News:Brent Burns scored on a redirection in the Sharks series-clinching win Tuesday.
Analysis: This was Brent Burns first goal of the playoffs, but he ends round one with three points in four games. This is the best scoring rate he's had in his four postseason appearances. He continues to be effective on San Jose's first line.
News:Brent Burns was effective with two assists, a plus-2 rating, two penalty minutes, and five shots in Friday's victory over Vancouver.
Analysis:Brent Burns helped produce offensive opportunities all over the ice Friday. He now has five points in his last four games.
News:Brent Burns scored his ninth goal of the year in the Sharks' loss.
Analysis:Brent Burns continues to be very effective on forward for the Sharks with 18 points in 19 games at forward. If he's eligible for defense in your league, he's one of the best values on your team.
News:Brent Burns had a goal, an assist, two penalty minutes, seven shots, and was a plus-2 Tuesday against the Kings.
Analysis:Brent Burns has 17 points in 18 games at forward for the Sharks. There is no reason he should be available in your league. If he is, grab him now.
News:Brent Burns had the lone San Jose goal in Saturday's loss.
Analysis:Brent Burns continues to play very well for San Jose and his versatility in many fantasy leagues makes him indispensable.
News:Brent Burns had a goal, two penalty minutes, and four shots in Sunday's loss to Dallas.
Analysis:Brent Burns continues to tear it up on wing. He has four points in his last three games and 14 points in his last 14 games.
News:Brent Burns grabbed an assist on Joe Pavelski's game-winning goal Friday, giving him three assists in the last two games.
Analysis: For a defenseman, Brent Burns is making an excellent forward for the Sharks, as most of his season's 13 points have come while playing wing. Considering he's listed as a defenseman in most leagues, look for Burns to continue to be a value while he is seeing offensive minutes at forward.
News:Brent Burns had two assists, a +1 rating, and three shots in the Sharks' win over his former team Wednesday.
Analysis:Brent Burns has been great lately with six points in his last six games. He's settling in at forward and it seems unlikely that he'll be moved back to D with this kind of production on San Jose's top line.
News:Brent Burns was practicing at forward Monday morning for the Sharks, according to the Mercury News.
Analysis: It seems likely, with the addition of Matt Tennyson on D, that Brent Burns will be back to the forward spot he's been very productive in this season. Keep started him on D if he's eligible in your team.
News:Brent Burns will play on the blue line in Saturday's game against the Coyotes, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: Jason Demers is out with an undisclosed injury, so Brent Burns will fill in on defense, at least temporarily. He's been thriving as a forward and will likely move off the blue line at some point in the not-so-distant future, if not after Saturday's game.
News:Brent Burns scored a power play goal midway through the first period as the Sharks defeated the Ducks 4-0 on Wednesday.
Analysis:Brent Burns has been having a great month of March so far as he's sitting at nine points (4G, 5A) and plus-2 since he's been moved to forward.
News:Brent Burns scored the opening goal as well as contributing an assist in Monday's 5-3 win over Anaheim.
Analysis:Brent Burns' stint as a forward has been a success to this point as he has eight points (3G, 5A) in his first seven games after switching roles. It's still undetermined how long he'll be staying in his new role, but as long as he continues to have success it'll be an even tougher decision to move him back as the Sharks have been struggling to find consistent offense.
News:Brent Burns posted two assists Saturday in the Sharks' 5-2 loss at Los Angeles, giving him five points this season -- all in his last three games.
Analysis: Assuming your league has position-eligibility requirements, and you can use him as a defenseman, you need to ride this horse as long as you can.
News:Brent Burns scored his second goal in as many games playing winger as the Sharks defeated the Kings 4-3 on Thursday.
Analysis:Brent Burns has been excelling in his new, and for the time being temporary, role as he's put up three points (2G, 1A) in his first two games there. Look for him to continue playing on the wing for the time being as the experiment is paying off for the Sharks so far.
News:Brent Burns is still skating as a winger for the Sharks, CSN's Brodie Brazil reports.
Analysis:Brent Burns was productive in his first game at winger for the Sharks and for the time being it appears as if he'll be staying there. It's to be seen how long this will last but it provides an opportunity for additional value to his fantasy owners. Expect him to still get playing time on the blue line during the man advantage.
News:Brent Burns, who had been out since February 23 with a leg injury, was able to play as expected in Tuesday's loss to the Blues.
Analysis: He scored San Jose's first goal and skated for 18:21, so he looks good to get back in your lineup if you had been hesitant to pull the trigger Tuesday. The fact that Brent Burns saw 2:41 in power play time right away shows he'll go right back to his role as being the main guy on the blue line for the Sharks along with Dan Boyle.
News:Brent Burns (leg) is expected to play Tuesday against the Blues, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis:Brent Burns practiced Tuesday morning as the right wing on the Sharks' third line with Scott Gomez and James Sheppard and it looks like that's an arrangement that will carry over into the team's night game. It remains to be seen how long Burns will stay up front, but as long as he does, it's a nice bonus for his fantasy owners, on top of his return.
News:Brent Burns (undisclosed) could return to the lineup Tuesday when the Sharks take on the Blues, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Brent Burns hasn't played since February 23 against the Stars, but skated as a forward during Monday's practice to get him some extra ice time.
News:Brent Burns (undisclosed issue) has been place on IR, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: With Brent Burns slated to miss at least the next two games, the Sharks have recalled fellow blueliner Matt Irwin.
News:Brent Burns (undisclosed) will miss at least the next two games, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: The injury-prone blueliner left Saturday's game against the Stars with an undisclosed injury, and it appears Brent Burns will not be available again until the Sharks take on the Predators on March 2.
News:Brent Burns was hurt in the first period of Saturday's game and did not return, according to CBC's Hockey Night in Canada.
Analysis: There's no work on the severity, but expect bad things -- it is Brent Burns after all. And he's a magnet for injury.
News:Brent Burns (lower body) made his season debut Saturday against the Coyotes. He had one shot, one minor penalty and two hits in over 20 minutes of work.
Analysis: He's a potent goal scorer from the blue line and should inject the slumping Sharks with a new dimension to their offense. He should be good to go in weekly formats next week.
News:Brent Burns (lower body) was activated from injured reserve Saturday, TSN's James Mirtle reports.
Analysis:Brent Burns has yet to play this season, but it sounds like he'll make his debut Saturday against the Coyotes.
News:Brent Burns (lower body) could play as early as Saturday, but will play "very soon" according to coach Todd McLellan, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Brent Burns wasn't expected to return to the lineup for at least another week, but looks to be ahead of schedule. Burns practiced today alongside Brad Stuart, so he would likely be placed on the team's top defensive pair. If he doesn't play Saturday, he would most likely return Monday when the Sharks face the Blue Jackets.
Sharks' Burns (Lower Body) Could Return This Month
News:Brent Burns (lower body) could return sometime this month, David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis:Brent Burns practiced earlier this week, the first time he was able to do so all year. He appears to be getting closer to a return, but he will miss at least two more weeks. When Burns is able to return, he will add to the powerful San Jose offense that is second in the league with 3.9 goals per game.
Sharks' Burns (Lower Body) Took Part In Tuesday's Morning Skate
News:Brent Burns (lower body) took part in morning skate prior to Tuesday's win over Anaheim, the San Francisco Chronicle reports.
