Richards's Role Continues For Kings In Win Over Sharks
News:Mike Richards picked up his seventh assist of the playoffs in a Game 2 win over the Sharks on Thursday.
Analysis:Mike Richards has hit the scoresheet in four of the last five games now after registering just one point in his first three games of the playoffs.
News:Mike Richards had two assists versus the Blues in Game 4 on Monday.
Analysis:Mike Richards has three assists in this postseason, and now that the Kings have tied up this series they have at least two more games to play.
News:Mike Richards scored on a second-period power play Saturday, giving the Kings a 2-1 win over Anaheim.
Analysis: He's now scored in six straight contests. Keep him active for as long as this hot streak continues.
News:Mike Richards ran his point streak to five games with a goal and an assist Thursday.
Analysis:Mike Richards has struggled at times but appears to be hitting his stride lately. He now has ten goals and 18 assists for the season.
News:Mike Richards picked up a goal while playing 26:22 in a 4-1 win over the Oilers on Saturday.
Analysis: For the second straight season, Mike Richards' production is lagging behind his levels during his final season in Philadelphia in 2010-11. The goal was his ninth of the year, and Richards' third point in his last four games.
Kings' Richards Appears Fine After Big Hit Saturday
News:Mike Richards, who left Saturday's game after a big hit, logged more than 15 minutes of ice time Monday.
Analysis:Mike Richards has a history of concussion issues, but appears to have escaped injury here. Deploy as usual going forward.
News:Mike Richards left Saturday night's game against Calgary in the second period after absorbing a hit, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis: Afterward, Mike Richards, who did return to the game, said he was fine, but it's worth noting that Tyler Toffoli was recalled Sunday, presumably in case Richards -- who has a concussion history -- has any lingering issues from Saturday's hit.
News:Mike Richards scored his sixth goal of the season as the Kings beat the Blues, 6-4, on Tuesday.
Analysis: Richard's play has picked up of late, as he now has five goals and 11 points in his last 11 games. Truth is, the entire Kings team is playing much better of late, so perhaps the Stanley Cup hangover has finally dissipated.
News:Mike Richards netted the game-winning goal on Friday in the Kings' victory over Columbus, his second goal of the season.
Analysis:Mike Richards is off to a woeful start, but got a fortuitous bounce off a Columbus defender that snuck past Sergei Bobrovsky to secure the victory. Richards is certainly a buy-low candidate if you beleive he can revert back to his Philadelphia scoring days. He has a point in each of the last two games.
News:Mike Richards finally scored his first goal of the year Tuesday in a win over Columbus. He also added an assist on Jeff Carter's power-play goal and racked up 19 PIM.
Analysis: It was an old-time reunion of fisticuffs for Mike Richards and Brandon Dubinsky, who fought several times as members of the Flyers and Rangers, respectively, in years past. Fantasy owners have to be grateful for the PIMs, but they drafted Richards for his offense, not his goon points.
News:Mike Richards off to a slow start with zero points in his team's first three games.
Analysis:Mike Richards has yet to find the score sheet as his team is off to a 0-2-1 start. Richards has struggled so far on the team's second line behind Anze Kopitar. His points dropped off last year in his first season with the Kings. The Kings will need him to try and produce at the level he did with the Flyers if they look to repeat as Stanley Cup Champions this season.
News:Mike Richards tallied a goal and an assist in Monday's 5-2 win over the Blues.
Analysis:Mike Richards started the postseason off with a bang with three points in his first game, but had been limited to just a lone assist in his next five games before his multi-point effort Monday.
News:Mike Richards had a goal and two assists as the Kings downed the Canucks 4-2 Wednesday night in Game 1 of their Western Conference quarterfinal series.
Analysis: After a disappointing regular season in which he scored only 44 points (18G, 26A) in 74 games, Mike Richards came to play Wednesday night and was the best player on either side of the ice. He finished the game with a plus-2 rating, two shots on net, four hits, two blocked shots, and was named the game's first star.
Richards Scores Game Winner For Kings Friday Night
News:Mike Richards scored his 17th goal of the season mid-way through the first period as Los Angeles downed Edmonton 4-1 on Friday. The goal was his first game winner as a King.
Analysis: He's struggled mightily this season and he's doing no better during the month of March. In 14 games he's scored three goals and added six assists.
Kings' Richards Finds Net For First Time In Two Months
News:Mike Richards snapped a 25-game goal drought with an empty-netter in Friday's win over the Ducks.
Analysis: The tally was just Mike Richards' second goal in his last 36 games as his disappointing season continues.
News:Mike Richards bagged three assists, one on the power play, in the Kings' 4-2 win over the Ducks on Saturday night.
Analysis: He'll need a lot more scoring to fulfill the expectations for him. This season will go into the books as a disappointment for him, as he'll likely card 25-30 points below his career norms.
News:Mike Richards snapped an eight-game pointless streak with an assist in his last game.
Analysis:Mike Richards has just 27 points on the season as he's struggled offensively since coming off the IR back in late December.
News:Mike Richards pocketed his 14th goal of the season and added an assist in the Kings' 4-1 win at Calgary on Saturday. The marker enables him to keep pace with Anze Kopitar for the team goal-scoring lead.
Analysis: Despite these points, he'll have to struggle mightily to reach his customary 60-point scoring plateau. He currently has just 26 points in 37 games.
News:Mike Richards scored a goal in his first game back since a head injury suffered Dec. 1.
Analysis: The Kings are in dire need of some offensive punch so Mike Richards' insertion back into the lineup will certainly help. Thursday's tally was his 12th goal of the season in 26 games.
News:Mike Richards (head) has been activated from the IR, the Kings' official Twitter feed reports.
Analysis:Mike Richards hasn't played since December 1st. In 25 games this season, the 26-year-old center has 11 goals and nine assists, so he should have a place in lineups upon his return to the ice Thursday night.
News:Mike Richards, who has been out because of a head injury since December 1, is expected to return to action Thursday against Anaheim, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis: No word whether it was a concussion, but Mike Richards did miss eight games so it certainly wasn't a bruise on his forehead, either. He has 20 points in 25 games with the Kings, so unless you're in a really shallow league, you usually want Richards out there once you know he's playing. His return can only help LA's scoring problems.
News:Mike Richards (upper body) was able to participate in Sunday's practice but his return date is still uncertain, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis:Mike Richards was a full participant, albeit in a non-contact jersey, and received good marks on his conditioning level from coaches. The Kings are eager to welcome him back into the lineup but he's still likely to need a few more practices to get back up to speed.
Kings' Richards Still Not Ready To Resume Practicing
News:Mike Richards (upper body) will rejoin the team on its road trip but it's still unclear when he might be able to resume practicing, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis:Mike Richards has been out since Dec. 1 and still hasn't been able to resume practicing but rejoining the team on its current road trip is a positive sign that he might be able to jump back into a practice shortly. The Kings are desperate for offense and might be tempted to get him back into the lineup quickly after just a few practices. He's likely out through the weekend but could be a possibility for early next week if things go well.
Kings' Richards Making Progress; Won't Play In Boston
News:Mike Richards (upper body) participated in an off-ice workout Saturday, but will not travel with his teammates to Boston on Sunday, LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis: He may join the team on the upcoming nine-day road trip, but wait for confirmation of that before activating him. Owners in weekly formats facing a Monday lineup deadline should plan on being without his services for at least the better part of another lineup period.
News:Mike Richards (upper body) did some light skating Friday but still hasn't returned to practice, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis:Mike Richards got the go-ahead to increase his activity from team doctors but still hasn't received the green light to return to practice. It was certainly a step in the right direction but he's going to need a handful of full practices once he does get medical clearance in all likelihood so be prepared to be without him for the upcoming week.
Kings' Richards Still Not Skating After Blow To Head
News:Mike Richards (upper body) remains sidelined and limited to riding the stationary bike, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis: He hasn't skated since taking a head to the head a week ago though the Kings' aren't classifying him as dealing with a concussion at the moment. "Mike Richards is progressing. That's all I can say. That's all I know, really. He's in every day, riding the bike, getting more acclimated, getting exercise and a feel for his own self," head coach Terry Murray said. The Kings are desperate for offense right now but Richards would still seemingly need several days of full practice once he's able to resume skating so this doesn't figure to resolve itself any time soon.
