News: The Ducks have sent Jeff Deslauriers to Minnesota for future considerations, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis:Jeff Deslauriers gives the Wild organization some added goaltending depth after having dealt Matt Hackett to Buffalo in the Jason Pominville deal.
News:Jeff Deslauriers was reassigned to the Fort Wayne Komets of the ECHL on Friday.
Analysis: This move suggest Viktor Fasth may be close to being ready to return from his upper body injury, but nothing's official. Jeff Deslauriers has not appeared in a game at the NHL level this season.
News:Jeff Deslauriers has been recalled from ECHL Fort Wayne, Eric Stephens of the Orange County Register reports.
Analysis:Jeff Deslauriers was summoned Tuesday to serve as a reserve behind Jonas Hiller for the Ducks, with Viktor Fasth now dealing with an upper-body injury.
News: The Ducks have assigned Jeff Deslauriers to ECHL Fort Wayne, Eric Stephens of the Orange County Register reports.
Analysis: With Jonas Hiller back in business, Jeff Deslauriers is the odd man out of the Ducks' netminding mix, at least until the next injury hits either Hiller or Viktor Fasth.
News:Jeff Deslauriers has been called up to fill in for an injured Jonas Hiller.
Analysis: Hiller is only day-to-day, and there's a very real chance that Jeff Deslauriers will be sent back down without making an appearance. Viktor Fasth is starting in goal for the Ducks on Saturday.
News:Jeff Deslauriers has been placed on waivers, according to the Orange County Register.
Analysis: The team is hoping he'll clear waivers and report to AHL Norfolk, where he'd likely play most, if not the entire season.
News:Jeff Deslauriers signed a tryout contract with Norfolk of the AHL on Tuesday, the Orange County Register reports.
Analysis:Jeff Deslauriers split his 2011-12 campaign between the Ducks and their AHL affiliate last year, so he's familiar with the system. He could have a chance to earn a backup role with the Ducks after the lockout is over.
News:Jeff Deslauriers saved 24 of 26 shots to lead the Ducks to victory on Thursday.
Analysis:Jeff Deslauriers has battled through injury this season and played only four games, winning three and losing only one. The 27-year-old has good hockey sense but needs to stay healthy to increase his fantasy value.
News:Jeff Deslauriers will face his former team, the Oilers, Thursday, according to Eric Stephens of the Orange County Register.
Analysis:Jeff Deslauriers has only appeared in three games for the Ducks this season, and he allowed four goals in his last outing against the Coyotes.
News:Jeff Deslauriers only stopped 25 of 29 shots in a 4-0 loss to Phoenix on Saturday.
Analysis:Jeff Deslauriers didn't play well but with Coyotes goaltender Mike Smith doing his best impersonation of a brick wall it really didn't matter much.
News:Jeff Deslauriers, in only his second appearance of the season, stopped 27 of the 30 shots he faced in a win over San Jose on Monday.
Analysis: Jonas Hiller had started 32 straight games, so he had earned a rest. The Ducks are out of the playoff race, but Jeff Deslauriers still will likely only see one or two more appearances at most.
News: The Ducks have recalled Jeff Deslauriers from AHL Syracuse, according to the official team website.
Analysis:Jeff Deslauriers and Iiro Tarkki have swapped jobs, in what seems like a temporary measure until Dan Ellis fully recovers from his injury and resumes back-up duty.
News: The Ducks sent down Jeff Deslauriers to AHL Syracuse on Sunday, according to the official team website.
Analysis: In what seems like a straight swap in backup goaltenders while Dan Ellis recovers from his injury, Jeff Deslauriers has been sent to Syracuse, being replaced with Iiro Tarkki.
News:Jeff Deslauriers will start for the Ducks Thursday in their battle with the Flames, according to Lisa Dillman of the L.A. Times.
Analysis: Jonas Hiller continues to make progress, but for now Jeff Deslauriers is the only fully healthy keeper the Ducks' have that they can trust to put forward a solid effort in net.
News: Hours after he was called up by the Ducks, Jeff Deslauriers got the start against the Stars and stopped 26-of-28 shots to get the win.
Analysis: This wasn't merely Jeff Deslauriers' first win in a long time - it was his first NHL game in over a year-and-a-half. Even though he had been called up on an emergency basis on multiple occasions, Deslauriers last played an NHL game in April of 2010.
News: The Ducks recalled Jeff Deslauriers from AHL Syracuse on Tuesday, according to the team's official Twitter page.
Analysis:Jeff Deslauriers' recall indicates the Ducks are not optimistic that Jonas Hiller (lower body) will be available Tuesday night. Iiro Tarkki would likely start if Hiller sits out, but Deslauriers would be the next guy in line.
News: The Ducks assigned Jeff Deslauriers to AHL Syracuse on Tuesday, according to the team's official Twitter page.
Analysis:Jeff Deslauriers did not appear in a game with the Ducks after being recalled last week. He'll head back to Syracuse with Dan Ellis coming off the disabled list Tuesday and reclaiming the backup goalie role behind Jonas Hiller.
News: The Ducks recalled Jeff Deslauriers from Syracuse of the AHL, the Ducks' official site reports.
Analysis:Jeff Deslauriers will be available Sunday night, with backup Dan Ellis questionable with a groin injury.
News: The Ducks are waiting for Jeff Deslauriers to clear waivers so that they can send him to Syracuse of the AHL, the Orange County Register reports.
Analysis: The team was allowed to carry Jeff Deslauriers around for their first two games in Europe as a third goalie.
News: Deslauriers signed a two-year contract with the Ducks on Tuesday, Ducks.NHL.com reports.
Analysis: Although he gained a lot of starting experience in the 2009-2010 season, Deslaurier's rather poor career numbers (3.27 GAA, .901 save percentage) and a year away from the NHL level mean he's unlikely to push Dan Ellis for the backup goalie spot in Anaheim.
Deslauriers May Have Played His Last Game For Edmonton
News: Deslauriers may have played his last game for the Oilers, according to the Edmonton Journal.
Analysis: Deslauriers is an unrestricted free agent come July 1 and with Devan Dubnyk and Nikolai Khabibulin ahead of him in the pecking order, he may opt to try his look at a backup job with another team.
News: Deslauriers will not be called up to the Oilers, according to the Edmonton Journal.
Analysis: Deslauriers has only played twice since being sent down, and hasn't played well, posting a 4.61 GAA. The Oilers are hoping that without Martin Gerber around he will play more often, and more importantly, play better.
News: Deslauriers has cleared waivers and is expected to head to the AHL's Oklahoma City Barons, according to the Montreal Gazette.
Analysis: Deslauriers was the odd man out in Edmonton. He was fighting with Devan Dubnyk to be the backup goalie to Nikolai Khabibulin.
News: Deslauriers was placed on waivers Monday, according to the Oilers' Official Twitter Page.
Analysis: He's been passed by Devan Dubnyk in the pecking order, and with Nikolai Khabibulin carrying a heavy workload, there's no reason to own Deslauriers right now unless he gets picked up by a team badly in need of goaltending.
Oilers' Deslauriers in Line For Backup Duty Sunday
News: Deslauriers will slide in as a backup for Sunday's match against the Panthers, NHL.com reports.
Analysis: Deslauriers is expected to be the second option behind Nikolai Khabibulin in the contest with Devan Dubnyk as a healthy scratch.
News: The Oilers have decided to keep Deslauriers and Devan Dubnyk on the roster for now, according to the Edmonton Journal.
Analysis: The Oilers have a problem here -- they like both Deslauriers and Dubnyk, but they are afraid that quite a few other teams do also, so they fear that by trying to send one to the AHL (thus exposing them to waivers), that they will get claimed. The Oilers would like to trade one of them but are having trouble finding a partner as of this moment.