Analysis: It was the first time Brent Burns was able to do so this season, a sign that a return could be on the horizon. Burns has been a proven scorer on the blue line during his career, and once he's healthy, he'll add yet another option to the Sharks' scoring surplus.
News: The Sharks placed Brent Burns (lower body) on IR on Wednesday.
Analysis:Brent Burns was moved to IR to clear a roster spot for newly-acquired Scott Gomez, and the timetable for his return is unknown. Burns has been a decently valuable fantasy defenseman throughout his career, recording a line of 11/26/37 in 81 games last season for the Sharks.
News:Brent Burns missed the team's first training camp session Sunday due to a lower body injury.
Analysis:Brent Burns had been in the process of recovering from offseason sports hernia surgery, but it looks like he now has a new injury to contend with. Consider the injury day-to-day until a potential return date is announced.
News:Brent Burns, who underwent surgery to repair a sports hernia and groin injury in late May, continues to rehab the injuries and is uncertain to suit up by the time a shortened season would begin, CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis:Brent Burns played through the injury during the entire second half of the 2012-13 season, but still managed to put up 20 points in 35 games after the break. The lockout has prevented the Sharks from officially commenting on Burns' status, but if the season begins by commissioner Gary Bettman's mandated Jan. 19 deadline, it seems Burns might require a little more additional recovery before returning to action.
News:Brent Burns underwent surgery for a sports hernia, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: GM Doug Wilson revealed the surgery during the announcement that Todd McLellan was returning as head coach. He should be ready to go for the start of the season.
News:Brent Burns finished the season with 11 goals and 26 assists for the Sharks.
Analysis:Brent Burns' numbers were down from his career year in '10-'11 with Minnesota although it was another strong year for the defender as he finished the season seventh on the Sharks stat sheet for points, even while finishing the season nursing an abdominal strain.
News:Brent Burns may be in line for a suspension after deliberately elbowing the Blues' Scott Nichol in the back of the head in the second period of Saturday's Game 2 loss.
Analysis: He cold-cocked Nichol and received a roughing penalty, but it was clearly a pointless -- and brainless -- move by Brent Burns. Nichol didn't even know he was there.
News:Brent Burns tallied a pair of assists on Monday night as the Sharks lost to the Ducks 5-3.
Analysis:Brent Burns has registered 10-24-34 and is plus-5 on the season. Those numbers are a bit down from last season, although still in the top 20 of NHL defensemen.
News:Brent Burns scored his 10th goal of the season Sunday against Minnesota, and added an assist as well.
Analysis:Brent Burns has 30 points in 60 games, and is a plus-7, which are good numbers for a defenseman. This is something we've gotten used to from Burns.
News:Brent Burns' assist in Sunday's loss to Detroit gives him a point in each of the last two games.
Analysis:Brent Burns has three points over the last four contests and has bounced back quite well from what some would characterize as a slow start. Burns is well on his way to another productive season and remains one of the Western Conference's top offensive blueliners, especially in terms of goal scoring.
News:Brent Burns registered his first goal since January 7 with a tally Monday night in a win over Washington.
Analysis:Brent Burns has been on a torrid pace of assists lately, with eight over the last six games to go with Monday's goal. His game has woken up following a slow start, as he has been showing his considerable skill during the Sharks' recent run of up-and-down play.
News:Brent Burns had three assists in the 5-3 victory Friday night over the Blackhawks.
Analysis: In what could have been a preview to the Western Conference Finals this year, the Sharks ended up on the winning side. The three assists for Brent Burns gives him 21 on the season and his first season away from Minnesota is looking better and better for the young blueliner.
News:Brent Burns helped out on three goals in Thursday's win over Dallas.
Analysis: He also collected four PIM, making him very fantasy-friendly for once this year. Brent Burns had been without a point in his last four games and still has only scored one goal since Dec. 21, but at least he distributed the puck effectively in this one.
News:Brent Burns (leg) will return to action Tuesday against Columbus, Brodie Brazil of CSN Bay Area reports.
Analysis: He missed just one game (January 24 against Calgary) after suffering the injury, and it appears as though the extra rest around the All-Star break was enough to get him back in action. Brent Burns has been able to avoid injuries for the most part this season, but has just 17 points through 46 games along with a plus-10 rating.
Sharks' Burns' Injury Less Severe Than Initially Thought
News:Brent Burns will miss Tuesday's game against Calgary, but his leg injury is not located in the knee, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: The injury was instead described as a "charleyhorse situation." The team is hopeful that he'll be ready to play after the All-Star break.
News:Brent Burns left Monday's game with a knee injury and is doubtful for Tuesday's game versus Calgary, the San Jose Mercury News' David Pollack reports.
Analysis:Brent Burns was in a knee-on-knee collision with Edmonton's Ales Hemsky that resulted in a five-minute major and game misconduct that resulted in the Sharks' lone goal of the game. Coach Todd McLellan said Burns is doubtful for the Calgary game on Tuesday.
News:Brent Burns picked up an assist and then scored the game-winning goal on the power play in Saturday's OT win over the Islanders.
Analysis: It's his first multi-point effort of the season and his first points in five games. He's had a relatively slow start to the season but Saturday's performance could well be the magic elixir needed to jump-start his offense.
News:Brent Burns scored a power-play goal and logged 26:02 of ice time Monday against Anaheim.
Analysis:Brent Burns now has two goals on the season, and he has already established himself as one of San Jose's top defensemen. He's a proven scorer, and should be used whenever he is playing.
News:Brent Burns logged just over 20 minutes of ice time with a power-play assist in his debut with the Sharks on Saturday.
Analysis: This was a nice start for Brent Burns, who has joined the Sharks after seven seasons with the Wild. His assist, which was of the secondary variety, opened the scoring in this season opener.
News: Burns signed a five-year extension with San Jose on Monday, the Sharks' official site reports.
Analysis: After being plagued by injuries in recent seasons, Burns emerged as a premier offensive blueliner with the Wild last season en route to 46 points (17 G, 29 A) and projects to skate as part of the team's second defensive pairing, with an opportunity to log significant minutes on the power play as well.
News: Burns, who was traded by the Wild last Friday, is likely to be a second-pairing defenseman with Marc-Edouard Vlasic for the Sharks next season, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Analysis: As noted in the report, Burns is not expected to supplant Doug Murray as a defender on the first unit alongside an All-Star defender in Dan Boyle. While this may have a negative impact on Burns' fantasy value in the Bay Area, it should help improve Team Teal's entire defensive corps.
News: Burns was traded to San Jose along with a second round pick in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft in exchange for Devin Setoguchi, Charlie Coyle and the 28th overall pick in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.
Analysis: Burns' name had been coming up in quite a few trade rumors in the last couple days, but no one thought his destination would be San Jose. Burns had an outstanding season this year with 17 goals and 46 points, but his fantasy value takes a bit of a hit going to a team that already has Dan Boyle running their first power play unit.
News: Burns (leg) will play Saturday, the Star-Tribune's Michael Russo reports.
Analysis: The Wild have a few injuries on the blue line, but fortunately their power-play quarterback is healthy for Saturday's tilt and is available to the fantasy owners he's been an asset to this season.
Wild's Burns Leaves Practice With Undisclosed Leg Injury
News: Burns left practice with an undisclosed leg injury Friday, the Wild's official site reports.
