deal that sent forward Chris Higgins to the Rangers. Gionta left the Devils a few hours after he became an unrestricted free agent, and Montreal might have completed the building of its new top line by signing former Calgary Flames left winger Mike Cammalleri as a free agent on Wednesday. A plus for the former Devils is that they flourished in a defensive-oriented system in New Jersey. That is how the Canadiens are expected to play under new coach Jacques Martin. "I have a lot of respect for him and the way he handles his team," Gionta said. The 5-foot-7, 175-pound forward signed a five-year, $25 million contract with the Canadiens, who also absorbed a salary-cap hit of $7.35 million per season for the five years left on Gomez' deal. Gionta had some of his best seasons playing alongside Gomez. Gionta certainly still has 50-60-point potential, so continue to view him as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward Draft Day.
News: After spending seven seasons with the New Jersey Devils, forward Brian Gionta is finally leaving the Garden State. The veteran winger has signed a five-year, $25 million contract with the Montreal Canadiens Wednesday. Gionta had 20 goals and 60 points in 81 games with the Devils in 2008-09, and has 152 goals and 312 points in 473 career games.
Analysis: As Gionta heads north he will be reunited with former Devils center Scott Gomez, who was picked up by Montreal in a trade Tuesday. "Gionta has a background with Gomez (with New Jersey) and he has a good reputation among the players," Canadiens GM Bob Gainey said. "He's a top player in his position and depending on who he plays with, good things can happen. We hope that he can get back to 75-to-80 point seasons." Gionta had some of his best seasons playing alongside Gomez, including 2005-06 when he recorded a career-high 48 goals and 89 points. It's unsure if Gionta will ever get back up to that level again, but he certainly still has 50-60-point potential. Continue to view Gionta as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward Draft Day.
News:The Newark Star-Ledger reports Brian Gionta isn't sure if his career will continue with the Devils because of New Jersey's limited cap space. Gionta, who just played the last season of a three-year, $12 million deal he signed in 2006, has yet to communicate with Devils general manager Lou Lamoriello. Gionta becomes an unrestricted free agent July 1. "We have not touched base at all yet," Gionta said. "I don't think it's surprising because of the cap situation this year. The cap isn't set and no one knows where it's going to go. Teams don't know what they have to work with. The problem is the cap will be determined late this year." Gionta is hoping New Jersey can make room for him. "It's the organization I grew up in. I love it," he said. "So I'd like to be back, but obviously things have to be right. It's a great organization to be a part of."
Analysis: Gionta finished fifth on the team with 60 points (20 goals) in 2008-09. He finished with 20 or more goals for the fifth straight season, however, his goals production has dropped each season since scoring a career-high 48 in 2005-06. The drop has been attributed to Gionta no longer lining up in front of the net on the power play and more off to the left side. Gionta is a small forward at 5-7, 175 pounds, but he knows how to get around the ice. He should find a home somewhere in the NHL and likely a top-six slot, but Gionta is looking more like a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward Draft Day.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Devils RW Brian Gionta scored his first goal in six games Wednesday against the Penguins, but does have four goals and three assists in the last 10 games.
Analysis: Gionta was at his best this season from November to January as he amassed 34 points in 40 games. He has just 17 points in his last 27 games. Gionta is still being a productive player for the Devils, but is producing more like a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta scored a goal on Wednesday against the Hurricanes in a 4-2 loss. Gionta scored with 2:17 left in the game to bring the Devils back within two goals. It was the last goal scored in the game.
Analysis: Gionta now has 12 goals and 36 assists on the season for a total of 53 points. He has goals in three of his last seven games and can still be considered a viable No. 4 Fantasy option.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta scored a short-handed goal during Tuesday's game against the Blackhawks. Patrik Elias became the Devils' career leading scorer when he recorded his 702nd point with a perfect pass to set up a short-handed goal by Brian Gionta late in the second period for a 3-0 lead. It was Gionta's third short-handed score of the season.
Analysis: Gionta has three goals and two assists in seven March games. It's the first time since November he has managed more than two goals in a month. Gionta has hit 50 points for the second straight season and third time in four years. He had a really quiet February with just six points in 12 games, but is off to a nice start in March. Gionta is no longer an elite scorer, but still passes as a viable No. 4 Fantasy forward and flier in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta scored a goal during Saturday's 7-3 loss to the Islanders. After finishing the first period down 3-0, Gionta put New Jersey on the board 29 seconds in the second with his 15th goal. He has two goals and three assists during a four-game point streak.
Analysis: Gionta hit 50 points for the second straight season and third time in four years. He had a really quiet February with just six points in 12 games, but is off to a nice start in March with three points in three games. Gionta is no longer an elite scorer, but still passes as a viable No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta scored a goal, tallied two assists and finished at plus-2 during Sunday's 6-5 win against the Sharks. An early giveaway in the San Jose zone allowed Gionta to tip a shot past Evgeni Nabokov 30 seconds after the opening faceoff. Gionta had just one goal and no assists in his previous six games.
Analysis: Gionta hasn't been much of a scorer since netting a goal in five straight games from Nov. 15-26, but he has kept himself busy passing the puck. Gionta has 45 points and 32 assists in 56 games. He is worth a look as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta tallied an assist and finished at even in 13:35 of ice time Thursday against the Bruins. He has an assist in two straight games, but no goals in his last six appearances. In fact, Gionta has scored just four times in his last 27 games.
