News:Jiri Hudler missed the Flames' season finale Friday with an undisclosed injury.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler ended up being a deal for $4 million this season, as he had 10 goals and 17 assists in 42 games. The Flames will look to Hudler to be a veteran presence in the locker room as they rebuild in the coming years, as they have him locked up for three more seasons.
News:Jiri Hudler scored one of Calgary's four goals in a 4-1 victory against Minnesota on Sunday.
Analysis: After a midseason lull, Jiri Hudler has gotten back on track, with four points in his last six games. The Flames are on a roll with the playoff pressure off, so Hudler's a decent start for the season's final week.
News:Jiri Hudler picked up his third point in three games Monday, a goal in a 4-3 loss to Minnesota.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler has been streaky this season, and he seems to be ending the season on a tear similar to the one on which he started season. If you've got him, now would be the time to utilize him.
News:Jiri Hudler (upper body) could return for Friday's game against the Coyotes, Pat Steinberg of Sportsnet Radio FAN 960 reports.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler has missed the Flames' last two games, but the report suggests that it sounds like he has a good chance to play Friday. We should have further info as Friday's face-off approaches.
News:Jiri Hudler (upper body) will miss his second straight game Wednesday against Vancouver, according to the Calgary Herald.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler also missed Monday's tilt with the same injury. The Flames are short on details for how severely Hudler is injured, so continue to consider him day-to-day.
News:Jiri Hudler (upper body) will not play Monday against the Avalanche.
Analysis: The Flames are calling Jiri Hudler day-to-day, but there's really no information on how serious the injury is, so keep an eye out for updates when there's more information.
News:Jiri Hudler scored his first goal since February 13, also adding an assist in Friday's 6-3 win over Nashville.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler has been putting up a handful of assists over his month of struggles, but the two points on Friday were his first in four contests. Hudler has traditionally been a streaky player, just make sure you pay less for him than Calgary did.
News:Jiri Hudler dished out a pair of assists in Sunday's 4-2 win over Vancouver.
Analysis: After a little bit of a slump, Jiri Hudler is back on a roll, with five assists in his last two games. Those that may have removed him from their lineups during his slump should re-insert him now.
News:Jiri Hudler picked up a trio of assists in the Flames' 5-4 loss against the Avalanche on Thursday night.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler had only one point in his previous seven games before busting out Thursday. He's having a solid season so far, with 13 points in 16 games, and has proved to be a great signing for Calgary.
News:Jiri Hudler scored the lone goal in Calgary's 2-1 shootout loss to Minnesota on Monday.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler has really paid off as a free agent signing, as he has three goals and five assists in his first seven games with the Flames. He is thriving on the Flames' second line and has become a solid fantasy contributor.
News:Jiri Hudler assisted on two goals Thursday in a win over Columbus.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler's had a fast start to his time in Calgary, notching seven points in five games. After going scoreless Tuesday in Detroit, he got right back into the middle of the action in this one.
News: In his second game with the Flames, Jiri Hudler scored two goals and picked up an assist Thursday in a loss to the Avalanche. He's got four points in two games with his new team after missing the beginning of the season due to the death of his father.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler has shown impressive offensive upside in his native Czech league as well as the AHL, the KHL and to a lesser extent the NHL, where he set a career high with 57 points in '08-'09 as a member of the Red Wings. Solid though it is, that's nothing compared to his point-per-game production in the KHL two years ago and his 96-point AHL season back in '05-'06. At 29 years old, Hudler could be in for a big season with the change of venue to Calgary, where he will be counted on as a primary offensive contributor.
News:Jiri Hudler (personal) skated Thursday and will participate in a full practice Friday.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler should be available for Saturday's game against Edmonton to make his Flames debut.
News:Jiri Hudler (personal) may make his Flames debut Saturday after returning to Calgary from his father's funeral in the Czech Republic, the Calgary Herald reports.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler was a valuable offseason addition for the Flames, and he will certainly improve their offense when he returns. He should slot in either the second or third line.
News:Jiri Hudler (personal) is expected to rejoin the Flames on Wednesday, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler has missed both of the Flames' first two contests to attend his father's funeral in the Czech Republic. There's no official word on if he'll play Wednesday against the Canucks upon joining the team, but that seems to be the likely scenario at the moment.
News:Jiri Hudler is back in the Czech Republic mourning the death of his father, the Calgary Sun reports.
Analysis: The fact that Jiri Hudler isn't even in North America all but rules him out for Sunday and probably Monday's game. He should be back for Wednesday's contest, but we'll keep you updated on his status.
News:Jiri Hudler (bereavement) is a question mark for Sunday's season opener, the Calgary Sun reports.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler is mourning the death of his father, and it's still not clear whether he'll be back for Sunday's game. At the very least, he should return for Wednesday's matchup against the Canucks.
News:Jiri Hudler's father died Monday, and Hudler will remain in the Czech Republic until at least Friday, when the funeral will take place, according to the Calgary Herald.
Analysis: With the Flames' first game being Sunday, it's unlikely Jiri Hudler will make his Calgary debut then. He likely will be back for the Flames' second game, however.
Flames' Hudler Returns To Czech Republic To Be With Father
News:Jiri Hudler (personal) returned to the Czech Republic on Monday to be with his ailing father, and there is no timetable for his return, the Calgary Herald reports.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler enjoyed a productive 2011-12 season, finishing with 25 goals and 25 assists. At 29 years old, he is expected to produce at a high level again for Calgary when he returns. In his absence, fellow wingers Tim Jackman and Blake Comeau will likely see more ice time.
News:Jiri Hudler has recovered from the cut he received on his neck overseas and is slated for the Flames' third line, according to the Calgary Herald.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler suffered a couple injuries while playing overseas but the long lockout allowed him to recover in time for training camp. He was one of the Flames' key pickups in the offseason and Calgary hopes he can produce like he did at times in Detroit.
Flames' Hudler Escapes Major Injury After Neck Cut
News:Jiri Hudler escaped serious injury after having his neck cut by a skate in a Czech league game on Wednesday, reports TSN.ca. He was taken to hospital and received just a couple of stitches.
Analysis: Thankfully, the blade didn't hit an artery. It's the second injury Jiri Hudler has suffered while playing overseas. Earlier in the season, he suffered an abdominal injury after playing just four games in the KHL. He returned to the ice last week, but this time in the Czech league, and the neck injury occurred in just his second game back on the ice.
News:Jiri Hudler was released by KHL club Lev Prague after sustaining an injury to an abdominal muscle, R-Sport reports.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler is expected to miss about a month with the abdominal issue, so Lev granted his release after just four games. Hudler will resume play with the Flames when the lockout comes to an end, assuming he's over the injury when that time comes.
News:Jiri Hudler will suit up for HC Lev Praha of the KHL during the NHL lockout, R-Sport reports.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler, a Russian native, previous played in the KHL with Dynamo Moscow during the 2009-10 season. Hudler, 28, signed a four-year contract with the Flames in July following seven seasons with the Red Wings.