Analysis: Burns lost his footing while skating during practice and hurt his leg while falling. He left practice and is now questionable for Saturday's game against the Lightning.
Burns Scores For The First Time In 13 Games For The Wild
News: Burns scores for the first time in 13 games for Minnesota on Thursday.
Analysis: Burns is having his best season since 2007-08 as he is finally completely healthy. The goal Thursday was his 15th, and he also added his 22nd assist in the 4-2 loss to the Kings.
News: Burns notched an assist for the third straight game Saturday. He added two penalty minutes and finished plus-1.
Analysis: Last week, in the wake of a long scoring drought, we suggested that you temper your scoring expectations until he picked up his game. He's picked up his game; you should resume starting him.
News: Burns was held without a point for the fourth straight game as Minnesota fell at Phoenix on Saturday.
Analysis: His scoring is off noticeably since early January. After 36 games, he had 26 points, a remarkable pace for a blueliner. But in the ensuing 14 games, he's been blanked 12 times, and has just five points. He's still the Wild's most valuable rearguard, by a wide margin, but you should temper your expectations of his scoring until he starts registering points consistently.
News: Burns collected a goal and two assists in Minnesota's near-miss loss at San Jose on Saturday.
Analysis: He's headed for the first 50-point campaign of his career. When points come at this rate from the blue line, a player is worth watching.
News: Burns had a goal and an assist in Tuesday's win over Edmonton.
Analysis: Burns even added 15 penalty minutes in the contest. It was his first goal in the last seven games and 13th on the season. His career best is 15, set in 2007-08.
News: Burns scored his 12th goal and added two assists in Sunday's 6-5 overtime win over the Coyotes.
Analysis: Burns has five points in his last three games (2G, 3A) and has 26 points points in 36 games for Minnesota. Half of Burns' goals have been on the power play and he is on pace to score 55-plus points (26G, 31A), which would eclipse his career bests of 43 points (15G, 28A).
News: Burns scored the lone goal in Sunday's 4-1 loss to Detroit.
Analysis: Burns scored his 10th goal and first since Dec 12 on Sunday. Burns has six power-play goals along with 21 points in 32 games.
News: Burns assisted twice in Saturday's 3-1 win at Calgary, giving him 10 helpers on the campaign.
Analysis: When a rearguard is tied for third on the team in scoring, he's worth your attention. At this pace, he's a threat to his previous career high of 43 points, logged three seasons ago.
News: Burns scored the winning goal in overtime on the power play in Saturday's victory over the Kings.
Analysis: Burns has two goals in his last two games after sustaining a nasty face injury last weekend. He remains on a 50-point pace if he can stay healthy.
News: Burns returned to the ice quickly and productively after sustaining a nasty face injury, scoring his seventh goal of the season and going plus-two in the first period of Thursday's win over Phoenix.
Analysis: Finally, after two injury-riddled and low-scoring years, Burns' offensive skills have returned, and assuming he stays healthy, he could score around 50 points this year.
News: Burns (face) is expected to play in Thursday's game against the Coyotes, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: Burns suffered multiple facial injuries last Friday, but it appears they will only cost him the one game he missed last Saturday. Feel free to activate Burns for Thursday's action.
News: Burns, who missed Monday's practice and left the team charity dinner Monday night early with a headache, has lost four teeth, has a fat lip, a stiff neck and has headaches since taking a helmet from Greg Zanon to his face last Friday, Michael Russo of the Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: Burns says it's not a problem and plans to practice Wednesday and be on the road trip with the Wild. the team is off until Thursday, so there's some more time for Burns to heal up and be close to be 100 percent. Still, any time there's a head issue it's worth monitoring.
Wild's Burns Scores in Return From Suspension Friday
News: Burns scored his sixth goal of the year in a 4-3 overtime win against Detroit on Friday night.
Analysis: He returned to action Friday night after serving a two-game suspension for his hit against Florida's Steve Bernier. Burns is having a solid fantasy year for a defenseman. He's had his share of injury problems the last few years, but if he remains healthy, he could have a breakout year in 2010-11.
News: Burns has served his two-game suspension for the hit on Florida's Steve Bernier last week, and is eligible to return when the Wild plays in Detroit on Friday.
Analysis: Burns has nine points in 15 games and is almost always productive when healthy, so there are probably not too many leagues out there where you wouldn't want him active.
News: Burns has been suspended for two games, reports Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. He laid a hit on Panthers forward Steve Bernier that sent him to the hospital with a cut on his face.
Analysis: Burns claimed it was an accident, but the league came down on him anyway. He will be eligible to play next on November 19 against the Red Wings.
News: Burns could face a possible suspension for a fight after Friday's loss to Florida ended that sent Steve Bernier to the hospital, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: Burns reportedly hit Bernier in the eye with a stick, but it's not clear if that was deliberate. Either way, it sounds like he's going to be suspended when the NHL reviews the incident.
News: Burns scored two power-play goals in Saturday's win over the Blue Jackets.
Analysis: He had gone four games without a point after such a hot start to the season. But his eight points in 13 games is still an excellent pace and one that starts to put him back into the conversation about top-flight offensive defenders. Keep him active.
News: Burns posted an assist in Monday's shootout loss to the Kings, giving him four points in the last three games.
Analysis: Burns is off to a strong start with six points in eight games to begin the season. He has the offensive ability to make an impact and will continue to produce, but likely not at this rate.
News: Burns (foot) played 21:53 and was plus-1 with an assist in Tuesday's win over Vancouver.
Analysis: It sounds like he's a safe roll for now, as it's an injury that Burns will try to play through. We'll monitor his status in case things get worse, but he's already chipped in three points through the Wild's first five contests.
News: Burns suffered a broken foot in Saturday's loss to the Blue Jackets but was practicing Monday, according to Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
Analysis: We would imagine it's not a serious break if Burns was able to practice. The Wild don't have a game Monday, but play on Tuesday. We would consider Burns questionable for that one at this time.
News: Burns left Saturday's loss to the Blue Jackets due to a foot injury after blocking a shot, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: He left the arena with a boot on his foot, so it looks like he could miss a game or two.
News: Wild D Brent Burns (hip) returned from a six-game absence on Sunday against the Flames and assisted on Chuck Kobasew's second goal. Burns also finished at plus-2 in 22:29 of ice time.
Analysis: Burns has an assist in three straight games and is beginning to look like his old self after being sidelined most of the last two seasons with injuries (primarily concussions). Burns is starting to log a lot of playing time again, including on the power play. He could be a sleeper Fantasy option for the stretch run.
News: Wild D Brent Burns was a scratch for Friday's game against the Blue Jackets. He's missed six straight games due to a hip injury.
Analysis: While he has potential, Burns also has only two goals and 12 assists at minus-6 in 36 games this season. When healthy he has little if any Fantasy value.
News: Wild D Brent Burns did not suit up for Thursday's game against the Predators due to a hip injury. He has sat out Nashville's last five games.
Analysis: While he has potential, Burns also has only two goals and 12 assists at minus-6 in 36 games this season. When healthy he has little if any Fantasy value.
News: Wild D Brent Burns sat out of Tuesday's game against the Oilers, missing his fourth consecutive game due to a hip injury.
Analysis: It was just two seasons ago that Burns was a breakout Fantasy star and a rising NHL blueliner. But he has been hit hard by injuries the last two seasons and it has taken him out of a major rhythm. Burns is a poor Fantasy option until he is healthy and productive again.