Analysis: Gionta is one point shy of notching at least 10 points for a third straight month despite the fact he can't seem to hit the back of the net. Gionta's elite scoring days seem to be in the past, but it does appear he could notch 20-plus goals for a third straight season. He has 40 points in 48 games and has re-emerged as a decent No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta scored his 11th goal of the season in Tuesday's win over the Canucks.
Analysis: With 37 points in 42 games, Gionta is on pace to put up his best season since his 89 points in 2005-06. Playing for his next contract, Gionta is a decent No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta tallied an assist and finished at minus-1 during Sunday's game against the Ducks. He has no goals in his last five games, but has four assists in that span.
Analysis: Gionta was on an offensive tear from mid-November to mid-December, but has cooled off a bit in the last month. He has scored just twice, but continues to remain active in the stat column with assists. Gionta is playing for his next contract, but still remains more of a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta had two assists in the Devils' 4-3 overtime win over the Senators on Sunday. Gionta has 34 points on the season now with 10 goals and 24 assists, five of those points coming over the last three games with a goal and four assists.
Analysis: Gionta didn't look great in mid-December but looks to have returned to form for the most part. He is a high-end Fantasy option when he's playing the way he is now.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Friday's game against the Canadiens. Gionta opened the scoring at 14:21 with a hard drive from the top of the right circle. It was his first goal in seven games. He has four points in his last four games.
Analysis: Gionta hit a bit of a rough spell in mid-to-late December after being one of the NHL's hottest players for a month. It seems he is starting to get the engine fired up again. Gionta has high-end Fantasy potential when he is clicking on all cylinders.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Friday's game against the Senators. Gionta scored 40 seconds in, tipping Paul Martin's point shot past Alex Auld. It was his second goal in six games and eighth point in that span.
Analysis: Gionta has failed to tally in just two games since Nov. 14 and looks like the 80-point player of old. He is playing for his next contract and should be highly motivated the remainder of the season. Consider Gionta a decent Fantasy option while he is red hot.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta tallied a goal, three assists and a plus-3 rating during Friday's 8-5 win against the Rangers. Gionta scored his eighth goal of the season on a backhand shot 13:04 into the third period. It was his third score in seven games.
Analysis: After a slow start to the season, Gionta finally woke up in November and realized he has pending free-agency looming. While it's hard to imagine Gionta topping 80 points in 2008-09, he is averaging a point-per-game for the time being. Continue to treat him as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward with room to improve.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta extended his points streak to eight games (five goals, six assists) with an assist Thursday against the Flyers.
Analysis: Gionta continues to be hot-and-cold for the Devils, but his recent run gave us hope that he still might have 80-point potential buried somewhere inside him. Gionta is playing for his next contract, but until he has a long, steady run of points, he still remains a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta saw his five-game goal-scoring streak (matching his career high) end Saturday night against the Penguins, but he did assist on the Devils' only goal and is has 10 points (five goals) during a seven-game points streak.
Analysis: Gionta continues to be hot-and-cold for the Devils, but his recent run gave us hope that he still might have 80-point potential buried somewhere inside him. Gionta is playing for his next contract, but until he has a long, steady run of points, he still remains a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta scored in a fourth straight game Sunday as New Jersey pounded the Lightning 7-2.
Analysis: The Devils are playing some great hockey lately and Gionta is thriving on a line with Patrik Elias and Dainius Zubrus. He is now up to 17 points on the season, which puts him on pace to at least get close to his magical 89-point campaign from 2005-06. Reserve him for Fantasy Week 8 (Nov. 24-30) though, as the Devils only play twice.
News:Patrik Elias and Brian Gionta each had a goal and an assist in the New Jersey Devils' 3-1 victory over the Florida Panthers on Thursday. Gionta and Elias worked a great give-and-go pass for a shot into an empty net for Gionta 6:51 into the third period. It was his fourth goal and second in two games.
Analysis: Gionta has gotten back on track after not having a goal in five straight games. He has four points during a three-game point streak. Gionta has turned into a very streaky player since an 89-point season in 2005-06. For that, he remains at best a No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta scored a goal and finished at plus-1 in 17:33 of ice time Saturday against the Capitals. Gionta scored for the Devils at 11:40 of the third period, a goal that looked like the winner until Alex Ovechkin connected as time expired. Gionta scored for the first time in six games.
Analysis: Gionta recently dodged a serious injury to stay active in the Devils lineup. Gionta was playing well at the end of October, but has just four points in November and is back to being erratic. He has turned into a very streaky player since an 89-point season in 2005-06. For that, he remains at best a No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta returned to the lineup Wednesday against the Rangers after missing one game with an undisclosed injury. He didn't have a point in 15:57 of ice time and finished at minus-1. He took two shots on net.
Analysis: Gionta now has just one point in his last four games after running off a five-game points streak. Gionta has turned into a very streaky player since an 89-point season in 2005-06. For that, he remains at best a No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: The Bergen County Record reports that Devils RW Brian Gionta practiced Tuesday and could play Wednesday against the Rangers.
Analysis: Gionta has really come on as of late and it would really be bad timing if an injury derails his progress. He is still not a must-start Fantasy option, but is a decent No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta was scratched from Sunday's lineup against the Oilers because of an undisclosed injury suffered Saturday against the Red Wings. He remains questionable heading into Wednesday's game against the Rangers.
Analysis: Gionta has really come on as of late and it would really be bad timing if an injury derails his progress. He is still not a must-start Fantasy option, but is a decent No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy. Consider him an injury-risk start Week 6 (Nov. 10-16).
