News:Kari Lehtonen is slated to start Thursday's game against the Blue Jackets, Jeff Rimer of FOX Sports Ohio reports.
Analysis: To be expected, as both the Stars (48 points) and Blue Jackets (51 points) are chasing the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. The odds are against Dallas with just two games left, but they'll presumably stick with Kari Lehtonen as long as they have a chance to qualify.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start in net Tuesday against the Sharks, Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: This comes as no surprise, as Kari Lehtonen boasts a solid .916 save percentage this season.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 27 of the 31 shots he faced in an overtime loss to the Kings on Sunday.
Analysis: As long as the Stars are fighting for a playoff spot, Kari Lehtonen should start every game for Dallas, and his .916 save percentage is encouraging.
News:Kari Lehtonen is slated to start Sunday's game against the Kings, Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen, who will be making his 33rd start of the season, figures to remain busy down the stretch, with the Stars currently just two points out of the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference playoff chase entering Sunday's game.
News:Kari Lehtonen allowed two goals on 20 shots in Friday's loss to St. Louis, his second start since returning from a minor injury.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen's save percentage on Friday could have been stronger, but allowing two goals usually is enough to put your team in a position to win. Look for Lehtonen to start most of the Stars' contests down the stretch as Dallas is clinging to a chance at making the postseason.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start between the pipes for Friday's game against the Blues, according to Lou Korac of NHL.com.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has a 15-11-2 record this season with a 2.61 GAA in 32 games. Against the Blues this year in two games, he is 1-0-0 with an excellent 0.91 GAA and .966 save percentage. He will be facing a red-hot Brian Elliot in the opposing goal in the matchup Friday.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 37 of 38 shots Thursday in his return from a groin injury, earning a 5-1 win over Vancouver.
Analysis: It was his first game since leaving after 14 minutes April 7. As long as he's healthy, expect the ninth-place Stars to roll Kari Lehtonen in all the rest of their games as they fight for a playoff spot.
News:Kari Lehtonen will be between the pipes for Thursday's game against the Canucks, Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has not appeared in a game since Apr. 9, but it appears he will return to action Thursday night. The Canucks have scored a lot lately, averaging 3.25 goals per game in April, so Lehtonen will have to shake off the rust quickly.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) was able to skate Monday, but is not expected to suit up for the Stars' evening contest against the Blackhawks, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: As a result, Cristopher Nilstorp is in line to serve as the backup to Monday's expected starter, Richard Bachman.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) is not available to play Saturday against the Sharks, Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen skated again Saturday, and he appears to be inching closer to a return, but the 29-year-old is not quite ready yet. Richard Bachman will again mind the net for Dallas.
Stars' Lehtonen (Groin) Unsure Of Status For Saturday
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) skated Friday morning for about 40 minutes, but he's unsure of his status for Saturday's game, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen will sit out Friday's contest to rest his sore groin, and he indicated his availability for Saturday's game will be determined by how he feels during morning skate. With Richard Bachman getting the nod Friday, Cristopher Nilstorp may start against the Sharks if Lehtonen isn't ready.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) will not play Friday against the Predators, Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: The groin injury, suffered Tuesday, will cost Kari Lehtonen a second consecutive game Friday. He's still listed as day-to-day, and if Lehtonen can't go Saturday, Cristopher Nilstorp may get the start against San Jose.
News:Kari Lehtonen, (groin) is questionable for Friday's game against the Preds, Stars Inside Edge reports.
Analysis: On the plus side, Kari Lehtonen practiced briefly Thursday, but if he can't go Friday, look for Richard Bachman to get the start in goal for the Stars.
News:Kari Lehtonen (lower body) is day-to-day, Stars Inside Edge reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen suffered a lower body injury Tuesday against the Kings, and was replaced in net by Richard Bachman. The Stars also called up Cristopher Nilstorp on Wednesday, in case Lehtonen isn't able to go Friday against the Predators.
News:Kari Lehtonen suffered a lower-body injury in the first period of Tuesday's game and is questionable to return.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen was replaced by Richard Bachman. Expect an update on his status as more details are released.
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to start in goal for the Stars on Tuesday against the Kings, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: It would be Kari Lehtonen's 19th consecutive start for the Stars, who have won two straight and remain just four points out of the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference.
News:Kari Lehtonen is in line to start Sunday's game against the Sharks, Mike Heika of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen will have his work cut out for him Sunday as the Stars will be facing Antti Niemi and the Sharks, who are currently on a seven-game winning streak.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 32-of-36 shots in Sunday's 5-4 shootout win over the Sharks.