News: Wild D Brent Burns (hip) did not play on Sunday against the Blues. He has missed the last three games and is questionable for Tuesday against the Oilers.
Analysis: It was just two seasons ago that Burns was a breakout Fantasy star and a rising NHL blueliner. But he has been hit hard by injuries the last two seasons and it has taken him out of a major rhythm. Burns is a poor Fantasy option until he is healthy and productive again.
News: Wild D Brent Burns missed Friday's game against the Sabres due to a hip injury. He sat out his second straight game after being hurt during Tuesday's affair with the Panthers.
Analysis: Burns just can't seem to stay healthy this season, as he's already missed time with two concussions. He has offensive potential, but for now remains just an option in deeper leagues when healthy.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Wild D Brent Burns (hip) won't play Thursday. "He won’t be going," Wild coach Todd Richards said. "He tried skating today and just didn’t feel good. It’s still weak and sore so he won’t be playing."
Analysis: Burns just can't seem to stay healthy this season, as he's already missed time with two concussions. He has offensive potential, but for now remains just an option in deeper leagues when healthy.
News: Wild D Brent Burns left during the third period of Tuesday's 3-2 loss to the Panthers with a hip injury. He recorded one assist in the game.
Analysis: Burns has two assists and a plus-2 since the Olympic break. If healthy, he can be a real sleeper down the stretch in Fantasy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports D Brent Burns, playing in his third game after missing 29 with a concussion, scored his first point since Nov. 15 on Wednesday against the Red Wings. He assisted on Guillaume Latendresse's third-period goal.
Analysis: The Wild have somewhat limited Burns' playing time since returning from his second concussion in a year. They hope, however, he will eventually get back up to his 20-plus minute effort. Burns can be a real sleeper down the stretch in Fantasy.
News: Defenseman Brent Burns returned for the Wild on Thursday against the Red Wings after missing the last 29 games because of a concussion. He failed to record a point in 13:36 of ice time and spent two minutes in the penalty box.
Analysis: Burns was averaging 23 minutes per game before going down with his second concussion within a year. It's not surprising to see Minnesota take it easy with Burns in his first game back, but as soon as his conditioning is up to speed, he is likely to resume his heavy minutes, which include power-play time. Burns has shown in the past to be a very good offensive blueliner, so he can be a second-half Fantasy sleeper.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Wild D Brent Burns (concussion) will be removed from IR and should play Thursday vs. Detroit.
Analysis: Burns can be a talented offensive provider from the blue line when healthy, so plan on getting him back active in 12-team formats for Fantasy Week 17 (Jan. 25-31).
News: Wild D Brent Burns skated with the team Tuesday for the first time since suffering a concussion two months ago.
Analysis: Burns has suffered two concussions in the past year, which is a shame as he's a talented offensive provider from the blue line. Continue to stash him away in most formats until he's ready to return. He can be a 40-point guy and a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild coach Todd Richards said D Brent Burns, who was concussed Nov. 18 against Phoenix and has missed 28 games since, passed his neuro-psyche baseline test. The assumption is this could be the final step toward medical clearance that would allow Burns to begin practicing when the Wild returns from this road trip.
Analysis: It's not surprising to see Minnesota take a cautious approach with Burns, who has suffered two concussions in the last year. They know how important he is to their future, so they need to make long-term plans for Burns. But it's great to finally see him pass a last medical hurdle and we could see him back in the lineup before February.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild D Brent Burns (concussion) continues to work out and skate but has still not received medical clearance to begin practicing. There were false rumors he had a setback.
Analysis: It's not surprising to see Minnesota take a cautious approach with Burns, who has suffered two concussions in the last year. They know how important he is to their future, so they need to make long-term plans for Burns. He is not close to returning just yet, so continue to keep Burns stashed. He can be a viable Fantasy start when healthy.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Wild D Brent Burns (concussion) has been working out and skating a lot lately and could be nearing a return to action.
Analysis: Burns was putting up points before this injury, with 10 in 23 games, but he seemed to be neglecting his defensive duties a little with a minus-11. Keep him stashed in deeper leagues until he's back on the ice.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Wild D Brent Burns might not return to action until January.
Analysis: Burns missed a chunk of time last season due to a concussion, so you have to think the Wild are playing this situation very carefully. It's a real shame too since Burns was finally settling into coach Todd Richards' system. Burns, who is a viable Fantasy start when healthy, should be kept reserved until further notice.
News: The Minnesota Wild have placed right wing Martin Havlat and defenseman Brent Burns on injured reserve. Burns has been feeling the effects from a concussion and also had an illness this week. Havlat has been hampered by a hamstring injury.
Analysis: Burns missed a chunk of time last season due to a concussion, so we aren't sure how long the Wild intend to keep him out. It's a real shame too since Burns was finally settling into coach Todd Richards' system. Burns, who is a viable Fantasy start when healthy, should be kept reserved until further notice.
News: Wild D Brent Burns, who missed a chunk of last season with a concussion, has been diagnosed with another concussion.
Analysis: Burns has been one of the Wild's best offensive blue-liners this season with two goals and 10 points in 21 games, but you have to be concerned about his overall well-being after this news. Bench him for Fantasy Week 8 (Nov. 23-29) in all formats and just hope he recovers sufficiently from this concussion.
News: Wild D Brent Burns missed Friday's game against the Islanders because of an undisclosed illness. He is day to day.
Analysis: The good news for Burns is that Minnesota is not back in action until Wednesday against Boston, so he has plenty of time to recover. Burns has been one of the Wild's best offensive blueliners with two goals and 10 points in 21 games. Coach Todd Richards has said Burns is the lifeline of the blue line and the team's success hinges a lot on what he does. Burns has the ability to be a high-end Fantasy option, but is more of a No. 4 or No. 5 defenseman until his numbers start to jump off the page.
News: Wild D Brent Burns scored in Wednesday's win over the Avalanche, but finished with a minus-1 rating. He now has a league-worst minus-10 rating.
Analysis: Burns is a viable low-end starting defenseman in deeper leagues normally, but he's killing owners in formats that reward plus/minus right now. You should think about benching him until he gets things turned around.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Wild G Niklas Backstrom (hip surgery), Andrew Brunette (knee), D Brent Burns (concussion, shoulder), LW Derek Boogaard (shoulder surgery) and RW Pierre-Marc Bouchard (concussion) were all healthy enough to start training camp on schedule this past weekend.
Analysis: Backstrom is the most Fantasy-viable player in this group as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy goalie. He was a finalist for the Vezina last season and will be looking to build on his monster 2008-09 campaign. Burns is a solid reserve defenseman in normal leagues and is good enough to start in deeper formats. Bouchard and Brunette are a little ways down the winger rankings, but Bouchard is an interesting injury-risk flier with his possible move to center and Brunette is a legitimate 50-60 point guy. Boogaard is an enforcer who only has value in deeper leagues that reward bad behavior.
News:The Sports Xchange reports much of the in-house optimism from the Wild heading into the season has to do with D Brent Burns, who has recovered from a season-ending concussion. Burns will be a big catalyst in coach Todd Richards' new up-tempo system. He spent part of August at Canada's Olympic orientation camp, where he was paired mostly with new Calgary Flames D Jay Bouwmeester.