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta was helped off the ice Saturday night against the Red Wings after being checked into the boards by Derek Meech with a little under eight minutes left in the second period. He didn't return.
Analysis: Gionta has nine points on the season with two goals and seven assists. He was starting to once again look like the kid who tallied 89 points in 2005-06 so let's hope this injury doesn't keep him out too long. He's a low-end Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta scored his second goal of the season on a tip-in Saturday against the Thrashers. Gionta now has two goals and four assists during a five-game points streak.
Analysis: Gionta's recent surge has gotten him out of coach Darryl Sutter's doghouse and back up on the team's top scoring line. Gionta now has eight points in 10 games and is starting to once again look like the kid who tallied 89 points in 2005-06. Before we start jumping back on the bandwagon, let's make sure Gionta can sustain long-term growth.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta tallied a pair of assists and finished at plus-2 in 21:06 of ice time Wednesday against the Maple Leafs. He took five shots as well. Gionta now has one goal and five assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Gionta's recent surge has gotten him out of coach Darryl Sutter's doghouse and back up on the team's top scoring line. Gionta now has seven points in nine games and is starting to once again look like the kid who tallied 89 points in 2005-06. Before we start jumping back on the bandwagon, let's make sure Gionta can sustain long-term growth.
News: The Bergen County Record reports that Devils RW Brian Gionta has been moved up to play alongside Patrik Elias and Dainius Zubrus on one of New Jersey's scoring lines. To make room, Petr Vrana has been moved to the fourth line.
Analysis: Gionta has one goal and four assists in eight games this season, which is right about on pace for the 53 points he put up last season. He isn't the same offensive player he was back in 2005-06 when he had 89 points, but maybe this move will boost his value a little. He will have his spurts, he is best used as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward. Vrana is a rookie who scored in his first NHL game, but hasn't done anything since. Continue to ignore him in all formats.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta appeared in his 400th NHL game for New Jersey Saturday and scored a goal in a 3-2 loss to the Flyers. New Jersey tied it at 2 late in the second period on Gionta's power-play goal. Gionta took a pass from behind the net, skated across the goal mouth and beat Martin Biron with a backhand shot. He now has one goal and three assists in his last five games.
Analysis: Gionta's goal scoring has steadily declined the last few seasons and he just isn't the same offensive player he was back in 2005-06 when he had 89 points. He will have his spurts, but perhaps Gionta is better as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta, still on the checking line, hasn't scored this season after Saturday's game against the Capitals. He has 14 shots on goal.
Analysis: Gionta has been a huge disappointment since totaling 89 points in 2005-06 and it gets even worse. Gionta used to be front and center on the power play. He scored a team-record 24 power-play goals in '05-06 by standing in front of the net and getting deflections and rebounds. His power-play production has dropped the last few seasons and now he is no longer in front, but has been shifted to the leftside of the net. He is also averaging less than 15 minutes per game. Gionta is in his free agent year, but is playing like a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta had an assist in 12:28 of ice time Thursday against the Thrashers. He also took two shots on net. Gionta has two assists and no goals in four games.
Analysis: Gionta has been a huge disappointment since totaling 89 points in 2005-06 and it gets even worse. Gionta used to be front and center on the power play. He scored a team-record 24 power-play goals in '05-06 by standing in front of the net and getting deflections and rebounds. His power-play production has dropped the last few seasons and now he is no longer in front, but has been shifted to the leftside of the net. He is also averaging less than 15 minutes per game. Gionta is in his free agent year, but is playing like a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward at this time.
News:The New York Post reported talks with potential 2009 unrestricted free agents Devils forwards Brian Gionta and John Madden have not begun. "It's early," Madden said. "I'm open to anything. I'd like to stay."
Analysis: Gionta has managed just 98 points the last two seasons after totaling a career-high 89 in 2005-06. He will definitely be motivated with free agency looming, but the Devils aren't an explosive offensive team and Gionta might struggle to get back to 80-plus points. View him as a No. 4 Fantasy forward Draft Day.
News:Brian Gionta had a short-handed goal for the Devils, who have lost three in a row (0-2-1) and scored only three times in that time. New Jersey lost 7-1 to the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday night and lost the lead in the Atlantic Division. The Devils get a chance for some revenge perhaps on Tuesday when the Penguins visit for the final meeting between the teams this regular season.
Analysis: Gionta has points in four of the last five games. He has 21 goals and 30 assists for the season. Consider him a No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time.
News:Brian Gionta found the back of the net for his 20th goal and the New Jersey Devils won a 4-3 shootout decision against the Minnesota Wild on Thursday.
Analysis: It was Gionta's third goal in six games in March. Consider him a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward at this time.
News:Brian Gionta scored for the Devils, who lost their third straight Saturday, 2-1, to the Canadiens. It was only New Jersey's third regulation loss in 16 games. Gionta scored when the teams were playing 4-on-4 as Carey Price made the initial save on Mike Mottau's shot. While Price searched for the puck, Gionta came and fished it out from next to Price's blocker and put it in an open net for his 18th goal at 13:37 of the second.
Analysis: It was Gionta's fifth goal in his last 10 games since snapping a 13-game goal drought. Consider him a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Tuesday's 2-1 loss to the Hurricanes. The Devils took a 1-0 lead early in the second period when Gionta skated down the right side and centered a pass that clicked off Carolina defenseman Bret Hedican's stick and into the net. It was his 17th goal of the season and second in three games.