Kings' Richards Making Slow Progress Towards Return
News:Mike Richards (upper body) rode the stationary bike but still hasn't resumed skating, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis: He's out for the next two games due to his placement on IR but it sounds like it could be a bit longer given his current status. "Mike Richards was here today. He rode the bike, feeling better, and that's all I can answer on him right now. It's going to be a week for sure, obviously, with the I.R., and then hopefully we'll get another evaluation at the next home game," head coach Terry Murray said.
News: The Kings placed Mike Richards (upper body) on the IR Friday according to their official team site .
Analysis:Mike Richards was injured in Thursday night's win over Florida. He was placed on the IR as the Kings took Dustin Penner (hand) off the list Friday.
News:Mike Richards will miss several games as a result of an upper body injury suffered in Thursday's game, ESPN.com reports.
Analysis:Mike Richards missed just one game over the last two seasons, but it appears he will top that number in the next week. Richards will miss Saturday's game against the Canadiens, but beyond that, it remains to be seen when he will return to the ice.
Kings' Richards Leaves Game With Undisclosed Injury
News:Mike Richards left Thursday's game with an undisclosed injury after getting hit high by Sean Bergenheim, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis:Mike Richards didn't return to action after taking the hit late in the second period and the Kings didn't have any further information following the game. "The doctors, trainers are busy evaluating and they'll probably let me know before I get away here tonight. We'll have a better idea tomorrow," head coach Terry Murray said.
News:Mike Richards scored his 11th goal of the season Monday against San Jose in the Kings' 2-0 win.
Analysis:Mike Richards has 11 goals and 20 points in 24 games, and he has scored four goals in his last five games. Clearly, the move to Los Angeles is working out fine for him so far.
News:Mike Richards scored his 10th goal of the year Wednesday night, but the Kings fell to the Stars 3-2 in overtime. It was the fifth straight game that Richards has scored at least one goal.
Analysis: Over that time, he's racked up six goals, one assist, and a plus-4 rating. Mike Richards is averaging just over 20 minutes of icetime per game and is playing in all situations.
News:Mike Richards scored his fifth goal in four games while adding an assist in Tuesday's 3-2 win over St. Louis.
Analysis:Mike Richards seems to be enjoying life in his new city much more than former teammate Jeff Carter, but, in fairness to Carter, the bars are better in Los Angeles than Columbus. Kidding aside, Richards is proving to be the steady producer the Kings hoped for when they acquired the veteran, as he has six points in the last four games. Roll Richards with confidence.
News:Mike Richards scored for the fourth time in his last five games with a pair of goals Thursday.
Analysis:Mike Richards got off to a slow start in the goal department with just two goals in his first 14 games but appears to be hitting his stride now.
News:Mike Richards saw his brief two-game goal streak snapped in Saturday's 5-2 win over Minnesota.
Analysis:Mike Richards' two goals accounted for his only two points over his last seven games as he's still struggling to find some consistent offense with his new club.
Richards's Goal-Scoring Slump Continues In Kings' Win
News:Mike Richards logged an assist and a fighting major in Saturday's 1-0 win over Dallas.
Analysis: We're still waiting for his shooting touch to show up. He has just one goal on 15 shots in seven games this season. The shots-per-game pace is reasonably close to his career norm, but his shooting percentage (6.7%) is the worst since his rookie campaign. But seven games do not a season make, and Mike Richards is probably still adjusting to the new scenery (and new teammates) far from Philadelphia. Give it some time.
News:Mike Richards returned to Philadelphia on Saturday for the first time since his shocking trade to the Kings. He assisted on the game-winning goal.
Analysis: He received a standing ovation from Philly faithful before the game and was then promptly booed every other time he touched the puck. He now has three points in his first four games on the left coast.
Kings' Richards To Skate With Gagne On Second Line
News:Mike Richards will skate with Simon Gagne when training camp opens next week, reports the Kings' Official Site.
Analysis: The two were teammates in Philly for long enough to know each others' tendencies and could form a potent second-line punch in L.A.
News: The Flyers have sent Richards to Los Angeles for forwards Brayden Schenn and Wayne Simmonds, Philly.com reports.
Analysis: The Flyers also traded Jeff Carter on Thursday, with both moves clearing up cap space to sign goalie Ilya Bryzgalov and presumably others. Richards racked up 23 goals and 66 points with the Flyers in 2010-11, numbers he should easily match, if not eclipse, as a King.
News: Richards will need to undergo wrist surgery after playing through an injury since training camp, PhiladelphiaFlyers.com reports.
Analysis: The specifics on the surgery and the injury Richards played with aren't currently available, but the ailment didn't appear to have a huge effect on Richards' production in the 2010-2011 season. His 66 points were an improvement from the 62 he totaled in 2009-10.
News: There will be no disciplinary action taken by the NHL after Richards checked Tim Connolly into the boards from behind in Game 6, sidelining Connolly for the remainder of the afternoon and making him unavailable for Game 7 on Tuesday in Philadelphia, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: It did look like a dirty hit, but it also wasn't a ridiculously cheap shot, and we are talking about a fast game that involved a fragile player in Connolly. The Sabres, however, are pretty fired up about it, though Game 7 doesn't really need any more drama than the excitement this series has already generated. The Flyers, even though they're at home, would have had a tough challenge if they had been without Richards in addition to Jeff Carter (out), a still-ailing Chris Pronger, and a shaky goaltending situation.
News: Richards scored twice in Tuesday's loss to Ottawa.
Analysis: Richards now has 23 goals in 79 games. All told, he should probably be scoring a few more goals, but he does have 42 assists and a plus-12 rating.
News: Richards set up three goals Saturday; all came on special teams.
Analysis: Two were power-play helpers; the other was a shortie. He has six helpers in his last seven games but the Flyers need more from him. They collapsed Saturday after entering the third period with a 3-0 lead and ended up losing 5-4 in OT. Let's hope this is just a blip before the playoffs.
News: Richards (flu) had Monday's practice off, Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News reports.
Analysis: Richards was able to play through his illness Sunday, so we don't expect his availability for Tuesday's game against the Coyotes to be in any danger.
News: Richards, who was held out of Friday's game due to flu-like symptoms, returned to the Flyers' lineup Sunday against the Rangers.
Analysis: Richards, who headed into the game tied for second in scoring for the Flyers with 50 points, took a regular shift and saw 17:03 worth of ice time Sunday, so it's safe to deploy him going forward.
News: Richards was held out of Friday's game due to flu-like symptoms, according to the Flyers' official Twitter page.
Analysis: Richards will have a couple days to rest before the Flyers play again Sunday. Consider him day-to-day.
News: Richards scored two goals and added two assists in Thursday's win over the Kings.
Analysis: Richards hadn't had a multi-point game since Dec. 4 against the Devils, but that didn't slow the Flyers much. He's not quite an elite fantasy option, but Richards sure is good.
News: Richards scored the game-winner in overtime Saturday to lift the Flyers over the Bruins 2-1.
Analysis: He has 11 goals and 30 points, and is scoring a close to a point-per-game pace to lead the Flyers. He's a must-play in all fantasy formats -- was there ever any doubt?
News: Richards had a goal and an assist in Saturday's win over the Devils.
Analysis: Richards took advantage of playing against one of the league's easiest teams to score against and now has 27 points in 27 games this season.
News: Richards scored a goal and added an assist in Saturday's shootout win over the Capitals. He also had a minor penalty.
Analysis: He now has nine goals and 14 assists for 23 points in 21 games. Most impressively, his 27 PIMs offer a glorious and rare combination of brains, brawn and brilliance, and he could end up with more than 80 points and 100 PIMs. Wow.
News: Richards registered two goals and an assist in Monday's win over Ottawa, giving him five goals in the last three contests and eight on the season.
Analysis: The two tallies give Richards seven of his eight goals in the month of November. Few have been as hot as Richards of late as he's sparking the Flyers' seemingly unstoppable play. Expect more of the same from Richards, but don't be surprised if the pace falls off just slightly, as it's tough to keep that up forever.
News: Richards' two goals Saturday give him five in his last five games.
Analysis: He has found his game after a sluggish start (one goal in his first 12 games) and needs just one point to reach 300 for his career. Make sure he's active.
News: Richards scored a goal and added an assist in Saturday's win over the Islanders and in doing so he stretched his point streak to six games.
Analysis: He has warmed up significantly after tallying just three points in his first six games. He now has 13 points in 14 games and sits one point behind Claude Giroux for the team lead.