Analysis: Not only did Burns struggle with injury in 2008-09, he also dealt with issues bouncing between the blue line and being a forward. The new Wild coaching staff has made it clear Burns will be on defense and expect him to be a heavy contributor from the blue line. It was in 2007-08 that Burns had his breakout season with 15 goals and 43 points. He has the potential to be a high-end Fantasy defenseman and will be a top bounce-back candidate.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild D Brent Burns, sidelined the last 19 games of the season because of a severe concussion, has been symptom-free since the beginning of May. "There's still a long way to go. It's a long summer. But I feel like I'm on the right path," Burns said. "I should be good." Burns, who was in a sling for five weeks after surgery to repair a torn labrum and remove cysts from his rotator cuff, still feels awful after some of his exhausting workouts. But it's not because of his head or shoulder. "For not doing anything for three or four months, I'm definitely hurting," Burns said. "This is not your normal summer. I've done nothing since March, so even mentally getting yourself in the mindset of working out again is tough. I've never been this out of shape before."
Analysis: After totaling a career-high 43 points in 2007-08, Burns dropped to just 27 points in 59 games last season. Injuries had something to do with it, but also Burns struggled as former coach Jacques Lemaire bounced him between forward and defenseman. Lemaire is now gone and replaced by Todd Richards, who wants to bring an up-tempo offense to Minnesota. That could really benefit Burns, who will be a top bounce-back Fantasy candidate in 2009-10.
News: Defenseman Brent Burns is the latest Minnesota Wild player to have surgery since the season ended. Burns had surgery on his right shoulder Thursday and the team said it went well. He'll stay in the hospital overnight and the shoulder will be immobilized up to a month, but Burns should be at full strength in time for next season. The Wild also said Burns' post-concussion symptoms have "improved greatly."
Analysis: Even before Burns bowed out of the lineup with the concussion in early March, he was having an awful season. He managed just eight goals and 19 assists in 59 games. Burns was also minus-7. He really struggled because of an early-season move to the forward position. When he went back to defense, he had trouble transitioning since he always wanted to go up the ice on the attack. It also didn't help that Marek Zidlicky and Marc-Andre Bergeron, two key offseason acquisitions, stole some of Burns' scoring chances. Burns will be an injury-risk selection on Draft Day 2009, but one with great upside in the event he clicks with the new coach.
News: The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports the Wild have scratched both Brent Burns and Pierre-Marc Bouchard from Tuesday's lineup against the Canucks as they both recover from concussions.
Analysis: Burns has been out since March 5 because of the concussion and his return this season is looking doubtful. He is not a recommended start heading into Week 26 (March 30-April 5). He can be a high-end Fantasy defenseman when healthy, although Burns is having a down season.
News: Wild defenseman Brent Burns has been out for the past two weeks with post-concussion symptoms and has not yet been cleared to return.
Analysis: Teams don't mess around with concussions and it seems the Wild are going to play it safe with Burns. It's a bad time of year for this to be happening since many Fantasy owners rely heavily on the veteran defenseman. Burns looks like a poor start for Fantasy Week 25 (March 23-29).
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild D Brent Burns missed his sixth game in a row Sunday at St. Louis with concussion-like symptoms. He didn't travel with the Wild on its three-game road trip and has been shut down from doing anything.
Analysis: Teams don't mess around with concussions and it seems the Wild are going to play it safe with Burns. It's a bad time of year for this to be happening since many Fantasy owners rely heavily on the veteran defenseman. Burns looks like a poor start for Fantasy Week 24 (March 16-22).
News: Wild D Brent Burns (illness) did not return to the lineup Sunday against the Blues. He has missed the last six games and remains questionable heading into Tuesday against the Avalanche.
Analysis: Burns has been meeting with team doctors to try and figure out what is bothering him. One theory is that he could be dealing with post-concussion symptoms. Either way, he looks like a poor start for Fantasy Week 24 (March 16-22). Burns has been one of the more disappointing Fantasy defensemen and can only be thought of as a No. 3 or 4 option when healthy. However, he does have potential higher than that.
News: Minnesota D Brent Burns was unable to return to the lineup on Saturday against the Stars as he continued to be down with an illness. He remains questionable for the team's game at St. Louis on Sunday.
Analysis: Burns has one more game to prevent being an injury risk for the upcoming scoring period. He has missed all the games on the team's current road trip and may not play on Sunday. Burns has been one of the more disappointing Fantasy defensemen and can only be thought of as a No. 3 or 4 option when healthy. However, he does have potential higher than that.
News: Minnesota D Brent Burns was unable to return to the lineup on Thursday against the Avalanche as he continued to be down with an illness. He remains questionable for the team's game at Dallas on Saturday.
Analysis: In the game before Burns went out sick, he put up two assists against the Sharks. He had been increasingly productive and it's a shame that he got sick when he did. However, Burns has been one of the more disappointing Fantasy defenseman in 2008-09 and is more of a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy option when healthy. He does have high-end potential, if he can get on track down the stretch.
News: The Wild played Tuesday against the Sharks without top defenseman Brent Burns, who has been ill and went to see a doctor Tuesday for further examination. He remains questionable heading into Thursday against the Avalanche.
Analysis: It's a real shame Burns is battling an illness since he has been fairly productive over the last few weeks. He has one goal and six assists in his last 10 games. It has been one of his most productive stretches this season. Burns has really been effective in 2008-09 by the additions of Marek Zidlicky and Marc-Andre Bergeron. It also didn't help him when playing as a forward earlier this season messed up his blue-line game. Burns has been one of the more disappointing Fantasy defenseman in 2008-09 and is more of a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy option when healthy. He does have high-end potential, if he can get on track down the stretch.
News: Wild D Brent Burns scored a power-play goal during Thursday's 5-2 loss to the Red Wings. Burns' power-play goal tied it for Minnesota with 4:29 remaining in the first period. He scored on a one-time shot from the right circle for his eighth goal. The Wild had a two-man advantage and the goal came 1:14 after Marian Hossa and Pavel Datsyuk were both called for hooking with the Red Wings' already short-handed.
Analysis: Burns scored for the first time in 11 games Thursday. He has just 21 points on the season and an unfavorable minus-7 rating. He has really struggled to find his offensive identity after being shifted back to defense. He was playing at forward earlier in the season when Minnesota was hit hard by the injury bug. Burns has gone from must-start Fantasy option to No. 3 or No. 4 defenseman.
News: Minnesota D Brent Burns scored a goal in the third period to help the Wild extend their lead in a 5-1 win over the Oilers on Thursday. Mikko Koivu sliced through two Oilers defenders to set up Burns with 4:41 left in the game. It was Burns' first goal in seven games.
Analysis: Burns has struggled in the month of January as it took more than half the month to get a goal. He does have four assists in the month, but isn't as hot as he was when Owen Nolan originally returned to the Wild lineup. He remains a top of the line defenseman who should be starting in most leagues.
News: Minnesota D Brent Burns had two assists on both of Owen Nolan's goals in a 2-0 victory over the Avalanche on Sunday. Burns now has six goals and 11 assists on the season for the Wild with points in three straight games.
Analysis: Nolan's return to the lineup seems to have sparked Burns as he has scored in the three games since the 16-year vet has returned to the lineup. Burns is still a top-end defenseman and can be started in many leagues.