Analysis: Gionta has really had only one outstanding month this season and that came in November when he totaled 13 points (six goals) in 14 games. He's been decent in February with 10 points (four goals) in 14 games, but hasn't been able to tap into that magic when he totaled 89 points in 2005-06. Consider him a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta totaled two assists and a plus-1 rating Monday against the Hurricanes. He extended his points streak to five games. He has two goals and four assists in that span.
Analysis: Gionta has really had only one outstanding month this season and that came in November when he totaled 13 points (six goals) in 14 games. He hasn't been able to tap into that magic when he totaled 89 points in 2005-06. Consider him a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Gionta, who snapped a 14-game goal-less streak by netting the winner Wednesday against Ottawa, found the net again 3:09 into the second period, but the Devils came up short in a 4-3 shootout loss to the Thrashers. Gionta has reached the 15-goal mark for the season.
Analysis: After going 13 games without a goal, Gionta has now scored in two straight. Perhaps this is the jump start the Devils were trying to get from Gionta, who is not producing points like the player who tallied 89-points in 2005-06. Gionta can be a serviceable No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News:Brian Gionta swept a rebound past Martin Gerber 2:14 into overtime and the New Jersey Devils beat the Ottawa Senators 3-2 Wednesday night. Gionta's drive was blocked in front, and Jamie Langenbrunner put a rebound off the right pad of Gerber. Gionta got the puck again and scored his 14th goal for the Devils, who won their second straight at home after a 2-4 skid there.
Analysis: The Devils are trying desperately to jump start Gionta's season, who scored just his first goal in the last 14 games. Gionta is not producing points like the player who tallied 89-points in 2005-06, but can be a serviceable No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Devils RW Brian Gionta has one goal in the last 12 games. He was replaced on the top line by David Clarkson Sunday against the Maple Leafs and skated instead with C John Madden on the third line. He finished plus-2 as Madden scored twice.
Analysis: The Devils are trying desperately to jump start Gionta's season. He started with 19 points in 25 games, but has just 12 points in his last 22 games. He is not producing points like the player who tallied 89-points in 2005-06, but can be a serviceable No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: In the third period of Wednesday's game against the Panthers, Devils forward Zach Parise set up Brian Gionta's power-play goal that put New Jersey up 3-1. With the Devils on a 5-on-3 advantage, Parise in the right circle fed the puck to Gionta at the goal line for a redirection inside the left post. It was Gionta's second goal in five games and 12th this season. He also has three assists in his last five games and a plus-3 rating.
Analysis: Gionta has scored five times on the power play this season and remains one of the team's best options during the man advantage. He is not producing points like the player who tallied 89-points in 2005-06, but can be a serviceable No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta scored a goal and added an assist during Friday's game against the Oilers. It was his first points in four games. He has two goals and two assists in his last four contests.
Analysis: Gionta has had kind of a rollercoaster season, but has been a steady option since mid-November when Patrik Elias moved to center on the top line. Gionta still remains a decent No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News:Brian Gionta scored a goal for the Devils during a 3-1 win Thursday against the Bruins. New Jersey jumped ahead 1-0 on Gionta's goal 10:57 into the second period when he snapped a shot that slipped between the pads of goalie Alex Auld. It was his 10th goal and first in six December games.
Analysis: Gionta does have three assists in his last six games and at least one point in 10 of 12 games. The Devils are finally starting to play well and it shows in Gionta's numbers. It appears safe to start him in all Fantasy formats once again.
News:Brian Gionta beat G Johan Hedberg with a speed move, going right at the netminder, for the only goal in Sunday's shootout win against Atlanta. "At the blue line, I saw he had come way out on me," Gionta said. "Once I saw he was out, I tried picking up a little more speed to beat him back to the net."
Analysis: Gionta saw his three-game goal-scoring streak (four goals) snapped, but then had the only goal of the shootout. "That was a great team win for us," he said. The Devils are finally starting to play well and it shows in Gionta's numbers. It appears safe to start him in all Fantasy formats once again.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta capped the scoring for New Jersey Friday against the Canadiens with a power-play goal 7:49 into the third period. He picked up an assist earlier in the game on a Zach Parise' power-play goal in the second period. Gionta finished the game at even.
Analysis: Gionta extended his points streak to six games with his third straight multi-point outing. He has five goals and five assists during his points streak. Gionta is one his best run this season. The Devils are finally starting to play well and it shows in Gionta's numbers. It appears safe to start him in all Fantasy formats once again.
News:Brian Gionta scored twice during New Jersey's three-goal second period to lead the Devils past the Tampa Bay Lightning 3-2 on Saturday. Gionta and David Clarkson scored 42 seconds apart in the second to give New Jersey a 3-1 lead. After Gionta scored from the left circle at 12:19, Clarkson extended the lead to two goals during a two-on-one at 13:01. Gionta's power-play goal earlier in the period, at 4:49, had tied it at 1.
Analysis: Gionta is rolling right along with three goals and three assists during a four-game points streak. Gionta is one his best run this season. The Devils have really struggled under first year head coach Brent Sutter and Gionta's numbers have suffered as well. He can be a must-start Fantasy option, but is really just a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: RW Brian Gionta played a strong game Monday against Pittsburgh, setting up two goals, including Patrik Elias' winner.