News: It took him seven games, but Richards finally scored his first goal of the season, and he added two assists to make it a big night in Saturday's win over Toronto.
Analysis: Richards had managed just three assists and a minus-3 rating in his first six games this year, so it's good for the Flyers and fantasy owners that he's getting it into gear.
News: Richards assisted on two of Philadelphia's four goals in Monday's win over Colorado.
Analysis: Richards is one of the team's leaders and a talented offensive player. He's yet to score a goal, but has three assists in three games. Look for continued production from Richards.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored the eventual winner during Game 1 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals against the Devils. Richards, who also had an assist, doubled the lead to 2-0 with a 35-foot shot that beat Martin Brodeur low to the glove side. Ian Laperriere set up the goal, taking the puck from Devils defenseman Martin Skoula near the blue line and finding Richards alone between the circles with a behind the back pass.
Analysis: It's nice to see the Flyers' captain come up big in the playoffs after being instrumental in the final games of the regular season, as Philadelphia sneaked into the playoffs. Richards finished with a career-high 31 goals in 2009-10. However, his assists totals dropped from 50 to 31. The drop in production was because Philadelphia had some struggles on offense this season. Richards wasn't as valuable as a Fantasy option in past seasons, but he still served his purpose in most formats. Don't treat Richards any worse than a No. 3 Fantasy forward on Draft Day 2010.
News: Fleyrs C Mike Richards opened his March account in style with a goal and three assists in Tuesday's win over the Lightning. He is now up to 50 points for a third straight season.
Analysis: While Richards is only five goals behind his previous career best of 25, he only has half as many assists (25) as he did last season and is about 10 points behind his usual point-per-game pace. Maybe he's ready to turn up the heat in March, but we'll just have to see. Keep him active in all Fantasy formats.
News:Mike Richards scored the go-ahead goal on a power play with less than eight minutes left in the third period, leading the Philadelphia Flyers to a 3-2 victory over the New Jersey Devils on Monday night. Richards pushed Kimmo Timonen's pass from behind the goal past Martin Brodeur, and Flyers goalie Michael Leighton made that stand up. Richards has three goals in his last four games.
Analysis: Richards has two goals, both game winners, and three points in four games against the defensive-savvy Devils. Not many teams step up against New Jersey, but Richards seems to fare well. Now, if he can just take the intensity to the rest of the NHL. Richards has struggled since January with only 11 points and a minus-8 rating in his last 18 games. He has scored seven times, but we know he can play better.
News:Mike Richards scored twice and Ray Emery made 18 saves for his third shutout of the season as the Philadelphia Flyers defeated the new-look Calgary Flames 3-0 on Monday night. Richards broke a scoreless tie at 10:15 of the second off a series of lucky bounces. Simon Gagne knocked the puck out of the air and off Flames defenseman Jay Bouwmeester. It bounced right to Richards, who ripped a high shot past Miikka Kiprusoff. Richards added his 22nd of the season on a power play at 17:44.
Analysis: Richards had his fifth multi-goal game of the season, but he had just one score in his previous 10 games, so he needed to break out in the worst way. Richards' play hasn't been spectacular in 2009-10, but he has quietly gotten the job done. He remains no worse than a No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News:Ray Emery made 24 saves for his second shutout of the season, and James van Riemsdyk and Mike Richards scored in the Philadelphia Flyers' 2-0 victory over the New York Rangers 2-0 on Thursday. Richards scored a power-play goal with three seconds left in the second period to make it 2-0. His slap shot from just inside the left faceoff circle went through a screen, hit defenseman Marc Staal's skate and trickled in. It was his 20th goal.
Analysis: Richards has eight points (four goals) in 10 January games. He and most of his Flyers' teammates are finally settling into Peter Laviolette's offensive system. Keep Richards active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored a goal, tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 on Thursday against the Penguins. Richards added an empty net goal, his 19th tally, with 32 seconds remaining. He has at least one point in six of seven games and has scored in three straight.
Analysis: A lot of the Flyers' top offensive weapons have been heating up over the last few games and that's great news. They are starting to settle into Peter Laviolette's system and it could mean a huge second half for the Flyers. Keep Richards active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Flyers center Mike Richards and Flyers defenseman Chris Pronger were selected to the Canadian Olympic team Wednesday. Richards followed up his selection with two assists and a plus-4 rating in a 6-0 rout of the Rangers. He has three goals and three assists in his last four games.
Analysis: It's no surprise that Richards has posted some serious numbers over his last four games -- all Flyers wins. There is a reason he is the team's captain. Richards will make a nice addition to the Canadian Olympic roster and he is already a nice addition to your Fantasy roster. Continue to start Richards in all Fantasy formats.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored twice Wednesday in a win over the Lightning.
Analysis: Richards has only scored in two December games as the Flyers have struggled to find their rhythm a little following the coaching change, but Richards is capable of being a point-per-game guy so keep him active in all formats.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards played in Saturday's loss to New Jersey, two days after hurting his wrist. Richards played 19:48, took one shot and spent two minutes in the box.
Analysis: Richards has been a little streaky over the last month with his offense and is going through a bit of a transition with a new coach in Philly. However, Peter Laviolette is an offensive mind, so Richards should benefit from his coaching. Richards remains a high-end Fantasy option.
News: X-rays taken on the right wrist of Flyers captain Mike Richards were negative. Richards was checked into the boards by Matt Carkner on Thursday against the Senators. He finished out the game and finished with no points in 23:21 of ice time. He was also at minus-1.
Analysis: The good news is that Richards didn't suffer any breaks in his wrist and it appears he will be able to play through the injury. He is coming off a two-goal performance against the Islanders on Tuesday, but Richards has been a little streaky over the last month with his offense. He is going through a bit of a transition with a new coach in Philly, but Peter Laviolette is an offensive mind, so Richards should benefit from his coaching. Richards still has high-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Philadelphia C Mike Richards missed a hat trick but did register three points in the 6-2 win over the Islanders on Tuesday night. He scored twice in the game and added an assist. Richards netted the game's first two goals in the 1st period. He scored on a power play and on an unassisted shorthanded goal. Richards later was part of Claude Giroux's goal in the 2nd period.
Analysis: Richards now has 25 points on the season and recorded his first points of any kind in his last four games. It is the third time this season that he's registered three points in a game. He always seems to be around the puck and involved in the scoring for Philly. Richards is great in all facets of the game and remains a must-start Fantasy option through thick and thin.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored a goal and finished at plus-2 during Wednesday's game against the Kings. Philadelphia took control after its first goal, dominating puck possession before Richards put the Flyers ahead late in the second period with a one-timer on a behind-the-net pass from Claude Giroux. It was his ninth goal and first score since netting two goals on Nov. 2 against Tampa Bay.
Analysis: The Flyers captain has 18 points in 18 games. He always seems to be around the puck and involved in the scoring for Philly. Richards is great in all facets of the game and remains a must-start Fantasy option through thick and thin.
News:Mike Richards and Jeff Carter scored two goals apiece and rookie David Laliberte and Scott Hartnell also tallied, leading Philadelphia to a 6-2 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Monday night. Despite leading the team in goals this season, Richards had gone six games without scoring. His first goal came off a feed from Chris Pronger, who corralled a bouncing puck. Scott Hartnell assisted on Richards' second score. "We were getting chances. We just weren't scoring," Richards said. "We have an emphasis on getting to the net and finishing plays off."
Analysis: Richards has really been a solid Fantasy option since his breakout season in 2007-08. He is one of the Flyers' top centers and is a great choice as captain. He is great in all facets of the game and remains a must-start Fantasy option through thick and thin.
News: Flyers captain Mike Richards was in the lineup Sunday against the Sharks after being cleared by the NHL for a hard hit on Florida left wing David Booth in a 5-1 win over the Panthers on Saturday. Booth left the ice on a stretcher with 2:55 left in the second period following a blow to the face. He was transported to an area hospital and remained overnight for tests before being released on Sunday.
Analysis: Fantasy owners can breathe a sigh of relief knowing one of their top players will be available for Fantasy Week 4 (Oct. 26-Nov. 1). Richards has no goals in his last four games and just two points in that span, but even the best players slump at times. Richards still has high-end Fantasy appeal as long as he is active.