News: Wild D Brent Burns scored at 1:38 of overtime to give the Minnesota Wild a 3-2 victory over the San Jose Sharks on Wednesday. Burns took a cross-ice pass from Mikko Koivu and beat Evgeni Nabokov over the left shoulder. Burns also had two assists, getting involved in all three goals the Wild scored on Wednesday.
Analysis: Burns, who moved back to defenseman a few weeks ago, hadn't logged a point since Dec. 13 before this performance on Wednesday. A game like Wednesday's is what Burns is capable and hopefully something he'll do more often. He has the potential to be a high-end defenseman, so keep him on the roster and you can probably start him in most leagues.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Brent Burns, who most expected would be a Norris Trophy contender this season, has been playing wing since Oct. 30. But with star Marian Gaborik close to returning from a "lower body" injury that has caused him to miss 26 games, Burns has been at least practicing back on the blue line. For the first time, coach Jacques Lemaire admitted Friday that Burns will return to his natural defenseman position once Gaborik returns. "My choice is very easy, although we (as a coaching staff) talk many, many times about it," Lemaire said. "But it always comes down to the same thing -- Burns up front and Erik Reitz on defense. Reitz is progressing the most, so in a way, it's tough because when I put Burns back on defense, Reitz won't be playing."
Analysis: Burns scored a power-play goal Saturday, but has just seven points in his last 15 games. He hasn't been transitioning well to offense, so putting him back on the blue line could really spark his game. Burns has high-end Fantasy potential, so don't give up on him yet.
News: According to The Sports Xchange, Many around the NHL figured the Wild's Brent Burns had a chance to become a Norris Trophy contender this season. After all, he scored a career-high 15 goals and 43 points and was named the "best defenseman" at the World Championships. But since Oct. 30, Burns has been playing wing for the Wild. General manager Doug Risebrough says it's temporary, that Burns is just filling a need because the Wild lacks scorers with Marian Gaborik endlessly injured. However, Risebrough admits the necessity to move Burns up front has at least made him consider trading a defenseman for a forward.
Analysis: Burns puts up big numbers for a defenseman and the move up to the wing should help with his offensive numbers. Any defender with his offensive ability is a good start in Fantasy.
News: Wild D Brent Burns ended a month-long goal drought Monday night in a loss to the Avalanche. He also added an assist.
Analysis: Burns, who is playing forward while Marian Gaborik is out, put up 43 points and 15 goals last season, but failed to light the lamp through the entire month of August. Still, he's got some offensive talent and defenseman playing forward are always worth starting in most formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports it's not often a coach can take a potential Norris Trophy candidate, throw him at forward and not get trashed locally. But Wild coach Jacques Lemaire is that respected, and Brent Burns is that special of a player. During training camp, Columbus Blue Jackets coach Ken Hitchcock called Burns "a hybrid." "He's a very unique player in the game right now," said Hitchcock, who coached Burns with Team Canada when he was named the top defenseman during last spring's World Championships. "He's got this joy of competition, and, boy, when he gets moving up ice, he's as good as most forwards in the league."
Analysis: Well, now Burns is a forward. That's how desperate the Wild is to build three solid scoring lines, something that's been a struggle with Marian Gaborik out for 13 straight games with a "lower body" injury. "He has a sense where the puck's going to go, where to go at the right time to get the puck," Lemaire said of Burns. "That's what I like about his offense. ... There's not a lot of guys who are scorers that do that." It's hard to say how long this experiment will continue, but Burns doesn't seem worried if he loses a few Norris votes because of it. He'll definitely be up front Tuesday in Pittsburgh. "Burns, he likes it. He's excited to play," Lemaire said. He might not last as a forward, but the more scoring chances he can get, the better. As long as Burns is on the ice, he has high-end Fantasy potential. It appears safe to get him active for Week 7 (Nov. 17-23).
News: In his return after a four-game absence due to an upper body injury, Wild defenseman Brent Burns moved up Thursday against the Coyotes to play with Andrew Brunette and Eric Belanger in try to add offensive punch to a Wild lineup that had eight goals in five games. Minnesota won the game 4-0, but Burns didn't have a point in 18:07 of ice time and finished at even. He took two shots on net and spent two minutes in the penalty box.
Analysis: Minnesota coach Jacques Lemaire said he'll likely keep Burns on the wing. Minnesota loaded up on defensemen in the offseason, so they have the luxury of moving around Burns and some other players. He might not last as a forward, but the more scoring chances he can get, the better. As long as Burns is on the ice, he has high-end Fantasy potential. It appears safe to get him active for Week 7 (Nov. 17-23).
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Wild D Brent Burns and RW Owen Nolan should both be healthy enough to return from their respective injuries on Thursday vs. the Coyotes.
Analysis: Burns will return to being a must-start Fantasy defenseman once he gets back on the ice, but he's always a health risk. Nolan, meanwhile, is a savvy veteran but only has minimal Fantasy value when healthy. Continue to ignore him in most formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild D Brent Burns, who played 82 games last season, missed his fourth game in a row Saturday at Vancouver with an "upper body" injury. The Wild hopes he can return Thursday against Phoenix.
Analysis: Burns has three goals and one assist in nine games this season. However, he has been a walking medical issue since the preseason and it appears as though he could be a Fantasy headache all season. Burns is usually a must-start Fantasy option when healthy, but it's probably best to keep him reserved Week 6 (Nov. 10-16) since the Wild have just two games anyway.
News: Minnesota Wild defenseman Brent Burns is returning home early from the team's road trip due to an unspecified upper-body injury that has kept him out of action for the past week. Burns was hurt in pregame warmups on Saturday at Phoenix and didn't dress for Tuesday's game at San Jose. He'll miss games at Colorado Thursday and Vancouver Saturday.
Analysis: The team sent him back for rest and treatment ahead of the next home game, against Phoenix on Nov. 13. Burns is considered the Wild's best blue-liner. He has three goals and one assist in nine games this season. However, he has been a walking medical issue since the preseason and it appears as though he could be a Fantasy headache all season. Burns is usually a must-start Fantasy option when healthy, but it's probably best to keep him reserved Week 6 (Nov. 10-16) since the Wild have just two games anyway.
News: Wild D Brent Burns was injured during Saturday night's warmups in Phoenix and could not return on Tuesday with an upper body injury. He is expected to return for Thursday's game at Colorado.
Analysis: Burns has been a bit of a problem since the preseason when he had to undergo elbow surgery. He has yet to be healthy for a few weeks, but this latest setback doesn't appear to be serious. Burns remains a high-end Fantasy defenseman when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild D Brent Burns was injured during Saturday night's warmups in Phoenix. He was a late scratch with an "upper body injury." However, he is expected to play Tuesday in San Jose.
Analysis: Burns has been a bit of a problem since the preseason when he had to undergo elbow surgery. He has yet to be healthy for a few weeks, but this latest setback doesn't appear to be serious. Consider Burns a low-risk start Week 5 (Nov. 3-9). Burns remains a high-end Fantasy defenseman when healthy.
News: The Wild, already without Marian Gaborik and Owen Nolan, lost defenseman Brent Burns minutes before the game Saturday against Phoenix to an upper body injury sustained in warmups. It is not known the extent of the injury yet.
Analysis: Burns actually sustained a lower-body injury in last Monday's game but was able to come back from that. Now he's hurt again. He usually logs the most ice time of any skater and is a key component of their offensive and defensive game plan. Burns continues to be a force on both ends despite some new faces in Minnesota. Continue to treat him as a high-end Fantasy defenseman when healthy. He's probably too risky to start in Fantasy Week 5 (Nov. 3-9), however.