Analysis: The Devils have really struggled under first year head coach Brent Sutter and Gionta's numbers have suffered as well. He can be a must-start Fantasy option, but is really just a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Brian Gionta scored on a deflection for the Devils during Saturday's 4-1 loss to the Senators. Gionta took a pass from Patrik Elias on the right wing and centered a pass for Travis Zajac that Martin Gerber knocked away only to have it deflect off the skate of defenseman Anton Volchenkov and into the net.
Analysis: Gionta now has two goals in his last three games and also has two assists in his last six games. The Devils have really struggled under first year head coach Brent Sutter and Gionta's numbers have suffered as well. He can be a must-start Fantasy option, but is really just a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Travis Zajac scored a pair of goals in Wednesday's game at Pittsburgh, while Zach Parise was good for three assists and Brian Gionta picked up a helper in the 5-4 win. The Devils offense has finally found itself after netting just seven goals in the first four games. "It's definitely different, a different look, very entertaining for the fans," forward Brian Gionta said. "But I'd like to be keeping the puck out of the net a little more and keep scoring the goals we do."
Analysis: Zajac is getting a chance to skate on the team's top scoring line, but remains useful only in Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams. Parise and Gionta are must-starts in all formats. The Devils will be back in action on Thursday at Philadelphia.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports Travis Zajac has been promoted to the team's top scoring line with Patrik Elias and Brian Gionta, while rookie Nicklas Bergfors will be dropped to the second unit with Zach Parise and Dainius Zubrus.
Analysis: Gionta has posted just one goal and no assists in three games during the young season. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues heading into Thursday's game at Florida where the Devils will face backup goaltender Craig Anderson.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports rookie Nicklas Bergfors will start the regular season on the top scoring line with Patrik Elias and Dainius Zubrus, replacing Brian Gionta. Coach Brent Sutter is looking to balance his scoring attack. Gionta will skate with Zach Parise and Travis Zajac on the No. 2 line.
Analysis: Gionta will drop to the second line, but it might not be the end of the world. Parise and Zajac are up-and-coming players and he might flourish on the speedier line. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. The Devils open the regular season on Thursday against the Lightning in Tampa Bay.
News: Brian Gionta set a team playoff record in Saturday's Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, scoring in his fifth consecutive game.
Analysis: Gionta, Patrik Elias and Scott Gomez continue to produce, as the EGG line is getting it done for the Devils.
News: Brian Gionta (leg) was scoreless with a plus-1 rating in the team's regular season finale against the Islanders.
Analysis: Gionta appears healthy and ready to go for the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Tampa Bay Lightning. He is a safe play in all postseason pools.
News: Brian Gionta (leg) was unable to suit up for Thursday's game at Philadelphia. He is questionable for Sunday's regular season finale against N.Y. Islanders.
Analysis: Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues if you have healthier alternatives. He'll once again be a must-start in all formats in 2007-08, however.
News: The Bergen Record reports Brian Gionta (leg) had X-rays taken after leaving Tuesday's shootout win against the Senators. He was hit in the leg with a shot and the team has yet to release the results.
Analysis: We'll consider Gionta questionable for Thursday's game at Philadelphia, but we are a little worried that the team has yet to release the results. They might be hiding something as we get ready for the playoffs, but that's just pure speculation at this point.
News: Brian Gionta (groin) was back in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Bruins and he scored a goal in the win.
Analysis: Gionta is back with Patrik Elias on the team's top scoring line, but with Sergei Brylin and not Scott Gomez (thigh).
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports Brian Gionta (groin) was able to skate on Monday and reportedly felt good after the session.
Analysis: Gionta is not eligible to return from injured reserve until April 1. Keep him reserved for Fantasy Week 26 (March 26-April 1) and hope for another positive report before deciding on him for the final week of the regular season.
News: According to the N.Y. Post, the Devils have placed RW Brian Gionta on the long term injury exemption list retroactive to March 6 and he will not be eligible to play until April 1.
Analysis: This is certainly bad news for Fantasy owners, but a healthy Gionta is more important to the Devils in the postseason than the remainder of the regular season. If he returns on April 1, he will make it back in time for the final week of Fantasy Hockey (April 2-8) and could be helpful for teams in the final rounds of the Fantasy playoffs.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports Brian Gionta (groin) has been ruled OUT for Wednesday's game against Pittsburgh and Thursday's game at Carolina. Gionta will have missed 12 of the past 14 games after being unable to suit up against the Hurricanes.
Analysis: Keep Gionta reserved in all leagues for Fantasy Week 25 (March 19-25) if he is unable to play in Saturday's game at home against Carolina.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta (groin) did not play Saturday against the Sabres.
Analysis: Gionta remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health in consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Brian Gionta (groin), who aggravated his injury in Tuesday's game in Philadelphia, was out of the lineup for Thursday's contest at Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Gionta remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health in consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Devils forward Brian Gionta aggravated his groin in the first period of Tuesday's game at Philadelphia and didn't return. It was his second game back after missing eight.
Analysis: Gionta is once again considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can play consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Brian Gionta (groin) was able to play in Sunday's game against the Bruins. He picked up an assist with a minus-1 rating and team-high five shots on goal in 18:54 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Gionta back into the active lineup in all leagues for Fantasy Week 23 (March 5-11).
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta (groin) remain sidelined Friday against the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: Gionta has been out since the middle of February and there is no telling when he will return. He remains day to day and Fantasy owners will just need to be patient until he is able to return. He is a solid Fantasy option when healthy.
News: The Bergen Record reports that Brian Gionta has been ruled OUT for Tuesday's game against the Penguins, although he was able to skate on his own on Monday.