News: Florida LW David Booth was taken off the ice on stretcher after a hard hit from Philadelphia captain Mike Richards, overshadowing the Flyers' easy victory over the Panthers on Saturday night. With 2:55 left in the second, Booth had just released the puck in front of the Flyers' blue line, and Richards plowed into him, striking him with his left shoulder. Both of Richards' feet appeared to leave the ice as he smacked into Booth. Richards was given a major penalty for interference and a game misconduct for intent to injure. He could face a suspension, pending a review.
Analysis: Richards said the hit was not intended to be a dirty one. "I'm never out there to hurt anyone," Richards said. "I have respect for the game and respect for the players. My concern is with him. Hopefully, he's fine and gets better. I just wanted to separate him from the puck. He dished it off and everything happened so quickly. I don't have a history of head shots and I don't even know if it was a head shot." Panthers defenseman Keith Ballard offered a different take. "Richards knows [Booth] is in vulnerable position and goes after him," Ballard said. "He's done it before. That's the same stuff they've been trying to cut out. The thing with Mike Richards is he's a good, honest player. I love a lot about him game. He does a lot of things well, but then he does that stuff." Richards is certainly a risk for Week 4 (Oct. 26-Nov. 1) as he could miss time due to a suspension. When active, Richards is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Philadelphia C Mike Richards picked up his season's first hat trick on Tuesday night in a 6-5 win over the Washington Capitals in overtime. Richards scored his first on a power play in the 2nd period to open the scoring in the game. His second came late in the 2nd frame on another power play and he scored again just seconds later to bring the score to 4-3 Flyers at the time.
Analysis: Richards has now scored a goal in all three games this season and has five goals on the year. Richards has shown the last two seasons that he is one of the NHL's best centers. He excels in all situations for the Flyers and always seems to be near the net. As long as Richards is healthy, he is going to post solid numbers and be a viable Fantasy forward.
News:Jeff Carter and Mike Richards scored 22 seconds apart for Philadelphia during Friday's 2-0 win against the Hurricanes. The Flyers put their first two shots of the second period past Cam Ward and held on for their eighth win in 10 meetings with Carolina. With Sergei Samsonov serving a double-minor for high-sticking, Carter gave Philadelphia the lead 25 seconds into the period when he backhanded a rebound past Ward. Moments later, Richards made it a two-goal game on a deflection through traffic.
Analysis: Richards has shown the last two seasons that he is one of the NHL's best centers. He excels in all situations for the Flyers and always seems to be near the net. As long as Richards is healthy, he is going to post solid numbers and be a viable Fantasy forward.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards, who is recovering from May shoulder surgery, scored and assisted in Saturday's preseason loss to the Maple Leafs.
Analysis: Richards had 30 goals and 80 points last season in helping the Flyers reach the playoffs. He looks healthy for now, so continue to draft him as a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Flyers captain Mike Richards has had surgery on his left shoulder and will need 10 weeks of rehabilitation. The surgery Friday was on a torn labrum. In April, he had surgery on his right shoulder.
Analysis: Richards' shoulders had bothered him since training camp and he used anti-inflammatory medication to manage the pain. He had 30 goals and 80 points this season in helping the Flyers reach the playoffs. Richards still did pretty well despite the pain, so having the surgery can only help. Richards is hoping to be ready by training camp and there might be some injury-risk on Draft Day 2009, but he still has high-end Fantasy potential when healthy.
News: Flyers captain Mike Richards will have surgery this week to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder, and also needs surgery on his left shoulder and faces to 10 to 12 weeks of rehabilitation. Richards will have surgery on the right shoulder Friday and then have the left one repaired once he regains motion on his right side. Richards said his shoulders have been bothering him since training camp. He couldn't pinpoint a game or a date when they started to hurt. Even with a pair of hurt shoulders, Richards had 30 goals and 80 points this season and helped the Flyers reach the playoffs. He used anti-inflammatory medication to keep the pain down. "There were certain days that were a lot worse than other days," Richards said on Wednesday. "But it wasn't like I was in agony or throbbing pain. It was more of like achy and sore. Like if you slept on it bad, you would wake up sore. But it wasn't like it was really bad pain where I couldn't bear it or anything."
Analysis: Richards' 80 points were second on the team behind Jeff Carter. Richards added a goal and four assists in the first round of the playoffs as the Flyers fell to the Pittsburgh Penguins in six games. Richards signed a 12-year, $69 million contract extension in December 2007. After landing a huge extension in 2007-08, Richards still kept the pedal to the metal in '08-09 and has emerged as an elite Fantasy forward heading into 2009-10. Clearly, there is some cause for concern as he will undergo surgery on both shoulders, but look what Richards did playing through the ailments. It seems the surgery can only help.
News:Pavel Datsyuk is going for a rare repeat. The Detroit Red Wings star joined fellow centers Mike Richards of Philadelphia and Vancouver's Ryan Kesler on Tuesday as finalists for the Selke Trophy, given to the NHL's top defensive forward. The winner will be announced June 18 in Las Vegas.
Analysis: Richards was a plus-22 and led the NHL with seven short-handed goals in 2008-09. He also had a career-high 30 goals, 50 assists and 80 points. After landing a huge extension in 2007-08, Richards still kept the pedal to the metal in '08-09 and has emerged as an elite Fantasy forward heading into 2009-10.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored a goal and finished at plus-2 during Sunday's game against the Bruins. Richards made it 3-2 with 2:11 left in the second period when he redirected Ryan Parent's long slap shot for his 29th goal. He has just two goals and two assists in his last seven games.
Analysis: Richards is going through one of his worst slumps of the season and he does seem a bit out of place since Daniel Briere returned from a groin injury. Richards has seen some time as a third-line center, but he is clearly better than that. He is still heavily involved on offense and logging lots of minutes, so we won't lose faith in Richards as a high-end Fantasy forward just yet.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored a power-play goal and added two assists during a 6-4 win against the Sabres Friday. In the first period, Richards missed on a penalty shot with 2:14 remaining, ringing his wrist shot off a goalpost. He made up for it 42 seconds later, opening the scoring on a low wrist shot which got between two defensemen and past Patrick Lalime.
Analysis: Richards had a seven-game point streak end Tuesday against the Red Wings, but he has managed four goals and eight assists in his last nine games. Despite the return of Daniel Briere, it has not effected Richards' game and he continues to shine up the middle of the ice for Philadelphia. Richards has been a solid offensive player the last two seasons and a must-start Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Flyers C Mike Richards extended his point-scoring streak to seven games (three goals, six assists) with an assist Sunday against the Flyers.
Analysis: Despite the return of Daniel Briere, it has not effected Richards' game and he continues to shine up the middle of the ice for Philadelphia. Richards has been a solid offensive player the last two seasons and a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards had a goal, assist and plus-1 rating during Thursday's game against the Sabres. Richards redirected Kimmo Timonen's slap shot for his 26th goal on a power play 4:59 into the third. He has two goals and four assists during a four-game point streak.
Analysis: Richards is two points shy of making it to 70 for a second straight season. It has helped him that Daniel Briere has been out most of the year due to injury, but Richards has really stepped up as an elite NHL center and must-start Fantasy forward.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards tallied a pair of assists and finished at plus-2 during Tuesday's game against the Bruins. He now has six goals and eight assists in his last 10 games, with three multi-point games in that span.
Analysis: Richards missed the first few games of February while battling the flu, but has been on a tear after since returning to the lineup Feb. 12. He has 11 or more points in the first five months of the season and is off to a good start in March. Despite the return of Daniel Briere, Richards still has high-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored a goal and finished at plus-2 during Friday's game against the Canadiens. Richards intercepted the puck from Roman Hamrlik in the right circle and the Philadelphia captain snapped in his 24th goal. He has five goals and six assists during his last six games.
Analysis: Richards missed the first few games of February while battling the flu, but he has amassed 12 points in seven games since returning to the lineup and has looked as good as ever. He has 11 or more points in all five months this season and remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News:Mike Richards had two goals and three assists for a career-high five points, and Mike Knuble broke a third-period tie to help the Flyers win their third straight game, 6-3 over the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday. Richards scored an empty-net goal with 42 second left and also picked up his league-leading sixth short-handed goal and second in two games. His score on a 5-on-3 disadvantage against the New York Rangers on Sunday was his third such career goal, making him the only player in NHL history to accomplish this feat.