News: Wild D Brent Burns was able to play Wednesday against the Stars after sustaining a lower-body injury Monday against the Blackhawks. He didn't have a point in 20:17 of ice time and finished at minus-1. He took two shots and also spent two minutes in the penalty box for cross-checking.
Analysis: The Wild are very lucky Burns didn't have to miss a game. He usually logs the most ice time of any skater and is a key component of their offensive and defensive game plan. Burns continues to be a force on both ends despite some new faces in Minnesota. Continue to treat him as a high-end Fantasy defenseman when healthy.
News: The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports that Wild D Brent Burns (lower body) and LW Antti Miettinen (upper body) did not practice Tuesday and are questionable for Wednesday night's game at Dallas.
Analysis: Burns has two goals in his last three games and is logging close to 25 minutes per game. Continue to treat him as a high-end Fantasy defenseman when healthy. Miettinen has six goals and three assists this season and is making noise as a low-end starting forward in all formats.
News: Wild D Brent Burns scored a goal Monday against the Blackhawks before exiting the game with an injury. Burns' goal came on a nifty backdoor pass from Mikko Koivu 13:12 into the second and proved to be the game-winner. Burns then left the game late in the second period with an undisclosed injury and never returned.
Analysis: Burns has two goals in his last three games. He had minor elbow surgery in the preseason, but has yet to miss a game this season -- that could all now be changing. Burns is logging close to 25 minutes per game and continues to be a force on both ends despite some new faces in Minnesota. Continue to treat him as a high-end Fantasy defenseman when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild D Brent Burns played a career-high 29:03 Tuesday in Atlanta. "If you're playing a lot, you don't have time to think about being tired," Burns said. "You're so into the game, you're so focused, your legs stay hot, you don't think about stuff like that." Burns said he doesn't foresee any problems, especially after a summer of conditioning that included cycling and mixed martial arts. "I worked hard in my conditioning," Burns said. "That's why in the third period a lot of times I can keep going. So I feel pretty good."
Analysis: Wild coach Jacques Lemaire has stressed the importance of short shifts so far this season. So it's likely he was not be thrilled with Burns' one-minute average on 29 shifts Tuesday against the Thrashers. Among fellow defensemen, no other player averaged more than 46 seconds per shift. He has had to play some extra shifts with Marek Zidlicky (ankle) out, but Burns will likely see a slight reduction in playing time once Zidlicky is active. Still, Burns has been at 100 percent since having elbow surgery and continues to be a developing offensive defenseman. He remains a high-end Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild coach Jacques Lemaire has stressed the importance of short shifts so far this season. So it's likely he will not be thrilled with D Brent Burns' one-minute average on 29 shifts Tuesday against the Thrashers. Among fellow defensemen, no other player averaged more than 46 seconds per shift.
Analysis: Burns had an assist Tuesday and is averaging 26 minutes in two games. He has had to play some extra shifts with Marek Zidlicky (ankle) out, but Burns will likely see a slight reduction in playing time once Zidlicky is active. Still, Burns has been at 100 percent since having elbow surgery and continues to be a developing offensive defenseman. He remains a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Wild D Brent Burns made his preseason debut Wednesday against the Sabres. Burns had not played since undergoing minor elbow surgery in mid-September. Burns ended up scoring a short-handed goal and finished at plus-2 in 28:25 of ice time. Burns was credited with a short-handed goal when his cross-ice pass was inadvertently swatted into the net by Sabres defenseman Teppo Numminen.
Analysis: Burns underwent surgery Sept. 4 to remove loose bodies from his left elbow. Burns, who broke out last season with a career-high 15 goals and 43 points, only had the surgery as a preventative measure. It appears as though the surgery went off with great success and Fantasy owners can feel free to start Burns as a high-end Fantasy defenseman heading into Week 1 (Oct. 4-12).
News:The Sports Xchange reports Brent Burns, arguably the Wild's best defenseman, underwent surgery Sept. 4 to remove loose bodies from his left elbow. The team expects Burns to miss four weeks, but he expects to be back sooner. "I've always been a pretty quick healer," Burns said. "It was something that probably didn't have to be done, but I'd rather have it done now and miss this week and next week rather than two weeks in December or January or February."
Analysis: Assistant GM Tom Lynn concurred that Burns, who broke out last season with a career-high 15 goals and 43 points, only had the surgery as a preventative measure. Burns and the Wild want to avoid him potentially missing action this season. "(The MRI) showed he might get through the season, but he might not if it gets worse," Lynn said. "So we decided, 'Let's get it done now so we make sure he can play and not miss time.'" The Wild added some depth along the blue line in the offseason by getting Marek Zidlicky and Marc-Andre Bergeron. However, they still view Burns as their best offensive-defenseman. The fact he is having the surgery right now and won't have to worry about the injury all season is good news. Continue to draft Burns as a high-end Fantasy defenseman.
News: Wild D Brent Burns assisted in Wednesday's 4-3 shootout loss to the Sharks and now has seven points in his last six games and 41 on the season.
Analysis: Burns is on pace for a great month of March with eight points in nine games and continues to put together a career season. He is a solid high-end Fantasy defenseman at the moment and can be relied upon for the rest of the regular season.
News:Brent Burns scored his 14th goal and the Minnesota Wild took over sole possession of first place in the Northwest Division with a 3-1 victory over second-place Colorado on Monday night. Burns, who is having a career season, used Todd Fedoruk's screen in front of the crease and shot from the middle of the slot scoring through all the traffic in front. The Wild have 86 points, two ahead of Colorado and Calgary and four in front of Vancouver, which holds the final playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Analysis: Burns also added his 26th assist for a fine night as he set up Branko Radivojevic with a perfect pass in the slot. The goals (14) and assists (26) are career highs for Burns. He has emerged as a pretty reliable high-end Fantasy defenseman.
News: Wild D Brent Burns tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 during Sunday's game against the Kings. He now has points in his last two games (one goal, two assists) after being held off the stat sheet in his previous four games.
Analysis: Burns added his 23rd assist Sunday and continues to add onto his career highs across the board -- goals, assist and points. Burns is in the midst of his breakout season and has emerged as a high-end Fantasy defenseman.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild D Brent Burns keeps making coach Jacques Lemaire and general manager Doug Risebrough happy. Burns' decision-making is improving daily, and his skating ability is such that even when he makes a bad decision, he can usually make up for it. But there are still times when Burns would do better to err on the side of caution. "He has to cut down the risk and keep playing the offense he's playing," Lemaire said. "If there is a rush or there is a shot on net and he's moving in under control, that's not a risk. Because he has the tools to come back in the play. But if you're the last man, or if you're into a jam you can't try to beat everybody. You cannot try to beat two guys at the same time. This is a risk play."
Analysis: Burns already has a career-high 10 goals and 30 points, four off the team's record for a season. He also leads the team with a plus-12 rating. Three of his 10 goals this season are game-winners. The team has really pushed Burns to play better since December and he is responding. He has emerged as a high-end Fantasy option.
News:Brent Burns scored 2:34 into overtime to lift the Minnesota Wild to a 4-3 victory Saturday night over the Islanders, New York's seventh straight defeat. Burns has reached 10 goals for the season.