Analysis: Despite giving up four goals in regulation time, Kari Lehtonen picks up his second win in a row, while helping put an end to the Sharks' seven-game winning streak in the process.
News:Kari Lehtonen turned away all but one of the 28 shots he faced in Friday's win over Dallas, snapping a three-game losing streak.
Analysis: Dallas is clinging to a slim hope of making the playoffs and the Stars will need Kari Lehtonen to do things like shut down one of the Western Conference's top teams. He's been streaky this season, but when he's on, he is a solid option. However, keep in mind that Dallas has jettisoned several of its top players over the last week.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start in goal Friday against the Ducks, the Orange County Register reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has been a sieve in goal of late, allowing three or more goals in five consecutive games. While his save percentage remains relatively strong at .916, it may be worthwhile to stash him on the bench until he shows the ability to keep the goals from coming in.
News:Kari Lehtonen gave up four goals on 26 shots in a loss to the Ducks on Wednesday night.
Analysis: With the Stars deciding to sell pieces at the trade deadline, Kari Lehtonen's value down the stretch takes a hit despite the fact that he should continue to see the vast majority of starts in the Dallas goal.
News:Kari Lehtonen is slated to start Wednesday's game against the Ducks, Mike Heika of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has dropped his last two starts, including Monday's 4-0 blanking at the hands of the Ducks in which he stopped 26-of-29 shots. Overall, his GAA sits at 2.62 -- compared to 2.33 last season -- with the Stars decidedly sellers as the NHL trade deadline approaches, having already sent Brendan Morrow, Derek Roy and Jaromir Jagr packing.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 26 saves on 29 shots in a loss to the Ducks on Monday.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen's numbers have taken a hit recently. He only has one win in his last five games, and he has not let in less than three goals in his last four contests.
News:Kari Lehtonen is slated to start Monday's game against the Ducks, starsinsideedge.com reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen will be making his second start in as many days, after making 37 saves in Sunday's 3-2 loss to the Kings.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 37 saves on 40 shots but took the loss in Monday's game against the Kings.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen's last few games have seen his numbers take a slight downturn, but he still has a .919 save percentage on the season and is having a good year.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start in goal Sunday against the Kings, according to Stars color analyst Daryl Reaugh.
Analysis: Despite allowing a combined nine goals over his last two starts, Kari Lehtonen is clearly still the Stars' main man between the pipes these days. All told, Lehtonen's 12-8-2 record, 2.58 GAA and .918 save percentage rank him roughly middle-of-the-pack when it comes to fantasy starting goaltenders, so you'll need plenty of firepower from your skaters if you're relying on him as your main netminder.
News:Kari Lehtonen turned away 30 shots in Friday's 5-3 win over Minnesota, his third win in his last four starts. Lehtonen briefly left the game in third period with an equipment issue.
Analysis: Do not be distracted by the fact that Richard Bachman played several minutes in the contest, as Lethonen had an issue with his skate lace. Kari Lehtonen has been playing solidly for the Stars, save for the six goals he let up against the same Wild squad on Monday. Dallas is in the mix for a playoff spot, and Lehtonen figures to continue seeing the starts.
News:Kari Lehtonen is slated to start Monday's game against the Wild, the Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen, who has won two consecutive starts, stopping 73-of-75 shots in the process, takes aim Monday at a Minnesota squad that has reeled off five straight wins.
News:Kari Lehtonen ceded six goals on 41 shots in a loss to the Wild on Monday.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen had put together two really good starts before this one, but the two prior to those were also poor. In total, Lehtonen has managed a .919 save percentage and a 2.56 GAA in 24 games played thus far.
News:Kari Lehtonen posted his third win in four games by turning aside 33 shots as Dallas beat Colorado on Saturday, 5-2.
Analysis: The only concern here is fatigue; this was his 11th straight start. The Stars get Sunday off before entertaining Minnesota on Monday.
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to make his 11th straight start Saturday against the Avalanche, according to Adrian Dater of the Denver Post.
Analysis: His last time out, Kari Lehtonen posted a 40-save shutout against the Kings on Thursday, so look for him to continue his hot streak against the struggling Avs who are just 3-6-1 in their last 10 and 2-9-3 on the road so far this season.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 40 shots in a shutout win over the Kings on Thursday night.
Analysis: The start was Kari Lehtonen's fifth in a span of eight days, a stretch where he has produced a 2-2-1 record. Jack Campbell is currently serving as his backup, so days off may be few and far between.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start Thursday's game against the Kings, starsinsideedge.com reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen returns to the Dallas net Thursday after stopping 30-of-34 shots in Wednesday's loss to the Avs.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start in net when the Stars take on the Avalanche on Wednesday.