News:Jiri Hudler signed a four-year, $16 million contract with Calgary on Monday, according to TSN's Darren Dreger.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler received the exact same contract as Pierre Parenteau received from Colorado, but Hudler had 19 less points than Parenteau did this past year. Hudler notched 25 goals and likely will find a spot with the team's top six forward group, and could be a good option in the mid-to-late rounds of drafts, particularly with coach Bob Hartley's affection for a puck possession game.
News:Jiri Hudler has agreed to a four-year, $16 million contract with the Flames, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler notched 25 goals and 50 points in 81 games last season with Detroit, numbers he figures to approach in a Flames' uniform.
News:Jiri Hudler will become an unrestricted free agent this weekend and is expected to test the open market.
Analysis: The market for free-agent forwards is thin, and there are many who believe that the four-year, $16 million contract given to the Avs' David Jones will ensure that Jiri Hudler moves on to another club as the Wings are unlikely to make that large of a commitment to him. Depending on where he lands, Hudler could make a run at the 25 goals and 25 assists he recorded in Detroit in 2011-12.
News:Jiri Hudler scored a goal, added two assists and finished at plus-3 in Saturday's 5-4 victory over Carolina.
Analysis: It's nice to see the little winger come up with a big game after potting just 10 points (five goals, five assists) in his previous 23 games. He does have 46 points on the season but he won't replicate his career best of 57, set the year before he bolted to the KHL. Roll him in deep formats but shallow leagues should still use caution.
News:Jiri Hudler scored twice, including once on the power play, and added an assist in the Wings' 4-3 loss to the Avalanche on Saturday night.
Analysis: He'd had just two points in his previous 10 games so this outburst was overdue. It remains to be seen, however, if this effort can be replicated. Proceed with caution.
News:Jiri Hudler potted his 18th goal of the season in Tuesday's home win over Dallas.
Analysis: The diminutive Czech winger is enjoying somewhat of a comeback season, as he's just two points shy of his point total for all of last season while playing 16 less games thus far. Jiri Hudler, who had gone pointless in his previous five games, now has 35 points in 57 games.
News:Jiri Hudler scored his 13th goal of the season in Tuesday's win against the Stars, then potted the game-winning shootout goal.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler had two goals against the Stars the last time he faced them as well. After scoring a disappointing 10 goals and 37 points all season last year, Hudler is up to 13 goals and 29 points a little past the halfway point this year.
News:Jiri Hudler scored two goals in Tuesday's win over the Stars.
Analysis: The line of Jiri Hudler, Henrik Zetterberg and Valtteri Filppula dominated play Tuesday, accounting for three of the team's five goals.
News:Jiri Hudler's point streak stands at three games after he potted two goals against Winnipeg on Saturday night.
Analysis: He has goals in all three games and six points (four goals, two assists) in that span. Take advantage of this spurt -- he's rolling with Henrik Zetterberg and Valtteri Filppula, and they're really finding chemistry.
News:Jiri Hudler notched his first goal since October 15 in Tuesday's loss to St. Louis and ended a recent three-game points drought with a goal and an assist.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler sports 14 points on the season and had gone nearly two months without a goal.
News:Jiri Hudler (illness) returned to practice Tuesday, MLive.com reports.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler missed Monday's practice, but he was back on the ice for Tuesday's morning skate and will be in the lineup for the game the same night barring a last minute scratch.
News:Jiri Hudler (illness) did not practice Monday, the Red Wings' official Twitter feed reports.
Analysis: Todd Bertuzzi was sidelined with an illness Saturday, so it's possible that the bug is simply making its way around the locker room. No word yet regarding Jiri Hudler's availability for Tuesday night's game.
News:Jiri Hudler went headfirst into the boards in the second period of Thursday's loss to Calgary and left the game, but was able to return.
Analysis: A hit from Scott Hannan sent him into the boards and out of the game, but it seems Jiri Hudler is okay. He skated only 11:29 thanks to the injury and put just one shot on goal. Sadly, that's one more shot than he'd managed in the last four games put together.
News: After being a healthy scratch Tuesday, Jiri Hudler is expected to skate on a line with Pavel Datsyuk and Danny Cleary against Calgary on Thursday, the Detroit News reports.
Analysis:Jiri Hudler had a point in each of his fist four games, but has been held off the score sheet since then. He could have some scoring opportunities Thursday though, skating on a line with Pavel Datsyuk against a struggling Calgary defense.
News:Jiri Hudler adopted a new training regimen before the season, which appears to be paying instant dividends as he's recorded four points in as many games for the undefeated Red Wings, the Detroit News reports.
Analysis: So far, so good for Jiri Hudler, but we'll be interested to see if he can stay consistent for a significant length of time. All of his points have been produced at even strength, despite his averaging 2:44 of ice time on the man advantage. Even though Hudler remains a secondary scorer for the Wings, he should be a safe option in fantasy hockey while he's this hot.
News:Jiri Hudler is getting an opportunity for a larger role on the power play, the Detroit Free Press reports.
Analysis: The Wings are 0-for-9 as a team through two games with the man advantage, so head coach Mike Babcock is shaking things up a bit. It's too early to determine whether Jiri Hudler will permanently hold that role, but keep an eye on his productivity, as it would lead to a significant spike in value if he's able to keep the gig.
News:Jiri Hudler has impressed general manager Ken Holland during camp, MLive.com reports.
Analysis: He's been getting time on a line with Pavel Datsyuk and Danny Clearly, which paired with his ramped up offseason training regiment could ultimately help him rebound from a disappointing return to North America last season.
News:Jiri Hudler has been placed on a line with Pavel Datsyuk for Wednesday's exhibition against Pittsburgh, MLive.com reports.
Analysis: Head coach Mike Babcock continues to tinker with his combinations to get the best possible production from his wingers, but Jiri Hudler would be much more likely to tap into his potential if he remains on a line with Datsyuk or Henrik Zetterberg when the regular season begins. Keep an eye on his progress throughout camp as this is a make-or-break fall for Hudler with the franchise.
News:Jiri Hudler spent the offseason working out in a new training regiment and hopes to make significant strides from his disappointing 2010-11 season, MLive.com reports.
Analysis: He worked out with MMA fighters during the summer to improve his strength and spent time after his gym workouts on the ice improving his skating. It's a make-or-break season for Jiri Hudler in Detroit as his sloppy play following a year in the KHL led to time spent in the press box as a healthy scratch.
News: Hudler will be on a short leash this season and will likely be traded should he not earn a spot as a top-six forward in Detroit, reports the Detroit Free Press.
Analysis: He has a history of strong offensive performances but he flopped last season on his return from the KHL. He's making $2.875 million on the last year of his deal and the Wings won't tolerate a start like he had last season (he was a scratch by Game 9).
News: Hudler was a late scratch for Sunday's Game 5 win over the Sharks, MLive.com reports.
Analysis: Scoreless through the first four games, Hudler took a seat for Drew Miller and would seemingly be a candidate to remain in the press box when the series return to Detroit for Game 6.
News: Hudler will be scratched Wednesday against the Hurricanes, Mlive.com reports.