Analysis: The Devils star will have two more full days to recover before the team takes to the ice on Friday against the Maple Leafs. The missed game Tuesday will make seven straight for the potent scorer.
News: The Devils scratched RW Brian Gionta (groin) for a sixth straight game in Sunday's game against the Capitals.
Analysis: Gionta remains day to day. Keep him reserved for Fantasy Week 22 (Feb. 26-March 4) if you have healthier alternatives.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta (groin) was unable to play in Saturday's game against the Capitals, missing his fifth straight game. Gionta has begun skating and there is a chance he could be ready to play the back end of a home-home Sunday against the Capitals.
Analysis: Gionta remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Brian Gionta (groin) was unable to play in Thursday's game at N.Y. Rangers, missing his fourth straight game.
Analysis: Gionta remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports Brian Gionta (groin) will not play on Tuesday against the Rangers, missing his third consecutive games.
Analysis: Gionta might be able to play again Thursday against the Rangers at MSG, but keep him reserved in all daily Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta missed his second straight game with a groin injury Saturday against the Islanders.
Analysis: Gionta had not racked up a point in four games before getting injured Wednesday against the Canadiens. He has 24 goals and 18 assists on the season, and is a must-start option when healthy. It is best to keep Gionta out of active Fantasy lineups until he is cleared to return to action.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta (groin) did not play Friday against the Penguins.
Analysis: Gionta had not racked up a point in four games before getting injured Wednesday against the Canadiens. He has 24 goals and 18 assists on the season, and is a must-start option when healthy. It is best to keep Gionta out of active Fantasy lineups until he is cleared to return to action.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta, who hasn't scored in six games, left Wednesday night's game with a groin injury and didn't return. He might be out a few games.
Analysis: Gionta had not racked up a point in four games before getting injured Wednesday against the Canadiens. He has 24 goals and 18 assists on the season, and is a must-start option when healthy. It is best to keep Gionta out of active Fantasy lineups until he is cleared to return to action.
News: Brian Gionta picked up an assist in Thursday night's game at Philadelphia.
Analysis: Gionta has managed 12 points during New Jersey's current eight-game winning streak against the Flyers. In case you were wondering, the Devils face the Flyers on March 6, March 30 and April 5.
News: The Devils will play in Philadelphia on Thursday, a place they have had a lot of success recently. They have won each of their four games against the Flyers this season - two in shootouts - and haven't lost in this series since falling 2-1 at Philadelphia on March 21.
Analysis: Patrik Elias and Brian Gionta each have 11 points during New Jersey's seven-game win streak over the Flyers. Fantasy owners are salivating over the prospects of Elias and Gionta providing multi-point nights to kick off the month of February.
News: Brian Gionta scored the tying goal with 20.8 seconds remaining in regulation and had the only goal in the shootout to lead the New Jersey Devils to a 4-3 win over the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday. Gionta, first up for the Devils in the shootout, whipped the puck past Antero Niittymaki to cap New Jersey's comeback.
Analysis: Gionta continues to be a star for the Devils and that translates well for Fantasy owners. He remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Brian Gionta picked up an assist with six shots on goal in 19:18 of ice time in Friday's game against the Thrashers.
Analysis: Gionta has managed five goals and eight points during his current six-game point streak. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Brian Gionta scored twice, lifting New Jersey to a 3-0 win over the Montreal Canadiens on Sunday. He also had a plus-1 rating with four shots on goal in 17:13 of ice time.
Analysis: Gionta remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. He has four goals over the past two games and six points (4 G, 2 A) during his current four-game point streak.
News: Brian Gionta scored twice and the New Jersey Devils got strong goaltending from Martin Brodeur in a 3-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators on Saturday.
Analysis: Gionta now has 17 goals on the season and at least one point in his last six games. He remains a must-start Fantasy forward.
News: Devils RW Brian Gionta notched his 100th career goal Tuesday night, in his 284th game. He also has 82 assists. It was Gionta's second goal in the last three games.
Analysis: With his 100th career goal, Gionta now has 15 goals on the season. He also has 13 assists. He remains a stellar Fantasy forward.
News: Brian Gionta ended an eight-game goal drought and seven-game scoreless streak with a goal and minus-2 rating in Tuesday's game at N.Y. Rangers. He also recorded four shots on goal, which was his most in seven games dating back to Oct. 24.
Analysis: Gionta has really missed the services of linemate Scott Gomez, who continues to sit due to a groin injury. Gionta remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite the rough patch. Hopefully Tuesday's goal is a signal that he is ready to go on a scoring binge.
News: Brian Gionta, who leads the Devils with seven goals, had five goals and four assists in four games against Montreal last season.
Analysis: Gionta remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, skating on one of the top scoring lines in the league with Patrik Elias and Scott Gomez.
News: Brian Gionta is healthy heading into the team's next game on Thursday against the Islanders, but linemates Patrik Elias (hip flexor) and Scott Gomez (groin) are battling injuries which have them questionable.
Analysis: Gionta remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, but he might be without one or both of his linemates for the next game which could hurt his value slightly in the short-term.
News: Patrik Elias and Brian Gionta posted assists and Scott Gomez scored a goal in Tuesday's loss at Pittsburgh.
Analysis: This trio continues to roll right along and remains one of the most potent scoring lines in the NHL. All of its players remain must-starts in Fantasy leagues.