Analysis: With the Stars playing again Thursday against the Kings, expect Jack Campbell – who was recalled from AHL Texas on Tuesday – to get the start in the second of the back-to-backs.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 16 shots in a victory over Calgary on Monday night.
Analysis: Thus far, Kari Lehtonen's ratios are in line with his numbers from last season as he's carrying a 2.46 GAA and .918 save percentage (2.33, .922 last season). The win improved his record to 10-6-2 for the season. As long as he stays healthy, he'll continue to see a heavy workload, as Monday marked Lehtonen's seventh consecutive start.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start Monday's game against the Flames, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen, who has started seven straight games for the Stars, will square off against Calgary's Joey MacDonald on Monday.
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to start Monday's game against the Flames, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: We'll let you know if that changes, but it looks like the Stars will give Kari Lehtonen a chance Monday to bounce back from Saturday's debacle, which saw both him and Richard Bachman allow four goals on 17 shots to the Blackhawks.
News:Kari Lehtonen survived less than 30 minutes' worth of Chicago's shooting barrage Saturday, surrendering four goals on 17 shots (.765) before being pulled from the crease. The Blackhawks went on to win, 8-1, with Lehtonen taking the loss.
Analysis: We mused here recently that he'd have a day off soon, and this stinker of an outing seems to make that more likely.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start against Chicago on Saturday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: It's possible that his next day off is coming soon -- perhaps as early as March 21 - as the Stars have a back-to-back set that includes travel. Nevertheless, he'll get the nod Saturday against a Chicago squad that leads the NHL in points at the halfway point this season.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start Thursday's game against the Ducks, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Thursday's turn marks the sixth straight for Kari Lehtonen since he returned at the end of last month from a lower body injury.
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to start Thursday's game against the Ducks, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Assuming that holds, it would be the sixth straight start for Kari Lehtonen since returning from a lower body injury at the end of February.
News:Kari Lehtonen allowed in four goals on just 21 shots in Tuesday's loss to the Predators.
Analysis: On a night that Nashville that was missing two of their top forwards, this was a particularly disappointing night on home ice.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start in goal for the Stars on Tuesday against the Predators, starsinsideedge.com reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen, who has given up five goals over his last three starts, checks in with a save percentage of .929 in 16 games, good for a tie for third in the league in that category.
Lehtonen Swallows Tough Loss As Stars' Attack Stalls
News:Kari Lehtonen continued his solid play Saturday, allowing two goals on 21 shots against Phoenix. But his teammates could muster only a single goal to support him, so he came away with a disappointing 2-1 loss.
Analysis: His fantasy owners already know not to be dissuaded from starting him; he's among the most effective netminders in the league (9-4-1, 2.23, .929).
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start in goal Saturday against the Coyotes, Mike Heika of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is having a monster year and he'll have a chance to win for the ninth time in his past 10 starts.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start in goal Thursday against the Kings, Stars Inside Edge reports.
Analysis: After a rough start last Thursday in his return from a lower-body injury in which he allowed five goals, Kari Lehtonen looked dominant in his most recent start Sunday against the Blues, stopping 25 of 26 shots in a 4-1 win. Through 14 games thus far, he's posted a robust .930 save percentage.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 25-of-26 shots in Sunday's 4-1 win over the Blues.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen bounced back nicely from a shaky effort in his return to action this past Thursday that saw him allow five goals on 38 shots in a loss to Edmonton.
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to start Sunday's game against St. Louis, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: After missing five games with a sore groin, Kari Lehtonen returned to the lineup Thursday and did not perform well, allowing five goals on 38 shots. It may take him awhile to get back up to speed, so don't be afraid to go with another fantasy goalie option if you have one.
News:Kari Lehtonen made his return after missing five games with a lower-body injury and allowed five goals on 38 shots in Thursday's loss to Edmonton.
Analysis: Perhaps he isn't quite back in the flow after missing nearly two weeks, as Kari Lehtonen was not nearly as sharp as he'd been before the injury. He'd posted a stingy .943 save rate and 1.69 GAA in six February starts before going down.
News:Kari Lehtonen (lower body) is back in goal Thursday against the Oilers, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: After missing five games with a groin tweak, Kari Lehtonen is feeling much better but may be a tad rusty in his first game back from the layoff. Still, it's hard to keep him out of fantasy lineups when he's turned in a 7-2-1 record, 2.12 GAA, and .934 save percentage over his 12 starts this season.
News: The Stars have activated Kari Lehtonen (lower body) off IR, the team's official site reports.