Analysis: Hudler, who has 36 points in 71 games thus far, hasn't been a healthy scratch since Dec. 19, but he'll take a seat Wednesday.
News: Hudler scored Detroit's lone goal in a 2-1 defeat at the hands of the Canucks on Wednesday night.
Analysis: He hadn't played since a 3-2 Detroit win over Washington on March 16. Hudler had gone seven straight games without a point before lighting the lamp Wednesday.
News: Hudler (neck/shoulder) will be available for Wednesday's game against the Canucks, the Detroit Free Press reports.
Analysis: Hudler has been dealing with soreness in his neck and shoulder dating back to last Wednesday, but noted that he "feels good. It's still sore and stiff, but I want to play. It's no fun for me, treatments. We just have to make it loose a little bit. I want to play." Whether or not Hudler sees much Wednesday remains to be seen.
News: Hudler (flu) made it through Tuesday's entire practice but is unlikely to play Wednesday against Vancouver, the Red Wings' official site reports.
Analysis: In addition to his illness, Hudler is also apparently dealing with neck and shoulder injuries. Fortunately, none of the injuries are serious (coach Mike Babcock said Hudler would be playing if it were the playoffs), so he shouldn't be out for much longer.
News: Hudler (flu) won't play Monday against Pittsburgh, the Detroit Free Press reports.
Analysis: He's already missed two games with the illness and now it may be a matter of Hudler getting his legs back after some time off. He remains day-to-day at this time.
News: Hudler (illness) is unlikely to play in Monday's game against the Penguins, according to the Red Wings' official Twitter page.
Analysis: Hudler missed the last couple games with the illness, and apparently he is still not feeling 100 percent. Hudler should not be out much longer however, so be sure to continue tracking his status on a daily basis.
News: Hudler (illness) will not play Saturday at Nashville, the Detroit Free Press reports.
Analysis: Hudler still has the flu and is feverish, but he's expected to be able to play by the time Monday's game against Pittsburgh rolls around.
News: Hudler will not play Thursday against Columbus due to an illness, Mlive.com reports.
Analysis: He did not travel with his teammates to Columbus and his absence opens up a roster spot for Drew Miller or Patrick Eaves for at least Thursday night's game. Consider him day-to-day at this time.
News: Hudler has 12 points in his last 10 games since joining a line with Pavel Datsyuk and Dan Cleary, MLive.com reports.
Analysis: This is the type of production that the Wings were expecting from the Czech winger after his return to North America following a one-year hiatus in the KHL. Hudler is still available in a significant number of leagues, so consider him as a waiver pickup if you're in need of help on the wing.
News: Hudler snagged a goal and an assist in Monday's win over the Rangers.
Analysis: Hudler's been a little quiet in the scoring department of late with just one goal prior to Monday since December 31. He's not consistent enough to be reliable.
News: Hudler picked up three assists in Thursday's OT win over the Blues, including the primary helper on Darren Helm's game-winner.
Analysis: It's been a highly disappointing season for Hudler, who struggled in a depth role earlier in the year and is still looking to establish more consistency, but there are signs of life, as he now has 11 points in his past 12 games.
News: Hudler scored his fourth goal of the year in a 3-2 shootout loss to Columbus on Friday night.
Analysis: The goal tied the game at two early in the third period. Hudler has not had the type of season many were expecting of him after his breakout season of 2008-09.
News: On a night when the goalies hoarded most of the accolades, Hudler came up big when it meant the most, scoring the only goal of the shootout in a 2-1 Detroit win in Vancouver on Saturday night.
Analysis: His scoring line for fantasy purposes looks pedestrian -- no goals, no assists, and only one shot on goal -- reflecting his modest offensive output this season (3-9-12 in 37 games).
News: Hudler scored two points on the power play Monday against the Avs, with one goal and one assist.
Analysis: Hudler has been one of the bigger busts of the season, but injuries to Pavel Datsyuk and Danny Cleary have created a chance for him to redeem himself. The goal was just his second of the season.
News: Hudler was a healthy scratch for Sunday's 4-3 overtime loss to Dallas.
Analysis: Hudler hasn't scored a goal since Nov 13 and has six points (1G, 5A) in 27 games after scoring 57 points (23G, 34A) last season.
News: Hudler will be a healthy scratch for Monday's game against the Kings, the Red Wings' official site reports.
Analysis: He may be in the press box for more than this game given how poorly he's played this season and how productive the Wings' checking-line players have been at both ends of the ice. If you're rostering him with hopes of a turnaround, it may take a trade to a new organization for that to happen.
News: Hudler has been getting time on the point on the Wings' second power-play unit during the last five games, but he hasn't recorded a point during that span, MLive.com reports.
Analysis: Considering that he's been the team's least productive forward to this point, there's speculation in Detroit about Hudler's future with the club. As it stands now, he's a shell of the player that delivered 57 points -- including 23 goals -- before bolting to the KHL after the 2008-09 campaign. With the game schedule becoming more rigorous in the coming weeks, it's believed that Hudler could find himself as the odd-man out of head coach Mike Babcock's lineup if he doesn't turn things around quickly.
News: Hudler will return to the lineup for Friday's game against the Blue Jackets, MLive.com reports.
Analysis: Hudler will replace Drew Miller on Friday, but there is no guarantee he remains in the lineup going forward. Expect Hudler's status to continue being determined on a game-by-game basis.
News: Hudler will be a healthy scratch for Wednesday night's game against the Thrashers, MLive.com reports.
Analysis: With Justin Abdelkader, Drew Miller and Patrick Eaves all playing well, Hudler is the weak link in the Wings' regular lineup. "The bottom line is you got to find a way to be in every night, that people aren't questioning whether you're in or not," head coach Mike Babcock said. "We need him, we need his scoring, his gift of knowing how to play. He's played a lot of big games for us, helped us win the Cup. We need that back. That's the challenge for him. he's not going to like this, but that's just the way it is." Hudler's situation this season feels similar to that of Ville Leino's a year ago, but it seems unlikely that the Wings will be inclined to deal him away for a spare part if he doesn't come around in the next few weeks.
News: Hudler is in danger of being scratched again Sunday with the Wings' fourth-line players all producing at a good clip recently, the Detroit Free Press reports.
Analysis: Patrick Eaves and Drew Miller have been rotating in a spot on the fourth line for the last several games, but Hudler's play still hasn't been all that great and he doesn't offer as much help on special teams -- particularly penalty-killing situations. Hudler has five points (1 G, 4 A) in 15 games and is a minus-5 for the season, but his plus-1 rating over the last seven contests may not be enough to hold his place in the lineup right now. If Hudler sits, look for Justin Abdelkader to move up to the second line with Valtteri Filppula and Johan Franzen.
News: Hudler scored his first goal of the season in Saturday's win over Colorado.
Analysis: He banked the puck in from behind the net and off Peter Budaj's skate; it was his first NHL goal in more than 19 months. It was the game-winner. He now has points in back-to-back games but we're not sure he's a wise activation just yet -- he needs to show more before we can recommend him.