News: The Edmonton Oilers re-signed goalie Jeff Deslauriers on Saturday, agreeing to a one-year contract. The 26-year-old Deslauriers was 16-28-4 last season with a 3.26 goals-against average and .901 save percentage, seeing extensive time after Nikolai Khabibulin injured his back. Edmonton drafted Deslauriers 31st overall in 2002.
Analysis: Deslauriers will likely battle for the backup role to Khabibulin with Devan Dubnyk. It's probably in your best interest to avoid drafting Deslauriers in Fantasy. The Oilers TG, however, could be a No. 2 Fantasy option in 2010-11, if Khabibulin bounces back and the Oilers get on track under first-year coach Tom Renney.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 38 saves during a 7-2 loss to the Ducks during Sunday's season finale. Five of the goals came at even strength. Deslauriers allowed four or more goals in three of his last four appearances.
Analysis: The 2009-10 has mercifully ended for Deslauriers, who was thrown into the fire after Nikolai Khabibulin went down early in the year with back problems. Deslauriers had a few good moments, but it was mostly tough sledding. He finished 16-28-4 with a 3.26 GAA and .901 save percentage. Deslauriers is a restricted free agent, so it's unsure if he will be back in 2010-11. Track his offseason progress before taking a flier on him Draft Day 2010. The Oilers TG will be a low-end option to begin next season.
News: The Edmonton Oilers overcame an early 3-0 deficit against the Avalanche on Wednesday, en route to a 5-4 overtime victory. Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 31 saves to win for the second time in his last eight starts.
Analysis: Despite allowing the Avalanche to tickle the twine four times on Wednesday, Deslauriers won for the first time in fours starts. He's given up 14 goals in that span, and continues to have low-end Fantasy appeal, along with the Oilers TG.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made a monster 42 saves in regulation Saturday before falling in a shootout to the Coyotes.
Analysis: Deslauriers has only one win in his last seven starts and has allowed more than three goals four times during that skid. Deslauriers continues to have low-end Fantasy appeal, along with the Oilers TG.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers almost pulled off a miraculous comeback during Tuesday's 5-4 loss to the Red Wings. Deslauriers found himself in a four-goal deficit after Johan Franzen scored on a power play 16:31 into the second. Deslauriers then made what appeared to be a staggering feat look easy. He helped Edmonton score four unanswered goals of its own by being relentless in net. Unfortunately, he still took the loss after Brad Stuart scored the winner with 1:07 left. Stuart tipped Pavel Datsyuk's shot out of the air and past Deslauriers for his third goal. The play went to video replay to check if Stuart's stick was high. Deslauriers finished with 39 saves.
Analysis: Even though he was dealt a loss Tuesday, you have to give Deslauriers a lot of credit for hanging tough. He faced one of the hottest teams in the NHL and stood strong despite falling behind early. Deslauriers will continue to share time in net in the final weeks with Devan Dubnyk. As for his future in Edmonton that will be decided in the offseason. Deslauriers has low-end Fantasy appeal, as does the Oilers TG.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 37 saves against the Ducks on Friday, but it wasn't enough, as Edmonton fell 3-2. He has lost four of his last five starts.
Analysis: Deslauriers is struggling lately, surrendering 18 goals in his last five starts. While he will will see some starts down the stretch, he continues to be a low-end Fantasy flier. The same goes for the Oilers TG.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 31 saves during a 3-2 win against the Canucks on Tuesday. Deslauriers and the Oilers jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first seven minutes. Deslauriers never wavered and kept his composure as Vancouver cut the lead to one goal twice. He made 11 saves in the third as he kept Vancouver off the scoreboard.
Analysis: Deslauriers put an end to a three-game losing streak with his 15th win of the season. Edmonton had been leaning on Devan Dubnyk lately, but Deslauriers got a chance to start since Dubnyk was under the weather on Tuesday. Deslauriers will see starts down the stretch, but he continues to be a low-end Fantasy flier. The same goes for the Oilers TG.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers stopped just 24 of 28 shots during Tuesday's 4-2 loss to the Wild. He has allowed at least four goals in each of his last three starts.
Analysis: Deslauriers is really struggling, allowing 13 goals in his last three starts, all losses. Neither he nor the Oilers TG is a viable Fantasy option at this time.
News: According to the Oilers' official Twitter feed, G Devan Dubnyk will start Monday night at Columbus over Jeff Deslauriers, who was pulled on Saturday.
Analysis: This move isn't hugely surprising after Saturday's debacle, so Fantasy owners might already have thought about benching Deslauriers for Week 22 (March 15-21). Neither Oilers goalie nor the TG is worth using in Fantasy play at this time.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers was pulled after two periods during Saturday's 6-4 loss to the Maple Leafs. He stopped only 23 of 28 shots. "It's not the result we wanted," Deslauriers said.
Analysis: Deslauriers has been shelled the past two games, allowing nine goals in five periods. Even when play well he has low-end Fantasy appeal, since the wins are rare in Edmonton. The Oilers TG is a low-end option as well.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers allowed three third-period goals as the Senators beat Edmonton 4-1 on Tuesday. He stopped 35 of 39 shots.
Analysis: Deslauriers had allowed just one goal over his previous two games, but resembled his former self on Tuesday against the Oilers, falling to 15-22-3 on the season. Deslauriers has low-end Fantasy appeal since the wins are rare in Edmonton. The Oilers TG is a low-end option as well.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 22 saves for his third shutout of the season as Edmonton picked up a 2-0 victory over New Jersey on Sunday night. "We played a great game both ways tonight," Deslauriers said. "We worked hard for our chances and we played smart. Defensively, we were really on the button tonight. Everyone was committed to doing the job."
Analysis: Deslauriers has now allowed just one goal over his last two outings and has three wins in his last five. He might be worth a look in deeper leagues for Fantasy Week 21 (March 8-14), as Edmonton has three winnable games against Ottawa, Edmonton and Toronto. The Oilers TG, usually a must-avoid option, could also be a flier choice.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 28 saves during Friday's 2-1 shootout win over the Wild. He had lost two straight and six of his last seven starts.
Analysis: Deslauriers had been having a tough go of it prior to snapping out of it Friday. He is 13-22-3 on the season. He remains the starter in Edmonton, but the Oilers are still bottom dwellers, so Deslauriers has low-end Fantasy appeal since the wins could get scarce. The Oilers TG is a low-end option as well.
News: Edmonton G Jeff Deslauriers could not stop the Nashville Predators on Tuesday night in his first start since the Olympic hockey break. Deslauriers stopped 24 shots in the game but allowed four goals to score in the 4-3 defeat. Nashville scored twice in the first period and once each in the second and third.
Analysis: Deslauriers has really struggled and the break didn't do anything to change that. He's now lost six of his last seven starts and his record for the season falls to 12-22-3. In his last two starts alone he's allowed 11 goals. While Deslauriers remains the starter in Edmonton, the Oilers are still bottom dwellers, so Deslauriers has low-end Fantasy appeal since the wins could get scarce. The Oilers TG is a low-end option as well.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers came up with 39 assists on Sunday against the Ducks, but that is only half the story. Deslauriers also got peppered for seven goals during a 7-3 loss. The game was only 3-2 after two periods before Anaheim scored four times in the third, including three power-play tallies. Deslauriers lost for the fifth time in six outings.
