News:Chris Kunitz scored two power-play goals and added an assist in Sunday's 5-4 overtime win over the Isles.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz did not score a point in either of the first two games of the Penguins' series against the Isles, but his effort Sunday was key, as his first goal tied the game at two and his second was the game-winner, scored at the 9:44 mark of overtime.
News:Chris Kunitz registered six shots on goal and scored his second goal in April on Tuesday.
Analysis: He played left wing on a line centered by Brandon Sutter with Matt Cooke at right wing. On Most nights, Chris Kunitz will play with the team's higher skilled guys like Evgeni Malkin, Jarome Iginla or Sidney Crosby (when healthy), but he did find the back of the net for the first time in six games Tuesday.
News:Chris Kunitz went pointless Monday and has one goal in the month of April.
Analysis: He does have four assists in his last eight contests, but the elite offensive production has dropped off. Chris Kunitz's overall numbers are still very strong -- 21 goals, 49 points, 101 hits -- in 45 games, but the buzz in Pittsburgh has moved on to the likes of Brenden Morrow, Jussi Jokinen and others in the last couple weeks. When and if Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin return, look for Kunitz's numbers to rise accordingly.
News:Chris Kunitz, who was reunited with Evgeni Malkin on Tuesday, finished pointless, but registered a plus-3 rating in a win over the Hurricanes.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz has just two goals and six points in his last 11 games. His appearance on the Malkin line might actually help Malkin jump-start his game more than the other way around. Kunitz was a big reason why Malkin scored 50 goals last season and James Neal netted 40. He's cooled off statistically, but is still playing well overall for Pittsburgh.
News:Chris Kunitz won't face a suspension for his hit on the Islanders' Josh Bailey on Saturday, Bob Pompeani of KDKA reports.
Analysis: Good news for Chris Kunitz fantasy owners. In addition, Tyler Kennedy will center Kunitz and Pascal Dupuis with Sidney Crosby out. That news isn't quite so good, especially for a winger who has two goals (and five points) in his last nine games.
News: The Penguins could reunite Chris Kunitz with Evgeni Malkin and James Neal, following news that usual linemate Sidney Crosby (jaw) will be sidelined indefinitely.
Analysis: Pens coach Dan Bylsma has shown no fear in changing lines at the drop of a hat, but putting Chris Kunitz back with Malkin and Neal would make sense. The trio dominated in 2011-12 when Crosby was out. Since both Neal and Jarome Iginla are most comfortable as right wingers, slotting Iginla with Brandon Sutter and Pascal Dupuis (or Matt Cooke) would give Pittsburgh two solid offensive units. There has been no update from the league regarding whether Kunitz might be suspended for a penalized check Saturday, but such a scenario appears unlikely.
News:Chris Kunitz could potentially face a suspension after taking a game-misconduct penalty for an illegal check against the Islanders on Saturday.
Analysis: He served a one-game suspension during a playoff series, so his status as a prior offender could impact the decision as to whether he misses any time. Most likely, the league will review his check on Josh Bailey and find that the hit was not flagrant. If nothing else, the situation is one to keep an eye on.
News:Chris Kunitz collected his 20th goal Thursday --and fifth game-winner of the season -- against the Jets.
Analysis: The left winger ranks second in points (44), first in plus-minus (plus-27), second in power-play goals (8) and leads the top-50 point-getters with 83 hits. Chris Kunitz very easily could be the NHL's fantasy player of the year.
News:Chris Kunitz scored his first goal in five games -- and 19th of the season -- Friday night on Long Island.
Analysis: With 41 points (19G, 22A) in 32 games, the Penguin winger need just seven points to guarantee a point-per-game average. Barring injury, he should finish the campaign somewhere in the 55-60 point range -- just like he usually does for an 82-game regular season.
Pens' Kunitz Passes Steven Stamkos In Scoring Race
News:Chris Kunitz passed Tampa Bay's Steven Stamkos for second place in the NHL scoring race with two assists Thursday night against the Maple Leafs. Kunitz has 39 points (18 goals, 21 assists) to Stamkos' 38 points.
Analysis: The line of Chris Kunitz, Sidney Crosby and Pascal Dupuis is producing offense at breakneck speed and shows no signs of slowing down. Crosby leads the league with 47 points, and he's taking Kunitz along for the ride.
News:Chris Kunitz scored his 18th goal of the season Tuesday, good for second-most in the NHL.
Analysis: His goal with just over six minutes remaining in regulation spear-headed a comeback which saw Pittsburgh rally from a 2-0 deficit to a 3-2 regulation win over Boston. Chris Kunitz has 11 goals and 16 points in his last eight games.
News:Chris Kunitz mopped up against the Islanders on Sunday night, netting a hat trick and two assists in a 6-1 victory.
Analysis: The line of Chris Kunitz, Sidney Crosby and Pascal Dupuis is playing as well as any unit in the NHL. In his last 82 regular-season contests, Kunitz now has 83 points (34G, 49A) and a plus-34 rating.
News:Chris Kunitz extended his goal-scoring streak to five games Thursday, netting two goals -- including the game-winner -- and adding an assist against the Flyers.
Analysis: The Pittsburgh forward now has 79 points in his last 81 regular-season tilts, dating back to December of 2011. He's playing the best hockey of his NHL life and may be one of the most underrated, all-around players in the league.
News:Chris Kunitz rebounded from a pointless, minus-3 effort Wednesday, scoring his seventh goal of the season Friday night against the Panthers.
Analysis: Prior to Wednesday, Chris Kunitz collected five goals and 15 points in nine previous February contests. The feisty forward also rang up a team-high four hits against Florida, giving him 21 hits in his last 11 games.
News:Chris Kunitz picked up two assists Thursday against Washington, extending his points streak to four games.
Analysis: He's crazy hot, having piled up five goals and five assists in those four games. Skating alongside Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and James Neal has its benefits.
News:Chris Kunitz was awarded a fourth goal in Sunday's win against Washington.
Analysis: The goal was initially given to defenseman Paul Martin, but it was readily apparent that Chris Kunitz redirected the shot in mid-air past goalie Braden Holtby. Kunitz has now scored five goals and eight points in four games. For his efforts, he was named the NHL's No. 2 star of the week.
News:Chris Kunitz tallied his first hat trick in more than two years Sunday afternoon against the Capitals.
Analysis: He netted three against Tampa Bay back on Jan. 5, 2011. The gritty forward now has six points (4G, 2A) in the last two games, not bad for a player who sat out practice Friday due to the flu. Two of Chris Kunitz's goals came courtesy of the power play, giving him goals on the man advantage. It appeared as though he deflected a Paul Martin shot early in Sunday's game, but the goal was given to Martin. If the matter is addressed, Kunitz could get credit for four scores.
News:Chris Kunitz (flu) put together his strongest game of the year Saturday, scoring an unassisted game-winning goal while adding two assists.
Analysis: The plus-4 rating was his first in 541 career regular-season games. We saw Chris Kunitz take pre-game warmups; hopefully fantasy owners benefited from the late information.
News:Chris Kunitz (flu) took part in the Pens' pre-game skate and appears ready to play against the Devils on Saturday.
Analysis: While the Pens haven't officially announced Chris Kunitz's availability, he looks like a good bet to play. Kunitz has 17 points in 21 career games against New Jersey.
News:Chris Kunitz (undisclosed) will be a game-time decision Saturday against the Devils.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz has been fighting off a cold, but it hasn't caused him to miss any action yet, and he's earned at least 14 minutes of ice time in every game so far this season. He's worth a start if healthy, considering he's posted nine goals and 17 points in 21 career games against New Jersey. An update on his status should be available shortly before the opening face-off.
News: Despite four points in seven games, Chris Kunitz is off to a slow start with only eight shots on goal.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz can be excused for a so-so showing Thursday, given he nearly missed the game with a cold, but he hasn't scored since the season opener. He'll get a chance to pick things up Saturday against New Jersey, against whom he's scored nine goals and 17 points in 21 career contests.
News:Chris Kunitz is expected to play Thursday, according to coach Dan Bylsma.
Analysis: Bylsma didn't say what caused Chris Kunitz to miss Thursday's morning skate. It sounds like the winger will play, but fantasy owners with similar options might be better off resting Kunitz for the night.
News:Chris Kunitz was not on the ice for Thursday's morning skate.
Analysis: A reason for Chris Kunitz's absence was not given, but it does put his availability for Thursday's game against the Rangers in question. Eric Tangradi worked with the first line with Kunitz away and would figure to line up in that spot if Kunitz does not play Thursday night. Be sure to keep tabs on Kunitz's status if he is part of your fantasy squad.
News:Chris Kunitz collected his first goal, an empty-netter, Saturday against Philadelphia.
Analysis: He had four hits in a game where his inability to stop a pass heading through the crease led to the Flyers' lone score.
News:Chris Kunitz is expected to play on a line with Sidney Crosby and Pascal Dupuis, according to coach Dan Bylsma, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: Although Chris Kunitz spent most of last season with Evgeni Malkin and James Neal -- putting together a strong 61-point campaign -- Kunitz, Crosby and Dupuis logged plenty of ice together prior to 2011-12. Kunitz compiled 18 power-play points last season and could come close to that number with both a healthy Crosby and Malkin in the lineup, even in a shortened campaign.
News:Chris Kunitz struck for two goals as Pittsburgh fell 8-5 to Philadelphia on Friday. Philadelphia now leads the Eastern Conference quarterfinal matchup two games to none.
Analysis: While he scored two goals and fired four shots on net, Chris Kunitz finished the night with a minus-5 rating in a wild game. The goals were his first points of the series.
News:Chris Kunitz had a goal and an assist Saturday as the Penguins topped the Flyers in a preview of their upcoming playoff series.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz has benefited from playing with Sidney Crosby of late, and his output Saturday allowed him to finish the season with a career-high 61 points. Watch for Kunitz on draft day next season; if you don't have Sid the Kid, getting one of his running mates is a smart move.
News:Chris Kunitz posted his third goal in five games, scoring the game-winning goal in Monday's victory over Phoenix.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz is giving the Penguins solid secondary scoring and likely doing the same for your roster. He's been scoring of late and is shooting the puck close to three times per game.
News:Chris Kunitz had two goals waived off in Sunday's win over Columbus, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz is starting to develop a reputation - Penguins coach Dan Bylsma estimated that he's had six-to-eight goals waived off this year.
News:Chris Kunitz had a goal and an assist in Saturday's 8-1 win over Tampa Bay. Kunitz got the scoring started with a goal 11:09 into the first period.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz ended the game plus-3. His ability to play with elite forwards like Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby make him worthy in most fantasy leagues.
News:Chris Kunitz lit the lamp and added two helpers against Tampa Bay on Sunday, giving him 40 points in 56 games.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz has 16 goals and 24 points, and has scored eight points in his last five games. Maybe this season Kunitz will finally provide the secondary scoring that the Penguins have been waiting for.
News:Chris Kunitz scored a goal and added three assists in Saturday's win over Winnipeg.
Analysis: He, James Neal and Evgeni Malkin are the league's most potent line. They have 40 of the Pens' 79 goals dating back to Dec. 10, including three in the win over the Jets while meshing for 11 points in the game. It's his most productive game of the season and his first four-point effort since Dec. 23, 2009. He's a nice complementary scorer in most fantasy formats.
News:Chris Kunitz scored one goal and assisted on another Thursday night.
Analysis: The Penguins winger now has 14 goals and 31 points in 46 games. He's made a seamless transition from Sidney Crosby's wing to Evgeni Malkin's -- and the Penguins have benefited. GM Ray Shero recented lauded Chris Kunitz's efforts, saying he can play with elite players like Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf of Anaheim or Crosby and Malkin.
News:Chris Kunitz assisted on a pair of goals and finished plus-2 Friday night.
Analysis: The two points equaled his total during the Pens' six-game losing streak, which, not coincidentally, ended Friday with the 4-1 win. Chris Kunitz now has 13 goals and 29 points in 43 games.
News:Chris Kunitz collected a power-play goal Saturday in New Jersey.
Analysis: He now has four power-play goals and 13 overall for the Pens. So long as he can stay healthy, he's worth a look as a strong secondary player.
News:Chris Kunitz (illness) saw his five-game point streak come to a close Thursday.
Analysis: He took a regular shift with James Neal and Evgeni Malkin and should be good to go Saturday in New Jersey -- he practiced with the team Friday. For his career, Chris Kunitz has seven goals and 12 points in 16 games against the Devils.
News:Chris Kunitz did not practice Wednesday due to an illness, according to the Penguins' official Twitter page.
Analysis: The illness did not prevent Chris Kunitz from recording an assist Tuesday and extending his scoring streak to five games. Kunitz is red hot right now, totaling 10 points over his last seven games, so hopefully the illness does not prevent him from playing Friday against the Flyers.
News:Chris Kunitz extended his goal scoring streak to three games Tuesday.
Analysis: The Penguins winger has five points (3, 2) over his hot streak and is averaging a point per game in nine December contests. Evgeni Malkin and James Neal are understandably getting the press, but fantasy owners shouldn't forget about the third member of the unit.
News:Chris Kunitz scored the game-winning goal Thursday night, giving the Penguins a 2-1 victory over the Capitals.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz now has 14 points (9G, 5A) in 26 games, putting him on pace to come in just under the 48 points he scored last season. However, he continues to boast excellent fantasy upside as long as he continues skating on a line with Sidney Crosby and Pascal Dupuis. Keep him active.
News:Chris Kunitz rode to Pittsburgh's rescue Saturay night against Los Angeles, scoring a late game-tying goal and then banging home the winning shootout tally to give the Pens a 3-2 road win.
Analysis: He skated with Jordan Staal and Pascual Dupuis, the same line he'd been practicing with earlier in the week. Chris Kunitz fired an impressive six shots on goal on the night, so he isn't afraid to pull the trigger.
News:Chris Kunitz practiced on a line with Jordan Staal and Pascal Dupuis on Thursday, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz sat out earlier in the week but has returned without incident. The Penguins forward has four goals in his last six games and is a good play right now.
News:Chris Kunitz did not participate in Monday's practice for the Pens, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz left practice early one day last week but didn't miss any game action. The Penguins forward has four goals in his last six games. He's hot, but the team plays just two times in Week 4. There's good reason to believe Kunitz will be able to play in both games.
News:Chris Kunitz netted his fourth goal in six games Saturday night.
Analysis: The Penguins forward not only collected his fourth power-play point, but he also led the team with five shots and four hits. Chris Kunitz and the Pens are now off until Thursday following 13 games in October.
News:Chris Kunitz potted his season's first goal in a 4-2 win over the Wild on Tuesday.
Analysis: He now has three points (1, 2) in eight games. Chris Kunitz sees time as a top-six forward and plays on the team's No. 1 power-play unit. He's a good bet to score at a slightly better than half point per game pace -- his career average is .638 points per contest.
News:Chris Kunitz agreed to a two-year, $7.45 million contract with the Penguins on Thursday, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz's deal will keep him in Pittsburgh through the 2013-14 season. Kunitz has been a steady left wing presence for the Penguins for a couple years, and he is coming off a season in which he scored 23 goals and handed out 25 assists. However, his production has been limited by his health the last couple years - Kunitz has missed a total of 48 games over the last two seasons. If he stays healthy this season, and Sidney Crosby returns sometime soon, he should be able to top last season's total of 48 points.
News:Chris Kunitz went scoreless in Thursday's opener, finishing with three shots, two missed shots, a takeaway and a blocked shot against the Canucks.
Analysis: His best scoring opportunity came when missed the net from low in the slot early in the first period. Chris Kunitz skated with Jordan Staal and Tyler Kennedy at even strength and saw power-play time (1:32 TOI) on the top unit.
News:Chris Kunitz is set to play on the Pens' No. 1 power-play unit and on a line with Jordan Staal and Tyler Kennedy on Thursday.
Analysis:Chris Kunitz, who compiled 155 hits in 66 games last season, gives the line a physical presence against the Stanley Cup runner-ups. The left winger scored 23 times and finished with 48 points in limited play in 2010-11. He'll skate with Sidney Crosby and James Neal when Crosby returns.
News: Kunitz practiced on a line with Tyler Kennedy and Jordan Staal on Friday.
Analysis: The Pittsburgh winger returns to the lineup Saturday after serving a one-game suspension. Kunitz has one goal on seven shots in three playoff games.
News: Having served his one-game suspension in Game 4 against Tampa on Wednesday, Kunitz will play in Game 5 on Saturday.
Analysis: With a 3-1 lead in the series, Pitt is sitting pretty as Kunitz makes his comeback.
News: Kunitz has been suspended one game for his actions in Game 3 against Tampa Bay, TSN's Bob McKenzie reports.
Analysis: Steve Downie got suspended for Tampa, so Kunitz's inopportune absence is at least somewhat canceled out for Pittsburgh.
News: Kunitz enters the playoffs after a regular season that included 23 goals, 48 points and a plus-18 rating in 66 games.
Analysis: Fantasy poolies who believe that Pittsburgh will go on an extended playoff round would want to choose Kunitz as the top offensive producer for the Pens. The line of Kunitz, Jordan Staal and Tyler Kennedy has proven to be Pittsburgh's top scoring line since forming in early March.
News: Kunitz picked up a power-play assist and tallied the game-deciding shootout score in a 2-1 victory in Philadelphia on Thursday.
Analysis: Kunitz extended his point streak to five games, a stretch that includes four goals and nine points.
News: Kunitz had three assists in Tuesday's win over Ottawa.
Analysis: Kunitz now has five points in his last two games. The Pens are going to need him to continue producing until Sidney Crosby returns from his concussion injury.
News: Kunitz opened and finished the scoring in Sunday's 5-1 win over Edmonton.
Analysis: Kunitz scored his first points after returning March 8 from lower body injury. Kunitz now had 20 goals for the first time since the 2008-09 season.
News: Kunitz will be back in the lineup Tuesday against Buffalo after missing the last 13 games with a lower body injury, according to the Penguins' Official Twitter Feed.
Analysis: It's not exactly the return of Sidney Crosby, but Kunitz is a decent forward in his own right -- 36 points in 52 games -- and the Pens can use all the scoring help they can get up front as they head down the stretch gearing up for the playoffs. Kunitz will skate on a line with Jordan Staal and Tyler Kennedy on Tuesday.
News: Kunitz, who has sat out 13 consecutive games with a lower body injury, could play as soon as Tuesday against Buffalo, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. "Let's hope so," coach Dan Bylsma said.
Analysis: It was hoped that Kunitz might be back Saturday, but he wasn't quite there in terms of his recovery. "His response to his injury, with an [increased] workload isn't where it needs to be to play without fear of hurting the injury further," Bylsma noted. Consider Kunitz day-to-day leading into Tuesday's game, but it looks like he's close.
News: Kunitz (lower body) will not play Saturday in Boston, the Penguins' Twitter Feed reports.
Analysis: It was thought that Kunitz would return for one of the team's two weekend games, but that's not the case.
News: Kunitz (lower body) was a full participant at Penguins' practice on Thursday and could return to game action as soon as the weekend, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: "He's progressing toward playing, and it could be as soon as this weekend, but it could be further [in the future] than that" Penguins' coach Dan Bylsma said. "He's getting back to full contact." Barring a desperate lineup crunch, fantasy owners should wait to see Kunitz, who has missed 11 straight games, actually log time on ice before inserting him into your lineup.
News: Kunitz (lower body) practiced Tuesday but still isn't ready for game action, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: "I would like to play (Wednesday) but that's obviously not the case," Kunitz said. "When you can take and absorb that contact you need to play in the NHL level (you can play), but I don't know when that is going to be." Kunitz, who hasn't played since Feb. 6, has 18 goals and 36 points in 52 games.
News: Kunitz (lower body) is still not ready for a full practice, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: The Pens play three road games in Week 21 -- Wednesday in Toronto, Friday in New Jersey and Saturday in Boston. The matchups aren't great and there's no guarantee that he even plays.
News: Kunitz (lower body) did not practice with the team Thursday, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: He skated prior to the team skate, but still isn't ready to fully participate in practice.
News: Kunitz (lower body) has not yet been cleared for practice, the Canadian Press reports.
Analysis: This doesn't mean there's any sort of setback from the previously optimistic reports on Kunitz's potential return, but it isn't the most useful development. It does at least seem to indicate that he likely won't be available Wednesday.
News: Kunitz (lower body) could return as soon as Wednesday, according to coach Dan Bylsma, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: Bylsma is anticipating a Week 20 return, though he isn't sure when. "It's very good see him on the ice," Bylsma said. "He's been skating on his own without gear. He got out there today. Hopefully, this means he's progressing towards a full practice and playing in the near future. ... Hopefully, by the end of the week, possibly (against) San Jose. But hopefully by the end of the week."
News: Kunitz (lower body) will not play Monday against the Caps, the Penguins' official site reports.
Analysis: Kunitz, who participated in the team's optional morning skate Monday, will meet with doctors later in the day to assess his progress.
News: Kunitz (lower body) will not play Sunday against Chicago, the Penguins' official site reports.
Analysis: Kunitz has been out nearly two weeks with an undisclosed lower-body injury. His next opportunity to play will come Monday against the Capitals, although the Penguins haven't said whether a return for that game is a possibility.
News: Kunitz (lower body) missed practice Tuesday, according to the Penguins' Web site.
Analysis: "Kunitz (is rehabbing) and getting better," coach Dan Bylsma said. "It's still a lower-body injury and he's day-to-day." It looks like Kunitz will miss his fifth consecutive game Wednesday night.
News: Kunitz (lower body) isn't a sure bet to play Wednesday or Sunday for the Pens.
Analysis: With Pittsburgh playing just two games in Week 19, fantasy owners should reserve Kunitz and look elsewhere. The Penguins were given Monday off from practice after a rough weekend, so there was no official word on Kunitz's status.
News: Coach Dan Bylsma indicated that Kunitz's lower body injury could be in the four-to-six day time-frame, the Penguins' official site reports.
Analysis: That's a slightly more optimistic outlook than the earlier estimate of a week or more, but it obviously cuts into Kunitz's short-term fantasy value.
News: Kunitz (lower body) will be out a week or more after hurting himself in warm-ups Tuesday, according to USA Today.
Analysis: Kunitz is in the midst of one of the best years of his career, and with the Penguins really banged up, they can ill afford to lose him. He'll be expected to help shoulder the scoring load when he returns.
News: Kunitz will not play Tuesday due to a lower-body injury suffered at the morning skate, according to FSN-Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Kunitz was expected to play but will instead sit in the press box against the Blue Jackets.
News: Kunitz got a maintenance day off Monday and is expected to play Tuesday against Columbus, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Analysis: Kunitz and linemate Pascal Dupuis both got Monday off. Pittsburgh plays four games in the next six days and is looking to re-energize itself after a 3-0 loss Sunday afternoon to the Capitals.
News: Kunitz had a goal and an assist in Tuesday's win over the Rangers.
Analysis: Kunitz is now up to 17 goals on the season. He will be counted on even more as long as Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin remain out of the lineup. Coach Dan Bylsma even went to Kunitz as his second shootout shooter, but the forward was unable to beat Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist.
News: Kunitz (illness) took part in the Pens' game-day skate Tuesday morning, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: It looks as though Kunitz will be good to go Tuesday night against the Islanders. He practiced on a line with Mark Letestu and Pascal Dupuis.
News: Kunitz isn't feeling well, but he is expected to play Tuesday against the Islanders, the Penguins' official site reports.
Analysis: It sounds like Kunitz, who missed Monday's practice, is simply feeling a little under the weather and that there is no injury in play here.
News: Kunitz did not take part in Monday's practice, according to the Penguins' Web site.
Analysis: We'll look for details of his absence later in the day. Pittsburgh plays one game this week -- Tuesday against the Islanders -- before going on the All-Star break.
News: Kunitz recorded his second career hat trick Wednesday night as the Penguins handily defeated the Lightning 8-1.
Analysis: Kunitz is hot right now with 15 points (6 G, 9 A) over his last 13 games. Skating on a line with Sidney Crosby certainly isn't hurting is production either.
News: Kunitz grabbed two assists Wednesday in the win over Florida.
Analysis: Kunitz is having a solid, if unspectacular season and has nine assists in seven December contests. He has just one goal since November 19, but he's getting on the scoresheet with more consistency and could be worth a look in deeper leagues.
News: Kunitz recorded three shots on goal and took a high-sticking minor Monday after missing the team's last two games.
Analysis: He skated a tick under 16 minutes and freed up Evgeni Malkin to skate on a separate line than Sidney Crosby (except on Monday's potent power play). Surprisingly, Kunitz didn't figure in on any of the Pens' six scores.
News: Kunitz (undisclosed) completed practice Sunday and looks probable to play Monday night against Phoenix, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Kunitz, who missed the last two games with an unknown injury, was able to make it through Sunday's hour-long workout. The Penguins winger said he'd have to see how he feels Monday morning, but at this point he looks good to go.
News: Kunitz (undisclosed) will not play in Wednesday's game against Rangers, according to the Penguins' official Twitter page.
Analysis: Kunitz will miss his second straight game Wednesday. He remains day-to-day for the time being.
News: Kunitz (undisclosed) took his usual line spot next to Sidney Crosby during Tuesday's practice, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: The fact that he was able skate on a line while Evgeni Malkin was not on any of the team's four units makes it perhaps more likely that he's closer to returning. Coach Dan Bylsma said it's possible that Kunitz and Malkin could both see time on Crosby's line Tuesday.
News: Kunitz (undisclosed) took part in Tuesday's morning skate, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.
Analysis: Kunitz's status will not be determined until game time, but there is a decent chance he plays after practicing Tuesday morning. Be sure to check Kunitz's status before the puck drops if you plan on using him Tuesday.
News: Kunitz (undisclosed) will not play Tuesday against the Flyers, according to WXDX-radio in Pittsburgh.
Analysis: It appeared as if Kunitz was set to go, but Dustin Jeffrey will take his spot in the lineup.
News: Kunitz (undisclosed) didn't take part in practice Monday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Kunitz has played his best hockey over the past couple weeks, with eight points and a plus-10 rating over his last seven contests. The Pens have just two games this week. Those in weekly leagues with a strong bench might want to consider alternatives, though it's not yet known what Kunitz's status is for Tuesday's game in Philly.
News: Kunitz collected three primary assists Wednesday night against the Maple Leafs, while linemate Sidney Crosby "only" picked up two points (both goals).
Analysis: It's not often the winger finishes with more points than Crosby. Kunitz extended his point streak to four games, during which he's scored a goal while adding six assists. He's also a plus-10 in his last six.
News: Kunitz scored one goal and assisted on the other in Pittsburgh's 2-1 win Monday.
Analysis: Kunitz has five points (1, 4) and a plus-7 rating in his last five games. He's playing his best hockey of the season right now, as are a number of his teammates. The winger now has 17 points (8, 9) and 73 hits in 29 contests.
News: Kunitz set up a Sidney Crosby goal Thursday with a hard cross-ice feed that Crosby took top-shelf.
Analysis: Whatever caused Kunitz to miss practice a couple weeks ago seems to be a thing of the past. The winger has 14 points (7, 7) through 27 contests and figures to at least maintain that pace playing alongside Crosby.
News: After leaving practice early with an undisclosed injury Sunday, Kunitz saw 18:01 TOI in Monday's win over Florida.
Analysis: Although he was held pointless, Kunitz hit a post and played well. He appears safe to keep active in fantasy leagues. Kunitz has five goals and an assist in his last eight games.
News: Kunitz (undisclosed) returned to practice Monday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Kunitz took his customary spot next to Sidney Crosby at the team's game-day skate along with Pascal Dupuis. Whatever injury caused Kunitz to miss part of Sunday's practice seems to have been a minor ailment.
News: Kunitz left practice after about 30 minutes Sunday with an undisclosed injury, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Analysis: Coach Dan Bylsma shed little light on Kunitz or anyone else in his post-practice chat, other than to say a few players are "dealing with some aches and pains, some soreness." Kunitz played his finest game of the season Friday, scoring two goals while aggressively forechecking. The team plays four times in Week 7, so unless Bylsma says Kunitz's injury is serious, he should be active in fantasy lineups.
News: Kunitz potted his second power-play goal (and third pp point) of the season in Saturday's victory over Phoenix.
Analysis: Kunitz averages more than five minutes (5:21) of power-play time on a per-game basis, a number that ranks him ninth in the NHL. At some point, Kunitz will have to justify his generous ice numbers or face some sort of demotion.
News: Kunitz scored a goal on four shots in the Pens' 5-1 victory Saturday night.
Analysis: Kunitz likely came at a discount in many drafts because he missed 30 games due to injury last year. It looks like he'll continue to produce, especially as long as he keeps his role as the team's net-front presence on the power play. Kunitz saw more than 50 percent of his TOI (9:00 of 17:34) on the power play Saturday night. His total of 22 hits helps some fantasy owners, too.
Kunitz Expected to Participate in Pittsburgh's First Practice on Saturday
News: The Pens expect Kunitz to be 100 percent healthy for the on-ice start of training camp on Saturday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Kunitz missed 30-plus games last season with a groin injury. "Everything seems fine," Kunitz said. "The longer offseason gave me a chance to rehab and change some mechanics and try to gain back some things with some muscles -- just movements to get your muscles all firing again."
News: Kunitz (groin) is expected to be ready for the start of training camp, according to GM Ray Shero, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Prior to missing 32 games last year with a torn groin muscle, Kunitz missed just one contest in his previous three seasons. He's expected to play alongside Sidney Crosby and a linemate to be determined. Look for Kunitz to return to the 50-60 point total in 2010-11.
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz was back in uniform for game one of their Eastern Conference first-round series against the Senators on Wednesday. Kunitz missed the last four games of the regular season due to an elbow injury. Against the Senators, he finished at even with 5 hits and two PIM in 18 shifts.
Analysis: Kunitz played in only 50 games this season, producing 13 goals and 32 points. It was the first time since 2005-06 that he did not appear in at least 81 games. Had Kunitz been on the ice more, we expect he would have threatened for 50-60 points as usual. Kunitz is a solid two-way player, but we just don't see him ever vying for a scoring title. He remains more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward on Draft Day 2010.
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz (elbow) did not dress for Sunday's season finale against the Islanders. He missed the final four games of the season.
Analysis: Kunitz spent a ton of time in 2009-10 licking his wounds. He played in only 50 games, producing 13 goals and 32 points. It was the first time since 2005-06 that he did not appear in at least 81 games. Had Kunitz been on the ice more, we expect he would have threatened for 50-60 points as usual. Kunitz is a solid two-way player, but we just don't see him ever threatening for a scoring title. He remains more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward on Draft Day 2010.
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz (elbow) sat out a third straight game Saturday at Atlanta.
Analysis: The Penguins are probably just holding Kunitz back for the postseason, so might well sit out Sunday's regular season finale against the Islanders, too. He remains a low-end starting Fantasy option in most leagues when healthy
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz was a scratch for Thursday's game against the Islanders due to an elbow injury. He missed his second straight game.
Analysis: Injuries have limited Kunitz to 50 games this season, the first time he hasn't reached 80 games since 2005-06. Kunitz has remained fairly productive when healthy, but he is still more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz (elbow) did not play on Tuesday against the Capitals. He is day to day.
Analysis: Kunitz has spent as much time injured in 2009-10 as he has spent in the lineup. He has been limited to 50 games this season. It's the first time he hasn't reached 80 games since 2005-06 with the Ducks. Kunitz has remained fairly productive when healthy, but he is still more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Penguins LW Chris Kunitz's elbow injury will cause him to miss Tuesday's game vs. Washington.
Analysis: While the Penguins secured a playoff spot a long time ago, they are currently tied with New Jersey on 97 points as the two teams fight for the Atlantic Division title and the No. 3 seed that goes along with it. Kunitz's presence will surely be missed, but it's not the first time he's been hurt this season. Daily owners should obviously bench him for Tuesday.
News: The Penguins' official web site reports that LW Chris Kunitz did not skate Monday and is day-to-day with an undisclosed injury.
Analysis: Kunitz left Saturday's win over the Thrashers with this injury, but it doesn't appear to be anything too serious. After putting up 10 points in March, it looked like Kunitz might in for a nice final Week 25 (April 5-11), but now he's clearly an injury-risk start for not the first time this season. Start him at your peril.
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz scored and assisted Saturday in a win over the Stars, giving him five points in his last two games.
Analysis: Kunitz is back on the top line with Sidney Crosby, and his numbers should get a nice boost as a result. Get him active in more than 37 percent of leagues immediately.
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz, who had one goal and no assists in his previous six contests, scored twice in Wednesday's win over the Islanders.
Analysis: When healthy, Kunitz has produced at an OK pace this season with 22 points in 32 games. He's clearly a 50-60 point guy who is worth using in deeper leagues as a low-end starting Fantasy forward.
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz returned to the lineup on Sunday against the Capitals after missing 15 games following abdominal surgery. Kunitz, who skated on the top line with Sidney Crosby and Bill Guerin, had no points in 13:03 of ice time and finished at minus-1.
Analysis: Even though he had all that time off, Pittsburgh wasted little time getting Kunitz right back into the thick of it. Too bad he couldn't get on the scoreboard. Injuries have limited to Kunitz to 30 games this season. He has managed to post six goals and 20 points, so he can be very effective when healthy. Get him active for Week 19 (Feb. 8-14).
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz (abdominal) did not return to action Saturday against the Canadiens.
Analysis: Kunitz has 20 points in 30 games this season and should return to Pittsburgh's top line when he's back healthy, which could be on Sunday. Consider planning on getting him back in the majority of Fantasy leagues for Week 19 (Feb. 8-14) if he returns on Sunday.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Penguins LW Chris Kunitz (abdominal) could return to action on Saturday at Montreal. Kunitz has been out since Jan. 3.
Analysis: Kunitz has 20 points in 30 games this season and should return to Pittsburgh's top line when he's back healthy. Consider planning on getting him back in the majority of Fantasy leagues for Week 19 (Feb. 8-14).
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Penguins LW Chris Kunitz (abdominal) returned to practice Thursday. Coach Dan Bylsma said Kunitz should be back in 1-2 weeks.
Analysis: Kunitz's time frame for a return has him back next week at the earliest, so he might be too risky to use in Fantasy Week 18 (Feb. 1-7). Keep an eye on news about his progress over the next seven days or so, though. When healthy and playing well, Kunitz is worth using in most leagues.
News:USA Today reports that Penguins LW Chris Kunitz will be out 4-6 weeks after having surgery to repair a torn abdominal muscle.
Analysis: Kunitz has 20 points in 30 games this season, but has been plagued by injury. He missed 14 games in November and December and now this issue. He doesn't have a history of being injured a lot though, as he'd missed just one game in the previous three seasons coming into 2009-10. Stash him away in deeper leagues until he's ready to return.
News: Pittsburgh LW Chris Kunitz scored his sixth goal of the season on Tuesday in a 4-3 loss at Buffalo. Kunitz scored on a slap shot in the second period, effectively sending Ryan Miller to the benches as the Pens led 3-0 at that point. It was Kunitz's 20th point of the season.
Analysis: Kunitz put together a four-point performance a week ago and managed to score another goal on Tuesday at Buffalo. He is a solid scoring-line forward with the Penguins and should be active in most Fantasy formats.
News: Penguins winger Chris Kunitz scored a goal and added three assists for four points on Wednesday in a win over the Senators.
Analysis: Kunitz now has 19 points on the year after the four-point effort Wednesday. It was the second time he's recorded four points in a game this season. Kunitz is a solid scoring-line forward with the Penguins and should be active in most Fantasy formats.
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz (lower-body injury) played for the first time in 14 games as Pittsburgh edged the Panthers in OT on Saturday.
Analysis: Kunitz is a solid scoring-line forward with the Penguins and should be active in most Fantasy formats for Week 11 (Dec. 14-20). Hopefully it doesn't take him too long to shake off the rust from this decent layoff.
News: NHL.com reports Chris Kunitz and Alex Goligoski, whom are both out with lower-body injuries, are practicing in full. "They haven't had any setbacks and both are progressing," coach Dan Bylsma said. Bylsma intends to monitor each player upon their return to the lineup. "Going into a game you have roughly a general idea about the amount of ice time you'll give them," Bylsma said. "In terms of guys like Alex and Chris coming back, yes there will be an ideal number of minutes that we’d like to play them. It wouldn't mean that they wouldn't get the normal regular shift if we weren’t considering their injury. But in situations like that it is monitored."
Analysis: Kunitz has been out nearly a month, but it is good to see him back practicing in full. The emergence of Mike Rupp on the left wing has allowed Pittsburgh to take their time with Kunitz, who usually plays on the top line alongside Sidney Crosby. Kunitz is a viable Fantasy start when healthy, so continue to keep tabs on his status.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Penguins LW Chris Kunitz will miss two weeks with a lower-body injury, head coach Dan Bylsma said. The Penguins are treating Kunitz with caution because they believe RW Tyler Kennedy rushed back from a lower-body injury. Kennedy missed three games, played Nov. 5 at Los Angeles, and has missed the last five since.
Analysis: Kunitz has been playing through this undisclosed injury, but it clearly was affecting his performance. He had just one point in his last six games. Kunitz often plays on the team's top line with Sidney Crosby and is viable Fantasy option when healthy. But he needs to be kept reserved until further notice.
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz scored a goal, tallied an assist and finished at plus-2 during Friday's game against the Blue Jackets. After Rick Nash made it 2-0, Kunitz was knocked down on a breakaway but there was no call. Seconds later, he ended up with the puck at the left doorstep and lifted it high over Steve Mason's glove for a short-handed score 11:55 into the second. It was his second goal of the year.
Analysis: Kunitz has two goals and four assists in his last two games. He is also at plus-5 in that span. Kunitz continues to skate alongside Sidney Crosby and benefit from playing next to one of the greatest players in the NHL. Kunitz is no worse than a No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Penguins coach Dan Bylsma has set his scoring lines for Friday's game at Columbus, the first without Evgeni Malkin. Chris Kunitz, Sidney Crosby and Bill Guerin will remain on the top line, while Jordan Staal, Ruslan Fedotenko and Chris Bourque will be on the second unit. Matt Cooke and Craig Adams will be fixtures on the third line, with Pascal Dupuis, Mike Rupp, Eric Godard and Chris Conner rotating in the final spot.
Analysis: This move really only affects the value of Staal, who will move up into the scoring lines in the place of Malkin. You might want to get Staal active in more than 47 percent of leagues for Fantasy Week 5 (Nov. 2-8). Everyone else retains their original Fantasy value.
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz scored a goal and assisted three times in Wednesday's rout of the Canadiens to break out of his offensive slump.
Analysis: Maybe this is the game that gets Kunitz back on track, but you should wait to see a bit of a bigger sample size before inserting back into all lineups. If he does well on Friday and Saturday, then he's definitely worth a shot.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Penguins LW Chris Kunitz is in quite a funk. He scored only one goal during the Penguins' 24 playoff games last spring despite playing exclusively on the top line with C Sidney Crosby and RW Bill Guerin. Kunitz, who hasn't scored in five games this season, has scored one goal in his past 34 games.
Analysis: A streaky goal scorer, Kunitz only scored two goals in his first 20 games last season while playing for Anaheim. It was part of the reason Anaheim parted ways with Kunitz near the trade deadline. However, he did play well down the stretch with Pittsburgh and can be an effective Fantasy option when on a roll.
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz picked up an assist and 12 penalty minutes in Thursday's win over the Flyers.
Analysis: Kunitz's assist was his first point of the season, so he hasn't exactly continued where he left off in 2008-09. Still, he should find his way on to the score sheet soon, so continue to use him in most leagues for now.
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz tallied two assists and finished at minus-2 during Tuesday's game against the Lightning. He has one goal and five assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Kunitz's season has really come to life since being traded to Pittsburgh in late February. He has seven goals and 11 assists in 18 games. He seems at home playing alongside Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Kunitz is expected to be back in 2009-10 with Pittsburgh and that will certainly increase his Draft Day value with the late-season surge he has produced.
News: Penguins LW Chris Kunitz scored in Tuesday's win over the Thrashers. He now has three goals in his last two games and 12 points in 10 games since coming over from Anaheim.
Analysis: Kunitz has been great since his move to the Steel City. If you need scoring help, consider adding Kunitz before it's too late.
News:Chris Kunitz lost a goal and a hat trick he insists he didn't deserve. The two points? Kunitz and captain Sidney Crosby believe the Pittsburgh Penguins very much earned both of those. Sergei Gonchar and Kunitz scored 18 seconds apart early in the third period, Petr Sykora got the game-winner later in the period and the Penguins gained a valuable victory in the Eastern Conference race, beating Boston 6-4 on Sunday. Kunitz was originally credited with a power-play goal 43 seconds into the third that tied it at 3, but Gonchar was given the goal during a postgame review. Kunitz lost what would have been his second career hat trick because of the change. "I didn't hit the puck, the replay might look like that but I didn't hit the puck," Kunitz said. "I'm not highly skilled with the puck. I just kind of go and get it and give it away, but the puck comes back to you (if a player works hard)."
Analysis: Kunitz's 21st goal was his fifth in nine games since being dealt by Anaheim at the trading deadline, although he didn't have a goal in his previous five games. He still has 11 points in nine games since joining the Penguins and has been a great winger playing alongside the likes of Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Kunitz has developed into a viable Fantasy forward.
News:Chris Kunitz had two rebound goals to lead the Penguins past the Tampa Bay Lightning 3-1 on Tuesday night. "I stand in front and I go to the net," Kunitz said. "Right now we're doing a good job of shooting the puck on net and going for rebounds. I don't score many from outside the circles, it's usually right close to the crease." Kunitz put the Penguins ahead 1-0 on a rebound goal at 7:38 of the first period. Pittsburgh went up 2-1 on Kunitz's second goal of the game during a power play late in the first period.
Analysis: Kunitz has three goals and two assists in three games since joining Pittsburgh and has a five-game point streak dating back to his days with the Ducks. Kunitz has been everything and more since being picked up in a trade from Anaheim and he has done this without Sidney Crosby (groin) available. If you need scoring help, consider adding Kunitz before it's too late.
News: LW Chris Kunitz had a goal, assist and plus-2 rating in his Pittsburgh debut during Friday's 5-4 overtime win against the Blackhawks. Kunitz played his first game with the Penguins following a trade with Anaheim on Thursday. Kunitz was acquired along with junior prospect Eric Tangradi in exchange for defenseman Ryan Whitney. Kunitz made it 2-0 with a fluke goal at 8:44. Jordan Staal's shot went wide to the left of the net, then bounded out to Kunitz who was alone at the edge of the crease. Kunitz turned and tucked the puck between Cristobal Huet's pads.
Analysis: The Penguins acquired Kunitz Thursday in order to help give them a solid scorer on the left side of the ice and he didn't make the team look foolish. Pittsburgh paid a steep price with Whitney, but if Kunitz continues to score goals, then it was worth making the deal. He should finish the season on a line with either Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin, so if you are looking for some forward help, consider taking a flier on Kunitz.
News: The Pittsburgh Penguins traded defenseman Ryan Whitney to the Anaheim Ducks for forward Chris Kunitz and junior prospect Eric Tangradi, less than two seasons into a 6-year, $24 million contract that was supposed to make Whitney a key part of the Penguins' future.
Analysis: The 6-foot-1, 198-pound Kunitz leads the Ducks with 148 hits in his sixth NHL season. Kunitz has 81 goals and 111 assists in 315 games with the Ducks and the Atlanta Thrashers. He posted career highs of 25 goals and 60 points when the Ducks won the Stanley Cup in the 2006-2007 season. He became expendable with the recent rise of Bobby Ryan. This move could actually benefit Kunitz since he will now play with the likes of Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Pittsburgh has been looking for help on the left wing and felt Kunitz is as good as anyone in the NHL to help them in that arena. Consider adding Kunitz in Fantasy if you are looking for help on the wing.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz tallied his 15th goal during Wednesday's loss to the Kings. Kunitz scored for Anaheim with 3:40 to play, but Jonathan Quick shut down the Ducks the rest of the way, finishing with 28 saves for his second successive victory against Anaheim. It was Kunitz's first goal in six games.
Analysis: Kunitz has just three points in seven February games and hasn't managed to break 10 points in any month this season. The complexion of the Ducks has changed tremendously in 2008-09 and that's why Kunitz hasn't been as much of a factor of offense. Kunitz is a top-six forward for Anaheim, but isn't always involved on the stat sheet. He is best viewed as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News:Chris Kunitz and Corey Perry scored third-period goals and the Anaheim Ducks held off the Buffalo Sabres 3-2 on Monday night. Kunitz scored on a power play early in the period and Perry gave the Ducks a two-goal lead on another man-advantage midway through the third. Andrew Ebbett and Kunitz combined on a bang-bang play early in the third period to give Anaheim a 2-1 lead while Craig Rivet was serving a slashing penalty. Ebbett controlled the puck directly behind the Buffalo goal, then snapped a pass to Kunitz, bearing down on Patrick Lalime from the right side. Kunitz slid the puck between the goalie's pads for his 14th goal and third in four games.
Analysis: Kunitz has just three power-play scores in 2008-09 and it's a far cry from his 11 man-advantage tallies from 2006-07. The reason? Teemu Selanne has taken a lot of his scoring chances on the power play. Kunitz is a top-six forward for Anaheim, but isn't always involved on the stat sheet. He is best viewed as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz scored his 12th and 13th goals of the season in Tuesday's win over the Ducks.
Analysis: Kunitz plays on the top line in Anaheim, but he takes a backseat to partners Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf when it comes to offensive contribution. He remains just a low-end starting Fantasy forward in deeper formats at best.
News:Chris Kunitz scored twice in the third period to help the Anaheim Ducks beat the New Jersey Devils 4-3 on Sunday night. With the game tied at 2, Kunitz wrapped around the New Jersey goal and tucked the puck under goalie Scott Clemmensen's pads 1:36 into the third. Kunitz also sent a wrist shot past Clemmensen with 3:33 to play for the eventual winner.
Analysis: Kunitz came into Sunday's game with no goals in his last seven appearances and just one assist in that span. He really hasn't had much offensive success over the last month, so hopefully Sunday's game will get him going. Continue to think of him as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward best used in deeper leagues.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz scored his eighth goal of the season Tuesday in a loss to the Rangers.
Analysis: Kunitz has seven points in his last five games and is fourth on the Ducks with 22 points. He appears on track to get close to the 50 points he put up last season, so continue to think of him as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward best used in deeper leagues.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz tallied two assists in a win over the Wild on Sunday and now has six points in his last four games.
Analysis: Kunitz appears on track to get close to the 50 points he put up last season, so continue to think of him as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward best used in deeper leagues.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz assisted twice Sunday in a win over the Blue Jackets.
Analysis: Kunitz appears on track to get close to the 50 points he put up last season, so continue to think of him as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward best used in deeper leagues.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz scored a goal and finished at plus-1 in 19:02 of ice time Monday against the Red Wings. Kunitz opened the scoring just 1:50 into the game on Anaheim's first shot, when he stuffed in the puck from beside the net for his fifth goal. It was set up by Detroit defenseman Brad Stuart's giveaway behind his own net.
Analysis: Kunitz has scored three times in his last six games. He is losing top-line time on the left wing to rookie Bobby Ryan, but he is still managing to find scoring chances. Kunitz has 50-point potential, but we still view him more as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 in 15:09 of ice time Sunday against the Kings. He now has one goal and three assists in his last five games.
Analysis: Kunitz has spent most of the season on the Ducks' top line with Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry, but hasn't been as fortunate point producer since those two usually steal the limelight. Kunitz was dropped to the second line Sunday with the arrival of Bobby Ryan, but he still remains a top-six forward for Anaheim. Kunitz is more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz tallied a pair of assists and finished at plus-3 during Wednesday's 5-2 win against the Blues. He now has one goal and seven assists in his last seven games.
Analysis: Kunitz didn't have a point in his first six games and is finally starting to get it together on the Ducks' top line. He is not as good as a scorer as Ryan Getzlaf or Corey Perry, but Kunitz can hold his own. Kunitz is more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz tallied a pair of assists during Friday's 7-6 shootout loss to the Canucks. He now has one goal and six assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Kunitz didn't have a point in his first six games and is finally starting to get it together on the Ducks' top line. He has had 110 points in his previous two seasons and is plenty capable of 50-plus points for a third straight season. Still, Kunitz is more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News:Chris Kunitz each had a goal and an assist for the Ducks during Saturday's 6-4 win against the Canadiens. Kunitz restored the Ducks' lead at 4-3 with his first goal at 4:40 of the second period, chasing Jaroslav Halak, who allowed four goals on 12 shots. Kunitz now has one goal and three assists during a four-game points streak.
Analysis: Kunitz didn't have a point in his first six games and is finally starting to get it together on the Ducks' top line. He has had 110 points in his previous two seasons and is plenty capable of 50-plus points for a third straight season. Still, Kunitz is more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz was hit with a two-minute roughing penalty as time expired during Sunday's 4-2 loss to the Coyotes and was also given a 10-minute instigator penalty. He didn't have a point in 17:02 of ice time and finished at even.
Analysis: Kunitz doesn't have a point in his first two games, but has plenty of penalty minutes. He is a pretty solid two-way player that is good for about 20-25 goals and 80-85 penalty minutes per season. Consider him a decent No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz reached the 20-goal mark for the second straight season Sunday when he scored in a 3-1 win over the Canadiens.
Analysis: After scoring 60 points last season, Kunitz has been a bit of a disappointment this campaign with only 46 so far. He should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy winger for the time being.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz made it nine points (three goals, six assists) in his last five games when he recorded a goal and three assists in Sunday's 6-3 win over the Blackhawks.
Analysis: Earlier this month, it didn't look like Kunitz would get close to his 60-point total from last season. But this latest burst has him at 44 points now and with the way the Ducks are playing, he should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy winger for the time being.
News:Chris Kunitz scored two times for Anaheim, his second goal narrowing the gap to 3-2 with 8:42 remaining, but the Ducks lost 4-2 to the Dallas Stars on Friday. Kunitz second goal was a 20-foot slap shot from the left side in the third period.
Analysis: Kunitz has not been as effective of an offensive weapon as he was last year or even earlier this season. He has 18 goals and 19 assists and continues to play on the top line in Anaheim. Kunitz can be considered a No. 3 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz tallied an assist and finished at plus-2 during Sunday's game against the Red Wings. He extended his points streak to three games. He has one goal and two assists in that span.
Analysis: Kunitz has not been as effective of an offensive weapon as he was last year or even earlier this season. He started with 17 points in 25 games, but has since managed 17 points in his last 33 games. He is still on the top line in Anaheim, but is more of a No. 4 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz tallied an assist and finished at minus-2 during Sunday's game against the Stars. It was his first point in five games.
Analysis: Kunitz's production has dropped some since he was moved down to the team's second line. He opened with 17 points in the first 25 games, but has just 13 points in his last 24 games. He still remains a decent No. 3 Fantasy forward at this time.
News: After a two-point night Monday against Nashville, Ducks LW Chris Kunitz scored a power-play goal Wednesday in the 5-0 win over Toronto. He now has three goals and two assists in the last four games after going the previous four games without a point.
Analysis: Kunitz struggled when he was first moved down to the second line with the Ducks, but he seems to have found his niche in the last few games. Consider him a solid No. 3 Fantasy forward at the moment.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz scored the Ducks' second goal and assisted on their fourth Monday night in a 5-2 win over the Nashville Predators. He now has four points in his last three games after going four games without a point.
Analysis: Kunitz struggled when he was first moved down to the second line with the Ducks, but he seems to have found his niche in the last few games. Consider him a solid No. 3 Fantasy forward at the moment.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Friday's game against the Blackhawks. Kunitz, who had two goals against the Blackhawks in a 5-3 win Dec. 7 in Chicago, made it 2-0 on a power play just 47 seconds before the first intermission. He redirected Corey Perry's 15-foot backhander past Nikolai Khabibulin's stick for his 13th goal while Kris Versteeg was off for hooking. He has two goals in his last six games, but is without an assist in that span.
Analysis: Kunitz has been bumped to the second line with Doug Weight and Bobby Ryan for the time being. He has not been as explosive of an offensive weapon when he was on the top line with Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry. Treat him as a No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz capitalized on a Sharks' bumbling defensive play at 11:33 during the second period Saturday to tap home his 12th goal. It was his first since scoring twice against the Blackhawks Dec. 7, but managed to extend his points streak to three games (1 G, 2 A).
Analysis: Kunitz is playing alongside Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry on the first line. Getzlaf is the team's top scoring option, but Kunitz does a nice job getting what's left over. He remains a decent No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward at this time.
News:Chris Kunitz added two goals -- including an empty-netter -- during Friday's 5-3 win against the Blackhawks. He now has 11 goals and three in his last five games. He also has one assist in that span. He finished at plus-2 Friday.
Analysis: Kunitz is playing alongside Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry on the first line. Getzlaf is the team's top scoring option, but Kunitz does a nice job getting what's left over. He remains a decent No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward at this time.
News:Ryan Getzlaf, showcasing the playmaking ability that made him a fan favorite in his four seasons with the Western Hockey League's Calgary Hitmen, carried the puck into the Flames' zone Thursday, made a slick fake on defenseman Dion Phaneuf, then slid the puck across to Kunitz left uncovered in the slot for an easy tap-in. "I just went to the front of the net and he made a nice backhand pass and I had a wide-open net," said Kunitz. (Getzlaf) has world-class hands, a great shot, he's big, and he's physical. We call him the franchise because that's what he is. He goes out there and plays with his heart on his sleeve."
Analysis: Kunitz remains a must-start Fantasy skater. He has three goal in his past six games.
News:Chris Kunitz added three assists to lead the Ducks to a 6-3 victory against the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday night.
Analysis: Kunitz remains a must-start skater. He has a goal and four assists in four games.
News: Todd Marchant has been moved to the team's top scoring line, as coach Randy Carlyle tells the Los Angeles Times that he wants to balance out his scoring. He broke up the line of Chris Kunitz-Ryan Getzlaf-Corey Perry by bumping Kunitz down to the two line.
Analysis: The lines might be jostled again, as Getzlaf suffered an upper body injury on Tuesday in St. Louis. Perhaps Kunitz will reprise his role on the team's No. 1 line if Getzlaf is out for the team's next game on Thursday against Phoenix. He remains a must-start regardless of whether he is on the No. 1 or 2 unit.
News: With an eye toward trying to develop two capable scoring lines, Ducks coach Randy Carlyle shifted left wing Chris Kunitz off a unit with center Ryan Getzlaf and right wing Corey Perry, instead putting Kunitz with center Andy McDonald and right wing Todd Bertuzzi for Wednesday night's home opener against the Boston Bruins. Kunitz, Getzlaf and Perry had combined to score eight of the Ducks' 11 goals through the season's first five games, and with them skating together, opposing teams had the luxury of bunching their defensive energy and personnel against that one line.
Analysis: To this point, McDonald and the newly acquired Bertuzzi simply haven't developed any chemistry, and McDonald has sorely missed the unofficially retired Teemu Selanne. McDonald and Kunitz have a history of success, but unless King surprises everyone, the Ducks are one forward short on their top two lines. Kunitz, who signed a four-year contract extension during the preseason, is still a solid starter in all Fantasy leagues. He posted 25 goals and 60 points in 81 games last season.
News: Chris Kunitz picked up his first goal of the season in Sunday's game against the Kings in London, bouncing back from a scoreless game with a minus-1 rating in the opener on Saturday.
Analysis: Kunitz, who signed a four-year contract extension during the preseason, is a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. He posted 25 goals and 60 points in 81 games last season.
News: The Stanley Cup champion Anaheim Ducks signed Chris Kunitz to a four-year contract extension on Monday, putting the left wing under contract through the 2011-12 season. "Chris has been a very important multi-dimensional player for us the last two seasons, providing skill, physical play and leadership," Ducks general manager Brian Burke said in a statement on Monday. "We are very pleased to have him signed prior to his eligibility as an unrestricted free agent next summer."
Analysis: Kunitz had 25 goals and 35 assists in 81 games last season and one goal and five assists in 13 playoff games, missing eight because of injuries. Kunitz really came into his own last season and the Ducks wanted to lock him up to avoid losing him in the future similar to how they did with restricted free agent Dustin Penner, now with the Edmonton Oilers. Kunitz emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues last season and is a solid pick in the range of Round 7 to 10 on Draft Day in all seasonal leagues.
News: Chris Kunitz, who was scratched just minutes before Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals due to what was termed an "upper body injury", has a broken bone in his right hand and he will miss the remainder of the postseason. Kunitz will have surgery and is expected to be sidelined four to six weeks. "He's an important player on our team," Ducks General Manager Brian Burke told the Los Angeles Times. "He's done a lot of things well. He scores goals, he hits, he helps his linemates. It's not an insignificant loss."
Analysis: Kunitz managed six points in 11 postseason games and will be a huge loss for Fantasy owners in all postseason hockey pools. He'll be ready for training camp in September, however.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz had two goals and a plus-1 rating during Friday's game against the Stars. He now has three goals and three assists in his last six games, and 25 goals and 32 assists on the season.
Analysis: Kunitz has a nice plus-24 rating to go with his 57 points this season. He has reallt elevated his game this season with Anaheim and has become a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Tim Brent opened the scoring with his first NHL goal in Tuesday's game against the Canucks. Chris Kunitz connected on a power play and Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 28 saves for the Pacific Division-leading Ducks.
Analysis: Kunitz has scored goals in three consecutive games and has a four-game points streak. He remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Chris Kunitz picked a pair of assists with a plus-2 rating in 19:34 of ice time in Sunday's game against the Stars.
Analysis: Kunitz has one goal, six assists with a plus-4 rating over the past eight games. He remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Chris Kunitz sits with 18 goals, 38 points and a plus-19 rating through 49 games at the All-Star break. His plus-minus rating is second on the Ducks only to teammate D Chris Pronger.
Analysis: Kunitz is on pace for 62 points and a plus-30 rating, which is easily a career-high. The undrafted free agent has emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues this season.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz scored his 18th goal of the season on Tuesday against the Predators. He also has 17 assists and a plus-19 rating this season.
Analysis: Kunitz is by far having his best season as a pro in 2006-07 and that has a lot to do with the Ducks success. He is a solid Fantasy start in any league at this time.
News: Chris Kunitz is second on the Anaheim roster in goals scored with 16 and he has 12 assists and a plus-16 rating through 32 games.
Analysis: Kunitz has two goals and seven points with a plus-6 rating over the past four games. He has emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues this season.
News: Chris Kunitz was scoreless with plus-1 rating and one shot on goal in 17:26 of ice time in Sunday's game against the Flames.
Analysis: Kunitz has managed 12 points (8 G, 4 A) and a plus-10 rating over the past 12 games. He remains a must-start despite the fact he has gone scoreless in three straight.
News: Chris Kunitz notched his first hat trick in the NHL on Sunday as the Ducks beat the Coyotes 6-4. Kunitz's third goal came on a deflection at 9:21 of the third period, off a 45-foot shot by teammate Teemu Selanne. Phoenix goalie Curtis Joseph almost blocked the puck, but it trickled past him and across the line to give Kunitz his 13th goal of the season and the Ducks the lead for good. Kunitz's other two goals were in the second period.
Analysis: Kunitz returned to action on Nov. 15 after missing one game because of a hand injury. Since then, he has scored five goals in three games and has six points. On top of that, he has eight goals and 10 points in his last seven games. To say the least, Kunitz has been quite productive this season with 19 points and a plus-7 rating in 20 games. He is already halfway to matching his season total in points from a season ago. Kunitz appears healthy and to be loving life in Anaheim. He is turning into a Fantasy breakout and is only owned in 74 percent of Fantasy leagues at this time. Consider adding him to your roster if he is available in your league.
News: Ducks LW Chris Kunitz (hand) suited up and played on Wednesday against the Flyers.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Kunitz back into your active Fantasy lineup.
News: The Orange County Register reports Chris Kunitz (hand) had an MRI which revealed no serious damage to his left hand.
Analysis: There is no official word on when he will be able to return to the linup, but this is great news for his concerned Fantasy owners.
News: Chris Kunitz did not play in Sunday's game against the Wild after leaving Friday's game at Calgary due to an injured hand. He is scheduled to have an MRI on Monday.
Analysis: Kunitz has posted 13 points through 17 games, but he should be reserved in all leagues heading into Fantasy Week 7 (Nov. 13-19) just as a precaution if you have healthier alternatives.
News: Anaheim, which scored on three of its first nine shots Thursday, leads the Western Conference with 59 goals. Chris Kunitz tallied his team-leading eighth goal.
Analysis: Kunitz has matched a career high by scoring in his last three games. He is a decent addition to any Fantasy squad while he is logging time on the potent Anaheim man advantage.
News: Chris Kunitz scored a goal (7) and had two shots on goal in 15:26 of ice time in Monday's overtime win against the Penguins.
Analysis: Kunitz has scored goals in two straight games and he has a three-game point streak (2 G, 2 A) overall. He is a decent addition to any Fantasy squad while he is logging time on the potent Anaheim man advantage.
News: Chris Kunitz has scored three goals in the first five games for the Anaheim Ducks and he added two assists with 18 shots on goal.
Analysis: All three goals have come on the power play. He is a decent addition to any Fantasy squad while he is logging time on the potent Anaheim man advantage.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Chris Kunitz, Andy McDonald and Teemu Selanne will begin the season on Anaheim's top scoring line. The team's second line will feature Todd Marchant, Dustin Penner and Ryan Shannon.
Analysis: The guys on the top scoring line are must-starts in all Fantasy leagues, while Marchant and Penner are solid No. 3 or 4 forwards in most formats. The wild card is Shannon, who has a lot of upside and deep sleeper potential. He will see the biggest jump in Fantasy appeal thanks to coach Randy Carlyle.
News: Chris Kunitz scored a goal with three shots on goal in 14:55 of ice time in Wednesday's game against the Sharks.
Analysis: Kunitz has seven goals and two assists and a plus-6 rating over the past 11 games. He is a nice pickup in all Fantasy leagues while he continues to produce.
News: Chris Kunitz scored another goal in Wednesday's game against Edmonton, as he played swimmingly since his promotion to the top scoring line.
Analysis: The ruffian Kunitz has altered his game since the promotion and he has lit the lamp in five of his past seven games. He is available in virtually every SportsLine.com Fantasy league and should be pounced on immediately while he is hot.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Chris Kunitz has been promoted to the team's top scoring line by coach Randy Carlyle. He responded with the only goal of the game in a 1-0 win over the Panthers on Saturday.
Analysis: Kunitz has scored 10 goals this season and he will see decent time on the man advantage now. The gritty forward is a decent addition in larger Fantasy leagues if you need help at wing.
News: The L.A. Times reports that Chris Kunitz (elbow) sat out practice Wednesday. He has three stitches in his elbow after Monday's game at Boston.
Analysis: Kunitz is worth owning in 12-team leagues because he can do a little bit of everything.
News: Chris Kunitz has been working really hard over the past couple of weeks and it is starting to pay dividends. He scored another goal in Monday's game at Boston.
Analysis: Kunitz has lit the lamp four times and has two helpers in his past seven games. While those are not stellar numbers for most Fantasy owners, he is a decent addition in leagues of 12 or more teams.
News: Chris Kunitz scored a goal and added an assist and plus-1 rating in Monday's game against the Kings.
Analysis: Kunitz has averaged one point per game over the past five, posting three goals and adding two assists.
News: Chris Kunitz has three goals and four assists in 19 games this season. He has just 13 points in 40 career NHL games.
Analysis: Kunitz has no Fantasy value.
News: Chris Kunitz was assigned to Portland of the AHL on Wednesday, as the club needed an extra goaltender with Jean-Sebastien Giguere (hamstring, leg) injured.
Analysis: Kunitz might be back shortly, but he has minimal Fantasy appeal.