News: Hudler will skate on the Wings' second line against the Oilers on Thursday night, MLive.com reports.
Analysis: Head coach Mike Babcock continues to look for ways to get Hudler going offensively, and Thursday's assignment will mark his third different line in the first two months of the season. If Hudler can't produce opposite Johan Franzen on a line centered by Val Filppula, he may find himself back in the press box again in the near future.
News: Hudler played just over eight minutes in his return to action Friday night after being a healthy scratch in the previous two games.
Analysis: Drew Miller was the odd-man out against the Oilers, but Hudler didn't contribute much with limited minutes so it will be interesting to see if head coach Mike Babcock keeps the same lineup after picking up a road win in Edmonton on Friday night.
News: Hudler will be in the lineup for Friday's game against the Oilers, MLive.com reports.
Analysis: Hudler was in line to replace Johan Franzen (hip) had Franzen been held out; but even though Franzen will play, it sounds like Hudler will be activated and either Drew Miller or Patrick Eaves will be a healthy scratch. Hudler has been quiet this season, so wait to get him back into your fantasy lineup until he starts producing.
News: Hudler is expected to return to the lineup Friday against Edmonton, the Detroit Free Press reports.
Analysis: He'll be in the press box again Wednesday against Calgary, but head coach Mike Babcock is on the brink of making another adjustment to his third line in the near future. Assuming Hudler makes it back as planned, it seems likely that one of the fourth liners will end up getting scratched with Justin Abdelkader sliding down to take that spot and ultimately vacating Hudler's old place on the third line with Mike Modano and Dan Cleary.
News: Hudler was a healthy scratch in Saturday's win over Nashville.
Analysis: Justin Abdelkader took his place Saturday, but there could be some fluidity on the Wings' third and fourth lines in the coming days as the Hudler-Mike Modano-Dan Cleary trifecta simply hasn't clicked yet. Head coach Mike Babcock envisions a very bright future for Hudler, so it's hard to imagine a scenario where he'll spend more than a game or two in the press box.
News: Hudler has been a slow starter in his return to the Red Wings from the KHL this season, tallying just two assists in six games along with a minus-4 rating.
Analysis: He'll remain on the third line with Mike Modano and Dan Cleary for now, but Hudler needs to begin producing in order to avoid jeopardizing his playing time. Head coach Mike Babcock seems to be of the belief that Hudler could be a star at the NHL level, but he needs to become a more complete player as a third-liner before he'll ever see top-six minutes.
News: Hudler (foot) played 13:10 over 19 shifts and picked up an assist in his first exhibition game of the season Sunday.
Analysis: Hudler also had a potential game-winning goal taken away in the third period because Tomas Holmstrom's skate was in the Rangers' crease. He'll open the season on the team's third line with Mike Modano and Dan Cleary, but there's a good chance Hudler will eventually see top-six minutes along with time on the power play this season. He's a bit of a sleeper in his return to North America after a year in the KHL.
News: Hudler, who is battling a bruised left foot, was on the ice skating on Friday, MLive.com reports.
Analysis: His availability for the weekend exhibitions is somewhat up in the air, but Hudler should be fine before the regular season gets underway.
News: Forward Jiri Hudler signed a two-year contract with Detroit, coming back to Detroit after spending a season in Russia, where Dynamo Moscow granted his release. The 26-year-old Czech had 99 points his last two seasons in the NHL, helping Detroit win the Stanley Cup in 2008 and reach Game 7 of the Finals last year. "It's huge to have Huds back," coach Mike Babcock said. "Instead of separating Z [Henrik Zetterberg] and Pav [Pavel Datsyuk] on the power play, we can put them on the same unit and let Huds run the other one."
Analysis: Hudler had 19 goals and 54 points in 54 games in the KHL in 2009-10. While he has been a point-per-game threat in the minors and overseas, Hudler probably won't be as good as an offensive player with Detroit. He is good in the faceoff circle and moving the puck, but Hudler won't have to carry the offensive effort in Detroit. Consider him more of a mid-to-late round Fantasy pick on Draft Day 2010.
News: An arbitrator has awarded Russia-bound forward Jiri Hudler a two-year deal worth $5.75 million if he ever returns to play for the Detroit Red Wings. Red Wings general manager Ken Holland said Monday the deal gives the 25-year-old Hudler $2.75 million in the first season and $3 million in the second.
Analysis: Hudler recently signed a two-year, $10 million deal with Dynamo Moscow of the Russian Kontinental Hockey League, where he will play next season. The agreement maintains Detroit's rights to Hudler should he return from Russia. Hudler had 23 goals and 34 assists for the Red Wings last season. Hudler is only worth stashing in the deepest of long-term Fantasy keeper leagues, if you can wait out his return to the NHL.
News: Russia's Kontinental Hockey League completed a contract with Detroit Red Wings forward Jiri Hudler on Thursday. The KHL registered Hudler's two-year, $10 million contract in Moscow. A statement from the league cited two NHL teams' pursuit of players under contract with KHL clubs and a lack of a player transfer agreement between the leagues as the impetus for the move. The KHL previously filed Hudler's contract July 9, but held off on the deal pending negotiations between the two leagues. "I think they're trying to justify what is clearly an interference with contract by raising non-analogous situations," deputy NHL commissioner Bill Daly said. Hudler's agent and Red Wings representatives attended a salary arbitration hearing Thursday morning in Toronto. In the event Hudler returns to the United States in the future, the hearing will determine his salary in a one-year contract with the Red Wings. General manager Ken Holland said the team expects a ruling in the next few days.
Analysis: Hudler made $1.15 million with the Red Wings last season, and he reportedly turned down Detroit's offer of $3 million per year for up to five years. While Holland has said he expects Hudler to play in Russia next year, having the young forward develop for a brief time overseas may work out for the best. "My hope is that he goes to Russia and he wants to come back and he's a better player," Holland said. "The cap maybe goes up a little bit and we're sitting at a real good situation." It's a real shame Hudler is heading overseas because Fantasy owners lose a player that was on the rise. Hudler is only worth stashing in the deepest of long-term Fantasy keeper leagues, if you can wait out his return to the NHL.
News: The NHL has scheduled an arbitration hearing July 30 for Jiri Hudler, who says he's leaving the Detroit Red Wings to join Dynamo Moscow of Russia's Continental Hockey League. Hudler signed a two-year, $10 million deal to play for Dynamo Moscow. The Red Wings are seeking to retain rights to the 25-year-old winger should he return to the NHL in the future.
Analysis: Red Wings spokesman John Hahn says the arbitration hearing will be in Toronto and Hudler will be represented by his agent, Petr Svoboda. Hudler made $1.15 million with the Red Wings last season, and he reportedly turned down Detroit's offer of $3 million per year for up to five years. As of now, Hudler is not going to play in the NHL in 2009-10 and should be removed from your Draft Day plans. Hudler had a breakout season in 2008-09 with a career-high 23 goals, 34 assists and 57 points. He would have been a low-end Fantasy flier.