Analysis: With Kari Lehtonen, who missed the team's last five games, back in business, the Stars have assigned fellow goalie Cristopher Nilstorp to AHL Texas.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) is ready to return to action, Stars Inside Edge reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has missed the Stars' last five games with a groin injury, but is good to go for Thursday's game against the Oilers. Lehtonen is having a solid season for Dallas, amassing a 7-2-1 record, and a save percentage of .934 -- good enough for fifth in the NHL.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) is not ready to play yet, but expects to be by Thursday, Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen won't start Tuesday in Columbus, but Thursday's game against the Oilers now appears to be on his radar. Lehtonen's last start was back on Feb. 15.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) took part in Monday's morning skate, according to Stars beat writer Mark Stepneski.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen won't start against Nashville on Monday and is also questionable to play Tuesday in Columbus. As a result, Cristopher Nilstorp is in line for his third straight outing for the Stars on Monday.
Stars' Lehtonen Practices, Remain Doubtful For Saturday
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) practiced Friday, but remains doubtful for Saturday's game, Gerry Fraley of the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: The Stars are going to be conservative with Kari Lehtonen, not wanting to rush him to return and further aggravate his injured groin. Lehtonen will be re-evaluated Saturday, but for now remains day-to-day.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) didn't skate Wednesday but was able to work out on the side, the Dallas Morning News reports. "He's making progress," coach Glen Gulutzan said. "We're working him out pretty hard and he hasn't had any problems with it, so the injury hasn't gotten worse."
Analysis: Gulutzan further indicated Kari Lehtonen's groin injury isn't as severe as the one that kept him out 12 games last season, so it doesn't look as though Lehtonen will miss a significant chunk of the shortened season. He's unlikely to play until he's able to take part in on-ice practices, but that could happen as soon as next week.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) remains day-to-day, Stars Inside Edge reports.
Analysis: The report adds that Kari Lehtonen could start some on-ice work with the Stars' goaltending coach Mike Valley in the next couple days, with a specific timetable for Lehtonen's return to game action not yet mapped out.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) was placed on injured reserve on Saturday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: The Stars called up Cristopher Nilstorp from the AHL as goalie insurance earlier in the day, tipping off that Kari Lehtonen would miss some time with the injury. It's unclear at this juncture how long Lehtonen will remain inactive, but don't count on having him available over the next week.
News: The Stars recalled goaltender Cristopher Nilstorp from the AHL on Saturday, Mark Stepneski of the Stars' official website reports.
Analysis: This probably means that the Stars don't expect Kari Lehtonen to play Sunday, which would leave Richard Bachman as the likely starting goalie. Consider Lehtonen day-to-day for the time being.
News:Kari Lehtonen suffered a groin injury in the first period Friday against the Canucks and was unable to return, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen, who has had groin ailments in the past, is listed as day-to-day and will be re-evaluated Saturday. The Stars' next game is Sunday, at home against Calgary. Richard Bachman, who relieved Lehtonen on Friday, would almost certain get the starting nod if Lehtonen can't return for that one.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start in goal against the Canucks on Friday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is red hot right now, and he has five wins in his past five starts to show for it. He stopped 35 of 36 shots in his last outing, and will look to keep up the success against a Vancouver squad that is currently riding a six-game win streak.
News:Kari Lehtonen allowed just a single goal on 36 shots Tuesday in a win over the Oilers.
Analysis: After allowing a first-period tally by Taylor Hall, Kari Lehtonen shut it down for his sixth win in a row. He's been on top of his game in the month of February and is one of the better goalie plays right now.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start Tuesday's game against the Oilers, according to Mark Stepneski of the Stars' official website.
Analysis: Not a surprise, given that Kari Lehtonen has won four straight games, including Friday's 3-1 win over the previously streaking Ducks.
News:Kari Lehtonen won his fourth-consecutive start on Friday, stopping 20 of the 21 shots he faced against Anaheim. He's allowed eight goals over his last four starts.
Analysis: A closer look at Kari Lehtonen's numbers shows he has let a mere five pucks slip past him in his last three starts. Dallas and Lehtonen typically win games in bunches, you just have to hope you catch the towering Finn at a crest rather than toward the end of his run. Play him with confidence.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start between the pipes for the Stars on Friday against the Ducks, Eric Stephens of the Orange County Register reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen continued his strong start to the season Wednesday against Edmonton. He is 5-2-1 on the season with a 2.46 GAA. Last season against the Ducks, he posted a 4-1 record and a stellar 1.40 GAA. This could be a solid matchup trend for him considering his strong overall play as of late as well.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 27-of-29 shots Wednesday in an overtime win over Edmonton.