Analysis: Burns has been exceptionally strong since mid-December with three goals and 10 assists in 12 games. Coach Jacques Lemaire has been pushing Burns to play better and it seems that is paying off nicely. Burns has earned your trust as a high-end Fantasy defenseman for the time being.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Wild coach Jacques Lemaire has been pleased with the play of D Brent Burns, who has already set a career-high with eight goals and 25 points. But he still wants him to play in control. "He's like a kid who gets new toys," Lemaire said. "He wants to use them all at once. He's discovered all the tools that he has and is excited. He's an excited kid who wants to play and have fun all the time. But in games, he plays against good players, so he has to be careful."
Analysis: Burns has been exceptionally strong since mid-December with two goals and 10 assists in 11 games. The fact that Lemaire is pushing him to be better is only good news. Burns has earned your trust as a high-end Fantasy defenseman for the time being.
News: Wild D Brent Burns set a career high with three assists in Minnesota's 6-3 win over the Dallas Stars on Thursday night. Burns now has 12 points in his last 10 games.
Analysis: Burns got off to a slow start this season, but has been simply on fire since the middle of December. He is a solid No. 2 defenseman in all formats and has already matched his career high of 25 points from last season.
News:Aaron Voros and Brent Burns each chipped in with a goal and an assist, and the Wild downed the Anaheim Ducks 5-2 Friday night. The points were Burns' first in six December games. He does have four goals in his last 13 games.
Analysis: Burns managed a career best 25 points in 77 games last season. He already has 15 points in 31 games this season. He has shown marked improvement and has earned your trust as a No. 3 Fantasy defenseman.
News: Wild D Brent Burns scored his sixth goal and finished at minus-1 during Friday's game against the Blues. He now has three goals in his last seven games.
Analysis: Burns appears destined for a career-high in points as he already has 13 in 25 games. He set a career-high last season with 35 points in 77 games. Burns also posts a favorable plus/minus rating on most nights. He has emerged as a viable No. 2 Fantasy defenseman.
News: D Brent Burns scored his fifth goal Sunday against Colorado, putting him within two of his career high.
Analysis: Burns had slightly improved in each of his first three NHL seasons, but now in his fourth year, he is making big steps. Burns is playing about 22 minutes a game and is finally developing into an all-around solid defenders. He has emerged as a reliable No. 2 Fantasy defenseman.
News: Wild D Brent Burns scored a goal during 23:20 of ice time during Friday's game against the Canucks. It was his fourth goal of the season and first since Oct. 20. He also has four assists in seven November games.
Analysis: Burns had slightly improved in each of his first three NHL seasons, but now in his fourth year, he is headed for career highs. Burns is playing about 22 minutes a game and is finally developing into an all-around solid defenders. He has emerged as a reliable No. 2 Fantasy defenseman.
News: Wild D Brent Burns (leg) returned to action Sunday against the Avalanche. He did not record a point, finished with a minus-2 rating and spent two minutes in the penalty box during 23:42 of ice time.
Analysis: Burns has 15 goals and 36 assists in 194 career NHL games over four seasons with Minnesota. The native of Ajax, Ontario, was drafted 20th overall by the Wild in 2003. Burns has three goals, one assist and a plus-4 rating so far this season. He is off to a great start and can be used as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy defender in larger leagues when healthy.
News: D Brent Burns, after signing a four-year contract extension, was on the ice for two Edmonton goals, then suffered a charley horse when hit by the Oilers' J.F. Jacques. He is listed as questionable for Friday's practice in Denver.
Analysis: Burns, 22, has 15 goals and 36 assists in 194 career NHL games over four seasons with Minnesota. The native of Ajax, Ontario, was drafted 20th overall by the Wild in 2003. Burns has three goals, one assist and a plus-6 rating so far this season. He is off to a great start and can be used as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy defender in larger leagues when healthy.
News: The Minnesota Wild signed defenseman Brent Burns to a four-year contract extension Thursday. "The effort Brent has given to improving himself as a player is evident to the point that he is becoming an impact player in our lineup," president and general manager Doug Risebrough
Analysis: Burns, 22, has 15 goals and 36 assists in 194 career NHL games over four seasons with Minnesota. The native of Ajax, Ontario, was drafted 20th overall by the Wild in 2003. Burns has three goals, one assist and a plus-6 rating so far this season. He is off to a great start and can be used as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy defender in larger leagues.
News: Burns, who had a hat trick during the preseason against the Blackhawks this past Sunday, opened up scoreless with a plus-1 rating in 22:11 of ice time in Thursday's regular season opener against Chicago.
Analysis: Burns is a defenseman worth keeping an eye on. He is a sleeper heading into the regular season and worth a look as a No. 4 or 5 Fantasy defenseman in leagues of 12 or more teams.
News: Brent Burns has managed a goal and two assists in three preseason games so far. The goal was a power play marker, but he also has a minus-2 rating.
Analysis: Burns is still only worth a look in the deepest of Fantasy leagues entering the new season.
News: Brent Burns had a goal and an assist in the third period to stave off the Florida Panthers in the Wild's 4-2 victory on Thursday night.
Analysis: Despite the strong game, Burns is not a recommended Fantasy option in most leagues.
News: Brent Burns picked up a pair of assists with a plus-2 rating in 14:48 of ice time on Tuesday night against the Thrashers.
Analysis: Burns has picked up three assists over the past two games after a 20-game scoreless stretch. Despite the recent decent play, he remains better off on the waiver or another players' roster than your own.
News: Brent Burns has one goal and three assists with a plus-1 rating through 29 games at the Christmas break.
Analysis: Burns is only worth a look in the largest of Fantasy leagues at this point.
News: The Minnesota Wild re-signed Brent Burns to a two-year contract over the weekend. He is expected to serve as a full-time defenseman this season after splitting time between defense and wing a season ago.
Analysis: Burns would have minimal Fantasy appeal at either position, but it is slightly less as a rearguard.
News: Burns was scoreless in Wednesday's game against the Maple Leafs, but he had a strong game posting a shot on goal in 9:05 of ice time.
Analysis: Burns is far more useful to his real team than to Fantasy owners, so steer clear of him in all formats.
News: Burns had an assist with three shots on goal in 14:51 of ice time in Monday's game at N.Y. Rangers.
Analysis: Burns entered the game going scoreless in 11 of his past 12 games. He is not someone worth considering in Fantasy Hockey.
News: Burns was activated from injured reserve and played in Saturday's game against Detroit. He had two shots on goal and a plus-1 rating in the game.
Analysis: Burns doesn't warrant Fantasy attention in yearly formats, but he has some value in keeper leagues.
News: Burns (separated right shoulder) might return as soon as Saturday against Detroit, according to the St. Paul Pioneer Press. Once he plays his next game, he will be assured of not returning to juniors.
Analysis: Despite the good news, Burns still only warrants Fantasy attention in keeper leagues.
News: Burns (separated right shoulder) practiced with his teammates on Sunday but is unlikely to return for another week, according to the St. Paul Pioneer Press. He will not be reassigned to his junior team once healthy.
Analysis: Burns only warrants Fantasy attention in keeper leagues.
News: The Wild placed Burns on injured reserve on Sunday with a separated right shoulder, according to the St. Paul Pioneer Press. He will miss 10 days to two weeks.
Analysis: When healthy, Burns doesn't warrant attention in Fantasy leagues.