News:Jiri Hudler's days in Detroit are over -- at least for now. Hudler's contract with Dynamo Moscow was filed Thursday with the Continental Hockey League (KHL), according to a league spokesman, meaning he will play next season in the same league as former star Sergei Fedorov. "It's a testament to the perception that players have of the KHL as a viable option, from both a competitive and a career growth standpoint -- not to mention from a financial standpoint," said Shawn McBride, the KHL's North American spokesman. Hudler's two-year deal could be worth up to $5 million per season, according to the Detroit Free Press. Hudler made $1.15 million with the Red Wings last season and he reportedly turned down a Red Wings offer of $3 million for up to five years. Hudler, 25, and his agent, Petr Svoboda, did not return messages left Thursday. Neither did Red Wings general manager Ken Holland, who told the Detroit News this week that the team would go through arbitration with Hudler in order to retain his rights should Hudler return to the NHL. Hudler, a restricted free agent, filed for salary arbitration with the NHL on Sunday.
Analysis: Hudler's deal comes roughly a year after Nashville Predators forward Alexander Radulov bolted from the last year of his contract for a deal with then-KHL champion Salavat Yulayev Ufa. Radulov's deal raised hackles in the NHL but no formal agreement has been hammered out between the two leagues to handle players who wish to sign between them. "There's been a gentleman's agreement in place to not pursue situations like Radulov but this is a different situation," McBride said. "As a result of there not being a formal transfer agreement there are not bylaws or any binding legal parameters that have been outlined." NHL spokesman Frank Brown wrote in an e-mail that the NHL believes Hudler "remains contractually obligated to the Detroit Red Wings." Like the Radulov situation, this could drag on with no resolution in sight. As of now, however, Hudler is not going to play in the NHL in 2009-10 and should be removed from your Draft Day plans. Hudler had a breakout season in 2008-09 with a career-high 23 goals, 34 assists and 57 points. He would have been a low-end Fantasy flier.
News: The Detroit Red Wings brought back a restricted free agent and hope to welcome back another one soon. Ville Leino signed a two-year, $1.6 million contract Monday as Red Wings general manager Ken Holland attempted to re-sign Jiri Hudler, who is also a 25-year-old forward. Detroit lost free agent forwards Marian Hossa and Tomas Kopecky to the Chicago Blackhawks last week, and forward Mikael Samuelsson left for Vancouver in free agency. Hudler filed for salary arbitration, but Holland has avoided it since taking over the front office in 1997. "Under my watch, we haven't needed salary arbitration to get a deal done," Holland said. "We talked today, we'll talk (Tuesday) and the hope is we'll find common ground with Jiri."
Analysis: Hudler seems to be ready for a larger role. He ranked fifth on the team with 23 goals last season, and the Czech forward had a career-high 57 points in his third full season in the NHL. In the past two postseasons, he has contributed 26 points. He doesn't mind playing in front of the net and that's a big plus for the Red Wings. If Hudler returns to Detroit, he will be a decent No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward.
News: Anaheim Ducks forward Mike Brown was ejected from Game 1 against the Detroit Red Wings for a hit that bloodied Jiri Hudler. Hudler passed the puck and was defenseless when Brown hit him, appearing to land an elbow to the head during the first period on Friday night. The game was delayed briefly while Hudler was helped off the ice and blood was scraped off it. A towel was pressed against a big cut above Hudler's left eye. Hudler returned to the game in the second period. Brown was given a major penalty for interference, leading to Detroit's tying goal. He also earned a game misconduct that ended his night.
Analysis: Hudler didn't record a point in 13:16 of ice time, but looked fine after returning to the game. Hudler had career highs in goals (23), assists (34) and points (57) in 2008-09. He was able to be successful as he took on a Tomas Holmstrom-like role, cleaning up in front of the net. Hudler is headed for restricted free agency after the playoffs. Where he signs will dictate his Fantasy value for 2009-10. Stay tuned.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler scored a goal during Sunday's 3-2 win against the Wild. Hudler opened the scoring with 8:39 left with his 23rd goal, putting in a one-timer from the slot off a pass from Henrik Zetterberg. It was his third goal in seven games.
Analysis: Hudler hasn't been an offensively efficient since late February as he was earlier in the season and that has really cut into his Fantasy appeal. While Hudler is in the midst of a career season, he is more of a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Red Wings Jiri Hudler appears to have regained some lost confidence following a 13-game goal-scoring slump. He has made a concerted effort to shoot more and go to the net and has a goal in each of his last two games, including Monday against the Flames.
Analysis: Hudler has definitely been in an offensive rut since late February, but it's finally nice to see him getting back on track. With Tomas Holmstrom battling injury the last few months, the Red Wings desperately need a player to clean up the garbage in front of the net. Hudler still remains more of a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler scored a goal during Friday's 6-3 rout of the Thrashers. He gave Detroit a 3-0 lead with his 21st goal on a wrister past Kari Lehtonen 14:04 into the second. Hudler's goal was his first in 15 games.
Analysis: Hudler has definitely been in an offensive rut since late February. Hopefully, Friday's goal will spark the forward in what has become a career year. Hudler is more of a low-end Fantasy option until he breaks out of his slump.
News: Detorit C Jiri Hudler scored a goal and had an assist in a 6-2 win over Nashville on Wednesday. Hudler opened the scoring with a power-play goal five minutes into the game as he reached the 20-goal plateau for the first time in his career. Hudler beat Dan Ellis with a backhand shot from the slot.
Analysis: Hudler is a point away from reaching the 50-point plateau and is on a five-game points streak at the moment. This is his first multi-point game of the streak however as he had three goals and three assists during the stretch.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Sunday's 6-5 shootout loss to the Avalanche. Hudler put Detroit ahead 5-4 with his 19th goal 9:18 into the third. He has two goals and two assists during a four-game point streak.
Analysis: Hudler has two goals and five assists in eight February games. He has 18 points (six goals) in his last 21 appearances and 47 on the season. He has been a top offensive threat for an already loaded Red Wings roster. Hudler has become a viable Fantasy option.
News:Jiri Hudler and Kris Draper scored in a 50-second span of the second period, and Chris Osgood made 21 saves in the Detroit Red Wings' 4-2 victory over the Minnesota Wild on Thursday. Hudler gave Detroit a 2-1 lead with 9:38 left in the second period, beating Josh Harding with a one-time shot from the bottom of the right circle for his 18th goal after a give and go with Marian Hossa.
Analysis: Hudler scored his 18th goal Thursday, but it was his first score in 12 games. However, he does have nine assists in that span, so it's not like he has been totally useless. Hudler has a career-high 45 points this season and has been a top offensive threat for an already loaded Red Wings roster. Hudler has become a viable Fantasy option.
News: Detroit C Jiri Hudler didn't have a goal in an 8-3 win over the Oilers but did manage to get credited with two assists in the game. Hudler now has 43 points on the season with 17 goals and 26 assists.
Analysis: Hudler continues his solid season with a nice performance against the Oilers Saturday. He's not one of the Red Wings' best scoring threats but does enough to be considered a No. 4 forward option in Fantasy play.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler assisted in Saturday's loss to the Capitals, giving him 40 points on the season. He is now only two points behind his career best.
Analysis: Hudler had a great November with 13 points, and has been playing pretty well ever since. He's not quite a point-per-game guy, but he's definitely worth using in deeper formats as a No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler had two assists in a 4-0 win over the Kings on Thursday. Hudler has five points in his last four games with a goal and four assists over that span.
Analysis: Hudler continues to put up surprisingly good numbers as the season progresses and appears to be on his game at the moment. He can be used as a solid No. 4 forward option while he's putting points on the board.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler scored a goal during Wednesday's 4-3 win against the Ducks. Hudler drew the Red Wings even at 2 on a power play at 2:49 of the second period while Chris Pronger was off for cross-checking Daniel Cleary. Hudler beat Jean-Sebastien Giguere high to the glove side for his 17th goal, fifth on the power play.
Analysis: Hudler had a fantastic first half with 35 points in 43 games. He has done a lot of his damage on the power play where Hudler isn't afraid to stand in front of the net and clean up the garbage. Hudler has developed into a viable No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler had a goal and an assist in Saturday's 3-1 win over the Sabres.
Analysis: Hudler is the kind of player that will give you a lot of Fantasy points one week and hardly any the next. He has high-end potential but for now remains only a No. 4 or 5 option until he can be more consistent.
News: Detroit C Jiri Hudler scored the red Wings opening goal and assisted on another in the third period in a 3-1 win against the Sabres on Saturday. Hudler now has 34 points on the season with 16 goals and 18 assists. He had gone three games prior to Saturday's contest without a goal.
Analysis: Hudler is the kind of player that will give you a lot of Fantasy points one week and hardly any the next. He has high-end potential but for now remains only a No. 4 or 5 option until he can be more consistent.
News: Detroit scored three goals in the 2nd period against the Blackhawks in the cold outdoor air of Wrigley Field on Thursday. Red Wings C Jiri Hudler had two of them as Detroit won 6-4. Hudler scored his 14th and 15th goals of the year on back-to-back goals to tie the game at three. Hudler later added an assist in the 3rd period to make it 5-3 Red Wings.
Analysis: Hudler's three points give him 32 on the season for Detroit. He had gone two straight without recording any points but rebounded in a big way outdoors on New Year's Day. Hudler has been a streaky player all season, but has definitely exceeded expectations. He remains a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward in most formats, but one with great upside.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Red Wings C Jiri Hudler, who has 16 points (10 goals and six assists) in his last 16 games, doesn't think he can keep this pace up. "I'm not expecting that," said Hudler. "I'm on the PP unit, so there's a lot of chances. We have a great power play. It's fun. Obviously I play with great players."
Analysis: Hudler has been a streaky player all season, but has definitely exceeded expectations. He remains a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward in most formats, but one with great upside.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler scored and assisted in a win over the Kings on Saturday.
Analysis: Hudler had only one point in his last four games before Saturday, but Hudler has been a streaky player all season, so this is nothing new. He remains a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward in most formats.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 during Thursday's game against the Sharks. He hasn't scored in five games, but has two assists in that span.
Analysis: Hudler has totaled 26 points in 31 games and has been one of the Red Wings' top offensive players despite spending most of his time on the third line. Hudler does a lot of his damage on the power play as he drives to the net for the loose garbage. He has been a solid player thus far and worth a look as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler scored and assisted in a win over the Blackhawks on Saturday night and now has six points in his last five games.
Analysis: Hudler is well on his way to establishing career highs. Despite not seeing a lot of top-six time, he is finding a way to produce points. This is exactly the production Detroit wanted from Hudler, who remains a decent low-end Fantasy option in most formats.
News:Jiri Hudler and Daniel Cleary each scored twice and Detroit broke a tie with a three-goal outburst early in the third period in a 6-5 victory against the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday night. Hudler tied it with his first goal, at 5:04. He beat Curtis Sanford from the bottom of the right circle. The goal was set up by Kyle Wellwood's giveaway along the boards in the Vancouver zone. Hudler gave the Red Wings a 2-1 lead with 9:55 remaining in the opening period with his 11th goal. Andreas Lilja's pass from one of the circles in the Detroit zone sprung Hudler for a breakaway and he beat Sanford high on the glove side.
Analysis: Hudler has four goals in his last four games and has 22 points this season. Hudler is well on his way to establishing career highs. His previous career-high for goals is 15 and assists is 29. Despite not seeing a lot of top-six time, Hudler is finding a way to produce points. This is exactly the production Detroit wanted from Hudler, who remains a decent low-end Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Red Wings LW Jiri Hudler continues to wield a hot stick. His power-play goal Saturday against the Bruins gives him 12 points on the man-advantage. That ties him for the team lead in power-play points with Henrik Zetterberg.
Analysis: With nine goals and 11 assists, Hudler is well on his way to establishing career highs. His previous career-high for goals is 15 and assists is 29. Despite not seeing a lot of top-six time, Hudler is finding a way to produce points. This is exactly the production Detroit wanted from Hudler, who remains a decent low-end Fantasy option.
News:Jiri Hudler scored two goals to help the Detroit Red Wings beat the Edmonton Oilers 4-3 on Thursday. The defending Stanley Cup champion Red Wings opened the scoring 1:50 into the first period. Andreas Lilja's point shot was kicked aside by goalie Dwayne Roloson, but Hudler scored off the rebound. The Red Wings restored their three-goal edge on another power play with a 1 1/2 minutes to play in the second. After the puck caromed high off the glass and came straight down to Hudler, he stuffed in his second of the contest.
Analysis: Hudler has four goals in his last five games. Hudler has 16 points in his last 14 games after not getting any point in his first four. He is hardly getting any top-six time, but Hudler still finds a way to produce. This is exactly the production Detroit wanted from Hudler, who remains a decent low-end Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Red Wings RW Jiri Hudler does not get as much ice time as the team's top six forwards, but he continues to maximize his minutes. He picked up a goal and an assist to continue a hot streak that has seen him tally 14 points in his last 13 games, after failing to register a point in his first four games.
Analysis: Hudler is converting goals at 12.9 percent this season, but he has taken just 31 shots and his lack of offensive burst has annoyed the Red Wings at times this season. Detroit wants Hudler to be a regular offensive contributor, but until he gets there, he remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Ty Conklin made 20 saves for his fifth career shutout Monday night, Jiri Hudler and Niklas Kronwall each had a goal and an assist and Detroit beat the Edmonton Oilers 4-0. Hudler's pass from the right circle deflected in off the leg of Edmonton defenseman Sheldon Souray at 14:18 for his fourth goal and second in four games.
Analysis: Hudler is converting goals at 12.9 percent this season, but he has taken just 31 shots and his lack of offensive burst has annoyed the Red Wings at times this season. Detroit wants Hudler to be a regular offensive contributor, but until he gets there, he remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler, who was recently demoted to the fourth line, recorded a goal and two assists in just 8:34 of ice time Tuesday as Detroit fell 7-6 to Pittsburgh.
Analysis: This has to be seen as a statement game by Hudler, who is surely going to get some more ice time next game after this performance. However, two of his points came on the power play, so don't get too excited just yet. Hudler still has some value in deeper leagues, but keep an eye on his progress over the next couple of games.
News: The Detroit News reports that Red Wings C Jiri Hudler and RW Mikael Samuelsson are the big losers in the line shuffles necessitated by the return of Johan Franzen. Hudler will drop to the fourth line, while Samuelsson will be demoted to the third line. Hudler will remain on the power play, however.
Analysis: Hudler has nine points but only two goals this season, and his lack of scoring has seen him drop from a line with Henrik Zetterberg to a line with the likes of Tomas Kopecky, Kirk Maltby or Darren McCarty. Hudler still has some value in deeper leagues because of his power play presence, but you should probably bench him for the time being. Samuelsson also has only two goals this season, and should be left for deeper formats too.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler has seven assists in his last six games after he helped out twice in Sunday's win over the Canucks.
Analysis: Hudler is stuck on Detroit's third line right now, but is getting time on the power play with Henrik Zetterberg and others, which is helping his numbers. As long as he's dishing out assists, he remains a nice low-end Fantasy forward in deeper leagues.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler scored and added two assists in a win over the Blackhawks on Saturday. He only had two points this season coming into the game.
Analysis: Hudler is down on Detroit's third line right now and with the way Mikael Samuelsson is playing right now, he might be there for a while. Hudler remains just a low-end Fantasy option for now.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler scored a power-play goal during Saturday's 5-4 win. Hudler's goal, scored off a rebound during a power play following a questionable too many men on the ice penalty against the Rangers, tied the game at 4 with 3:39 left in the third period and forced overtime. "He (Nicklas Kronwall) took a one-timer, it came right back to me," Hudler said. "I thought (Henrik) Lundqvist had it at first."
Analysis: The Red Wings recently took Hudler off the team's second line after he failed to shoot at will, but he took five shots Saturday and scored a goal. If he continues to improve, he might be back up on the second line in time. The Red Wings see a bright future ahead for Hudler, but until he gets his confidence up in the NHL, he remains just a low-end Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports it is one of coach Mike Babcock's constant messages to his players -- shoot the puck, often and from just about everywhere. He doesn't need to tell that twice to his star forwards. But Jiri Hudler and Valtteri Filppula could use occasional reminders. That is why Hudler was bumped off one of the top two scoring lines. He had started the season on a line with Henrik Zetterberg and Johan Franzen, but Babcock soon realized that wasn't a good fit for Hudler. "When Huds plays with those guys all he does is pass them the puck; he's always deferring to 'Z' and deferring to Franzen," Babcock said. "I think he's a good offensive player, and I want him to shoot the puck. Maybe if he plays with Fil (Valtteri Filppula) and (Dan) Cleary he'll shoot the puck."
Analysis: Whoever they play with in Saturday's game against the New York Rangers, Hudler (four shots in four games) and Filppula (six shots) both realize the need to shoot more. "I should have more shots on goal," Hudler said. "I've always had a problem with that. I've got to keep it in my mind to shoot when I get a chance to shoot it." The Red Wings see a bright future ahead for Hudler, but until he gets his confidence up in the NHL, he remains just a low-end Fantasy option.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Red Wings C Jiri Hudler will spend most his time this season on a line with Henrik Zetterberg and Johan Franzen. Hudler beat out Dan Cleary and Mikael Samuelsson. "He's a pure scorer," coach Mike Babcock said of Hudler. "Sammy is a streak scorer, and I think Hudler is an all-the-time scorer."
Analysis: Hudler is undoubtedly a talented 24-year-old, and now he will get to really show what he can do while playing alongside some of Detroit's top talent. His Fantasy value gets a nice boost with this latest news, so make sure you snap him up in the middle rounds of all drafts as a super sleeper candidate.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler tallied an assist and finished at minus-1 during Tuesday's game against the Predators. He now has an assist in two straight games after being held off the stat sheet for seven games.
Analysis: Hudler was a Fantasy dream in November and December when he posted 24 points in 27 games. He has been ice cold since 2008 began. He has just one goal and six assists in his last 18 outings. He is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy option at this time.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler tallied an assist and finished at even during Sunday's game against the Ducks. It his 22nd assist and first point in eight games.
Analysis: Hudler was a Fantasy dream in November and December when he posted 24 points in 27 games. He has been ice cold since 2008 began. He has just one goal and five assists in his last 17 outings. He is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy option at this time.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler snapped out of a short three-game pointless streak with two assists in Sunday's 3-1 win at Chicago, the first win for league-leading Detroit against the Blackhawks this season.
Analysis: Hudler has 10 goals and 19 assists this season. In larger Fantasy leagues the Czech center can be used as a No. 4 or No. 5 forward in lineups.
News: LW Jiri Hudler had three assists in Sunday's game against Carolina.
Analysis: Hudler has 10 points (two goals, eight assists) in his last nine games. He can be used in larger Fantasy leagues as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler made it 3-0 Friday against the Wild when he scored on a one-timer from the bottom of the left circle, for his seventh goal, while a penalty was being called on the Wild and Dominik Hasek on the bench for a sixth attacker. It was his second goal in four games. He also has three assists in his last five games.
Analysis: Hudler has found a fountain of points after having a very unwelcoming October (2 G, 1 A). He is still averaging just 11 minutes per game, but can be used in larger Fantasy leagues as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News:Jiri Hudler had a goal and an assist to help Detroit beat the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-2 on Thursday.
Analysis: Hudler opened the scoring 3:24 into the game with his sixth goal, tipping in a pass from Chris Chelios. Hudler is still nothing more than a low-end Fantasy flier at this time.
News: Red Wings C Jiri Hudler tallied his seventh assist during Thursday's 3-2 loss to the Predators. He now has one goals and five assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Hudler has made the most out of his limited playing time this season (5 G, 7 A), but is still nothing more than a low-end Fantasy flier at this time. He is averaging about 11 minutes per game.
News: The Sports Xchange notes: LW Jiri Hudler scored a goal and assisted on another against Chicago on Sunday.
Analysis: Hudler has five goals in his last nine games, after failing to score in his first eight games. Consider picking him up in most leagues while he's hot, but realize that the third-year pro could offer some inconsistency.
News: Jiri Hudler scored a highlight-reel goal in the final minute of the second period at Vancouver Sunday. With the game tied at 2, Hudler skated around defenseman Alexander Edler down the right wing before pulling the puck quickly to his forehand and roofing a shot over the left shoulder and glove of goalie Roberto Luongo from close range.
Analysis: "Hud's is a really talented kid," coach Mike Babcock said. "Him and (Valtteri) Filppula and (Mikael) Samuelsson give us a line no one ever talks about, but pretty dynamic players. You can't rely on one line, especially on the road, to do all your scoring." He has two goals in his past four games, and he is only worth a look in the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News: The Detroit News reports Jiri Hudler is in coach Mike Babcock's doghouse, as the head man was not happy with his play. He limited Hudler's ice time to just 6:21 in Monday's game in Anaheim.
Analysis: We'll keep an eye on whether this lights a fire under Hudler on Thursday night at San Jose or if he continues to see his ice time curtailed. Right now, he is only worth a look in the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Red Wings were counting on some of their young forwards to take a step forward in their career this season and produce more offensively. In particular, they need more goals from Valtteri Filppula and Jiri Hudler to compensate for the offseason departures of Robert Lang, Todd Bertuzzi and Kyle Calder. Five games into the season, the Red Wings are getting little, if anything, from these players. Hudler has only one assist and Filppula has no points.
Analysis: Hudler took advantage of limited ice time (10 minutes a game) to score 15 goals as a rookie last season. His minutes have increased, but he's struggling to generate chances. If Hudler ever gets going, he might develop into a nice Fantasy option. Right now, he is nothing more than a low-end reserve.
News: RW Daniel Cleary and C Jiri Hudler each picked up assists in Monday's game against Edmonton. Cleary turned in a minus-1 rating, while Hudler was good for a plus-2.
Analysis: Cleary and Hudler are each only worth using in deeper Fantasy leagues at this point. The Red Wings will be back on the ice on Wednesday against the Flames.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports the early signs out of training camp are that Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg will be split up to center the top two scoring lines for the Red Wings. It appears Datsyuk will skate with Tomas Holmstrom and either Johan Franzen or Jiri Hudler up top, with Zetterberg skating with Mikael Samuelsson and the loser of the Franzen/Hudler battle on the second line.
Analysis: In case you were wondering, the third line projections are Valtteri Filppula with Dan Cleary and Kris Draper and the fourth line might be Tomas Kopecky, Kirk Maltby and Dallas Drake. This is all certainly very early and it can change with injuries, tremendous performances during training camp and the preseason, etc. A spot on the top line would greatly increase Hudler's Fantasy value entering 2007-08. He has been on the verge for a while and might be ready for a breakout year.
News: Jiri Hudler, a restricted free agent, signed a two-year contract on Thursday. Hudler, 23 and like goaltender Dominik Hasek, is a native of the Czech Republic. He led Detroit's rookies with 15 goals and 25 points in 76 games last season, his first full year in the NHL. "We felt it was important to get him signed because he's a young player that was able to score 15 goals in part-time duty last season," Red Wings general manager Ken Holland said Thursday.
Analysis: Hudler posted 36 goals and 97 points during the 2005-06 season for Grand Rapids in the AHL. He might be ready for more responsibilities in 2007-08 and enters as a big-time sleeper on Draft Day. Consider him a late-round option in all Fantasy leagues with the potential of big-time reward.
News: Jiri Hudler has managed five goals, three assists and an impressive plus-10 rating over the past eight games.
Analysis: Hudler is finally starting to perform up to his capabilities and Fantasy owners are taking notice. His ownership has doubled from seven to 14 percent in CBS SportsLine.com Fantasy leagues.
News: Jiri Hudler scored twice and the Detroit Red Wings beat Nashville 4-2 on Wednesday night, passing the Predators for first place in the NHL and Central Division. Hudler scored the go-ahead goal early in the third period after making it 2-all with 3:37 left in the second. Hudler now has a goal in four of seven March games. He also has a goal in three straight games. He has two assists during that same stretch.
Analysis: Hudler has been on a roll since the start of the month. Fantasy owners should use him as a stopgap Fantasy option while he is on a roll.
News: D Chris Chelios, C Kris Draper, C Jiri Hudler and D Andreas Lilja each picked up an assist in Sunday's game against the Flames. Chelios and Lilja had an even rating, while Draper posted a minus-1 and Hudler had a plus-1.
Analysis: Despite the assist, Hudler is only worth a look in the largest of Fantasy formats as a No. 3 center.
News: Pavel Datsyuk and Jiri Hudler each scored in Tuesday's game against the Canadiens.
Analysis: Hudler broke a five-game scoreless drought with the goal. He remains useful as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy center in leagues of 12 or more teams.
News: Jiri Hudler scored a goal in Monday's game at Columbus with two shots on goal in 10:48 of ice time.
Analysis: Hudler ended a 10-game scoreless stretch with the goal. Despite the score, he remains useful only in the largest of long-term dynasty Fantasy pools.
News: Jiri Hudler has played in just three games so far this season and he is scoreless with a plus-1 rating while seeing an average time on ice of just 9:25.
Analysis: Hudler is not worth owning in any Fantasy league right now.
News: Jiri Hudler and Tomas Kopecky, both out of options, made the Red Wings roster out of training camp, according to the Detroit News.
Analysis: The duo might have won a roster spot in the NHL, but they are by no means worth considering in Fantasy leagues.
News: The Red Wings assigned Jiri Hudler to Grand Rapids of the AHL on Wednesday.
Analysis: Hudler might be back at some point, but is not a useful Fantasy option. Valterri Filppula replaces Hudler on the active roster.
News: Jiri Hudler made his season debut on Tuesday against the Devils. He was scoreless with one shot on goal in 11:36 of ice time.
Analysis: Hudler was tearing it up for Grand Rapids of the AHL, posting 35 points (16 G, 19 A) in only 22 games. If he can have half that success at the NHL level, he would be worth a pickup in most formats. Keep an eye on him over the next week or two.
News: Jiri Hudler was reassigned to Grand Rapids of the AHL on Thursday.
Analysis: Hudler might see time with the big club this season, but he is not worth a roster spot in any Fantasy league right now.
News: The Detroit News reports Hudler left for Finland to participate in the World Junior Championships after participating in Wednesday's game against San Jose.
Analysis: Hudler will return during the second week of January. He is only worth keeping in larger Fantasy leagues.
News: The Red Wings recalled Jiri Hudler from Grand Rapids of the AHL on Tuesday, according to the Detroit News.
Analysis: Hudler isn't worth adding to a Fantasy roster.
News: The Red Wings sent Jiri Hudler to Grand Rapids of the AHL on Tuesday, according to the Detroit News.
Analysis: Hudler's demotion suggests Steve Thomas is ready to join the Red Wings' lineup. Hudler is now only useful in keeper leagues.
News: Jiri Hudler will see increased playing time with Henrik Zetterberg (leg) sidelined for four to six weeks.
Analysis: Hudler is worth adding to a larger Fantasy league roster if he is available.
News: Jiri Hudler picked up an assist on Wednesday against St. Louis.
Analysis: The assist was the first point of Hudler's NHL career. He is only worth a roster spot in keeper leagues.
News: Jiri Hudler was sent to Grand Rapids of the AHL for this weekend's games.
Analysis: Hudler will be recalled on Monday by the team. He has not played consistently enough to use in most Fantasy leagues. He is still worth a roster spot in keeper leagues, however.
News: The Red Wings assigned Jiri Hudler to Grand Rapids of the AHL on Friday.
Analysis: Hudler wasn't playing with Detroit, so the team decided to let him play regularly in the minors. He's only useful in keeper leagues.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Hudler made the team as a fourth-line center.
Analysis: Hudler only warrants Fantasy consideration in keeper leagues.