News: Patrik Elias had three assists with a plus-1 rating in Thursday's shootout win at New Jersey. Gionta lit the lamp twice with an assist and plus-1 rating with a team-high seven shots on goal.
Analysis: Elias has seven points (1 G, 6 A) in seven games while Gionta has been scorching hot. He has 11 points (6 G, 5 A) and an even rating through seven games. Each remain must-starts in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Brian Gionta led the Devils' comeback on Thursday against Toronto by scoring three times in the third period to make it 6-6, the tying goal coming with 37 seconds to play. He also scored in the shootout. "Obviously we struggled the first two periods." Gionta said after his first-career hat trick. "We turned it on in the third and battled back for two points. It's gratifying when you do it."
Analysis: Gionta scored three third-period goals to erase a 6-3 deficit in the Devils' 7-6 shootout victory over the Maple Leafs. It was the 10th hat trick in NHL history in which a player scored three times in the third period to tie a game. The last was by Alexei Kovalev for the Penguins in 2001.
News: RW Brian Gionta had three assists to lead the New Jersey Devils past the Carolina Hurricanes 4-0 on Friday night, sending the Stanley Cup champions to a second straight home loss to open the season.
Analysis: Gionta will be on the team's top scoring line this season with Patrick Elias and Scott Gomez. The speedy forward tripled his previous career-high of 29 points by racking up 48 goals and 89 points in 2005-06. Expect another 80-point plus performance in 2005-06 as long as he can stay healthy. Certainly he is off to a great start by racking up three assists in the Devils opener.
News: Brian Gionta signed a three-year contract with the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday, getting their star in the fold for the regular season. The club traded Vladimir Malakhov to the San Jose Sharks on Monday and got an injury exemption for Alexander Mogilny (hip), so that cleared up enough salary cap room to get a deal done.
Analysis: Gionta will be on the team's top scoring line with Patrick Elias and Scott Gomez. The speedy forward tripled his previous career-high of 29 points by racking up 48 goals and 89 points in 2005-06. Expect another 80-point plus performance in 2005-06 as long as he can stay healthy.
News: David Hale was scoreless for the 18th straight game on Wednesday against the Senators, as he has failed to produce a point all season.
Analysis: Gionta finished with a plus-18 rating in 82 games played. He was durable in his breakout season and should be a top pick in Fantasy postseason leagues on Draft Day.
News: Brian Gionta scored two goals, added an assist and had eight shots on goal in Tuesday's regular season finale at Montreal.
Analysis: Gionta finished with 48 goals, 41 assists and a plus-18 rating in 82 games played. He was durable in his breakout season and should be a top pick in Fantasy postseason leagues on Draft Day.
News: Gionta picked up two assists and a plus-2 rating in 20:00 of ice time in Saturday's game at Philadelphia.
Analysis: Gionta has 73 points (41 G, 32 A), which is more production than he had in the past three seasons combined. He has definitely been one of the more surprising players in Fantasy Hockey this season.
News: Brian Gionta scored his 40th goal of the season to go along with five shots on net in 23:48 of ice time in Tuesday's game at Ottawa.
Analysis: Gionta has posted seven points (5 G, 2 A) with an even rating over the past seven games. Gionta remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Brian Gionta was scoreless for the second straight game on Tuesday against the Islanders. He also posted a minus-2 rating in 17:56 of ice time.
Analysis: Gionta will look to avoid tying a season-high three-game scoreless streak when the Penguins come to town on Thursday. Despite the recent rough patch, he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Brian Gionta has posted 33 goals and 23 assists with a plus-6 rating through 58 games at the Olympic Games break.
Analysis: Gionta has already smashed his previous best of 21 goals and 13 assists. He is on pace for an amazing 47 goals and 80 points for the Devils, as he has teamed with Patrik Elias and Scott Gomez to form one of the most dangerous lines in the NHL.
News: Brian Gionta scored two goals and had a plus-3 rating in Thursday's game against at Boston, including the game-winner in overtime to beat Tim Thomas.
Analysis: Gionta has posted six points (4 G, 2 A) and a plus-5 rating over the past four games.
News: Brian Gionta picked up an assist in Tuesday's game against the Lightning to extend his point streak to a modest three games. He also had a plus-2 rating in 18:44 of ice time.
Analysis: Gionta has slowed significantly, posting just one point in the seven games before the streak. Hopefully he can continue the hot streak into the Olympic Games break before representing Team USA in Turin during the 2006 Winter Olympics.
News: Brian Gionta scored two goals and had a plus-1 rating with three shots on goal in 21:14 of ice time on Tuesday at St. Louis.
Analysis: Gionta has been amazing over the past 10 games, posting 14 points (9 G, 5 A) and a plus-7 rating. The top scoring line of Gionta, Patrik Elias and Scott Gomez continue to produce eye-popping statistics.
News: Brian Gionta scored a goal and he had two shots on goal in 22:24 of ice time in Sunday's game at Chicago.
Analysis: Gionta has posted 12 points (7 G, 5 A) and a plus-6 rating over the past nine games. Gionta has gelled with Patrik Elias and Scott Gomez to form one of the top lines going right now in the NHL.
News: Brian Gionta scored two goals, both on power plays, on Friday vs. Vancouver. He now has a career-high 25 goals this season.
Analysis: Gionta has come on strong this season and he's up to 46 points this season. He should be starting in all leagues.
News: Brian Gionta had a pair of assists and a plus-1 rating in Monday's game against Philadelphia, as the top scoring line of Gionta, Patrik Elias and Scott Gomez produced six of the nine points for the Devils in a 3-0 win.