Analysis: The Stars' No. 1 netminder will continue to see a heavy workload, as the team is now 5-5-1 while Kari Lehtonen has been given the nod in eight of those 11 contests thus far. With the victory Wednesday, he's now 5-2-1 for the season, and he entered play with a career-high .925 save percentage.
News: Coach Glen Gulutzan noted that Kari Lehtonen will get the start in goal Wednesday against the Oilers, Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen, who is 4-2-1 overall, will be looking for his third straight win Wednesday against an Oilers squad that has dropped three straight contests.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 29 saves on 31 shots in a win over the Avalanche on Monday.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has already played in eight games, and he has a .925 save percentage thus far, ranking him in the top 10 in the NHL at this point.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start in goal Monday against the Avalanche, Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen got back in the win column Saturday, and he'll get the nod again Monday. He has a 2.62 GAA through seven games (six starts) this season.
News:Kari Lehtonen turned away 31 of 34 shots in Friday's shootout win over Phoenix, his first win in three starts.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen also denied three of four attempts in the shootout to secure the victory for Dallas. His numbers have not been the greatest of late, allowing nine goals in his last three starts, but Dallas is going to surrender a handful of scoring chances per game. Expect Lehtonen to play most nights, but know that he can either steal a game for the Stars or be a sieve on any night.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start between the pipes for Friday's game against the Coyotes, according to Mark Stepneski of the Stars' official website.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is 2-2-1 in his starts in goal this season for the Stars. He currently carries a .926 save percentage and 2.58 GAA through the six games in which he has played. He is the main man for the Stars and will continue to see a heavy load at goalie.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start in goal Tuesday against the Red Wings, reports Stars color analyst Daryl Reaugh.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen's seen a barrage of pucks on most nights and will be back in goal after delivering a fine effort in a loss on Monday.
News:Kari Lehtonen turned aside 25 of the 27 shots he faced Monday, but still suffered a loss at the hands of the Blue Jackets.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen can't be blamed for this loss, and he's been quite good this season, even though he has been facing a ton of shots so far.
News:Kari Lehtonen (undisclosed) will start in goal Monday against the Blue Jackets.
Analysis: In four games this season, Kari Lehtonen is 2-0 with a 2.23 GAA and a .944 save percentage. Lehtonen was dealing with a "tweak" earlier in the weekend and was supposed to sit Saturday to rest, but he was pressed into duty when Chris Nilstorp got hurt. It appears that any malady Lehtonen had been fighting is fine.
News:Kari Lehtonen is dealing with a "tweak" and will not start in Saturday's game against St. Louis.
Analysis: Consider Kari Lehtonen day-to-day and look for Cristopher Nilstorp to get the nod between the pipes Saturday. The nature and extent of Lehtonen's injury are unclear, but the word "tweak" indicates that it's nothing serious.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start in net Thursday night against the Blackhawks, Mark Stepneski of the Stars' official website reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is off to a fast start this season, going 2-0 and allowing just four goals on 80 shot attempts. However, he will be tested Thursday night by a Blackhawks team that has scored a league-leading 14 goals through its first three games.
News:Kari Lehtonen saved 39 of 40 shots in Tuesday's victory over the Red Wings. He nearly had a shutout, but Damien Brunner broke it up with four seconds remaining.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen's looked great in the early going, and the Stars certainly have the personnel to be successful this season, so if he can stay healthy, the Finnish netminder should be in for another good year.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start Saturday's season opener against the Coyotes, according to Mike Heika of The Dallas Morning News.
Analysis: With Richard Bachman having been sent to the AHL, Cristopher Nilstorp will open the season as Kari Lehtonen's top backup.
News:Kari Lehtonen signed a five-year, $29.5 million contract extension with the Stars on Friday, according to the Dallas Stars' Team Website.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen posted another strong season with the Stars last season posting a 32-22-4 record, 2.33 goals against per game, and a .922 save percentage. He has been a steady presence the past four years in Dallas for a team that just missed the playoffs this past season.
News:Kari Lehtonen reports he has fully recovered from his injured meniscus he suffered at the World Championships, according to the Dallas Stars' website.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is good to go this season, likely as the Stars' top goaltender. Last season he posted solid numbers, notching a .922 save percentage and had a 2.33 goals against average.
News:Kari Lehtonen hurt his meniscus at the World Championships, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen appears to have avoided a serious injury, as Stars' GM Joe Nieuwendyk said the meniscus would only keep him out for about two weeks if it were the NHL regular season. Lehtonen plans on staying in his native Finland for a little bit, but will fly back to Dallas at some point to have the knee looked at. Barring further complications, this should not have any effect on his 2012-13 season.