Analysis: You can't ask for much more than that. Any time a player records five points in a night, he's doing a lot of things right. He boosts up his points total to 57 on the season with 22 goals and 35 assists. He is worth using in most Fantasy leagues at this point.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored his 20th goal of the season Sunday in a win over the Rangers. The goal came with Philadelphia down two men and means Richards is the first NHL player to score three 3-on-5 goals in a career.
Analysis: Richards is on pace to get close to his 75-point total from last season, and that kind of production makes him worth using in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards returned to action Thursday against the Senators after missing three games with the flu. Richards showed he had no lingering effects with his 19th goal in 20:11 of ice time. He now has three goals and four assists in his last six games.
Analysis: The flu knocked Richards out for about a week and he was pretty useless to Fantasy owners Week 18 (Feb. 2-8). But he is back in action and already making contributions. Richards has been a solid Fantasy option ever since his breakout 2007-08 season and it's safe to insert him back into active lineups.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Flyers expect flu-stricken Mike Richards and Scottie Upshall back in the lineup Thursday against the Senators. They have both missed the last three games with the flu.
Analysis: The flu has really given Richards a run for his money, but with three days until their next game, it appears he should be over the ailment. Consider starting Richards Fantasy Week 19 (Feb. 9-15). He reached the 50-point plateau with a three-point night (two goals) Jan. 30 against the Lightning and has been a solid Fantasy option ever since his breakout 2007-08 season.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards was unable to play on Sunday against the Thrashers. He is questionable for Thursday's game against the Senators. It is the third game he has missed in a row with the ailment.
Analysis: Richards has been out all week with the flu but the Flyers don't have to play again until Thursday, so he should be good enough to go by then. He is a risky play but likely worth the risk as he is a must-start option when healthy.
News:Mike Richards regained his scoring touch, while Jeff Carter continued his high-scoring ways. Carter scored twice in a third period to take the NHL goal lead, and Richards had two goals and an assist in the Philadelphia Flyers' 6-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Friday. Richards put the Flyers ahead 1-0 on a breakaway goal at 7:03 of the first. Philadelphia took a 2-1 lead when Randy Jones scored on the power play from the low left circle off a pass from Richards at 8:05 of the second. Richards extended the lead to 3-1 with 5:19 remaining in the period. Richards has two goals and four assists during a four-game point streak.
Analysis: Richards entered the night with one goal in his previous 12 games. "The puck kind of followed me," Richards said. "I feel like I was getting the chances before, I just wasn't getting the results." Richards scoring has been down a bit after lighting the lamp 28 times in 2007-08, but he is still putting a lot of assists on the board and is averaging a point-per-game for the second straight season. Richards continues to be a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards assisted for a third straight game in Tuesday's loss to the Panthers.
Analysis: Richards is a must-start Fantasy forward when healthy, and his recent switch to the third line didn't last long, as he played with Mike Knuble and Simon Gagne on Tuesday. Richards remains a solid start in all Fantasy formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that, in an attempt to get more offense out of C Glen Metropolit (one goal), Flyers coach John Stevens made a bold move by replacing top-line C Mike Richards with Metropolit and dropping Richards onto a "third" line with wingers Scottie Upshall and Claude Giroux during Thursday's loss to Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Richards is a must-start Fantasy forward when healthy, and this switch isn't likely to be a permanent one, so we wouldn't worry too much. Keep an eye on his ice time and shot numbers over the next few games. Metropolit can continue to be ignored in all Fantasy formats for now.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored his first 2009 goal in Saturday's win over the Leafs. He now has 16 on the season.
Analysis: Richards has 44 points in 42 games this season and remains an elite Fantasy forward in all leagues until told otherwise.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored the only goal in a shootout and assisted three times, leading Philadelphia to a 5-4 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Friday night.
Analysis: Richards now has 42 points on the season, which puts him in the top 12 of the league. He is on pace to eclipse his career-best 75-point campaign from last season and remains a must-start in all formats.
News: Philadelphia C Mike Richards ended an eight-game point streak by failing to score a goal or an assist against the Canadiens in a 5-2 loss. The Flyers captain had seven goals and eight assists in that stretch.
Analysis: With 37 points this season, Richards has been one of the top Fantasy performers this season. Despite the streak ending, he is obviously a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Philadelphia C Mike Richards scored a goal and added two assists in Tuesday's 5-2 win over the Colorado Avalanche. Richards assisted on Mike Knuble's power play goal in the 1st period and then scored his own goal in the 2nd. It was his 13th of the year. Richards was also involved in Simon Gagne's 3rd period goal.
Analysis: Richards now has 37 points on the season after Tuesday's 3-point effort. He's registered points in eight straight and is a must-start at all times in Fantasy.
News: C Mike Richards had a goal and two assists against the Flyers on Saturday. He has six goals and 11 assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Richards has been tearing it up recently, Richards remains a high-end Fantasy forward. However, this was his best performance in the past few weeks. Richards remains a top-notch Fantasy forward.
News: Philadelphia C Mike Richards helped the Flyers defeat the Islanders, 4-3, on Tuesday night as he assisted on two of the goals. Richards got his first assist in the 2nd period on Darroll Powe's first goal of the season and then was apart of Simon Gagne's game winner in the 3rd.
Analysis: Richards now has 30 points on the season for the Flyers and 19 assists. He's got points in five straight games and a total of eight in that stretch. Richards remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored in Saturday's win over the Hurricanes and now has five goals in his last four games.
Analysis: Richards has 28 points on the season and has bounced all over the place this season since Daniel Briere and Jeff Carter have also been effective centers. However, Richards isn't letting the uncertainty of where he plays slow him down. He remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News:Mike Richards scored two goals, including the winner 2:05 into overtime, and the Philadelphia Flyers sent the Tampa Bay Lightning to their fifth straight loss with a 4-3 victory Tuesday. Richards took a backhanded pass from Kimmo Timonen high in the slot and put a slap shot past Mike Smith to win the game. Richards now has 10 goals on the season for the Flyers. He also picked up two penalty minutes for roughing in the 1st.
Analysis: Richards scored twice in the Flyers previous tilt against the Maple Leafs and he's got 26 points on the season. He has bounced all over the place this season since Daniel Briere and Jeff Carter have also been effective centers. However, Richards isn't letting the uncertainty of where he plays slow him down. He remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Philadelphia C Mike Richards had both Philadelphia goals on Saturday in a 4-2 loss to the Maple Leafs. Richards scored his 7th in the 1st period and added his 8th of the season on a shorthanded goal in the 2nd. He took seven shots on goal in the game.
Analysis: Richards now has 24 points on the season for the Flyers. He has bounced all over the place this season since Daniel Briere and Jeff Carter have also been effective centers. However, Richards isn't letting the uncertainty of where he plays slow him down. He remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Philadelphia C Mike Richards scored the game-winning goal in overtime on Saturday night against the Coyotes. Richards sixth goal of the season gave Philadelphia a 4-3 win as he was assisted by Jeff Carter. Richards also added an assist of Carter's goal to tie the game and send it into the extra frame in the 3rd period. Richards also picked up four minutes in the penalty box in the 3rd period as he was flagged for holding and interference.
Analysis: Richards has 21 points on the season though he hadn't recorded any in his previous two contests. He has bounced all over the place this season since Daniel Briere and Jeff Carter have also been effective centers. However, Richards isn't letting the uncertainty of where he plays slow him down. He remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 in 22:50 of ice time Saturday against the Canadiens. He extended his point streak to eight games. He has one goal and eight assists in that span.
Analysis: Richards has 19 points in 16 games this season with 14 of them being assists. He has bounced all over the place this season since Daniel Briere and Jeff Carter have also been effective centers. However, Richards isn't letting the uncertainty of where he plays slow him down. He remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored a short-handed goal in a 3-1 win over the Islanders on Tuesday afternoon. Richards came down on a 2-on-1 with Simon Gagne, while Philadelphia was short-handed for the eighth time, and got to a rebound of Gagne's shot to score his fifth goal of the season.
Analysis: Richards is off to a great start this season with 17 points in his first 14 games, although this was his first short-handed tally. With Daniel Briere injured again, Richards could regain his top-line center spot come Wednesday against the Penguins. Still, as long he remains a top-six forward, Richards is a must-start forward in all Fantasy formats.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards tallied an assist and finished at minus-1 in 19:58 of ice time Saturday against the Lightning. It extended his assist streak to five games. He has six helpers in that span.
Analysis: Richards has been dropped from the team's top scoring line with the return of Daniel Briere, but he is still finding ways to get involved in the offense. He has 16 points in 13 games and is showing last season's breakout performance was no fluke. Continue to start Richards in all Fantasy formats.
News: With the team desperate for a win, Mike Richards showed why he is the Philadelphia Flyers' captain. Richards had a career-high four assists and the Flyers became the last NHL team to break into the victory column this season with a 6-3 decision over the New Jersey Devils on Friday night. "He was our leader tonight. It was a great effort from our captain," Flyers coach John Stevens said after Philadelphia (1-3-3) ended a six-game victory drought in a city where it usually struggles. Not only did the Flyers win, they did it just hours after learning star center Daniel Briere would be sidelined up to a month with a torn abdominal muscle that will have to be surgically repaired. "It was a good night, first win of the year and we played well," said Richards, whose previous high was three assists. "I know I said this a lot lately, we deserved to win tonight. We played a good game right from the get-go and we finished the game."
Analysis: Richards more than made up for Briere's absence with a spectacular performance. He iced the game midway through the third period by skating down the left wing and centering a perfect cross-ice pass that Joffrey Lupul redirected past Martin Brodeur for a 5-3 lead. Richards now has four goals and six assists in seven games. He should see most of the first-line duty with Briere out until late November, but Richards is a must-start regardless.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards had a goal, assist and plus-2 rating in 25:02 of ice time Wednesday against the Sharks. Richards tied the game at 2 with a wrist shot on a power play at 12:04 into the first period. It was his fourth goal in six games.
Analysis: Richards has been taken off the team's top line, but he is still logging plenty of ice time and scoring at will. He continues to build off a breakout 2007-08 season. The fact he is seeing extended time on the power play and penalty kill just means more scoring chances. Continue to start Richards in all Fantasy formats.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored a 5-on-3 power-play goal during Thursday's 5-2 loss to the Avalanche. Richards played more than six minutes on the power play and more than six minutes on the penalty kill.
Analysis: Richards now has a goal in three of the first four games and continues to build off a breakout 2007-08 season. The fact he is seeing extended time on the power play and penalty kill just means more scoring chances. Continue to start Richards in all Fantasy formats.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored on a wrist shot 5:38 into the third period of Saturday's 4-3 loss to the Rangers. Richards, picked as the 17th captain in Flyers history, slid the puck past Steve Valiquette midway through the third to send the faithful into a frenzy. He finished at plus-1 and even spent seven minutes in the penalty box, including five minutes for fighting.
Analysis: Richards begins the season centering a line with Daniel Briere and Simon Gagne, but if the line doesn't end up clicking, it's back to the second line for Richards, who was a breakout star in 2007-08. Richards has plenty of scoring ability and remains a high-end Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the early plan for the Flyers is to start with a top line of Daniel Briere, Simon Gagne and Mike Richards, but if that line doesn't click, Briere will move back to his natural center position and Richards will drop to second-line center. Head coach John Stevens is trying to get the most offense out of his top two lines and does not want to drop Jeff Carter to third-line duty.
Analysis: Richards had a breakout 2007-08 season as he posted a career-high 75 points (28 goals). He also had a plus-14 rating. Richards is a first-line talent, but is too valuable to be moved to the wing. The Flyers hope they can keep Briere on the wing and allow Richards to flourish on the top line. Regardless, Richards is a top-six forward and worth a look as no worse than a No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News:Mike Richards missed his shootout attempt, but he did score in regulation to send the game to overtime before the Flyers won 4-3 over the New York Islanders on Saturday. The Flyers jumped back over Boston, which won earlier in the day, into seventh place in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Philadelphia is tied in points with the sixth-place Rangers and is three ahead of Washington, the first team below the postseason cutoff.
Analysis: Richards, who needs two more goals to reach 30, was only owned in 13 percent of Fantasy leagues to start this season, but when you more than double your point total from the previous season, you're going to draw some attention. He's now owned in 89 percent of leagues, and is a solid No. 3 Fantasy forward in all formats.
News:Mike Richards scored a breakaway goal 2:16 into overtime and the Philadelphia Flyers beat the New York Rangers 2-1 with a late comeback Tuesday night. Sean Avery turned over the puck in the New York zone to defenseman Jason Smith, who sent Richards in alone. With Rangers defenseman Marek Malik chasing, Richards cut to his backhand and swept a shot past Henrik Lundqvist. That gave the Flyers their fourth straight win and moved them within one point of the sixth-place Rangers in the Eastern Conference playoff race.
Analysis: Richards was only owned in 13 percent of Fantasy leagues to start this season, but when you more than double your point total from the previous season, you're going to draw some attention. He's now owned in 89 percent of leagues, and is a solid No. 3 Fantasy forward in all formats.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards reached another milestone in his breakout season Sunday when he assisted in a 4-1 win over the Islanders to get to the 70-point mark.
Analysis: Richards was only owned in 13 percent of Fantasy leagues to start this season, but when you more than double your point total from the previous season, you're going to draw some attention. He's now owned in 89 percent of leagues, and is a solid No. 3 Fantasy forward in all formats.
News:Mike Richards had a goal in regulation time and also one in the shootout to lead the Philadelphia Flyers to a 4-3 win over the New York Rangers on Friday night. Richards' breakaway goal early in the first period was enough to spoil Steve Valiquette's starting shutout streak against the Flyers. The Flyers again blew another late lead in the third period, this time letting a 2-0 advantage midway through the third and a 3-2 edge with 1:51 left in regulation slip away.
Analysis: Richards has goals in three of the last four games. He has 26 goals and 43 assists which gives basically a point per game this season. A point-per-game average is valuable in all Fantasy formats.
News:Mike Richards scored for the Flyers during Saturday's 3-2 loss to Boston, in his return from a nine-game absence due to a hamstring injury. Richards also finished at plus-1 in 19:19 of ice time. He extended his career-high mark in goals to 24.
Analysis: Richards picked up where he left off before getting injured. Fantasy owners had to deal with Richards on the bench for almost a month, but it's time to insert him back into all lineups. Richards has a career-high 67 points in 63 games. A point-per-game average is valuable in all Fantasy formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports just when the freefalling Flyers thought it couldn't get much worse, they learned Mike Richards will be out the next three weeks with a torn left hamstring. Richards, who leads the Flyers in goals (23), assists (43) and points (66) was injured late in regulation Saturday night when he slammed into the Panthers' net. "We're just going to have to deal with it right now," Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren said. "We're in a tough spot. There's no sense waving the white flag. Everyone else is just going to have to pick it up."
Analysis: Richards has as many points in his third NHL season as he accumulated in his first two. He is having a breakout season and the Flyers were wise to lock him up long term. Richards is out until mid-March at the earliest. Fantasy owners will have to bridge the gap with a waiver wire steal. Richards has emerged as a must-start Fantasy option.
News: All-Star center Mike Richards, who leads the Philadelphia Flyers with 66 points, will miss three weeks with a torn left hamstring he suffered in Saturday's 2-1 overtime loss to the Florida Panthers. Richards played in his 200th career game.
Analysis: Richards is having a career year and is showing that he might be a force for years to come. Keep him on reserve for now in all Fantasy formats.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards tallied two assists and finished at minus-1 during Thursday's game against the Lightning. He now has at least one assist in three straight games and four total. He has 42 assists on the season.
Analysis: Richards has been hot to start February with one goal and seven assists in seven games. He continues to build on his career year and is showing that he might be a force for years to come. Continue to start him in all Fantasy formats.
News:Mike Richards has picked up an assist for the third game in a row, but the Flyers lost 4-3 to the Capitals on Wednesday. Richards is a pretty godo goal scroer, but he is an even better assist man. He has 38 assist for the season including 10 in the last 10 games and also has netted 22 goals.
Analysis: Richards' career season continues. He has 60 points through 53 games and has really surprised many with his point-per-game performance. He has emerged as a reliable No. 1 Fantasy forward.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored a goal and tallied an assist Tuesday against the Thrashers. It was his first goal in seven games, but he has nine assists in his last nine games.
Analysis: Richards' career season continues. He has 59 points through 52 games and has really surprised many with his point-per-game performance. He has emerged as a reliable No. 1 Fantasy forward.