Analysis: It's a shame Deslauriers looked so bad on Sunday after downing the Kings on Thursday in a 10-round shootout. Despite his awful outing on Sunday, Edmonton really couldn't pull him from net since Bryon Pitton is still the team's backup netminder. He is only going to play in an emergency. The Oilers are still bottom dwellers, so Deslauriers has low-end Fantasy appeal since the wins could get scarce. The Oilers TG is a low-end option as well.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers blew a two-goal lead in the third period Thursday against the Kings, but redeemed himself in a long shootout during a 3-2 win against the Kings. Deslauriers rallied from a one-goal deficit in the shootout and had to be bailed out three times by his teammates, but after stopping Alexander Frolov in the 10th round, Lubomir Visnovsky beat Erik Ersberg for the winner. Deslauriers, who snapped a four-game losing streak, finished with 41 saves in regulation and overtime.
Analysis: Deslauriers has already started seven times in February for Edmonton and has once again taken on the full-time goalie job with Devan Dubynk in the minors. Unfortunately, the Oilers are still bottom dwellers, so Deslauriers has low-end Fantasy appeal since the wins could get scarce. The Oilers TG is a low-end option as well.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 27 saves during a 3-2 loss to the Ducks on Wednesday. Deslauriers battled back from a one-goal deficit after the first period to take a 2-1 lead 14:13 into the second thanks to a pair of short-handed scores. Bobby Ryan then tied the game on a power play just more than a minute later. Todd Marchant then got the winner 8:21 into the third. Marchant, who spent nine-plus seasons with Edmonton, redirected James Wisniewski's slap shot from the right point past Deslauriers' glove for his first game-winner of the season less than a minute after the Oilers had killed off an interference penalty against Steve Staios.
Analysis: Deslauriers has dropped four straight starts after reeling off a pair of wins. He teased us all as Edmonton opened February with two victories. The Oilers are back to playing poor hockey and leaving Deslauriers out to dry. However, he continues to get valuable NHL experience. Deslauriers has low-end Fantasy appeal since the wins could get scarce. The Oilers TG is a low-end option as well.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers stayed in net all night during a 6-1 loss to the Coyotes on Monday. Even after Phoenix built a 4-0 lead through two periods and opened it up to six goals midway through the third, Edmonton stuck with Deslauriers, who finished with 27 saves. All six goals came at even strength.
Analysis: Devan Dubynk remains in the minors, so Edmonton didn't have any faith in putting backup Bryan Pitton in the game and that's why Deslauriers took his lumps. He has now lost three straight after winning two straight. Still, he should continue to start in net since Edmonton has no other alternatives. Deslauriers has low-end Fantasy appeal. The Oilers TG is a low-end option as well.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 39 saves in a 3-0 loss to the Avalanche on Saturday night. The final Colorado goal was an empty-netter.
Analysis: Deslauriers won his first two starts in Fantasy Week 18 (Feb. 1-7), but ended up with a .500 record for the scoring period. He is the clear No. 1 in Edmonton for now, but unfortunately that doesn't mean a whole lot as the Oilers are horrid. Deslauriers remains a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a low-end option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 32 saves during a 4-2 loss to the Wild on Thursday. Deslauriers rallied from a pair of one-goal deficits as Edmonton tied the game at 8:41 of the third. Guillaume Latendresse and Martin Havlat then scored in the final 10 minutes to steal the win for Minnesota. Deslauriers had a two-game win streak snapped.
Analysis: Deslauriers got off to a great start in Week 18 (Feb. 1-7) with two wins before he couldn't keep the winning streak alive Thursday. Devan Dubynk was sent to the minors on Thursday, but he could be back in the near future. Although, it does seem as though Edmonton wants to lean on Deslauriers, who is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a low-end option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers stopped 33 shots to earn his second shutout of the season during a 1-0 win against the Flyers on Wednesday. The Flyers came close to scoring midway through the first period. Danny Briere stole the puck from defenseman Denis Grebeshkov in front, but was stopped in tight by Deslauriers. With four minutes left in the period, Mike Richards' shot at a wide-open net sailed through the crease. The Flyers captain to look skyward in disbelief. The Flyers continued to dominate the quality chances in the second, particularly on a power play with six minutes left. Deslauriers caught a break with just over a minute remaining when Lukas Krajicek hit the post.
Analysis: Deslauriers has now won consecutive starts after not having a win since Dec. 30. He has allowed only four goals in his last three starts and it seems all that time off in January allowed him to regroup. Don't be surprised if he still shares time with Devan Dubynk down the stretch, but Deslauriers could get the majority of starts while he is on a roll. Deslauriers is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a low-end option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 33 saves Monday against the Hurricanes to win for the first time since Dec. 30 during a 4-2 decision. Deslauriers kept Carolina off the scoreboard after Jussi Jokinen tied the game at 2 midway through the second period. He made 15 saves in the third period and even managed to keep Carolina off the board late despite them pulling goalie Cam Ward for two minutes.
Analysis: Deslauriers was 0-5-1 in six January appearances with a 4.60 GAA. His struggles allowed Devan Dubynk to see more time in net. Deslauriers is once again starting to become the Oilers' choice in net, but don't be surprised if he still shares time with Dubynk down the stretch. Deslauriers is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a low-end option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 18 saves during a 2-1 loss to the Blues on Thursday. Deslauriers was handed a 1-0 lead in the second period but it lasted only 17 seconds before St. Louis tied the game. They won it on Alexander Steen's score early in the third. Edmonton had a great opportunity to score after pulling Deslauriers for an extra attacker, but Chris Mason came up with a huge stop during a scramble in the final minute.
Analysis: Deslauriers's winless streak hit seven games on Thursday. The good news is that he allowed less than four goals for the first time in six outings against St. Louis. Deslauriers has struggled mightily since mid-December and is now sharing time in net with Devan Dubynk. Deslauriers is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a low-end option.
News: Edmonton G Jeff Desluariers stopped 33 shots on Tuesday night against the Blackhawks. It wasn't enough as he was peppered with 37 shots and allowed four of them to score. Chicago scored three times in the second period and cruised to the 4-2 win.
Analysis: Deslauriers lost in regulation for the fourth time in five January starts and the other start was an overtime defeat. He hasn't won since Dec. 30 against Toronto. Deslauriers' record drops to 9-15-3 on the year and he is clearly not a top Fantasy option. Deslauriers will only emerge as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie again, if he can start winning. The Oilers TG is a low-end option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 28 saves during a 6-0 loss to the Avalanche on Monday. Deslauriers allowed two goals in each period and two power-plays scores for the game. He is now winless in his last five appearances. He has allowed four or more goals in four straight starts.
Analysis: Deslauriers has one win in his last 12 outings and has been downright awful over the last month. His recent cold streak has prompted Edmonton to give rookie Devan Dubnyk a look since Nikolai Khabibulin is likely out for the season. Deslauriers will only emerge as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie again, if he can start winning. The Oilers TG is a low-end option.
News: Edmonton Oilers goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin will have surgery to repair a herniated disk in his back and is expected to be out 12 weeks. He'll have the operation Thursday in Los Angeles, the team said on Wednesday. The Oilers didn't provide a timeline for his return, saying only that he's "out indefinitely," but Khabibulin's agent, Jay Grossman, said the goalie will need 12 weeks to recover from surgery. That leaves him a narrow window to try and return during the regular season. Jeff Deslauriers has been the Oilers' starting goalie in Khabibulin's absence and Devan Dubnyk has been the backup.
Analysis: We figured for a long time that Khabibulin was unlikely to return in 2009-10, so hopefully you have been adding Deslauriers since he has been starting a majority of the games. Deslauriers has fallen on some hard time lately, winning only once in his last 11 appearances. He was even pulled from a loss on Tuesday against the Predators. Still, it is going to take a heck of an effort from Dubnyk to dethrone Deslauriers. Consider Deslauriers a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. Dubynk has minimal appeal until further notice.