Stars' Lehtonen's Injury Not Believed To Be Serious
News: The unspecified injury that Kari Lehtonen suffered at the World Championships on Sunday is not believed to be serious, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: "They're still looking at everything, and there has been a lot of communication between doctors there and our trainer," said Stars goalie coach Mike Valley. "They're not 100 percent sure what the injury is, but I've been told it is not a serious injury." In any case, Kari Lehtonen
will not play again in the World Championships, but fortunately it sounds like he escaped a major injury.
News:Kari Lehtonen, who had been representing Finland in the IIHF World Championships, is out until further notice with a lower body injury, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: There is speculation it could be Kari Lehtonen's right knee in play here, but we'll have to await further details to see if this is anything that could impact him in the long term.
News:Kari Lehtonen allowed just two goals on 31 shots Thursday against Nashville, but Pekka Rinne allowed none on the other end, eliminating Dallas from playoff contention.
Analysis: That's four straight losses for Kari Lehtonen, but although he's given up 13 goals in that span, they can't be entirely pinned on him, as the Stars have scored just four times in those four games and have been shut out twice -- not the results they were looking for as they fought for the Western Conference's final playoff spot.
News:Kari Lehtonen will face the Predators on Thursday, according to Mike Heika of The Dallas Morning News.
Analysis: Kari is limping to the finish line in some respects having allowed 11 goals in his last three outings, all loses. The Stars need him to come up big if they hope to squeak into the playoffs.
News:Kari Lehtonen will attempt to stop the pucks fired by the Sharks on Tuesday, according to Mike Heika of The Dallas Morning News.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has stopped 76 of 82 shots against the Sharks this season, good for a .927 save percentage. He will need to be at the top of his game in this must-win matchup with the club from San Jose.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 31 saves on 34 shots in a loss at the hands of San Jose on Saturday.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has had a few off nights recently, but he is still eighth in the league in save percentage and the Stars are still fighting for a playoff spot.
Dallas' Lehtonen To Kari Load In Back-To-Back Games
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to start Friday against the Canuacks as well as Saturday against San Jose, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Both are crucial games for the Stars' playoff hopes, and you can reasonably expect Kari Lehtonen to start Tuesday as well when Dallas hosts San Jose.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start against Vancouver on Friday, Dallas Morning News writer Mike Heika reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen was excellent against Edmonton on Wednesday, stopping all but one of the 32 shots he saw. A road game against Vancouver is an unpleasant match-up, but Lehtonen's 32-18-4 record makes him a justifiable start Friday.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 31 of 32 shots Wednesday night in Dallas' big 3-1 win over Edmonton.
Analysis: It was a huge bounceback game for the Dallas netminder as he allowed five goals in his previous start, a 5-4 loss to Calgary two nights before. Kari Lehtonen is two wins away from matching his career high of 34 wins during a season, which he's done twice before.
News: As expected, Kari Lehtonen will start between the pipes Wednesday against the Oilers, according to Mike Heika of The Dallas Morning News.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen was bombed for five goals last game after allowing just six goals in the three games before that. Expect him to rebound against an Oilers club that he allowed just one goal against on 20 shots in their last matchup.
News:Kari Lehtonen let in five goals on 35 shots in a loss to Calgary on Monday.
Analysis: A bad start for Kari Lehtonen, but he has a .923 save percentage and a 2.28 GAA in 54 games played, and with the Stars fighting for a playoff spot he is unlikely to get much rest.
News:Kari Lehtonen will once again be in net for the Stars on Monday when they take on the Flames, according to Mike Heika of The Dallas Morning News.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen allowed just one goal in his last outing against the Flames and he owns a 5-2-2 record against the club in his career.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 35 of 36 shots in Saturday's 4-1 win over Calgary, moving his record to 31-17-4 on the season.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen's save percentage for the month of March now sits at a phenomenal .938. His performance on Saturday dealt a huge blow to Calgary's chances of making the playoffs.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start against Calgary on Saturday, ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski reports.
Analysis: With eight games to play, the Stars are clinging precariously to the eighth and last playoff spot in the West, so you know they will play their No. 1 goalie every chance they get down the stretch. Kari Lehtonen has been a pleasant surprise for fantasy owners this year, currently sitting top-10 in wins (30), GAA (2.25) and save percentage (.923).
News:Kari Lehtonen allowed a pair of goals on 28 shots in Thursday's 2-1 loss to Vancouver.
Analysis: It's hard to complain about the Finnish netminder's effort, but he still dropped his second game in three following a five-game winning streak. Kari Lehtonen's been a rock for Dallas when healthy; expect the Stars to keep rolling him as they battle for the lead in the amazingly tight Pacific Division.
News: Thursday the Stars will go with Kari Lehtonen in net against the Canucks, according to Mike Heika of The Dallas Morning News.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has won 30 games for the second straight years an he continues to roll along with the bets ratios of his career for the Stars (2.26 GAA and .923 save percentage).
News:Kari Lehtonen allowed three goals on 30 shots Tuesday, but was perfect on three shootout chances to send the Stars home with a win.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen got back to his winning ways in this one after being on the wrong end his last time out. The victory was his ninth in his last 11 starts.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start against Phoenix on Tuesday, ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen fell apart against Chicago on Friday, allowing four goals on 31 shots, but Tuesday he gets a home match against a Phoenix team that's 3-5-2 in March. It's a decent look on paper, particularly considering Lehtonen is 8-1-1 in his last 10.
News:Kari Lehtonen will face the Blackhawks Friday, according to Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis: Kari is 4-1 with a 1.58 GAA in five outings against the Blackhawks so he will likely enter the contest with a ton of confidence.
Stars' Lehtonen: Five Straight Wins, Two Straight Shutouts
News:Kari Lehtonen collected his second consecutive shutout in Tuesday's 1-0 victory over Minnesota, stopping all 25 shots he faced.
Analysis: The win was his fifth straight and eighth in nine games, as Kari Lehtonen and the Stars have been as hot as any team and goalie in the NHL. Keep rolling the Finnish netminder while he's hot (and healthy).
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start Tuesday in Minnesota, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dallas is the hottest team in hockey at the moment, and Kari Lehtonen has been a big part of the run. It's not easy to recommend a road goalie on a busy night for those in daily leagues, but Dallas's play of late makes Lehtonen a pretty good choice.
News:Kari Lehtonen turned away all 21 shots he faced in a 2-0 victory over Anaheim on Saturday night. It was his third shutout of the season.
Analysis: It was also his fourth-straight win and seventh win in his last eight starts. The big ole' Texas steak is sizzling right now -- be sure you savor every start.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start Saturday against Anaheim, according to Mark Stepneski of ESPN Dallas.
Analysis: With a 27-15-4 record, 2.30 GAA and .923 save percentage, Kari Lehtonen remains one of the NHL's best goalies, not to mention a very valuable fantasy asset. Furthermore, with six wins in seven starts coming into Saturday's tilt with the Ducks, you know the Stars are going to play him every chance they get, and so should you.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start against San Jose on Thursday, ESPN Dallas/Fort Worth reports.
Analysis: Between the home-rink advantage and an impressive two-game winning streak, there's reason for Kari Lehtonen's fantasy owners to be cautiously optimistic Thursday.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 36 saves on 38 shots in a shootout victory over Calgary on Sunday.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has been excellent recently, and on the season he has a .922 save percentage and a 2.29 GAA, both of which are just outside the top 10 in the league.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start Saturday against Calgary, Mike Heika of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has been excellent lately, winning four of his last five, with the only loss coming in a shootout. Over that span he allowed seven goals and stopped 95 percent of the shots directed at him.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start Friday's game against the Oilers, according to Mark Stepneski of ESPN Dallas.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen will try to get back on the winning track after having his three-game winning streak snapped in Wednesday's shootout loss to Pittsburgh
News:Kari Lehtonen will start against the Penguins on Wednesday, according to Mark Stepneski of ESPN Dallas.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is one victory short of 25 wins on the season for the Stars. The last time he faced the Penguins he was the loser after allowing three goals on 32 shots.
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to get the call for the Stars Sunday when they take on the Canucks, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is enjoying a strong season for the Stars that includes a 13-9-1 record at home. He's never enjoyed success against the Canucks with a 1-5 record an a 4.16 GAA.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 28 of 29 shots as Dallas beat Minnesota 4-1 on Friday. It was his second straight win and sixth in the month of February.
Analysis: Statistically, Kari Lehtonen is having the best season of his career with a .921 SV% and a 2.33 GAA. While he'll likely not match his career best of 34 wins in a season, the talented goalie has finally arrived after years of frustration marked by numerous injuries.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start Friday for the Stars against the Wild, according to ESPN Dallas.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is just 5-4-2 in February, but you can't really blame him as he's posted an impressive 2.15 GAA in his 11 starts.