News: C Mike Richards had his five-game point streak snapped against Pittsburgh on Thursday. He had two goals and six assists in the streak.
Analysis: Richards has seven goals and 14 assists in 20 games since signing a 12-year extension on Dec. 13. He continues to put a fair amount of points on the board and remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored a goal and had an assist in Saturday's 5-3 win over the Islanders. Richards now has three goals and six assists in his last seven games.
Analysis: Richards has seven goals and 11 assists in 17 games since signing a 12-year extension on Dec. 13. He continues to put a fair amount of points on the board and remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards took his assist total to 30 for the season after setting up two of Philadelphia's five goals in Wednesday's 5-3 over the Florida Panthers. He now has two goals and five assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Richards has six goals and 10 assists in 16 games since signing a 12-year extension on Dec. 13. He continues to put a fair amount of points on the board and remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Sunday's game against the Capitals. He now has two goals and three assists in his last five games.
Analysis: Richards saw a 16-game home points streak come to an end Saturday against the Bruins, but rebounded nicely on the road Sunday. Richards has six goals and eight assists in 15 games since signing a 12-year extension on Dec. 13. He continues to put a fair amount of points on the board and remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards came away without a goal or assist for the third straight game after Friday's tilt with the Devils. He did manage three goals and two assists in the four games prior to his cold spell.
Analysis: Most of the Flyers' top players have struggled in the last few weeks, so Richards is by no means by himself in that regard. He is still having a career season and has emerged as a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored twice and added an assist during Saturday's game against the Sabres. He now has four goals and seven assists in his last seven games.
Analysis: The Flyers handed Richards a hefty 12-year contract extension on Dec. 13, but he is showing he is well worth it. He already has 18 goals and 24 assists in 34 games. He has developed into a must-start Fantasy option. He is even a better offensive option than Daniel Briere at this time.
News: The Flyers signed scoring leader Mike Richards to a 12-year contract extension Thursday. While the team didn't disclose financial terms, The Canadian Press reported the deal was for $69 million. Richards' new contract will start next season and run through the 2019-20 season. The team announced the extension before its game Thursday night against Montreal. "Mike has become an integral part of our core group and we are extremely happy to have him under contract long term," general manager Paul Holmgren said. "We believe that he will continue to grow as a player and as a leader."
Analysis: The 22-year-old forward has a career-high 14 goals this season and also has 20 assists. He's third in the NHL with three short-handed goals. The Flyers' first-round draft pick in 2003, Richards has 35 goals and 65 assists over three NHL seasons. "I am very happy to be part of the organization for hopefully the rest of my career," Richards said. He is having a breakout season and the Flyers felt they needed to lock him up long term before it was too late. Hopefully this new contract doesn't make Richards complacent because he has developed into a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards earned his 100th career point on R.J. Umberger's first goal against Pittsburgh Tuesday.
Analysis: Richards is having a breakout season and he has also emerged as a must-start Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Flyers C Mike Richards had two assists Wednesday against the Hurricanes to extend his point streak to four games. He has three goals and four assists in that stretch. More impressively, he's recorded at least one point in 19 of the team's 24 games.
Analysis: The Flyers already have begun contract negotiations with Richards' agent, Pat Morris, about keeping the third-year forward in Philly. Richards, 22, is seeking a long-term deal that would pay him in the neighborhood of $6 million a season. Richards entered Wednesday's game second on the Flyers in points with 28 and was leading the club's forwards in ice time with 21:05. Whatever he wants, the Flyers should show him the money. He is having a breakout season and has to be considered among the early candidates for MVP. He has also emerged as a must-start Fantasy option.
News: C Mike Richards extended his point streak to three games with a goal and an assist against Boston Monday, but committed a pair of turnovers that led to goals and finished minus-3.
Analysis: Richards, a third-year forward, had never posted more than 34 points in his career. He now has 26 in 22 games. He is having a career year and has emerged as a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Saturday's game against the Senators. He has scored in consecutive games and has four goals in his last six appearances. He also has three assists in that span to go along with a plus-4 rating.
Analysis: Richards, a third-year forward, had never posted more than 34 points in his career. He now has 26 in 22 games. He is having a career year and has emerged as a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Philadelphia C Mike Richards had an assist at Carolina Wednesday to extend his point streak to seven games, but he missed a penalty shot late in the game.
Analysis: Richards, a third-year forward, had never posted more than 34 points in his career. He now has 23 in 20 games. He is having a career year and has emerged as a must-start Fantasy option.
News:Mike Richards might want to slyly suggest one of his Flyers teammates get whistled for diving, holding or any other type of penalty that would leave Philadelphia short-handed. Richards somehow finds a way to make teams pay on the penalty kill. Richards knocked in his own rebound for the winner early in the third period to lead Philadelphia to a 3-2 win over the New York Islanders on Monday night and help the Flyers remain undefeated at home. "He's got great instincts and he's a big-game player," Flyers coach John Stevens said. "He came through (Monday)."
Analysis: Richards has at least one point in seven of his last eight games. He leads the Flyers with 48 shots. RW Joffrey Lupul is next with 44. Richards, a third-year forward, had never posted more than 34 points in his career. He now has 20 in 17 games. He is having a career year and has emerged as a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Flyers C Mike Richards assisted on three goals during Saturday's game against the Penguins. He also finished at plus-1. Richards has one point in 10 of his last 12 games. He has seven goals and seven assists in that span.
Analysis: Richards, a third-year forward, had never posted more than 34 points in his career. He now has 19 in 16 games. He is having a career year and has emerged as a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Daniel Briere, Mike Richards and R.J. Umberger scored to help Philadelphia finally beat the Washington Capitals 3-2 on Friday night, even though Alex Ovechkin scored for the eighth consecutive game against the Flyers. Richards left the ice with blood streaming down his nose after trading punches with Brooks Laich with about 2 1/2 minutes left in the first period. He returned by the second period in time to score his eighth goal. Joffrey Lupul passed to Richards, who sent the puck over Olaf Kolzig's shoulder to make it 2-1 with about 5 minutes remaining in the second period. It was Richards' third consecutive game with a goal.
Analysis: Richards finished with a plus-1 rating and spent five minutes in the penalty box for the fight he had with Laich. While he is not quite a must-start in any Fantasy leagues yet, he is worth adding as a No. 3 Fantasy forward in formats of 12 or more teams at this point. He has at least one goal in seven of his last 10 games and is developing into a nice scoring option for the Flyers.
News: Mike Richards had a short-handed goal to lift Philadelphia to a 2-1 win over Boston and goalie Tim Thomas on Saturday. Zdeno Chara failed to stop a pass at the point on a power play in the second period. The puck hopped over his stick and Richards picked it up on the fly. He slid a back-hander through the pads of Thomas at the 9:36 mark for his sixth goal of the season, his second short-handed score.
Analysis: Richards also had an assist, finished with a plus-1 rating and spent four minutes in the penalty box Saturday. He is on a six-game points streak (4 G, 3 A). While he is not quite a must-start in any Fantasy leagues yet, he is worth adding as a No. 3 Fantasy forward in formats of 12 or more teams at this point.
News: Mike Richards scored a goal and added an assist with a plus-3 rating on five shots on goal in 21:50 of ice time on Thursday night against the Devils.
Analysis: Richards now has four goals and eight points with a plus-7 rating in six games so far this season. While he is not quite a must-start in any Fantasy leagues, he is worth adding as a No. 3 in formats of 12 or more teams at this point.
News: Mike Richards picked up his third goal of the season in Tuesday's game against the Thrashers to go along with a plus-1 rating in 19:52 of ice time.
Analysis: Richards now has three goals and six points with a plus-4 rating in five games so far this season. While he is not quite a must-start in any Fantasy leagues, he is worth adding as a No. 3 in formats of 12 or more teams at this point.
News: Mike Richards had four points to help the Flyers rout the Vancouver Canucks 8-2 on Wednesday night. He had two goals and two assists in the blowout win.
Analysis: Over a whole season, Richards might be a 45-50 point producer. Consider picking him up in larger leagues as a No. 3 or 4 center.
News: Randy Jones (facial lacerations) and Mike Richards (shoulder) was able to play in Sunday's regular season finale against the Sabres. Jones had an assist and Richards scored a goal.