News: Edmonton G Jeff Deslauriers started Tuesday's game against the Predators but did not end the game for the Oilers. Deslauriers allowed three goals to score in the 1st period and, after coming out to start the 2nd period as well, allowed one more goal before being pulled in favor of Devan Dubnyk. Dubnyk allowed one more goal in the 5-3 loss and stopped 13 of the 14 shots he faced. Deslauriers could only stop 10 of the 14 shots the Predators sent at him.
Analysis: Deslauriers continues to be mired in a long funk as his record drops to 9-13-3 on the season. He has won just once in his last 11 starts and is 1-9-1 over that span. He started the year hot but he's faded as fast as can be. Dubnyk is a seldom-used backup and his record stays at 0-2-0 on the year. Deslauriers might be mired in a winless funk, but he is still the best option Edmonton has in net right now. The Oilers could be forced to make a move in the event Nikolai Khabibulin can't return from a back injury. But right now, Deslauriers has emerged as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie since he starts pretty much every night in net. The Oilers TG is a low-end start until the wins come back.
News:Shane Doan scored his second goal of the game past Jeff Deslauriers during a power play 1:37 into overtime to lift the Phoenix Coyotes to a 5-4 victory over the Edmonton Oilers 5-4 on Tuesday night. Deslauriers battled back from a pair of two-goal deficits before Doan drove the stake into his comeback bid in overtime. Deslauriers finished with 25 saves as he lost for the ninth time in 10 starts.
Analysis: Deslauriers might be mired in a winless funk, but he is still the best option Edmonton has in net right now. The Oilers could be forced to make a move in the event Nikolai Khabibulin can't return from a back injury. But right now, Deslauriers has emerged as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie since he starts pretty much every night in net. The Oilers TG is a low-end start until the wins come back.
News: The Edmonton Sun reports the prognosis for injured Oilers goalie Nikolai Khabibulin, who has been out since Nov. 21 with a disc problem in his back, is not looking good. The veteran netminder was given an eight-week window for his injury to heal and the process is not going well. He received cortisone shots three weeks ago, but they were not effective. He hasn't been skating and has hardly been seen around the Edmonton facilities. "The window is not totally completed," head coach Pat Quinn said of Khabibulin returning this season. "They’re going to go right to the end." Jeff Deslauriers has started 21 of the last 22 games in Khabibulin's absence. "Obviously (Khabibulin) has some decisions to make as to what the next steps are," Quinn said. "One of the next steps is surgery."
Analysis: Khabibulin is in the first year of a four-year, $15 million contract, so this is the last thing Edmonton wants to see in Year 1. But at this point they might as well let him get the surgery, so he can be around for the next couple of seasons. Deslauriers has had some up-and-down moments, but he has been steady in net for as much as he has started. It's risky holding onto Khabibulin in Fantasy since even if he returns he might not play a full load. Fantasy owners should start scooping up Deslauriers, who is playing like a No. 2 Fantasy goalie.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 23 saves Saturday as Edmonton fell 4-1 to the Sharks. Deslauriers is now 1-8 in his last nine starts.
Analysis: The Oilers are a complete mess right now and it doesn't look like Nikolai Khabibulin (back) will be in between the pipes any time soon. You're better off ignoring Deslauriers and the Oilers TG in all formats for the foreseeable future.
News: Edmonton G Jeff Deslauriers put together a great performance against the Flames but didn't do enough to earn the win on Thursday, falling to the Flames 2-1. Deslauriers made 37 saves in the game, allowing goals to Craig Conroy and Curtis Glencross. His record dropped to 9-11-2 on the season with the performance.
Analysis: Deslauriers continues to start on a nightly basis with Nikolai Khabibulin on the mend. He could certainly use a night off, but the Oilers seem hesitant to insert the inexperienced Devan Debunyk into the lineup. Deslauriers broke a seven-game losing skid in his last start, but potentially started a new losing streak on Thursday. Because Khabibulin might need season-ending surgery, Deslauriers can be added as a No. 2 Fantasy option. The Oilers TG should also be considered a secondary Fantasy unit.
News:Patrick O'Sullivan scored two power-play goals, and Jeff Deslauriers made 27 saves to help the Edmonton Oilers snap a seven-game losing streak with a 3-1 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday. Phil Kessel spoiled Deslauriers' shutout bid with four minutes left in the third, scoring a power-play goal. The loss snapped a six-game losing streak for Deslauriers, who had last won on Dec. 11 against the Blues.
Analysis: Deslauriers desperately needs a night off in net, but the Oilers are afraid to turn to the inexperienced Devan Debunyk. Even with a nasty losing streak, Edmonton still want Deslauriers in net. Deslauriers has been decent for the most part since taking over for Nikolai Khabibulin (back). There is speculation that Khabibulin might need season-ending surgery, so Fantasy owners should flock to add Deslauriers, who has emerged as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Oilers TG is also a No. 2 option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 19 saves during a 4-1 loss to the Flames on Monday. He actually held a 1-0 lead before Calgary scored four unanswered goals. Rene Bourque did most of the damage with his second career hat trick. He had an even-strength score in the first period, a power-play tally in the second and a short-handed goal in the third. Deslauriers lost a sixth straight start.
Analysis: Deslauriers desperately needs a night off in net, but the Oilers are afraid to turn to the inexperienced Devan Debunyk. But seriously, Deslauriers has lost sixth straight, so Debunyk can't be any worse. Deslauriers has been decent for the most part since taking over for Nikolai Khabibulin (back). There is speculation that Khabibulin might need season-ending surgery, so Fantasy owners should flock to add Deslauriers, who has emerged as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Oilers TG is also a No. 2 option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers stopped 24 of 27 shots Saturday as Edmonton fell 4-1 to the Canucks.
Analysis: Deslauriers is as cold right now as he was hot earlier this month when he won five straight starts. Edmonton is still waiting for Nikolai Khabibulin to return from his back injury, and it looks like Deslauriers is running out of steam here in late December. He shouldn't be trusted in any league right now, while the Oilers TG is a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option at best.
News: Edmonton goalie Jeff Deslauriers allowed goals in the first and second period on Wednesday night as the Oilers fell to the Minnesota Wild, 3-1. The netminder for the Oilers made 24 saves in the defeat on 26 shot attempts. The final goal was scored on the open net.
Analysis: Deslauriers only allowed two goals Wednesday, his fewest since giving up two in a win back on Dec. 9 at Tampa Bay. He's now lost four straight starts and is definitely cold at the moment. His record falls to 8-8-2 on the year as he's currently the team's No. 1 option in goal with Nikolai Khabibulin out. View Deslauriers as an OK stopgap Fantasy option for the time being. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 option, at best, at the moment.
News: The Edmonton Journal reports that Oilers rookie G Devan Dubnyk will make his first NHL start Monday vs. St. Louis. Jeff Deslauriers will back him up.
Analysis: Dubnyk has been backing up Deslauriers while Nikolai Khabibulin deals with a back injury. The 14th overall pick in 2004, Dubnyk, 23, hasn't put up great numbers in the minors yet and isn't worth worrying about in most Fantasy leagues. Only owners in formats that use average points should think about using him in Week 12 (Dec. 21-27). The Oilers TG remains a secondary option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers lost a third straight start Saturday when he made 38 saves in a 4-2 loss to Washington.