Analysis: Gionta has posted nine points (4 G, 5 A) and a plus-6 rating over the past seven games, as the trio has been lights out from a Fantasy perspective lately.
News: Brian Gionta skated with Scott Gomez and Patrik Elias, who was making his season debut on Tuesday against the Panthers. He responded with two goals in the win with a plus-2 rating.
Analysis: The three players posted five points in the game and were one of the top units when the 2003-04 wound down. If they can gel together once again now that Elias is well, Gionta might be ready for even more Fantasy production.
News: Brian Gionta has been named to the United States Olympic team which was announced on Monday night.
Analysis: Gionta has 18 goals and 15 assists in 32 games this season. He is a future star in this league and has six points (2 G, 4 A) in the past eight games despite the recent struggles of his team.
News: Brian Gionta scored two goals and added an assist in Wednesday's opener against the Penguins. He was a plus-1 with six shots on goal in 15:41 of ice time.
Analysis: Gionta is off to a good start. He will likely be a hot commodity off of the waiver wire in most Fantasy leagues.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports Brian Gionta will skate with veteran Viktor Kozlov and rookie Zach Parise on a line in Wednesday's regular season opener against the Penguins.
Analysis: Gionta is always a player who seems to fly way under the radar, but he is a solid Fantasy forward in most formats. He should also find himself on the top scoring line in New Jersey on occasion, so scoop him up if he is still available.
News: Brian Gionta accepted a qualifying offer from the Devils on Sunday.
Analysis: Gionta had five goals and seven assists in 15 games with Albany of the AHL in 2004-05. He has 35-45 point potential in the upcoming season if he can remain healthy.
News: Brian Gionta (facial lacerations) returned to the lineup on Saturday. He was scoreless and a minus-1 in 13:36 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Gionta back into the active lineup despite the scoreless afternoon.
News: Brian Gionta (facial lacerations) will miss his fifth straight game on Wednesday.
Analysis: Gionta has a swollen upper lip and should be reserved in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Brian Gionta (facial lacerations) was scratched again on Monday. He has not played since March 5.
Analysis: Gionta remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues if you have healthier alternatives.
News: Brian Gionta (head) missed Tuesday's game against the Flyers.
Analysis: Gionta is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in daily leagues if you have healthier alternatives.
News: Brian Gionta received a cut on the side of his nose after being hit by a shot in the second period. He had stitches but did not return.
Analysis: Gionta is not expected to miss any time.
News: Brian Gionta scored a goal in Friday's game against the Thrashers.
Analysis: Gionta has 10 points (7 G, 3 A) over his past eight games. He had only 15 points in his first 55 games.
News: Brian Gionta scored two goals and assisted on another against Buffalo Wednesday.
Analysis: Gionta has nine points (6 G, 3 A) over his past seven games.
News: Gionta was scoreless in Sunday's game, but he had a goal, an assist and a plus-5 rating in Saturday's win.
Analysis: Gionta has six points (4 G, 2 A) with a plus-10 rating over his past six games and he has really played well on a line with Patrik Elias and Scott Gomez.
News: Gionta (ankle) was not in the lineup Wednesday. He is questionable for Friday's game against Boston. He does not warrant any Fantasy consideration.
Analysis:
News: Gionta (broken leg) returned Saturday after missing 19 games. He played 4:07 and then was forced to leave the game after being hit. X-rays were taken as a precautionary measure and they were negative. He is considered day to day. He has no Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Gionta (fractured right fibula) should return next week. "We'll see. The good news is Brian Gionta will be back sometime after this weekend," Devils general manager Lou Lamoriello told the Newark Star-Ledger. Gionta is not worth adding to a Fantasy roster.
Analysis:
News: Gionta (broken leg) was placed on the injured list. The move was retroactive to Jan. 3. He is expected to miss at least two to three weeks.
Analysis:
News: Gionta missed Saturday's game in Toronto with a bruised right ankle. He took a shot off the same ankle he injured a few weeks back during Friday's game. Gionta is day to day, but he isn't a useful Fantasy player.
Analysis:
News: Gionta (sprained right ankle) missed his second straight game Wednesday against Ottawa. He remains day to day. Gionta has no Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Gionta (sprained right ankle) did not practice on Tuesday. However, the North Jersey Record reports that he plans to participate in Wednesday's morning skate and might play against Ottawa. Gionta has no Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Gionta (sprained ankle) participated in Monday's practice. He told the Newark Star-Ledger he "was a little sore out there" and is not yet ready to return. Gionta has no Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Gionta (sprained right ankle) expects to return Wednesday against Ottawa. "It's feeling better," he told the Newark Star-Ledger. "I'll just take it easy and see what happens. It's one of those things where it's a long season, so you want to take precautions." Gionta is not a useful Fantasy player.
Analysis:
News: Gionta left Thursday's game in Columbus with a twisted right ankle. He suffered the injury when he crashed into Marc Denis after catching his skate in a rut. Gionta told the North Jersey Record he was unsure whether he would be able to play Saturday in Ottawa, but he's not someone you should be using in Fantasy leagues.
Analysis:
News: Gionta returned from a personal matter and played Tuesday against the Blues. He had an assist in the game, but still has minimal Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Gionta missed Monday's practice to attend to personal matters. He should be available for Tuesday's game against St. Louis. Gionta is only useful as a Fantasy reserve in a larger league.
Analysis:
