News:Chris Higgins is expected to require an MRI for a knee strain he acquired late in the season, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis:Chris Higgins managed to play through the injury during the team's first-round playoff loss to the Sharks, appearing in all four games of the series. The injury will prevent Higgins from playing for Team USA during the 2013 IIHF World Championship.
News:Chris Higgins returned from a knee injury Monday night, logging nearly 15 minutes of ice time in a win over the Blackhawks.
Analysis: He fired off two shots on net with one blocked shot and one hit. Chris Higgins is expected to skate with Derek Roy and Jannik Hansen on the Canucks' third line going forward.
News:Chris Higgins will be active Monday against the Blackhawks after missing the last six games due to a shoulder injury, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis: We've seen a few line combinations suggested, but under all of them it looks like one of Chris Higgins' linemates will be Derek Roy.
News:Chris Higgins (knee) could return to action Monday against the Blackhawks, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis:Chris Higgins has missed the past six games with a knee injury. If he returns, Higgins is expected to skate on the third line with Derek Roy and Jannik Hansen.
News: Despite taking part in Saturday's morning skate, Chris Higgins (lower body) wasn't able to suit up against the Red Wings.
Analysis:Chris Higgins hinted at the possibility of playing in Saturday's tilt during the morning skate, but the Canucks opted to err on the side of caution. Given his recent progress, odds are Higgins returns in one of the Canucks' final three regular season games.
Canucks' Higgins Could Return For Start Of Playoffs
News:Chris Higgins (lower body) has resumed skating and may return for the opening round of the playoffs, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis:Chris Higgins is unlikely to suit up before the end of the regular season, but it's good to hear he's making progress. He's a valuable depth forward for Vancouver.
News:Chris Higgins (lower body) could miss the remainder of the season, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: Canucks coach Alain Vigneault is hopeful Chris Higgins will be ready for the playoffs, but the winger's chances of seeing any regular season action down the stretch appear slim.
News:Chris Higgins is out indefinitely with a lower-body injury, News 1130 reports.
Analysis:Chris Higgins sustained the injury during Monday's 2-0 win over the Coyotes. Canucks coach Alain Vigneault is hopeful Higgins can return to action before the playoffs start, but he didn't reveal any details on a concrete timetable.
News: The Canucks re-signed Chris Higgins to a four-year contract extension worth $10 million Tuesday, Yahoo! Sports reports.
Analysis: Re-signing Chris Higgins, who was set to become an unrestricted free agent after this season, was a top priority for the Canucks. With this behind them, the Canucks can now worry about what to do with Mason Raymond.
News:Chris Higgins posted a goal and an assist Monday as the Canucks dropped a 3-2 decision at San Jose. He finished the night plus-2 and was whistled for two penalty minutes.
Analysis: The good news: His shooting percentage is way up at 16.7%, the best of his career. The bad: He seems to have forgotten how to pass, with just five assists in 35 games. This is shaping up as a sub-par season for a skater who has never been an elite scorer.
News: As expected, Chris Higgins returned from his minor back injury Saturday. He was scoreless in 17:05 of ice time in a 1-0 win over the Kings.
Analysis:Chris Higgins skated on the third line most of the night. He saw over three minutes of ice time on the man advantage for just the second time this season. While Higgins isn't a big scorer, a rash of injuries to Canucks forwards has opened up power-play time for him, which will lead to additional opportunities to rack up more special teams points than usual in the short term.
Canucks' Higgins (Back) Expected To Return Saturday
News:Chris Higgins, who sat out Thursday's win over the Coyotes with a back injury, hopes to return to action Saturday against the Kings, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis:Chris Higgins' back tightened up during Thursday morning's skate around, but he felt fine while skating with teammates Friday afternoon. Barring a setback, he should be back on the ice Saturday afternoon.
News: Canucks general manager Mike Gillis expect Chris Higgins (back) to return soon, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis:Chris Higgins suffered the injury during Thursday's morning skate and was forced to sit out against the Coyotes that night. Consider him day-to-day.
News:Chris Higgins (back) won't play against the Coyotes on Thursday, the
Province reports.
Analysis:Chris Higgins left Thursday's morning skate after tweaking his back. With Zack Kassian and Steve Pinizzotto ailing as well, the Canucks may have to move a blueliner up front Thursday.
News:Chris Higgins will center Vancouver's second line Tuesday against the Blue Jackets, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis: The Canucks had been deploying Mason Raymond in that spot, but he's been dreadful in the face-off circle. As a result, Chris Higgins will get the chance to skate between David Booth and Zack Kassian.
News:Chris Higgins scored his seventh goal of the season in Sunday's loss to the Wild.
Analysis:Chris Higgins' seven tallies are second best on the team. He has only dished out four assists on the season, but Higgins is finding the back of the net with enough regularity to warrant consideration in deeper formats that usually value 40-point players.
News:Chris Higgins netted his sixth goal of the season in Sunday's loss to the Flames.
Analysis:Chris Higgins is currently riding a four-game point streak, totaling three goals and one assist over that stretch. He has 10 points (6 G, 4 A) through 21 games this season, putting him right near his career pace of 0.5 points per game.
News: With Ryan Kesler (shoulder, wrist) and David Booth (groin) sidelined to begin the season, Chris Higgins could get an opportunity to see additional minutes on the power play, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis: Kesler and Booth averaged a combined total of over five minutes per game on the power play last season. Some of that action is sure to be handed to Chris Higgins, who logged just under two minutes per game on the mad advantage during the 2011-12 season. The increased role on the power play will give Higgins a nice little boost in value early in the season.
News:Chris Higgins skated with the third line during Tuesday's practice, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: He bounced between the second and third line last season. Chris Higgins has never lived up to his pedigree as a first-round pick in 2002, but he did manage to post his second-best season ever last year, totaling 43 points (18 G, 25 A) in 71 games. He'll be used in a similar fashion this year, which should put him in a solid position to replicate last season's production.
News:Chris Higgins scored the only goal Vancouver would need late in the first period as the Canucks downed the Avalanche 1-0 on Wednesday.
Analysis: It was his fourth game winning goal of the season and second in three games. Chris Higgins has had a decent month of March with 10 points (5G, 5A) in 13 games.
News:Chris Higgins ended Saturday's overtime contest at Colorado with an overtime tally, his second marker of the night.
Analysis:Chris Higgins is among a solid group of second-tier scorers for Vancouver (that tier starts with anyone not surnamed Sedin). The two goals bring his season total to 40 points, a level he's reached only once before. One reason for this year's success is a rise in his shooting percentage, to 10.5 percent, but the primary factor is his career-high 25 assists, tying a mark he set four seasons ago with the Canadiens.
News:Chris Higgins is expected to skate with the second line Thursday against the Jets, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: He'll replace Zack Kassian, who will be pushed back to the fourth line after a one-game stint in the top six. Chris Higgins had some success skating with Ryan Kesler and David Booth earlier this season, and he's currently riding a hot streak with five points in his past five games. The 28-year-old winger has 34 points (13 G, 21 A) in 56 games.
News:Chris Higgins (thumb) was minus-1 while playing 13:54 in the Canucks' shootout win over Detroit on Thursday night.
Analysis: He's still having a productive campaign with the Canucks overall, carrying 29 points (11 G, 28 A) through 50 games along with a plus-7 rating for the season. It seems as though his ice time has been limited recently due to a minor thumb injury.
News:Chris Higgins missed Wednesday's practice with a thumb injury, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis:Chris Higgins sustained a cut on his thumb when he blocked a shot in the third period of Tuesday's loss to Nashville. He spent Wednesday's practice getting the cut stitched up and declared himself fit to play Thursday against Detroit. Barring a setback, look for Higgins to be on the Canucks' third line Thursday night.
News:Chris Higgins (illness) will skate with the third line in his return to action Wednesday against the Avalanche, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis:Chris Higgins saw some success while skating on the second line prior missing games due to illness, but he'll have to work on the team's bottom six upon his return. He's still worth a look in deeper formats, but this news does limit his impact going forward.
News:Chris Higgins (illness) is expected to play Wednesday against the Avalanche, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis:Chris Higgins lost a dozen pounds as a result of a reaction to antibiotics, but he took the Canucks' game-day skate Monday and is now expected back Wednesday, barring a setback.
News:Chris Higgins (illness) will join the Canucks for Monday's morning skate, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis:Chris Higgins has missed the past five games after having a bad reaction to his antibiotics. He has felt well enough to skate on his own the past couple days and should be back in the lineup come Monday night. The Canucks juggled their lines a bit while Higgins was out, so he might not return to his normal spot on the team's second line.
News: Vancouver coach Alain Vigneault doesn't expect Christopher Higgins (illness) to rejoin the team on the road, the Canucks' official site reports.
Analysis:Christopher Higgins has been feeling better, but he still hasn't responded as expected to his new medication. The Canucks play Thursday in Minnesota and Saturday in Calgary before returning to Vancouver. Unless he has a drastic turnaround, expect for Higgins to miss both of those games.
News:Christopher Higgins (illness) will miss Tuesday's game against the Predators, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis:Christopher Higgins remains in Vancouver as he deals with a bad reaction to the medication he has been taking for staph infections he battled earlier this season. The team has put Higgins on new medication with hopes of getting him back to full strength as soon as possible. He remains day-to-day.
News:Christopher Higgins (flu) will miss Saturday's game against the Avalanche, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis:Christopher Higgins, who's still dealing with the flu, didn't travel with the team to Colorado. He'll rejoin the team once he's feeling better. Byron Bitz was recalled from Chicago of the AHL as a stopgap option. Consider Higgins day-to-day.
News:Christopher Higgins (flu) was a late scratch from the lineup for Thursday's loss to the Red Wings, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: The Canucks stressed that Christopher Higgins latest illness is the flu and not related to the staph infections he dealt with earlier this season. Mason Raymond saw most of the action on the second line in place of Higgins on Thursday. Consider Higgins day-to-day.
News:Christopher Higgins has just one point in his past eight games.
Analysis: During that stretch, Christopher Higgins has failed to net a single goal. Prior to a three-game absence with a hand infection in late December, Higgins had 23 points in 34 games. Higgins will have a tough time holding on to his spot on the second line if he continues to slump.
News: As expected, Christopher Higgins returned to action Monday night against the Sharks.
Analysis:Christopher Higgins returned after missing three games with a hand infection. He was held scoreless while skating 16 minutes on the third line. Feel free to deploy him as you normally would.
News:Christopher Higgins (hand) is expected to play Monday against the Sharks, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis:Christopher Higgins has missed the past three games dealing with a hand infection. The cause of the ailment is still mysterious to the Canucks, but Higgins' swelling has deflated enough for the winger to return to practice Sunday. Assuming there aren't any setbacks, look for Higgins to be back on his usual spot on the second line Monday night.
News: Canucks general manager Mike Gillis said Christopher Higgins is out of the hospital and recovering nicely from his hand infection, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis: Gillis even suggested there's an outside chance Christopher Higgins could rejoin the team for Saturday's tilt in Los Angeles. Keep a close eye on Saturday's morning skate to see if the 28-year-old winger is active.
News:Christopher Higgins (hand) will miss Thursday's game against the Ducks, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis:Christopher Higgins is dealing with a mysterious hand injury that is believed to be an infection. He's doubtful for Saturday's tilt against the Kings as well, so make sure he's on your bench.
News:Christopher Higgins (hand) did not travel with the Canucks for Wednesday's game against the Sharks, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis:Christopher Higgins is dealing with a hand infection, which is believed to be similar to the foot infection he battled in early December. He's scheduled to undergo more tests to determine the cause of his swollen hand, after which we'll have a better grasp on a timetable for his return. The Canucks next three games are all in California, so there's a good chance Higgins remains in Vancouver until the team returns. Make sure he's on your bench.
News:Christopher Higgins missed Tuesday's practice with an apparent foot injury, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis: While not confirmed, this is believed to be the same foot infection that sidelined Christopher Higgins three weeks ago. Monitor his situation closely to see what his status will be for Wednesday's tilt against the Sharks.
News:Christopher Higgins scored a goal and an assist in Saturday's win over Toronto. He's now on a three-game point streak.
Analysis: He has a goal and three assists in those three games and 10 points in his last eight games. He seems to enjoy skating with Ryan Kesler and Mason Raymond. Use him while he's hot.
News:Christopher Higgins returned to the lineup Saturday and logged 14:16 in ice time, finished even in plus/minus and registered one shot on goal in Vancouver's 4-1 win over the Senators.
Analysis:Christopher Higgins had missed the previous two games with an infection in his right foot. He did not show any lingering effects of the injury and should be back in your starting lineup.
Canucks' Higgins To Practice Friday, Play Saturday
News:Christopher Higgins (foot) will practice Friday and should play Saturday against Ottawa, Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: The 28-year-old winger is slated to return after missing the team's past two games. In 23 appearances this season, Christopher Higgins has 12 points (7G, 5A). Barring a setback in practice, Higgins should play Saturday and should be returned to fantasy lineups where he belongs.
News:Christopher Higgins (foot) won't play Thursday against the Canucks, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis:Christopher Higgins joined the Canucks on their five-game road trip, but his foot is still too swollen for him to return to the lineup. Mason Raymond is expected to fill in on the second line.
News:Christopher Higgins swollen foot has subsided enough for the winger to travel with the Canucks on their upcoming five-game road trip, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis: Still no word on how long Christopher Higgins will be sidelined, but the team wouldn't bring him on the road unless there was a chance he could play during the trip. Consider him day-to-day.
News: As expected, Christopher Higgins (foot) won't play in Tuesday's tilt against the Avalanche, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis:Christopher Higgins is officially listed as day-to-day, but he could be out for a week or so. While we're still waiting on complete details on his latest injury, Higgins did miss six games with the Panthers last season with a similar foot ailment. Get him to your bench.
News:Christopher Higgins has a swollen foot and is not likely to play Tuesday, the Canucks' official site reports.
Analysis:Christopher Higgins is scheduled to see an infection specialist. No word on exactly what happened to Higgins, but don't expect him in the lineup Tuesday.
News:Christopher Higgins scored the game-winner and added two assists Sunday against Calgary.
Analysis:Christopher Higgins now has 17 points on the season in 26 games and he has tallied a point in four straight contests.
News:Christopher Higgins scored the game-winner in overtime against Ottawa on Sunday.
Analysis: This was Christopher Higgins' seventh goal of the season, but his first goal in eight games.
News:Christopher Higgins scored twice, once on the power play, in Vancouver's win over the Caps on Saturday.
Analysis: So much for the shame of a demotion to the third line. He may actually stick there for another game or two, and if this line clicks, it might prove to be a de facto second line, capable of adding offense from an unexpected source.
News:Christopher Higgins has been demoted to the third line for Saturday's tilt against the Capitals, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis: He'll be replaced on the second line by Cody Hodgson. Christopher Higgins has gotten off to a decent start this season, but Canucks coach Alain Vigneault is trying to spark his offense by making line changes. Keep an eye on Higgins' ice time in the short term to see how this demotion affects his production.
News:Christopher Higgins has five points (3 G, 2 A) through eight games.
Analysis: After years of disappointing play, Christopher Higgins is starting to come into his own with the Canucks. He's currently skating on the second line and seeing time on the power play. Higgins hasn't been this solid of a fantasy option since topping 50 points during the 2007-08 season. He's worth a look in deep leagues.
News: Despite missing Wednesday's practice with tightness in his groin, Christopher Higgins will play in Thursday's season opener against the Penguins, the Canucks' official site reports.
Analysis: The report adds that Christopher Higgins will make an appearance on the third line, along with Manny Malhotra and Jannik Hansen. Higgins starting away from a scoring line is enough reason to temper expectations for the 28-year-old in the early going.
News:Christopher Higgins did not practice Wednesday, but he's expected to play Thursday, Canucks' official Twitter feed reports.
Analysis: No injury is being reported, so we'll chalk it up as a maintenance day for Christopher Higgins unless we hear otherwise.
News:Christopher Higgins banked three assists, one on the power play, in Vancouver's preseason win over Edmonton on Saturday night.
Analysis: If you're looking to collect assists, you could do a lot worse than to center the #2 line for Vancouver. If we could be assured that he'd play the full season in that role, he'd be on our hot list. But we can't so he isn't; at least not yet.
News:Christopher Higgins is currently listed as the center on the Canucks' No. 2 line, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis: With Ryan Kesler nursing a hip injury, Christopher Higgins is getting the first look at taking over as the team's second-line center. The veteran still has to hold off the likes of Cody Hodgson in training camp, but Higgins will deserve a modest early-season boost if he does nab the gig.
Vancouver Signs Higgins For Two Years And $1.9 Million
News: Higgins has officially been signed by Vancouver to a two-year, $1.9 million deal, TSN's Bob McKenzie reports.
Analysis: The Canucks have been busy in the early moments of free agency, having reached deals with Higgins and defenseman Sami Salo. Higgins is limited in terms of what he can do with the puck, though he is versatile and capable of playing on different lines. The 28-year-old had just five points in 14 games this past season, but dealt with a number of injuries, including an ailing hamstring, broken thumb, and an issue with his foot.
News: The Canucks are reportedly close to signing Higgins to a two-year deal, according to the Vancouver Sun.
Analysis: The report notes that the Canucks have signed defenseman Sami Salo, and Higgins appears to be next in line. Higgins has had some troubles with injuries in the past, though he is versatile and can be used on special teams.
News: The Canucks have had preliminary discussions with Higgins (foot) about signing an extension before he becomes an unrestricted free agent Friday, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: While Higgins' production (five points in 14 games) with the Canucks wasn't much to write home about, he provided the team with versatility while appearing on multiple lines and both special teams. He would likely slot in on the third or fourth line with a return to Vancouver, so a new home would likely be better for him from a fantasy perspective.
Canucks' Higgins (Foot) Played Through Hairline Fracture
News: Higgins suffered a hairline fracture in his foot during the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: Higgins played through the injury despite aggravating it in each of the next two rounds. The Canucks winger is expected to need three to five weeks of rehab.
Canucks' Higgins Battled Foot Injury During Stanley Cup Final
News: Higgins dealt with a foot injury during the Stanley Cup Final, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: The specifics of the injury are still unknown, but it's believed to have stemmed from a block shot Higgins took off his foot during the second-round series against the Predators. Monitor Higgins' recovery this offseason if you're in a league deep enough to own him.
News: HIggins had a goal and two assists Wednesday night as Vancouver downed San Jose, 7-3.
Analysis: He scored the game-winning goal on a Vancouver power play at the 7:56 mark of the third period. The Canucks never looked back, scoring three unanswered goals after Higgins' strike.
News: Higgins (undisclosed) did not practice Friday, Canucks.NHL.com reports.
Analysis: Higgins could have been out due to the foot injury he's been playing through, but no reason was given for his absence at this point. Consider him day-to-day heading into Game 1 on Sunday.
News: Coach Alain Vigneault said Higgins (foot) will play in Game 1 against San Jose on Sunday, Vancouver Province writer JiM Jamieson reports.
Analysis: It looks like it would take a setback for Higgins to miss Sunday's game. We'll make note of any changes to his status after Saturday's practice.
News: Higgins said his foot is feeling good and he will skate Saturday, Canucks.NHL.com reports.
Analysis: This definitely bodes well for his Sunday availability. We'll keep an eye on Saturday's events.
News: As expected, Higgins played through his foot injury Monday as the Canucks advanced past the Predators.
Analysis: Higgins finished plus-1 with two penalty minutes in over 19 minutes of ice time. The Canucks are set to get a couple days off before the puck drops for the Western Conference Finals, so Higgins should have plenty of time to heal up.
Canucks' Higgins Plans To Play Through Foot Injury
News: Higgins, who's nursing a left foot injury from a blocked shot in Game 5, plans to play Monday, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: Higgins has provided the Canucks with solid two-way play throughout the postseason, but his limited offensive production (3 G, 1 A) only makes him worth a look in deeper playoff pools.
News: Higgins netted the lone goal in Thursday's 1-0 win over Nashville.
Analysis: Higgins has scored goals in both of the series openers for the Canucks in the playoffs. He won't put up a lot of points, but Higgins could hold some value in playoff pools if the Canucks make a long run this postseason.
News: Higgins netted a goal in Wednesday's Round 1 Game 1 win over the Blackhawks.
Analysis: Higgins only managed 13 goals in 62 regular season games, but he's only a few seasons removed from threatening the 30-goal mark, so he has the necessary skills to be a surprise factor in deep playoff pools.
News: With Manny Malhotra (eye) expected to miss action, Higgins could see time with the Canucks' second and third lines, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: Higgins skated with the Canucks' second and third line after Malhotra left Wednesday's game with an eye injury. He has just one assist since joining the Canucks lineup, but Higgins should get more opportunities to rack up points in the short term. Deep leagues may want to give him some consideration.
News: A week and a half after being acquired from Florida at the trade deadline, Higgins finally got into his first game with Vancouver, skating a not-very-impactful 12:49 in a shootout win over the Sharks.
Analysis: He didn't register a point or a shot on goal, but he did have a hit. There's something to hang your hat on. Higgins did have some deep-league relevance with Florida this year, scoring 11 goals in 48 games, but he won't see that same ice time in Vancouver.
News: Higgins (Thumb) skated with the Canucks' fourth line during Wednesday's practice, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: All signs point to Higgins making his debut with the Canucks on Thursday against the Sharks. His status as a fourth liner will limit his fantasy value.
News: Higgins (thumb) could make his Canucks debut Thursday against the Sharks, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: Higgins joined the team in Phoenix for Tuesday's tilt, but he'll have to participate in practice Wednesday before being cleared for game action. He's expected to skate on the Canucks' fourth line upon his return.
News: Coach Alain Vigneault said that Higgins (fractured thumb) will join the Canucks on Monday in Phoenix, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: That said, Higgins is considered unlikely to play Tuesday against the Coyotes, though he should be able to participate in practice.
News: Higgins (thumb) is expected to join the Canucks on their five-game road trip that begins Saturday, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: Higgins is expected to join the team in practice early next week and should return to game action shortly after that. He's expected to bolster the Canucks' fourth line upon his return.
Canucks' Higgins (Thumb) One Week Away From Returning To Ice
News: Higgins (broken thumb) isn't expected to start working out and skating on his own for another "week or so," the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis: Higgins suffered a broken thumb while blocking a shot when he was still with the Panthers last week. A timetable for his return won't be known until after he starts practicing with his new squad, but the previously suggested two to three weeks seems reasonable.
News: Higgins (thumb) will have a full medical examination once he reports to the Canucks, the Vancouver Province reports.
Analysis: There was some speculation that Higgins could make an early return after he was traded Thursday, but the left winger still expects to miss a couple of weeks with his thumb injury. If the two-week timetable sticks, Higgins will only play about a dozen regular season games with the Canucks. He's expected to help the team shore up their fourth line.
News: Florida traded Higgins (thumb) to Vancouver on Monday for defenseman Evan Oberg and a 2011 third-round pick, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis: It was announced earlier Monday that Higgins is now expected to miss 7-10 days rather than four weeks with his injury. That news made him a movable commodity and Florida was able to get a third-round pick and a defenseman with some upside for Higgins, who wasn't part of its future.
News: Higgins (thumb) is now expected to miss 7-10 days rather than four weeks with his injury, Kevin Allen of USA Today reports.
Analysis: Ultimately, he becomes a movable commodity for the Panthers leading into Monday afternoon's trade deadline as it's expected that the team will once again be sellers as they look ahead to next season.
News: Higgins has a broken thumb and will miss two to three weeks, Kevin Allen of USA Today reports.
Analysis: With Higgins out two to three weeks and Rostislav Olesz possibly done for the rest of the season, the Panthers may need to make some moves before the trade deadline to acquire some extra depth.
News: Higgins suffered a hand injury in Friday's game and will not return, Harvey Fialkov of the South Florida Sun Sentinel reports.
Analysis: Higgins played just over five minutes before exiting the game. Consider him questionable for Sunday's game against the Devils at this point.
News: Higgins scored a goal and added an assist Sunday against the Sharks.
Analysis: On the season, Higgins' numbers aren't too impressive, but he has scored 12 points in his last 15 games and has certainly been better in the later portion of the season. In a deep league, he'd be worth a pickup.
News: Higgins played 18:12 on Tuesday in his return from a hamstring injury, registering an assist.
Analysis: Higgins missed eight games with a nicked-up hamstring but gave the team a bit of an offensive boost Tuesday. Hamstrings are always tricky, but playing almost 20 minutes in a return is a good sign. If he's a regular of yours, it looks safe to use him going forward.
News: Higgins (hamstring) will return to the lineup Tuesday against the Rangers, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports.
Analysis: Higgins has missed Florida's last eight games due to a pulled hamstring. Although he admitted he is less than 100 percent, he wants to try to provide a spark for the Panthers' struggling offense.
News: Higgins (hamstring) is skating again and said he will travel with the team on its upcoming road trip, the Miami Herald reports.
Analysis: Higgins has missed the last seven games, but he's hoping to play at some point before the All-Star break.
News: Higgins (hamstring) will not play Wednesday against Columbus, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports.
Analysis: It's unlikely that he'll play at all this week, as he's been limited to working off ice and strengthening his leg thus far.
News: Higgins (hamstring) will not play in Tuesday's game against the Capitals, the Sun-Sentinel reports.
Analysis: Higgins missed Saturday's game with the injury as well. At this point, he's still considered day-to-day but the Panthers have yet to offer up a firm timetable as to when he'll get back on the ice.
News: Higgins sat out Saturday's contest against the Capitals with a lower body injury, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports.
Analysis: Higgins is listed as day-to-day, so the injury may not be too serious. Still, there is no definite timetable for his return. Be sure to monitor his status in the coming days.
Florida's Higgins Gets Two Points In Loss Wednesday
News: Higgins had a goal and an assist in a losing effort Wednesday night as Atlanta defeated Florida 3-2.
Analysis: He was named the game's second star. Higgins finished the night with a plus-2 rating, three shots on goal, and a minor penalty. He now has points in four straight games and might make a nice short-term play.
News: Higgins scored his sixth goal of the year in Sunday's win over the Rangers.
Analysis: Even though Tomas Vokoun pitched a shutout, it was Higgins that was named first star of the game. He was plus-2 on the night in addition to his goal.
News: Higgins scored twice in the Panthers' 4-3 victory over the Sabres on Thursday night.
Analysis: Higgins recorded his fourth and fifth goals of the season Thursday. Both scores came in the opening period with the first just 1:10 into the game. Higgins should receive no fantasy consideration.
News: Higgins (foot) returned to the lineup Wednesday, skating for 20:27 and notching an assist.
Analysis: Higgins finished with an assist and a plus-1 rating on the evening. He has just seven points on the season (3G, 4A) and shouldn't be of any consideration for your fantasy roster.
News: Higgins should play Wednesday after a staph infection in his foot sidelined him for four games, George Richards of the Miami Herald reports.
Analysis: It took nearly a week before the correct diagnosis was made and Higgins was able to receive proper treatment for the infection. Expect him back in the lineup Wednesday.
News: Higgins is suffering from a staph infection in his foot, the Miami Herald reports.
Analysis: Higgins has missed four games with the infection, but team trainer Dave Zenobi noted that Higgins is responding well to the antibiotics and could return to the lineup as early as Wednesday.
News: Higgins is suffering from an infection on his foot that will likely prevent him from dressing Saturday against the Coyotes, the Miami Herald reports.
Analysis: The infection is painful enough that it gives Higgins trouble walking. After visiting a local hospital, Higgins said that he still hasn't "gotten a straight answer out of anyone on what this is."
News: Higgins missed Thursday's game against the Ducks with an infection in his foot, the Sun-Sentinel reports.
Analysis: A cut on Higgins' foot apparently became infected before Thursday's game and is painful enough to prevent the winger from skating. Bill Thomas will likely replace him if Higgins can't go Saturday in Phoenix.
News: Higgins notched his third goal of the season in Florida's 2-1 victory over the Wild on Friday night.
Analysis: Higgins has come under fire from coach Pete DeBoer for his lack of production so far this season, but has scored two of his three goals in the last four games. He seems to be heating up; for the sake of the Panthers' anemic offense, here's hoping it lasts.
News: Coach Pete DeBoer expressed frustration with the lack of production from his top forwards, including Higgins, the Sun-Sentinel reports.
Analysis: A day after tying a franchise-high with 55 shots on goal and still losing, DeBoer had his team practicing "every shooting drill imaginable." Higgins, who has connected on 11-15% of his shots through his first three seasons, has only been effective 4.5% of the time this season. "It's not just shooting, it's finishing," Higgins said. The Panthers offense has looked anemic throughout much of the season so far and often struggles to provide netminder Tomas Vokoun with the goal support he needs.
News: Higgins recorded his first point in eight games Thursday night against Ottawa.
Analysis: Higgins, who was slowed by a groin injury earlier this month, finally found the back of the net late in the third period after the game was well out of reach. After yet another reconstruction of the lines, Higgins and Mike Santorelli both netted their first goals of the season.
News:Christopher Higgins didn't need much convincing before joining the Florida Panthers. The Panthers signed Higgins to a $1.6 million, one-year contract Friday, with plans to make him the second-line left wing behind David Booth on the depth chart. "Booth and Higgins on the left side, that's pretty good," Panthers general manager Dale Tallon said. "He'll be a top-six forward on our team."
Analysis: Higgins was Montreal's first-round draft pick in 2002 and had 72 goals for the Canadiens in his first three full NHL seasons. He's scored just 20 goals in the three years since, splitting time with Montreal, Calgary and the New York Rangers. When he and the Panthers opened talks, Higgins indicated he believes he's ready for a bounceback season. A few hours later, the deal was done. "Obviously I'm very excited," said Higgins, who also considered re-signing with Calgary. "It's a great opportunity to come down and prove myself again." Higgins has dealt with an array of injuries the last three seasons, but said Friday that he feels "great" and that his workouts this summer have gone according to plan. Still, it's tough to get overly excited about a player that totaled just eight goals and 17 points in 67 games last season. Higgins might return to his 20-goal form in 2010-11, but he is still nothing more than a low-end Fantasy flier on Draft Day.
News: Flames LW Christopher Higgins missed a fourth straight game with a lower-body injury on Sunday against the Wild. The Sports Xchange reports there is no timetable for a return.
Analysis: Higgins has two goals and one assist in his last five games, but he still isn't producing at the level he is capable of. Higgins' career has really been in the tank the last two years, so he has minimal Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Flames LW Christopher Higgins did not suit up for Friday's game against the Sharks due to a lower-body injury. He missed his third consecutive game.
Analysis: With eight goals and nine assists at minus-9 on the season, Higgins has little if any Fantasy value when healthy.
News: Flames LW Christopher Higgins was a scratch for Wednesday's game against the Avalanche due to a lower-body injury. He is listed as day to day.
Analysis: Higgins has scored twice in his last three games, but his numbers have still been pedestrian since joining Calgary in February. Also, he still isn't getting much power-play time. It has been a tough two-year stretch for Higgins, who has minimal Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Flames LW Christopher Higgins did not dress on Monday against the Red Wings because of a lower-body injury. He is day to day.
Analysis: Higgins has scored twice in his last three games, but his numbers have still been pedestrian since joining Calgary in February. Also, he still isn't getting much power-play time. It has been a tough two-year stretch for Higgins, who has minimal Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: 960AM out of Calgary reports that Flames LW Christopher Higgins will miss Monday's game vs. Detroit with a lower body injury.
Analysis: Higgins has two goals in his last three games but hasn't exploded offensively since coming to the Flames from the Rangers in the Olli Jokinen deal. When healthy, Higgins is just a low-end option best left for deeper Fantasy leagues.
News: Forwards Ales Kotalik and Christopher Higgins made their debuts for the Flames on Wednesday against the Hurricanes after being acquired on Monday from the New York Rangers for Olli Jokinen and Brandon Prust. Neither player had a point but Higgins was plus-1. "I thought they did a good job," said coach Brent Sutter, who put Daymond Langkow at center between the two newest Flames. "I thought that Daymond handled it well playing with two new guys."
Analysis: Higgins was in a similar situation to Kotalik. He was also brought in during the offseason as a potential scoring force on the wing. Unfortunately, he severely undercut expectations. Higgins had only six goals and 14 points in 55 games with New York. Higgins has been in a career slump since last season and has minimal Fantasy appeal until he starts putting up consistent points.
News: The Rangers acquired C Olli Jokinen and C Brandon Prust from the Flames for LW Christopher Higgins and RW Ales Kotalik late Monday night. The deal had been rumored for a couple of days.
Analysis: Jokinen, who was dealt from Florida to Calgary at last year's trade deadline, has just 11 goals and 24 assists in 55 games for the Flames this season. The four-time 30-goal scorer comes with a salary cap hit of $5.25 million in the final year of his contract. If he gels with Marian Gaborik, Jokinen's Fantasy value might rise, but he didn't exactly light it up alongside another elite forward, Jarome Iginla, in Calgary. He remains worth owning in all formats, but should only be starting in leagues with 12 teams or more until he picks up the pace. Kotalik was a mess in New York, but this is a guy who did have a 62-point campaign with the Sabres a few seasons ago. Keep a hold of him in super-deep leagues just in case he does find himself at home in western Canada. Prust remains just a flier option in deeper leagues that reward bad behavior, while Higgins is still only worth worrying about in larger formats, too.
News: As first reported by TSN, the Rangers were closing in on a trade Sunday that would import center Olli Jokinen and physical winger Brandon Prust from Calgary in exchange for often scratched forward Ales Kotalik and unproductive winger Christopher Higgins, The Sports Xchange writes. According to Newsday, a Rangers spokesman said Sunday that "complications arose in the tentative deal and Kotalik was sent to New York as negotiations continued."
Analysis: The only player really going to be heavily affected in the deal for Fantasy purposes would be Jokinen. Kotalik, Higgins and Prust are all role players and wouldn't be expected to carry a heavy offensive load. Kotalik, Higgins and Prust still have low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Rangers winger Christopher Higgins scored a goal and added an assist during an 8-2 victory over the Lightning on Tuesday night. Higgins scored his 6th of the year in the 3rd period.
Analysis: Higgins picked up just his third points in January and has 13 on the year for the Rangers. It's quite evident that Higgins has been a disappointment in his first season with New York and has marginal Fantasy appeal.
News:Christopher Higgins' tiebreaking goal with 1:29 left rescued the New York Rangers, lifting them to a 3-2 victory over Boston after the Bruins scored twice late in the third period Monday night. New York escaped when Higgins sneaked his fifth of the season past goalie Tuukka Rask. It was also his first goal in 12 games.
Analysis: Higgins seems to do his best work early in a month. He had two points in his first two games in October before going cold. He had three points in his first five November games before going cold. He also had three points in his first three December games before struggling. It's quite evident that Higgins has been a disappointment in his first season with New York and has marginal Fantasy appeal.
News: Rangers LW Christopher Higgins scored his team's only goal during a 2-1 loss to the Blackhawks on Wednesday. Marian Gaborik, the leading goal scorer in the NHL entering the game, made a nice pass from the right circle to Higgins in the left circle and he fired a hard wrist shot past Cristobal Huet, staking the Rangers to a 1-0 lead in the first. Higgins has two goals and one assist during a three-game point streak.
Analysis: Higgins is up to four goals on the season, but he clearly hasn't been the scorer New York envisioned when they traded for him in the offseason. He has bounced all over the place for the Rangers, but hasn't shown much life until lately. Higgins could be ready to go on a nice run, but he still isn't going to win the scoring title. He has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Rangers LW Christopher Higgins was moved back to the top line on the left side of leading scorers Marian Gaborik and Vaclav Prospal on Monday against Columbus after spending the previous few games playing center because of injuries to Chris Drury and Brandon Dubinksy. Higgins has just two goals in 22 games. "We want stability with the lines, but we can't have that while we have our people out," coach John Tortorella said. "I just want that winger to be able to get loose pucks and be responsible away from the puck -- that will allow Vinny and Gabby to anticipate. Sometimes, too, I want to use that spot to get a guy going."
Analysis: Higgins had two assists and finished at plus-2 on Monday. Unfortunately, he still has only two goals on the season and hasn't scored in six games. Higgins has had a rough first season with the Rangers. It's good to see him on the top scoring line, but we would leave him alone in Fantasy until the points come in on a regular basis.
News:The Sports Xchange reports LW Christopher Higgins' first season in New York hasn't gone as planned, as he has no goals and two assists in his first 11 appearances. But the Long Island native looked forward to hearing some boos on the road Saturday in Montreal, where Higgins spent the first four seasons of his NHL career. "That's what happens to every opposing player who comes back," said Higgins, who was benched in the third period after taking a costly penalty. "No better place to turn things around, that's for sure."
Analysis: Higgins hasn't seen a lot of top-six time because of his poor play and the Rangers aren't sure what it will take to snap the left winger out of his slump. Higgins is a 20-goal threat, but clearly is a bad start in Fantasy until he turns his season around.
News: The New York Rangers agreed to terms on a one-year, $2.25 million deal with Christopher Higgins, a restricted free agent acquired last week in a six-player trade that sent Scott Gomez to the Montreal Canadiens. The Rangers announced the deal on Monday. Higgins, a Long Island native, came to the Rangers along with Ryan McDonagh and Pavel Valentenko for Gomez, Tom Pyatt and Mike Busto last Tuesday -- the eve of the start of the NHL free-agent shopping season.
Analysis: In 282 regular-season NHL games with Montreal, the left winger had 84 goals and 67 assists. Higgins has reached the 20-goal mark three times, including a career-high 27 in the 2007-08 season when he set a personal best with 52 points in 82 games. Higgins had a down year in 2008-09 due to injury, but if he can stay healthy in 2009-10, he has the ability to hit 20 goals again. Higgins will have low-end Fantasy appeal Draft Day. He also has Fantasy appeal in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: The Rangers have started trimming salary by trading star center Scott Gomez to the Montreal Canadiens for forward Christopher Higgins in a six-player deal. On the eve of the NHL free-agent shopping season, New York sent Gomez and his big contract that has five years remaining to Montreal on Tuesday with minor leaguers Tom Pyatt and Mike Busto. Along with Higgins, a Long Island native, the Rangers are receiving defensemen Ryan McDonagh and Pavel Valentenko from the Canadiens. "We think that Higgins is a goal-scorer and we're happy to have him," Rangers general manager Glen Sather said on a conference call. "He is from the New York area and he's excited to be coming home. We also got two good prospects in this deal and it gives us options (Wednesday)."
Analysis: Higgins, a 26-year-old forward from Smithtown, N.Y., is also coming off a sub-par season. He had a career-worst 23 points -- including 12 goals -- last season. He played in only 57 games due to injuries that knocked him out of the lineup several times. Higgins scored at least 20 goals in the previous three seasons, his first three full campaigns in the NHL. "I didn't expect to be traded," Higgins said. "I heard my name thrown around ever since I've been in Montreal, but I never expected it to happen. When it happened, I was absolutely thrilled. I am looking forward to a new challenge. It's something I take great pride in to put on a Rangers uniform." He is a capable 20-goal scorer, but Higgins will have low-end Fantasy appeal Draft Day. He also has Fantasy appeal in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: Montreal C Christopher Higgins scored the first goal of Wednesday's game against the Capitals less than three minutes in. The goal came on a snap shot on a Washington power play. It was his eighth goal of the year to go with six assists.
Analysis: Higgins missed 19 games this season with a shoulder injury and is now trying to work his way back to Fantasy relevance. He has a goal and an assist in his past two games but isn't really lighting things up. He remains just a low-end option best reserved for leagues that heavily reward shorthanded stats.
News:Christopher Higgins and Maxim Lapierre scored second-period goals and Andrei Kostitsyn scored with 4:15 left to seal Montreal's 4-2 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday. Higgins scored a short-handed goal midway through the second to give Montreal a 2-1 lead. Higgins drove in on a breakaway and fired a shot past Marc-Andre Fleury into the top of the net 11:05 into the second for an unassisted effort, his second goal in three games, and seventh overall.
Analysis: Higgins just returned to the lineup after missing 19 games due to a shoulder injury and has been active for just 26 games this season. He has said he needed some time to get back into the flow of the game, but with two goals in five games since returning, it appears the scoring is coming back quickly for Higgins, who is a low-end Fantasy option and flier in leagues that reward heavily for short-handed stats.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins returned to the lineup Tuesday against the Lightning after missing 19 games with a shoulder injury. He didn't record a point in 13:58 of ice time and finished at even.
Analysis: Higgins has missed a great deal of time this season due to injury and it has really cut into his offensive flow. If he ever gets going in the second half, he could be a viable Fantasy option. For now, Higgins has low-end value.
News: The Montreal Gazette reports that Canadiens C Christopher Higgins will return from a shoulder injury Tuesday night against the Lightning.
Analysis: Higgins has been out for nearly two months with this injury. When healthy, he is only a low-end option, so use him in deeper leagues if you must.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins (shoulder) did accompany the team on their two-game road trip, but did not play Tuesday against the Thrashers or Wednesday against the Devils. He is questionable for Tuesday's game at Tampa Bay after the All-Star Break.
Analysis: The fact that Higgins is practicing is a good sign for the forward. He has been out for nearly two months and was not expected back before the All-Star Break, so he wasn't expected to be back yet anyways. Don't start him in the upcoming scoring period unless word comes out that he is back in action. When healthy, he is only a low-end option.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins (shoulder) did accompany the team on their two-game road trip, but did not play Tuesday against the Thrashers. He is doubtful to play Wednesday against the Devils as well.
Analysis: Higgins has been out for nearly two months and it has been a long shot for him to make it back before the All-Star break. He is practicing, which is a good sign, so we expect him back shortly. Still, Higgins remains more of a low-end Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Canadiens forwards Saku Koivu and Christopher Higgins practiced Monday and will accompany the Canadiens on their brief two-game road trip -- which starts Tuesday in Atlanta -- though it's unlikely that either of the injured forwards will play before the All-Star break.
Analysis: Higgins has not had a real pleasant 2008-09 due to injuries. He has been active for just 21 games this season and has produced nine points. His jeopardy of scoring 20 goals in a season could come to an end at three years if he can't get hot down the stretch. Higgins remains a low-end Fantasy forward when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Canadiens LW Christopher Higgins, who suffered a shoulder injury when he was checked into the boards in the Dec. 9 game against Calgary, has resumed skating, but Canadiens coach Guy Carbonneau said Higgins probably won't play until after the All-Star game.
Analysis: Higgins has not had a real pleasant 2008-09 due to injuries. He has been active for just 21 games this season and has produced nine points. His jeopardy of scoring 20 goals in a season could come to an end at three years if he can't get hot down the stretch. Higgins remains a low-end Fantasy forward when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Canadiens forward Christopher Higgins, who was injured Tuesday against Calgary, was supposed to be out for a week but an MRI showed that he had suffered a shoulder injury which was similar to Mike Komisarek's and he'll be out for five weeks.
Analysis: Higgins has not had a real pleasant 2008-09 due to injuries. He has been active for just 21 games this season and has produced nine points. His jeopardy of scoring 20 goals in a season could come to an end at three years if he can't get hot down the stretch. Higgins remains a low-end Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Montreal C Christopher Higgins, who injured himself in Tuesday's 4-1 win over Calgary, sat for the second straight game against the Capitals on Saturday. Higgins is out due to an unspecified upper body injury.
Analysis: Higgins has nine points on the season and zero over his last six games. This is an unfortunate turn of events for the Canadiens, who were just getting Higgins back into the flow of things. Check back to find out the extent of the injury but for now you can keep him reserved in Fantasy.
News: Montreal C Christopher Higgins, who injured himself in Tuesday's 4-1 win over Calgary, could not return to action on Thursday against the Lightning. Higgins is out due to an unspecified upper body injury.
Analysis: Higgins has nine points on the season and zero over his last six games. This is an unfortunate turn of events for the Canadiens, who were just getting Higgins back into the flow of things. Check back to find out the extent of the injury but for now you can keep him reserved in Fantasy.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins, who left Tuesday's win over the Flames with an upper-body injury, will have an MRI on Wednesday. "We'll know more after that," Canadiens coach Guy Carbonneau said. "I can't tell you if it's one day or six weeks."
Analysis: Higgins has nine points on the season and zero over his last six games. This is an unfortunate turn of events for the Canadiens, who were just getting Higgins back into the flow of things. Check back to find out the extent of the injury but for now you can keep him reserved in Fantasy.
News: Canadiens left wing Christopher Higgins left Tuesday's game against the Flames 14:43 into the first period. He suffered an upper body injury and did not return.
Analysis: Higgins has nine points on the season and zero over his last six games. This is an unfortunate turn of events for the Canadiens, who were just getting Higgins back into the flow of things. Check back to find out the extent of the injury but for now you can keep him reserved in Fantasy.
News: Montreal C Christopher Higgins scored a goal in Wednesday's win over the Detroit Red Wings. It was Higgins' fifth goal of the season and ninth point.
Analysis: Higgins came into Wednesday's game with just one point in seven games since netting a hat trick and now has points in two in a row. Careful before adding him across the board. We'd still give him until the rest of the week to see if he can continue on this pace. If he keeps scoring points, get him active fast.
News: Montreal C Christopher Higgins broke out on Tuesday night against the Ottawa Senators. Higgins, who had just one goal in six games this season, scored three times for his first hat trick this year. He scored the game's first goal, shorthanded, added his second in the 2nd period to make it 2-0 and finished up with the only goal of the 3rd period to give the game its final margin. Higgins now has four goals on the year and seven points.
Analysis: Higgins can be a useful low-end starting Fantasy forward when he's scoring points. He hadn't been up until Tuesday. Careful before adding him across the board. We'd still give him until the rest of the week to see if he can continue on this pace. If he keeps scoring points, get him active fast.
News: The Montreal Gazette reports that Canadiens C Chritopher Higgins has regained his spot on the top line alongside Saku Koivu and Alex Tanguay. Higgins lost his spot there to Guillaume Latendresse when he injured his groin in early October.
Analysis: Higgins can be a useful low-end starting Fantasy forward when he's scoring points, but you should give him maybe a week or two back on this top line before inserting him into your lineup, just to see how he does. Latendresse, who wasn't able to maintain a hot start, should still be considered just a low-end Fantasy option best left for deeper leagues.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins scored his first goal of the season Saturday against the Islanders. Higgins tied the score at 4 with a wrist shot past Yann Danis 14:06 into the third period. He now has two points in his first four games since returning from a groin injury.
Analysis: Higgins has not been returned to his spot on the second line since Guillaume Latendresse has done so well with Saku Koivu and Alex Tanguay. Higgins could eventually move up, but for now he remains a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Montreal C Christopher Higgins came off injured reserve on Saturday against the Anaheim Ducks and immediately contributed. Higgins, who came off an injury to his groin, assisted Saku Koivu's 1st period goal.
Analysis: Higgins now has four points on the season with three assists and a goal. Higgins is teamed with Robert Lang and Tom Kostopoulos on his line and should be considered a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins had hoped to return from a groin injury Monday against the Panthers that kept him out since the season started, but was still unable to play and missed a sixth game. He remains day to day and questionable for Saturday's tilt with Anaheim.
Analysis: Guillaume Latendresse has been filling Higgins' left wing spot on the second line, and the line has been Montreal's most effective -- it has 20 points in five games. Latendresse has a goal and five assists. When Higgins comes back, he'll be teamed with Robert Lang and Tom Kostopoulos. Consider Higgins a low-end Fantasy option when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Canadiens have two regulars -- forward Christopher Higgins and defenseman Francis Bouillon -- champing at the bit waiting to make their season debuts, and there's a possibility Higgins will play Monday when the Florida Panthers visit the Bell Centre. Higgins, recovering from a groin injury, and Bouillon, who has a leg injury, had hoped to face Phoenix Saturday night. Both players have been practicing with the team, but neither received medical clearance Saturday morning.
Analysis: With the Canadiens playing well (4-0-1 after beating the Coyotes 4-1), there was little pressure to rush the players back into the lineup. After Monday's game, the Canadiens don't play again until Oct. 25 against Anaheim, and coach Guy Carbonneau planned to take advantage of the break to give his players extra time to recover. But the situation might have changed because Andrei Kostitsyn suffered what appeared to be a concussion when he was shoved into the boards by Kurt Sauer in the second period of Saturday's game. That opens a spot for Higgins, but he's not likely to regain his spot on the line with Saku Koivu and Alex Tanguay. Guillaume Latendresse has been filling Higgins' left wing spot, and the line has been Montreal's most effective -- it has 20 points in five games. Latendresse has a goal and five assists. When Higgins comes back, he'll be teamed with Robert Lang and Tom Kostopoulos. Consider Higgins a low-end Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Montreal C Christopher Higgins missed Saturday's game against the Coyotes because of a groin injury. He's missed the team's first five games and remains day to day.
Analysis: Higgins has managed 20-plus goals for three straight seasons and is a valuable offensive player to the Canadiens when healthy. He is more of a low-end Fantasy option, however, since he doesn't put up a lot of assists.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins (groin) was unable to play Wednesday against the Bruins. He has missed the team's first four games and remains day to day.
Analysis: Higgins has managed 20-plus goals for three straight seasons and is a valuable offensive player to the Canadiens when healthy. He is more of a low-end Fantasy option, however, since he doesn't put up a lot of assists.
News: Montreal C Christopher Higgins and RW Georges Laraque could not play in Saturday's game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Both players are suffering from groin injuries.
Analysis: Higgins has managed 20-plus goals for three straight seasons and is a valuable offensive player to the Canadiens when healthy. He is more of a low-end Fantasy option, however, since he doesn't put up a lot of assists. Laraque was hoping to be ready for the Canadiens opener, but the groin injury has continued to linger. Laraque remains just a flier in leagues that reward heavily for PIM when healthy.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins missed Friday's opener against the Sabres because of a groin injury. He is day to day and questionable for Saturday's game against Toronto.
Analysis: Higgins has managed 20-plus goals for three straight seasons and is a valuable offensive player to the Canadiens when healthy. He is more of a low-end Fantasy option, however, since he doesn't put up a lot of assists.
News: Canadiens C Chris Higgins made it four points in his last four games Tuesday when he tallied a goal and an assist in a 4-3 shootout loss to the Blues. His career-best point total this season is now at 47 points.
Analysis: Higgins only really scores in spurts and shouldn't be relied upon in anything but deeper leagues as a low-end starting Fantasy forward. He does have some potential in keeper formats, however, as he's only in his third full season.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins made it six points in his last six games by assisting in Monday's 6-4 loss to the Sharks.
Analysis: Higgins has a career-high 42 points this season, but he only really scores in spurts and shouldn't be relied upon in anything but deeper leagues as a starting Fantasy forward. He does have some potential in keeper formats, however, as he's only in his third full season.
News:Christopher Higgins had two goals and an assist as the Montreal Canadiens scored four times in the first half of the third period in a 5-1 victory over the Atlanta Thrashers on Tuesday. Higgins, the subject of trade rumors before Tuesday's 3 p.m. deadline, put the Canadiens ahead for good early in the third when he tapped in Michael Ryder's pass across the crease at the right post for the first of Montreal's two power-play goals in the third. He made it 3-1 moments later and had a hand in the Canadiens' third goal of the period at 8:17 when he put a pass from the right side to Andrei Markov.
Analysis: Higgins now has four goals in his last seven games. Higgins has been quiet offensively since December. He is a decent goal scorer, but is still nothing more than a low-end Fantasy forward.
News:Christopher Higgins knotted the game with 7:26 left with his 18th goal of the season for Montreal. Off a faceoff from the right circle, the puck bounced oddly and diagonally across the slot, as Thomas Vokoun tried to knock it away. He couldn't reach it, and Higgins stuck his stick past Florida defenseman Jay Bouwmeester and deflected the puck into the net, tying the game at 1. Higgins also had two chances to win it from relatively close range in the first 17 seconds of the extra session, and Montreal eventually cashed in with the man advantage, with ALexei Kovalev getting assists from Saku Koivu and Bryan Smolinski.
Analysis: Higgins' best month came in December when he posted 12 points (five goals) in 14 games. He now has goals in two straight games after not scoring in seven previous ones. Still, Higgins has managed just four goals and four assists in the last 18 games. He is a decent goal scorer, but is still nothing more than a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins scored 50 seconds into Tuesday's game against the Lightning on a breakaway. It was his 17th goal, but first in eight games. He also finished at plus-1 Tuesday.
Analysis: Higgins' best month came in December when he posted 12 points (five goals) in 14 games. He has since managed just eight points (three goals) in 18 contests. He is a decent goal scorer, but is still nothing more than a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Canadiens C Chris Higgins is being dropped to the fourth line, according to the Montreal Gazette.
Analysis: As you should all know, lines are an inexact science in hockey, as players often switch lines during a game. However, Higgins' ice time has dropped in the last five games and he only has one goal in his last 14 games. Consider him nothing more than a bench option at this point.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins' 15th goal this season came via the power play during Thursday's game against the Lightning. He now has seven power-play goals this season and one shy of his career high which he set last season. Higgins also had two assists in the game and it was the second time in three games he had one goal and two assists.
Analysis: Higgins had a quick start in October, then kind of hit the skids in November. He has once again found his offensive magic in early December, but then tailed off for a few games. He seems back on the right track, and since he sees a lot of time on the man advantage, he remains a decent No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins had a goal and two assists in Friday's 5-1 win at Florida. He finished the game with a plus-2 rating.
Analysis: It was the first time since Dec. 20 vs. Washington that he picked up a point in a game and Fantasy owners would like to see more consistency from him. He remains just a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins tallied two assists and finished at plus-2 during Saturday's game against the Maple Leafs. It was his second multi-assist outing in five games. He has four goals and four assists in seven December games.
Analysis: Higgins had a quick start in October, then kind of hit the skids in November. He has once again found his offensive magic in December, but remains just a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time.
News:Christopher Higgins had a lot easier time scoring than trying to come up with an explanation for Montreal's winning streak against Boston. Higgins had a goal and two assists to help the Canadiens beat the Bruins for the seventh consecutive time, 4-2 on Thursday. "I can't explain it," Higgins said. "I don't know why we do so well against them. It was huge, we needed to get back on the winning side. We were down a little bit...the city and the fans were a little down on us."
Analysis: Higgins has three goals in the past three games and snapped Montreal's 0-for-15 drought on the power play. Higgins is worth using as a No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Against Detroit Tuesday, Christopher Higgins scored his 11th goal for Montreal, which has lost three straight and five of six.
Analysis: Higgins tied it 4:15 into the second when he put a backhand over G Dominik Hasek. Higgins has two goals in two December games, but he is nothing more than a No. 4 or 5 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins scored a power play goal and finished at minus-2 during Friday's game against the Sabres. He now has one goal in three straight games. He was held off the stat sheet in the previous six games.
Analysis: Higgins has five goals in November and has a chance to post a career high in goals this season. Still, he is nothing more than a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: LW Christopher Higgins, a Long Island native, scored his eighth goal of the season Wednesday at the Islanders.
Analysis: Higgins has scored seven goals in eight games against the Islanders. Higgins was cheered by 66 family members and friends. Consider him in larger leagues.
News: LW Christopher Higgins left Saturday's game against Boston with a bruised left foot, but he returned against Ottawa Monday to play more than 21 minutes and score his seventh goal of the season.
Analysis: Consider Higgins in larger leagues. He has scored over 20 goals in each of the past two seasons -- and he's on pace for 28 goals this year.
News:Christopher Higgins has not scored a goal or tallied an assist in his past six games.
Analysis: Higgins is dealing with a bad ankle, but he appears to be playing through it. That won't help him snap out of his scoring drought though. Consider him in larger leagues for now.
News: C Saku Koivu picked up an assist on LW Christopher Higgins' tying goal in the third period against Atlanta Tuesday.
Analysis: Koivu leads the Canadiens with 12 points in 11 games and has a goal and five assists in a four-game point streak. Koivu remains a must-start in all Fantasy formats and Higgins remain useful options in leagues of 12 or more teams.
News: D Patrice Brisebois, C Christopher Higgins, RW Tom Kostopoulos and C Saku Koivu each posted an assist with a minus-1 rating in Thursday's game at Ottawa.
Analysis: While Koivu remains a must-start in all Fantasy formats, Brisebois and Higgins remain useful options in leagues of 12 or more teams. Despite the assist, Kostopoulos is only worth a look in the deepest of leagues.
News: LW Christopher Higgins continued to get scoring chances, but he's still stuck on one goal. He had five shots on goal against Florida Tuesday, two others were blocked and three shots went wide of the net.
Analysis: Higgins is a solid No. 3 Fantasy center in all deeper formats heading into the season. If he can turn his plus/minus rating around from last season, he has a chance to emerge as a must-start in all leagues.
News: Christopher Higgins posted an assist in Wednesday's regular season opener at Carolina on six shots on goal in 15:16 of ice time. He also blocked a pair of shots, having an all-around good game for the Habs in the overtime win.
Analysis: Higgins is a solid No. 3 Fantasy center in all deeper formats heading into the season. If he can turn his plus/minus rating around from last season, he has a chance to emerge as a must-start in all leagues. The Canadiens are back in action on Saturday at Toronto.
News: Christopher Higgins was scoreless in Thursday's game against the Bruins with a plus-1 rating with four shots on goal in 16:46 of ice time.
Analysis: Higgins has a goal and assist in three preseason games with a plus-1 rating. He is a solid No. 3 Fantasy center in all deeper formats heading into the season. If he can turn his plus/minus rating around from last season, he has a chance to emerge as a must-start in all leagues.
News: The Montreal Canadiens re-signed C Christopher Higgins and D Mike Komisarek to two-year contracts over the weekend.
Analysis: Higgins posted 22 goals and 28 assists in 61 games in 2006-07. He is a nice middle-round selection on Draft Day 2007, especially if the team can rebound overall and help out his plus/minus rating.
News: Christopher Higgins went scoreless in his second straight game on Tuesday night against the Rangers after a three-goal, seven-point outburst in the previous five games.
Analysis: Higgins remains a decent No. 3 Fantasy center, especially for his potential to produce multi-game performances like he had been doing until these two scoreless contests.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins had one goal and two assists Thursday against the Bruins. He now has three goals and three assists in his last five games.
Analysis: Higgins now has 20 goals and 14 assists on the season. When healthy, Higgins is a decent low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Montreal LW Christopher Higgins (flu) returned to the team's lineup Saturday against the Bruins after missing the team's previous two games. He skated for 16:25 and finished with an even rating.
Analysis: When healthy, Higgins is a decent low-end Fantasy forward. It appears safe to get him back into active Fantasy lineups.
News: Montreal LW Christopher Higgins missed his second straight game Friday because of the flu.
Analysis: Higgins remains day to day. When healthy, he is a decent low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Canadiens C Christopher Higgins returned to the lineup Saturday after missing a win at Nashville on Thursday. He suffered a shoulder injury during a 5-3 win at home over Washington on Tuesday. "I felt great out there," Higgins said. "I took a few hits and gave a few hits, and didn't notice my shoulder at all." Higgins now has three goals and one assist in his last three games. He has at least one point in each game.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Higgins back into active Fantasy lineups. He now has 17 goals and 10 assists on the season. He is a solid middle of the road Fantasy forward in most formats.
News: Christopher Higgins (upper body injury) was unable to play in Thursday's game at Nashville. Andrei Kostitsyn was recalled to take his spot in the lineup.
Analysis: Higgins remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all leagues for Fantasy Week 22 (Feb. 26-March 4) if he is unable to officially return and prove his health on Saturday at N.Y. Islanders.
News: TSN.ca reports Christopher Higgins might not miss much time, if any, due to an upper body injury he suffered on Tuesday night against the Capitals. He appeared to suffer a shoulder injury and was forced from the game.
Analysis: Higgins scored two goals in the game before departing. He will travel with the team on their current road trip starting in Nashville on Thursday. Keep him reserved in all daily Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: The Montreal Canadiens hope they haven't lost Christopher Higgins to injury again just as he was beginning to regain his scoring touch. Higgins and Michael Ryder each scored two goals and rookie goalie Jaroslav Halak won his second straight start as Montreal beat the Washington Capitals 5-3 on Tuesday night.
Analysis: After ending a personal 16-game goal-scoring drought with a pair of power-play goals in the first, Higgins left the game early in the third and did not return. Canadiens coach Guy Carbonneau would only say that Higgins -- who missed 18 games earlier this season after suffering a high ankle sprain Nov. 4 -- had suffered an upper body injury and that he didn't know the extent of the injury. "We'll know a little bit more about it [Wednesday], but at this point I have no idea," Carbonneau said. "But it was good to see him try to get some goals and get some confidence back."
News: Christopher Higgins has really hit the skids, going scoreless over the past 13 games with a minus-10 rating dating back to Jan. 13.
Analysis: Higgins is only worth using in Bizarro Fantasy leagues at this point, as he has been atrocious lately for the struggling Canadiens.
News: Christopher Higgins went scoreless in Thursday's game against the Senators with a minus-2 rating in 16:27 of ice time.
Analysis: Higgins has now gone scoreless in 11 straight games with a minus-8 rating. His game has completely fallen apart and he is only worth using in the active Fantasy lineup in larger leagues at this point.
News: Christopher Higgins has gone scoreless in six straight games for the Canadiens, as he has struggled since returning from a high ankle sprain.
Analysis: Higgins remains a decent No. 3 or 4 Fantasy center in most formats, although he should be reserved in all leagues until he can re-gain his deft scoring touch.
News: Christopher Higgins has managed 14 goals and eight assists with a minus-6 rating through 31 games at the All-Star break. He missed 18 games due to a high ankle sprain.
Analysis: Higgins appears to be back and better than ever, re-emerging as a solid No. 2 or 3 Fantasy center in most formats.
News: Christopher Higgins scored the go-ahead goal midway through the second period and added an assist to help the Canadiens beat Philadelphia 4-2 on Thursday night, handing the Flyers their fifth straight loss. "I think we've got a lot of depth on this team," Higgins said. "Now with (Tomas) Plekanec and (Mike) Johnson, we're adding a little more offense and a little more creativity to the line."
Analysis: The Montreal Canadiens are riding their third-line combination of Chris Higgins, Tomas Plekanec and Mike Johnson. Higgins remains a decent No. 2 or 3 Fantasy center despite his third-line status on the Habs.
News: Christopher Higgins, Alex Kovalev and Michael Ryder scored goals in Tuesday's game against the Lightning. Higgins and Ryder also had a plus-1 rating while Kovalev had two assists and a plus-2 rating in the win.
Analysis: Each of the players remain useful in most Fantasy leagues, as Higgins is a decent No. 2 center, while Kovalev and Ryder are decent No. 3 or 4 forwards in most formats.
News: Christopher Higgins, Guillaume Latendresse and Craig Rivet scored goal for the Canadiens in Thursday's game against the Flyers.
Analysis: Higgins has scored three goals in the past two games, as he looks to be 100 percent healthy after returning from a high ankle sprain.
News: Christopher Higgins picked up two goals and a minus-1 rating with five shots on goal in 17:38 of ice time in Tuesday's game at Buffalo.
Analysis: Higgins recorded his first points since returning from a high ankle sprain. He has managed 10 goals and five assists in 15 games this season. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Canadiens LW Christopher Higgins returned to action on Saturday against the Penguins after missing 18 games with a high ankle sprain. He played for 15:08 and finished with a minus-1 rating.
Analysis: Higgins started the season on a tear before getting injured, collecting eight goals and five assists through 13 games. Wait to see how he plays before inserting him back into Fantasy lineups.
News: Christopher Higgins (ankle) was unable to return for Thursday's game against the Lightning, although he is nearing game action. He might play on Saturday against the Penguins.
Analysis: If Higgins is able to play on Saturday, it should be safe to get him back into the active lineup for Fantasy Week 12 (Dec. 18-24).
News: According to published reports, coach Guy Carbonneau said that he expects Christopher Higgins (ankle) to return some time during the upcoming week. He might return as soon as Thursday against the Lightning or Saturday against the Penguins.
Analysis: Keep Higgins reserved for Fantasy Week 11 (Dec. 11-17) until he can officially return and prove his health, but get ready to activate him soon.
News: According to published reports, Christopher Higgins (ankle) has a partially torn tendon in his left ankle and he is expected to be sidelined at least six weeks. Originally after meeting with team doctors on Monday, he was only expected to be sidelined two weeks due to a sprain.
Analysis: This is awful news for Fantasy owners, especially those which jumped on the bandwagon and started him for the first time this week. Rookie Guillaume Latendresse has replaced him on the team's top line with Saku Koivu and Michael Ryder, but avoid him for the time being until he proves he can produce consistently.
News: Christopher Higgins has been diagnosed with a sprained ankle and he will be out indefinitely. He is expected to miss at least two weeks due to the injury. With Higgins sidelined, Guillaume Latendresse will slide up to the first line in his absence.
Analysis: The two week period is actually good news, as coach Guy Carbonneau had originally and falsely announced Higgins might have a torn ligament. If you had plans on adding him to your Fantasy lineup, hold off on that for now. Consider Latendresse as an emergency replacement for Fantasy Week 6 (Nov. 6-12).
News: Christopher Higgins has scored a goal in eight of his 13 games this season and he has 13 points (8 G, 5 A) overall with an even rating and just four penalty minutes.
Analysis: Higgins has been especially valuable to Fantasy owners which discourage penalty minutes, but he is solid in each format. If he is available in your league, jump on him immediately. He also leads the league in shorthanded goals, so if you scoring system rewards that category heavily, he is your man.
News: Christopher Higgins scored his third shorthanded goal of the season on Tuesday night against the Senators. He leads the league with three shorties. "I guess it's just intensity and anticipation," said Higgins. "Some guys have it and some guys don't, and that's why some guys are penalty killers. I try to use my speed to get on them and let them make plays and try to force turnovers as much as possible."
Analysis: Higgins has nine points (6 G, 3 A) over the past nine games, including the three shorthanded goals. If he is available, especially in Rotisserie formats, pick him up immediately.
News: C Christopher Higgins, C Saku Koivu, D Andrei Markov and W Michael Ryder all went scoreless with a minus-3 rating in Monday's game against the Sabres.
Analysis: Despite the awful start to the Fantasy week, each of the four players remain must-starts. They'll look to rebound on Thursday at Boston.
News: Canadiens LW Christopher Higgins scored one and had two assists in the team's 5-4 shootout loss to the Sabres on Friday.
Analysis: Higgins will get some decent opportunities to score playing alongside Saku Koivu and third-year man Michael Ryder. He should probably be looked at as a reserve forward in the deepest of Fantasy leagues to begin the 2006-2007 season.
News: The Montreal Gazette reports Christopher Higgins will begin the season on the team's top scoring line with captain Saku Koivu and third-year man Michael Ryder.
Analysis: The troika performed extremely well during the preseason working together, so they will remain together into the regular season. As far as Higgins is concerned, he is a nice middle-round pick in seasonal leagues and a touch earlier on Draft Day in keeper formats.
News: Christopher Higgins scored his 23rd goal of the season in Monday's game against the Senators, posting his seventh goal in eight starts.
Analysis: Higgins has been on fire since the Olmypic Games break, posting 16 goals and six assists in 22 games. He has emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues and is a great keeper prospect heading into 2006-07.
News: Christopher Higgins scored a goal and had a plus-1 rating with three shots on goal in 19:43 of ice time.
Analysis: Higgins has posted six points (4 G, 2 A) with a plus-3 rating during his current four-game point streak. Higgins has been fairly inconsistent, but is worth using while he is on a hot streak.
News: Christopher Higgins scored a goal for the third straight game in Tuesday's contest at Toronto, as he continues to produce on the team's top scoring line.
Analysis: Higgins has posted six goals and an assist over the past five games. He is a solid addition to all Fantasy rosters, but keep in mind this is the first time all season he has gone more than two straight games with a point.
News: Christopher Higgins scored a goal and had a minus-1 rating in 16:02 of ice time in Monday's game at Philadelphia, as he has now has a four-game point streak.
Analysis: Higgins has posted six points (5 G, 1 A) and a plus-3 rating during his impressive point streak. Despite the hot stretch, he remains useful only in the largest of Fantasy leagues.
News: Christopher Higgins scored a pair of goals in Tuesday's game at N.Y. Islanders, as the Smithtown, N.Y. native looked good in front of the hometown fans.
Analysis: Higgins was skating on the team's top scoring line and produced well. If he remains on Saku Koivu's line, he might be worth a look again in all larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Christopher Higgins has managed seven goals and nine assists with a minus-5 rating in 54 games at the Olympic Games break.
Analysis: Higgins has not seized the opportunity given to him when he was placed on the team's top scoring line earlier in the season. He has struggled at times and should be avoided in all Fantasy leagues until he starts to produce more consistently.
News: The Montreal Gazette reports that Richard Zednik was benched by coach Bob Gainey for Sunday's game against Toronto.
Analysis: Rookie Christopher Higgins replaced Zednik in the lineup on the top scoring line. Higgins hasn't been a strong play recently either, but this change could do him good.
News: Christopher Higgins was scoreless in Wednesday's game at Philadelphia with just one shot on goal in 14:35 of ice time.
Analysis: Higgins has picked up just six points (2 G, 4 A) and a minus-7 rating over the past 15 games dating back to Dec. 15. Avoid him in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Christopher Higgins assignment on the team's top scoring line did not last long, as he has been bumped down by coach and general manager Bob Gainey.
Analysis: The top line for the Canadiens consists of Saku Koivu, Alexei Kovalev and Michael Ryder. Higgins was able to score in Saturday's game against the Sharks on a pretty breakaway goal, but his Fantasy value takes a tumble now that he is off the top line.
News: The Montreal Gazette reports Christopher Higgins has been promoted to the team's top scoring line alongside Saku Koivu and Michael Ryder.
Analysis: If the rookie can remain on the top unit, his Fantasy value will skyrocket. If you can afford the roster spot, take a chance on Higgins and see what he can do for the Canadiens.
News: Christopher Higgins was scoreless in Saturday's game at Minnesota in 16:41 of ice time.
Analysis: Higgins has three points (1 G, 2 A) in three games after breaking an 11-game scoreless streak, but he has very little Fantasy value.
News: Christopher Higgins has moved up to the team's second line to center Mike Ribeiro and Michael Ryder. He had an assist and plus-1 rating in 14:38 of ice time.
Analysis: He is replacing Pierre Dagenais, who is a healthy scratch. Higgins is worth adding in all Fantasy leagues if you can afford the roster spot.