Analysis: Richards finished with 10 goals and 32 points through 59 games, but that is still good for fifth in scoring on the Flyers. Over a whole season, he might be a 45-50 point producer depending on his linemates. Keep an eye on him heading into training camp and Draft Day 2007.
News: Mike Richards (shoulder) missed Thursday's game against the Devils.
Analysis: Richards is questionable for the regular season finale on Saturday against the Islanders.
News: Cs Mike Richards (shoulder) and Scottie Upshall (shoulder) both traveled to Toronto for Tuesday's game, but neither were able to play.
Analysis: Richards remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all larger Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health. Time is running short on the season, however.
News: Cs Mike Richards (shoulder) and Scottie Upshall (shoulder) each were sidelined for Saturday's game against the Rangers.
Analysis: Richards and Upshall are each risky plays for Fantasy Week 27 (April 2-8) if you need healthier alternatives.
News: The Flyers were without defenseman Denis Gauthier (wrist), right winger Scottie Upshall (shoulder) and center Mike Richards (shoulder) for Friday's game at New Jersey.
Analysis: According to phillyburbs.com, Richards is officially listed as day to day, so he might be able to return for a game before the regular season comes to a conclusion.
News: Flyers center Mike Richards left the game in the third period with a separated left shoulder and is expected to be out up to 10 days.
Analysis: Keep Richards reserved in all larger Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health. It is possible the team will not risk having their young player return and aggravate the injury, too. Shutting him down for the season is likely.
News: Scottie Upshall, Geoff Sanderson, Sami Kapanen and Mike Richards each scored goals as Philadelphia beat the Devils for the first time in six tries this season on Tuesday night.
Analysis: Richards also added an assist with an even rating in the win. Richards has managed two goals and 10 points over the past seven games and is worth a look in most Fantasy leagues as a No. 3 center while he is hot.
News: Simon Gagne had two goals and Sami Kapanen also scored in Tuesday's game at Buffalo. Mike Richards also added three assists for the second time this season.
Analysis: Richards finds himself on the top line playing with Simon Gagne and that can only increase his Fantasy value.
News: Mike Richards slid up to the top scoring line with Simon Gagne and Mike Knuble for Thursday's game against the Maple Leafs following the pregame trade of Peter Forsberg to Nashville.
Analysis: Richards is worth a look in all larger Fantasy leagues playing with the red hot Gagne and Knuble.
News: R.J. Umberger scored twice in Monday's game against the Red Wings, and Mike Richards, Simon Gagne and Todd Fedoruk also scored for the Flyers.
Analysis: Richards posted a plus-1 and scored the goal on his only shot of the game in 17:18 of ice time. His Fantasy value remains limited to larger leagues at this time.
News: Jeff Carter, Peter Forsberg and Mike Richards had goals in Tuesday's game for the Flyers, who have not won at home since Nov. 24 when they beat Columbus in former Flyers coach Ken Hitchcock's debut behind the Blue Jackets bench.
Analysis: Richards ended a 10-game scoreless stretch with the goal on Tuesday. He remains useful only in the largest of Fantasy leagues at this point.
News: Mike Richards and R.J. Umberger each picked up an assist with two shots on goal in Sunday's game at Atlanta.
Analysis: Richards ended a nine-game scoreless drought with the assist. He only remains a useful No. 3 or 4 Fantasy option in leagues of 12 or more teams at this point.
News: Philadelphia C Mike Richards and LW Geoff Sanderson returned against the Islanders Thursday after each missed 16 games with torn abdominal muscles.
Analysis: Richards had been sidelined for more than four weeks. He has posted just one goal and 10 points through 29 games, so he is only worth a look in larger Fantasy leagues at this time.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Mike Richards (abdominal surgery) will return to the lineup for Thursday's game against the Islanders.
Analysis: Richards has been sidelined for more than four weeks. He has posted just one goal and 10 points through 29 games, so he is only worth a look in larger Fantasy leagues at this time.
News:Phillyburbs.com reports Geoff Sanderson and Mike Richards, who both had hernia surgery last month, were able to practice on Monday.
Analysis: Sanderson hopes to be back by the time the current eight-game road trip ends in Washington next Tuesday. Richards might take a little longer. Keep both players reserved in all Fantasy leagues until they can officially return and prove their health.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer is reporting Mike Richards is scheduled to have surgery on Tuesday due to a serious abdominal strain which he suffered in Saturday's game. General manager Paul Holmgren said Richards is expected to be sidelined at least four weeks.
Analysis: Geoff Sanderson is also battling a similar injury and will join Richards on injured reserve. Drop both from your Fantasy roster in all formats.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Mike Richards was sidelined due to an abdominal injury suffered on Saturday.
Analysis: It is possible Richards might require surgery and that might keep him sidelined a month. Reserve him in all larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Mike Richards picked up three assists and a plus-3 rating in 18:21 of ice time in Thursday's game against Philadelphia.
Analysis: Richards has managed seven assists in the past 10 games. He is worth using in all larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Second-year Cs Mike Richards and R.J. Umberger struggled in Tuesday's game at Buffalo, as did most Flyers in a 9-1 loss. They were scoreless with a minus-2 rating.
Analysis: Richards is scoreless in six games so far this season, while Umberger has just one goal and no assists in six starts. At least Umberger wasn't knocked silly against the Sabres this time around like he was in the playoffs in Buffalo last season. Neither of these guys are worth using in Fantasy leagues until they start producing.
News: Richards skated on the top scoring line in Saturday's game at Atlanta in place of Peter Forsberg (knee) who has a strained medial collateral ligament.
Analysis: Richards is a decent short-term addition, especially if you need a replacement for Forsberg for the upcoming Fantasy period.
News: Rookie Mike Richards has posted 10 goals and 18 assists with a plus-7 rating through 55 games.
Analysis: Richards is a fantastic keeper option in all Fantasy leagues and he remains useful in larger weekly formats.
News: Mike Richards picked up his first-career NHL hat trick, including a shorthanded and empty net goal, in Wednesday's game against the Islanders. He also had a plus-3 rating in 16:55 of ice time.
Analysis: Richards has six points (4 G, 2 A) over the past five games after an eight-game scoreless streak. It looks like he is starting to turn it around after hitting an early wall.
News: Richards was scoreless with a plus-1 rating in 13:15 of ice time with three shots on goal in Monday's loss against Montreal.
Analysis: Richards is scoreless in 13 of his past 14 games with just one goal. It is no wonder Richards is among the most dropped players in CBS SportsLine.com Fantasy Hockey leagues.
News: Richards (concussion) was able to play in Thursday's game against the Senators. He was scoreless with one shot on goal in 13:06 of ice time.
Analysis: Despite the scoreless evening, it appears safe to get the rookie back into your active Fantasy lineup in all leagues which allow daily transactions.
News: The Philadelphia Daily News reports Mike Richards practiced on Tuesday and expected to play on Thursday against Ottawa.
Analysis: Richards missed the past two games, but was expected to participate in contact drills on Wednesday. Keep him reserved until he can officially return.
News: Richards (head) was out for the second straight game on Monday against the Sabres.
Analysis: The rookie remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return.
News: Mike Richards (concussion) was out for Saturday's game at St. Louis.
Analysis: Richards remains day to day. If you have healthier alternatives, use them in the upcoming scoring period.
News: According to the Philadelphia Daily News, it was determined that rookie Mike Richards did not suffer a concussion on Thursday. He was kept off the ice yesterday and tests ruled out a concussion. The teams said Richards would travel with the team to St. Louis, where he will work out in the morning. If he is symptom-free, he'll play.
Analysis: That's great news. He hasn't been a strong Fantasy option so far this year, but he certainly has the ability to become one.
News: Richards left Thursday's game against the Canucks after suffering what might have been a concussion. He left the game and was unable to return.
Analysis: Richards' status is uncertain. He will be re-evaluated on Friday.
News: Mike Richards is scoreless over the past three games and the rookie has slowed tremendously after a quick start.
Analysis: Richards has four points (2 G, 2 A) over the past 14 games, going scoreless in 11 of those contests. He remains a solid keeper prospect, but you might want to go another way in weekly Fantasy leagues until he starts producing consistently again.
News: Mike Richards scored a goal in Wednesday's opener against the Rangers. He finished with three shots on goal in 20:14 of ice time.
Analysis: Richards and teammate Jeff Carter will likely be among the finalists for the Calder Trophy later on this season, as they are surrounded by an awful lot of firepower.