Analysis: Deslauriers has allowed 13 goals during his losing streak and might be running out of gas as he continues to fill in for the injured Nikolai Khabublin, who could be back pretty soon. View Deslauriers as an OK stopgap Fantasy option for the time being. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers started his 13th consecutive game on Thursday against the Predators with Nikolai Khabibulin sidelined indefinitely by a back injury, but the result wasn't what Deslauriers or the Oilers expected. After taking an early 2-0 lead, Nashville scored six of the last seven goals as they rallied for a 6-3 win. Only one of the six goals come on the power play. Deslauriers made 21 saves in the loss.
Analysis: Deslauriers has lost his last two starts and probably could use a night off. But the Oilers aren't sure what they have in current backup Devan Debunyk. Deslauriers is going to see the majority of starts as long as Khabibulin is sidelined, so view him as a solid stopgap Fantasy option for the time being. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers has gone from barely getting a game in once a month to being a workhorse. Tuesday against Los Angeles was his 12th straight game, meaning the reliever is due for a little relief. Starter Nikolai Khabibulin (back) isn't returning anytime soon, so at some point Deslauriers will need a break. "We have no history for him because he's been a backup guy," coach Pat Quinn said. "We're in new territory. He seems to be fine. He wants the puck now and he's feeling pretty good. I think he wants to go in every chance he can. I'm pretty sure he likes being No. 1. He should like it."
Analysis: Khabibulin has had a slow recovery and needed an undisclosed procedure on Monday to help alleviate his back pain. The veteran goalie said he wouldn't be able to hold up for an entire season and it seems to be true. That is great news for Deslauriers, who has a chance to showcase his talents. Consider him a nice start as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie for the time being. The Oilers TG is also a No. 2 option.
News: Oilers goalie Jeff Deslauriers allowed one goal in each period on Tuesday and lost to the Los Angeles Kings, 3-2. Deslauriers stopped 23 of 26 shots in the game and had the game tied at two apiece in the middle of the 3rd period before giving up the game-winning goal to Sean O'Donnell.
Analysis: The loss was only Deslauriers' first in December as he'd won his first five starts during the final month of 2009. He certainly wasn't bad on Tuesday, either, and loses no Fantasy value as he remains worth using in any format while Nikolai Khabibulin (back) remains out of commission. That likely won't last much longer, however. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 option.
News:Jeff Deslauriers made 27 saves for Oilers during a 5-3 comeback win on Friday against the Blues. The Oilers were down three goals 15:35 into the second period before the comeback started. Gilbert Brule got the team on the board with 11 seconds left in the second and scored again 8:31 into the third to cut the deficit to 1. The Oilers then scored three times over the final 10 minutes to steal the win. Deslauriers has won his last five starts.
Analysis: Deslauriers might have allowed more than two goals for the first time in five starts on Friday, but he didn't panic when he went down early and his steadiness in net allowed for the rally. Deslauriers came up big in the third period as he made 10 saves. The Oilers announced Friday that goalie Nikolai Khabibulin (back) is at least a week away from returning, so Deslauriers will continue to act as starter. Treat him as a sleeper Fantasy start for Week 11 (Dec. 14-20). The Oilers TG is a No. 2 option.
News: Oilers G Nikolai Khabibulin's recovery from a back injury is coming along slowly, according to the team's official Website. "Maybe 25 per cent better," Edmonton GM Steve Tambellini said Tuesday. "He's taken some treatment with our doctors back in Edmonton. [He] really hasn't got to the point yet where we can say he's 100 per cent ready to go start the kind of training needed to play at this level. So I guess we'll know better after a week where he's at, but at this point I'd say it's kind of slow."
Analysis: Looks like it will be at least a couple of weeks before Khabibulin returns to action, so just continue to stash him in most Fantasy formats. You knew when you drafted the veteran that injuries could be an issue. When healthy, he is more of a No. 2 Fantasy goalie.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 32 saves during a 3-2 win against the Lightning on Wednesday. Deslauriers allowed a goal to Martin St. Louis 1:08 into the game before keeping Tampa Bay off the scoreboard until 7:34 into the second period. Deslauriers then made 15 saves during a scoreless third period to secure a fourth straight win.
Analysis: Deslauriers has not allowed more than two goals during any of his current wins. Deslauriers had a bit of a rocky experience when he first replaced Nikolai Khabibulin (back) in net, but he is finally getting a hold of things. Deslauriers is a nice stopgap Fantasy option for the time being. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 33 saves during a 3-2 shootout win against the Panthers on Monday. Deslauriers allowed Rostislav Olesz to tie the shootout before Shawn Horcoff lifted Edmonton to the win on the team's final attempt. Deslauriers only allowed a pair of regulation goals to Dominic Moore. He was playing in his ninth straight game while starter Nikolai Khabibulin recovers from a back injury.
Analysis: Deslauriers had a bit of a rocky experience when he first replaced Khabibulin in net, but he is finally getting a hold of things in net. He has won his last three starts and has allowed only five goals in the process. Deslauriers is a nice stopgap Fantasy option for the time being. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 33 saves Saturday as Edmonton edged Dallas 3-2 in a shootout.
Analysis: Deslauriers has now won two straight games with a total of three goals allowed in those victories. He has played OK in place of the injured Nikolai Khabibulin (back), who hasn't even started working out again yet. Deslauriers remains a stopgap Fantasy start in deeper leagues for now, while the Oilers TG is at best a No. 2 option.
News:Patrick O'Sullivan scored twice and Jeff Deslauriers made 27 saves to lift the Edmonton Oilers to a 4-1 win over the Detroit Red Wings on Thursday. Deslauriers allowed his only goal to Daniel Cleary with one second left in the first period. Deslauriers then stopped the final 17 shots he faced to secure his first win in four starts.
Analysis: In past seasons, Deslauriers' win over the Red Wings would have looked really good. But Detroit is having a down season. It's still a big win, but Deslauriers wanted facing Detroit at its best. Deslauriers has been so-so since taking over for Nikolai Khabibulin (back), which means Khabibulin will resume his starting duties once healthy. Deslauriers remains a stopgap Fantasy start. The Oilers TG is at best a No. 2 option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers allowed four goals on 11 shots Saturday as he got pulled 8:25 into a 7-3 loss to the Canucks. He was replaced by Devan Dubnyk.
Analysis: Deslauriers is now winless in his last three starts and Oilers fans must be hoping that Nikolai Khabibulin returns from his back injury soon. The Edmonton goalie situation is a bit of a mess at the moment, and both Deslauriers and the Oilers TG should probably be ignored in Fantasy play for now. Once the Bulin Wall is back, the Oilers TG can be considered a decent No. 2 Fantasy unit.
News:Joe Pavelski had the lone shootout goal past Jeff Deslauriers in the San Jose Sharks' 5-4 victory over the Edmonton Oilers on Friday night. Deslauriers held a 3-1 lead in the third period before San Jose tied the game twice. The last came on a short-handed score from Patrick Marleau with less than two minutes to play. Deslauriers had 27 saves in the loss.
Analysis: Deslauriers had allowed all of two goals in his previous two games before San Jose lit him up on Friday. He was playing pretty well until the third period, so we need to give Deslauriers his credit. Unfortunately, he looked fatigued as he was making another start for the injured Nikolai Khabibulin, who is on IR with a back injury. Deslauriers is merely a stopgap Fantasy option until Khabibulin is back. He is usually a flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 option.
News: Edmonton G Jeff Deslauriers stopped 32 of 34 shots on Wednesday but fell to the Kings 3-1. He gave up one goal in the 2nd period and added another goal allowed in the 3rd before the Oilers emptied their net.
Analysis: Deslauriers' record falls to 3-3-1 on the season for the Oilers. The Oilers are planning on leaning on Deslauriers with G Nikolai Khabibulin dealing with a sore back. Still, he is more of a flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports G Nikolai Khabibulin, who came up with a sore back hours before Edmonton's Saturday night game with the Blackhawks, couldn't play Monday against Phoenix and is doubtful for the three remaining games this week. "At this point it hasn't made any progress," coach Pat Quinn said. "So we'll play Jeff Deslauriers and expect that he'll give us the kind of goaltending we need to have."
Analysis: Deslauries looked much better in goal Monday against Phoenix than he did Saturday in giving up five goals in a loss to Chicago. In his second start in a row while Khabibulin is down with a sore back, he posted a 36-save shutout. "You saw the difference right away," coach Pat Quinn said. "The other night he looked nervous and pucks bounced off him. Tonight, the very first shot, he absorbed it, it didn't go anywhere. He got by whatever jitters he had before." Deslauriers admits it took him a game to get comfortable. "It was maybe not technically the best game, but I just went in there and thought about stopping the puck, no matter how -- hands, stick -- less thinking and more stopping," he said. It's good experience for Deslauriers since Khabibulin has a history of injury issues. Still, he is more of a flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 option.
News:Jeff Deslauriers made 36 saves for his first NHL shutout, and Sheldon Souray and Ales Hemsky scored a team-record seven seconds apart to lead the Edmonton Oilers over the Phoenix Coyotes 4-0 on Monday. Deslauriers, making his third consecutive start with regular starter Nikolai Khabibulin out with a sore back, was able to keep it a 3-0 game after the first with a huge kick save on Scottie Upshall with about two minutes to play. Ladislav Smid kept Deslauriers' shutout bid intact four minutes into the third when he was able to sweep a puck that was sitting on the goal line out of trouble.
Analysis: It seems like Deslauriers hit the reset button on Monday after each of his first five starts mirrored the amount of goals he allowed in the game. For instance, he allowed one goal in his first appearance on Oct. 12 and it by one goal in each outing up until his fifth start on Saturday against the Blackhawks. He was supposed to allow six goals on Monday by his recent trend, but he played very well for his first shutout. It's good experience for Deslauriers since Khabibulin has a history of injury issues. Still, he is more of a flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 option.
News: AM630 out of Edmonton reports that Oilers G Nikolai Khabibulin's injured back has not made any progress since Saturday, so Jeff Deslauriers will start Monday against the Coyotes.
Analysis: Khabibulin gets banged up now again simply because of his age. You should look elsewhere for a healthier goalie in Fantasy Week 8 (Nov. 23-29). When healthy, Khabibulin is a No. 2 Fantasy option. The Oilers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option when Khabibulin is healthy, but you should probably stay away from that unit, too. Don't worry about Deslauriers outside of super-deep leagues.
News: Edmonton G Jeff Deslauriers had a poor showing on Saturday against the Blackhawks and came away with a 5-2 loss, starting in place of Nikolai Khabibulin who was out with a bad back. Deslauriers allowed five goals in the game and made 25 saves. His record fell to 2-2-1 on the season with the performance.
Analysis: Deslauriers has gotten worse by one goal in each of his first five starts this season, allowing only one goal in his first start on Oct. 12 and allowing five goals in his fifth on Saturday. He is just a handcuff option for Nikolai Khabibulin as he gets few starts with the Oilers when Khabibulin is healthy. The Oilers TG on the other hand is a No. 2 Fantasy unit with Khabibulin getting the bulk of the starts. If Khabibulin is going to be out for a while, Deslauriers will certainly see an increase in starts but won't likely be worth using as more than a No. 3 Fantasy option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 14 saves during a 6-4 comeback win on Wednesday against the Avalanche. Deslauriers fell into a 4-2 deficit midway through the second period before Edmonton scored four unanswered goals. Deslauriers made five saves during a scoreless third period. He also had an assist and finished at plus-1.
Analysis: Deslauriers won for the first time in three outings on Wednesday. He allowed more than three goals for the first time this season as well. If you look at his outings, he has allowed one more goal every time out, so by this trend, Deslauriers is supposed to give up five goals in his next appearance. We doubt this ugly trend will continue and Deslauriers should settle into a rhythm. However, he is still pulling backup duty for the Oilers, so Deslauriers is a nice handcuff option for Nikolai Khabibulin owners and flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 option.
News: Edmonton G Jeff Deslauriers stopped 22 shots on Tuesday night as the Oilers lost to the Ottawa Senators in a shootout, 4-3. Deslauriers allowed one goal to score in each of the regulation periods and gave up two shootout goals for the loss.
Analysis: Deslauriers was making just his third start of the season on Tuesday night and is now 1-1-1 having racked up one of each possible outcomes. He's allowed a total of six goals in his three starts and that isn't all that bad. Deslauriers is a nice handcuff option for Nikolai Khabibulin owners and flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 option.
News:Jeff Deslauriers made 27 saves in only his second start as the Oilers lost consecutive games for the first time this season during Sunday's 2-0 loss to the Canucks. Michael Grabner opened the scoring on a power play with 2:09 left in the first period, parking himself atop the crease and neatly redirecting Christian Ehrhoff's one-timer from the point through Deslaurier's legs. Henrik Sedin hadn t scored since his twin brother was hurt on Oct. 7, but doubled the lead midway through the second period, knocking Mikael Samuelsson's harmless-looking point shot past a surprised Deslauriers.
Analysis: Nikolai Khabibulin, who was brilliant in a 2-1 victory against the Canucks six days earlier, got a rare game off after stopping 33 shots in a 5-2 loss in Calgary the night before. Despite the loss Sunday, Deslauriers has still only allowed two goals in two starts this season and is looking strong when he does have to play. That could lead to more outings since Khabibulin has been prone to breakdown during the season. Deslauriers is a nice handcuff option for Khabibulin owners and flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 option.
News: Oilers G Jeff Deslauriers made 40 saves during a 6-1 rout of the Predators on Monday. Drouin-Deslaurie never trailed in the game and allowed his only goal with a six-goal cushion in the second. He was beaten by Jason Arnott with 49 seconds left in the middle frame. It was Drouin-Deslaurie's first start of the season.
Analysis: Drouin-Deslaurie didn't get a lot of time in net last season parked behind Dwayne Roloson and Mathieu Garon. That should change in 2009-10 now that Nikolai Khabibulin is the starter. Khabibulin will start on most nights, however, he has already told management he can't be counted on for more than 60 appearances. He also has a history of injury problems. Drouin-Deslaurie is nice handcuff option for Khabibulin owners and flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 option.
News: Edmonton G Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie faced 45 shots in the Oilers' season finale on Saturday against the Flames in the team's season finale. He allowed four of those shots to get past him and took a 4-1 loss.
Analysis: Drouin-Deslaurie's record falls to 4-3-0 on the regular season with the loss. He could be the team's starter in the 2009-2010 season as Dwayne Roloson is an unrestricted free agent this offseason. The rookie could be a flier on Draft Day 2009 but track his progress this offseason before making a decision. The Oilers TG was a No. 2 option most of this season with Roloson in net.
News:Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie made 31 saves for the Oilers, out of the playoffs for the third straight year, in his first start since Nov. 30 during Friday's 5-1 rout of the Flames. Dwayne Roloson started the previous 36 games. Drouin-Deslaurie never trailed in the game and allowed his only goal 12:42 into the third.
Analysis: Drouin-Deslaurie made just nine appearances in his rookie season as coach Craig MacTvish leaned heavily on Roloson this season. Roloson is an unrestricted free agent this offseason, so if Edmonton can't lure him back, Drouin-Deslaurie could be the team's starter in 2009-10. Track Edmonton's offseason progress before taking a flier on Drouin-Deslaurie Draft Day 2009. The Oilers TG has been a decent No. 2 Fantasy option this season.
News: Oilers G Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie was forced into action on Saturday after started Dwayne Roloson gave up five goals in the first period to the Red Wings. He gave up three more goals in the game as the Oilers took a 8-3 loss.
Analysis: His last two appearances were both in relief, and both were not pretty. He gave up seven goals to the Sabres on Jan. 27 in his last appearance, making 22 saves. Roloson is usually pretty good in net and Drouin-Deslaurie doesn't get many opportunities. He should be reserved in all leagues.
News: It was not a pretty night in net for the Edmonton goalies during a 10-2 loss to Buffalo Tuesday. Dwayne Roloson opened the game in net, but allowed two goals in the first 1:11. He was then chased 10:17 into the game after Derek Roy scored his 19th goal. Roloson made just five saves before Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie finished off the game, but he was beaten for seven goals on 29 shots.
Analysis: Coach Craig MacTavish fed Drouin-Deslaurie to the sharks Tuesday, but the rookie goalie needs all the playing time he can get. He is officially in a backup role with Mathieu Garon in Pittsburgh, but is not threatening Roloson for the starting job. Consider Drouin-Deslaurie a flier in Fantasy leagues that use average points per game.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Oilers finally took care of their overcrowding problem in goal, dealing netminder Mathieu Garon to the Pittsburgh Penguins. The three-goalie predicament -- dubbed the three-headed monster in Edmonton -- had been cutting into everyone's practice and playing time, making it a sure-fire recipe for rust. So Garon goes to Pittsburgh for goalie Dany Sabourin, minor league center Ryan Stone and a fourth-round draft pick. GM Steve Tambellini said Sabourin won't be coming to Edmonton -- they'll either flip him in another deal or ship him to Springfield (AHL). Head coach Craig MacTavish is glad that Garon gets a fresh start in Pittsburgh and that Edmonton is finally down to two goalies -- Dwayne Roloson and Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie.
Analysis: Drouin-Deslaurie recently returned from a two-week conditioning stint with Springfield since the last time he played for Edmonton was Nov. 30. He was sitting third on the depth chart and couldn't be sent outright to the minors because he would have to clear waivers first -- which was very unlikely. With the trade of Garon, Drouin-Deslaurie now officially becomes the backup to Roloson. Consider Drouin-Deslaurie a flier in Fantasy leagues that use average points per game.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Oilers goalie Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie's two-week conditioning stint in the AHL is over and he rejoined the club Monday, meaning the Oilers will be making a reluctant return to the three-goalie system.
Analysis: The Oilers can't afford to send Drouin-Deslaurie to the minors through waivers in fear of losing him to another team. Hence the reason he is back up in the NHL and mired in a tough situation. If Edmonton can move either Mathieu Garon or Dwayne Roloson, it could free up playing time for Drouin-Deslaurie. Until then, Drouin-Deslaurie has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Oilers G Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie has been assigned to Springfield (AHL) on a two-week conditioning stint. He has just one start since Nov. 13 and both he and the Oilers agreed that a few games in the minors to blow the dust off him would be in everyone's best interests. "It's never easy when you have to go down, but I'm going down to get some time to play," he said. "It's going to be a good thing for me."
Analysis: The Oilers can't afford to send Drouin-Deslaurie to the minors through waivers in fear of losing him to another team. This is the only way to get him some playing time while he is sitting third on the depth chart for the Oilers. Drouin-Deslaurie has minimal Fantasy appeal at this time.
News: Oilers G Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie stopped 22 shots during a 4-3 loss to the Stars Sunday. He fell behind 2-0 before Edmonton tied the game 4:21 into the third period. Drouin-Deslaurie then allowed two goals in the final six minutes, including Mike Modano's game winner on the power play with 2:21 to play.
Analysis: Drouin-Deslaurie has lost his last two starts after winning the first three of his career. He has allowed nine goals during the losing streak and is starting to show his rookie colors. Drouin-Deslaurie is in a tough goalie situation in Edmonton and remains just a flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Oilers G Dwayne Roloson has officially won his job back. After losing it to Mathieu Garon last season, Roloson became an expendable asset that the Oilers couldn't get rid of because of his $3.6 million cap hit. But Garon stumbled a little bit in late October and the Oilers don't seem all that interested in giving him a chance to rebound. He has only started one of Edmonton's last 10 games while Roloson played six of the last 10. "Rolie has just been on top of his game," said head coach Craig MacTavish.
Analysis: While Roloson may have taken care of Garon, he still has Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie to worry about. The Oilers goalie situation is a bit of a mess right now, so look to Roloson as nothing more than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game if he can continue to snipe starts. The Oilers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Oilers rookie goalie Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie suffered his first career loss during Thursday's 5-2 defeat at the hands of the Maple Leafs. Drouin-Deslaurie carried a 1-0 lead into the second period before Toronto had two power-play goals 4:32 into the period. Edmonton scored to tie the game at 2 7:24 into the period, but then Toronto ran off three unanswered goals for the win. Drouin-Deslaurie was making his third straight start, winning his previous two.
Analysis: The magic wore off for Drouin-Deslaurie after having a nice run. The loss likely opens the door for either Mathieu Garon or Dwayne Roloson to jump back in net. The Oilers have a real logjam in goal, and until that changes, Drouin-Deslaurie has limited Fantasy appeal. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:Ales Hemsky scored the only goal in the shootout and undefeated rookie goalie Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie made 40 saves for the Edmonton Oilers, who ended their longest road trip of the season with a 3-2 victory over the New York Rangers on Monday night. The Rangers erased a 2-0 deficit on goals by Paul Mara and Chris Drury. The tying tally came 46 seconds into the third period when Drury got to a rebound of Scott Gomez's shot and popped it over Drouin-Deslaurie, 20 seconds after New York's power play expired. Drouin-Deslaurie stopped all three skaters he faced in the shootout.
Analysis: Drouin-Deslaurie is 3-0 and has back-to-back victories on his resume, following a 37-save effort in a 2-1 win at New Jersey on Sunday. He has made three appearances in November after making just one in October. Coach Craig MacTavish continues to ride the hot hand between Drouin-Deslaurie, Mathieu Garon and Dwayne Roloson. It doesn't help Fantasy owners since it is anyone's guess on a given night who is going to start in net. A trade would definitely make the picture a bit clearer, but until that happens, Drouin-Deslaurie has marginal Fantasy value. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie made 37 saves in his second career start to help the Edmonton Oilers beat the New Jersey Devils 2-1 on Sunday night. In his first start since Oct. 17, Drouin-Deslaurie made several key saves to protect the lead. He stopped 19 shots in the second period. During a New Jersey power play, Drouin-Deslaurie stopped Dainius Zubrus twice and Johnny Oduya to preserve a 1-0 advantage. Drouin-Deslaurie came on in relief in Edmonton's last game, a 5-4 loss at Pittsburgh on Thursday night. He lost his shutout Sunday when Zach Parise scored on a tip-in 3:50 into the third period.
Analysis: Drouin-Deslaurie has won both of his starts this season and has allowed just four goals in those two wins. The Oilers have three pretty steady goalies in Drouin-Deslaurie, Mathieu Garon and Dwayne Roloson, but there lies the problem. They are all fighting for starts and the rookie Drouin-Deslaurie is on the bottom of the totem pole. The only reason he is not in the minors is since he has to clear waivers and likely will be grabbed by another team. Drouin-Deslaurie is more of a long-term Fantasy keeper at this time. The Oilers TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: All of Pittsburgh's goals during a 5-4 win Thursday over Edmonton came against Mathieu Garon, who allowed five goals in 20 shots during his first start in four games. Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie, Edmonton's No. 3 goalie, came on after Peter Sykora's second goal to stop all 14 shots he faced.
Analysis: Drouin-Deslaurie has made just two appearances this season and remains behind Garon and Dwayne Roloson on the depth chart. The only reason he is not in the minors is since he has to clear waivers and likely will be grabbed by another team. Drouin-Deslaurie is more of a long-term Fantasy keeper at this time.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Oilers' goaltending situation remains crowded and confused. They didn't want to start the season with three goalies but didn't have a choice -- Mathieu Garon is their undisputed starter; they can't send top prospect Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie to the minors without risking losing him on waivers; and Dwayne Roloson is a 39-year-old making $3.6 million, not an easy player to trade. So there they are, forced to give up one of their roster spots to a third goalie. The goalies, in turn, don't get as much crease time in practice, and the backups -- Roloson and Drouin-Deslaurie -- have to go long stretches between starts. "The most important part of this is being patient," said Roloson, who got his first start of the season Wednesday at Chicago and will take a seat while Garon returns to the nets Thursday at Colorado. "Realistically, it's out of my control. It's up to (head coach) Craig MacTavish who plays. So whatever he says goes. At this point, I have to make sure I'm ready to go whenever he tells me when to go."
Analysis: MacTavish knows it's not an ideal situation, but there's nothing he can do about it until one of the goalies -- presumably Roloson -- is moved. "He's had a terrific attitude," MacTavish said of Roloson. "As I said at the start of the year, there are going to be different pressure points for each one of these goalies. There are going to be difficult situations to handle at times, but so far, it's been so good. It's all fresh right now, they all know that they are going to get an opportunity and they've done a great job handling what can be an untenable situation." Garon will likely see the majority of starts over Roloson and Drouin-Deslaurie. Consider Garon and the Oilers TG both No. 2 Fantasy options. While Roloson and Drouin-Deslaurie has minimal Fantasy value.
News: The Edmonton Journal reports that Oilers G Dwayne Roloson will likely get his first start of the season this week as Edmonton has back-to-back games on Wednesday and Thursday.
Analysis: The Oilers are carrying three goalies right now with Roloson and Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers backing up Mathieu Garon. Drouin-Deslauriers started over Roloson on Friday night, but it's not exactly clear who has the inside track right now on the No. 2 job. Roloson has the experience, but Drouin-Deslauriers is a decent young talent. Continue to monitor the situation in Edmonton, although Garon is playing very well right now and isn't expected to be supplanted any time soon.
News: Oilers G Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie held off the Flames in his first career start for a 4-3 win Friday. "It's always something special when you have your first NHL start. You think you know what to expect but it's something very different, the feeling is unbelievable," the 24-year-old Drouin-Deslaurie said. "The guys played amazing today, they played hard, they were everywhere. They helped me with every aspect of my game. It was a big team win." Drouin-Deslaurie made 26 saves and allowed only one power-play goal.
Analysis: After getting two great games from goalie Mathieu Garon, coach Craig MacTavish surprised many by starting the rookie goalie but it paid off as Drouin-Deslaurie as he helped the Oilers improve to 3-0. MacTavish said his young goaltender gave them everything they hoped for. "He played fine, he did what he had to do," MacTavish said. "He made a big save off Craig Conroy at the end on a goal-mouth pass. He's got that ability where he can get side-to-side. He's got a lot of ability and is going to be a good goalie." Drouin-Deslaurie was a second-round draft choice by Edmonton in 2002 and has spent the last four seasons in the AHL. Drouin-Deslaurie is widely considered the future in net for Edmonton, but right now Garon is the top dog. Drouin-Deslaurie remains a long-term keeper and a flier in the deepest of leagues that use average points per game. The Oilers TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Oilers G Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie can't be demoted to the AHL without clearing waivers, so he started the season in Edmonton, putting the Oilers in the awkward situation of having three goalies (Mathieu Garon, Dwayne Roloson). Something will eventually have to give.
Analysis: Drouin-Deslaurie was a second-round draft choice by Edmonton in 2002 and has spent the last four seasons in the AHL. Drouin-Deslaurie is the future in net for Edmonton, but Garon and Roloson are both going to have to falter before he gets a shot in net. Consider Drouin-Deslaurie a less than desireable Fantasy option to open the season.
News:The Sports Xchange reports G Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie will be making the Oilers' roster this year since he can't be sent back to the AHL without having to clear waivers first. That means Edmonton, barring a trade, will start the year with three goalies: Drouin-Deslaurie, Mathieu Garon and Dwayne Roloson.
Analysis: Drouin-Deslaurie was a second-round draft choice by Edmonton in 2002 and has spent the last four seasons in the AHL. Drouin-Deslaurie is the future in net for Edmonton, but Garon and Roloson are both going to have to falter before he gets a shot in net. Consider Drouin-Deslaurie a less than desireable Fantasy option to open the season.
News: The Oilers signed G Jeff Drouin-Deslaurie to a two-year contact Friday. Drouin-Deslaurie spent last season with Springfield (AHL) and had a 26-23-5 record with a 2.90 goals-against average and .912 save percentage. He's expected to battle Mathieu Garon and Dwayne Roloson for playing time in 2008-09. "Jeff made some significant strides last season and now appears ready to challenge for a spot on our hockey club," Oilers VP Kevin Prendergast said in a statement. "With Jeff's addition, we are very comfortable with our goaltending situation."
Analysis: Drouin-Deslaurie was a second-round draft choice by Edmonton in 2002 and has spent the last four seasons in the AHL. Drouin-Deslaurie is the future in net fot Edmonton, but Garon and Roloson are both going to have to falter before he gets a shot in net. Consider Drouin-Deslaurie a less than desireable Fantasy option to open the season.
News:Mathieu Garon finished with 31 saves in the often-physical contest Sunday in a loss at Chicago. Edmonton G Dwayne Roloson missed his second game because of the flu. Garon was backed up by Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers.
Analysis: Roloson has played well since mid-November, but Garon is getting the starts right now. They will likely go back and forth all season, when both are healthy, so consider them No. 3 Fantasy options, along with the Oilers TG. Dourin-Deslauriers has little Fantasy value as their backup.
News: G Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers was assigned to Springfield after being called up for one game to back up Mathieu Garon.
Analysis: Deslauriers was challenging for a backup spot in Edmonton. Avoid him in all Fantasy leagues for now unless more injuries occur.
News: Dwayne Roloson stopped 20 of the 22 shots he faced in Monday's preseason game against the Panthers. He was replaced by Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers, who made 10 saves on 12 shots.
Analysis: Deslauriers is challenging for a backup spot in Edmonton, but the team's acquisition of Mathieu Garon during the offseason all but makes that unlikely. Avoid him in all Fantasy leagues for now unless injuries occur.
News: Jeff Deslauriers was returned to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, as backup Jussi Markkanen (knee) was able to suit up.
Analysis: Deslauriers might be back if injuries occur, but he has no Fantasy appeal.
News: The Edmonton Oilers recalled goalie Jeff Deslauriers and defenseman Danny Syvret from the AHL on Monday.
Analysis: Deslauriers is not a recommended Fantasy option in any format.
News: Deslauriers is 4-7-0 with Hamilton of the AHL this season.
Analysis: The Oilers have enough goalies battling for starts, so don't expect to see Deslauriers fighting for minutes in Edmonton any time soon. He is also referred to as Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers.