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to sit in favor of Richard Bachman for Thursday's game, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is expected to return between the pipes for Friday's game against Minnesota.
News:Kari Lehtonen and the Stars waltzed into Montreal and shut out the Canadiens, 3-0, on Tuesday. The Finnish netminder stopped 31 shots.
Analysis: Times have been tough for Kari Lehtonen lately, as he'd won just two of his last eight starts and given up at two or more goals in all of those games. The Stars weren't helping him on the offensive end, either, averaging exactly two goals per game over that stretch. The Stars need to make a push, as they're now within one point of a playoff spot (pending the result of the Kings and Flames games), but to do that, they have to have a healthy and productive Lehtonen.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start in goal Tuesday against Montreal, ESPN Dallas reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen will be looking to right the ship Tuesday, as he has lost four of his last five games. Though the results haven't been there, he hasn't let in more than three goals in any of those games. Richard Bachman is expected to get the start Thursday, according to coach Glen Gulutzan.
News:Kari Lehtonen gave up three goals on 21 shots in a loss at the hands of Nashville on Sunday.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has been on the losing end of things in four of his last five games, even though he hasn't let up more than three goals in any of those appearances, and his overall numbers are still fairly strong (.918 save percentage, 2.43 GAA).
News:Kari Lehtonen will start against Nashville on Sunday, Mark Stepneski of ESPN Dallas reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen made 31 saves in a 2-1 OT loss to Phoenix on Saturday night, but he's back in the nets Sunday, feeling fresh and ready to go, according to coach Glen Gulutzan.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 31 saves in a 2-1 OT loss to Phoenix on Saturday night.
Analysis: He forced overtime but couldn't keep the red-hot Radim Vrbata from ripping home a rebound in OT. He's 1-2-2 in his last five starts but none of it has been his fault -- the Stars have tallied just nine goals, three of which came in the lone win, in those five games. One man cannot be an island. He is a risky roll while Jamie Benn is on the sideline.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start against Phoenix on Saturday, Mark Stepneski of ESPN Dallas reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen was sharp in a 3-2 victory over Calgary on Thursday, stopping 25 of 27 shots, but Saturday's game looks a bit more challenging. Phoenix has lost just once in seven February games -- a 2-1 overtime defeat on the road against 36-15-6 Vancouver squad.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start against Calgary on Thursday, DallasStars.com reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is in the midst of a 1-3-1 slump, but Calgary's 11-14-6 record on the road provides some hope Thursday.
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to get the start in Detroit on Tuesday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Detroit will be looking to set an NHL record with its' 21st straight win at home, so there are plenty of better options for those in daily leagues.
News:Kari Lehtonen only managed 15 saves on 18 shots in a loss to Los Angeles on Sunday.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen had put together four strong outings in his last five, and on the season his numbers are good. He's still providing plenty of value for his owners.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start in goal for Dallas against the Kings on Sunday night, according to the Stars' official Twitter feed.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen, who stopped 30-of-32 shots in an overtime loss to Buffalo on Friday, takes on a Kings' team Sunday that has dropped four of five contests.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 30 of 32 shots against Buffalo on Friday, but it wasn't enough as the Sabres won the game 3-2 in a shootout decision.
Analysis: He's been as strong over his last six starts as he has all season, stopping 169 of 180 shots for a .939 save percentage and winning four of them. With Dallas only one point out of a playoff position in the West, Kari Lehtonen will need to stay sharp down the stretch if the Stars have any hope of making the postseason.
News: The Stars will call on Kari Lehtonen on Friday in their battle with the Sabres, according to Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has won four of his last five starts for the Stars, and in 15 games started on the road this season his save percentage is an impressive .930.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start for the Stars on Thursday against the Blue Jackets, according to Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has a 1.75 GAA in eight starts against the Blue Jackets in his career, and there's little reason that his success should falter in this outing given the Blue Jackets lack of success this season.
News:Kari Lehtonen bounced back from Tuesday's loss to hold the Blue Jackets to just two goals on 28 shots Thursday, his fourth win in five games.
Analysis: Not a very strong opponent, but Kari Lehtonen and the Stars will take it. He's allowed only five total goals in the four wins, but was blown up for four Tuesday against Phoenix. Keep rolling him out there, as he's been one of the better goalies around when healthy.
News: The Stars will turn to Kari Lehtonen Tuesday in their battle with the Phoenix Coyotes, according to ESPN Dallas.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is 2-0 against the Coyotes this season, and in his 19 victories on the year, he's registered a GAA of 1.80. When he is on his game, Lehtonen is one tough nut to crack.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 33 saves through overtime and then denied two of three Wild skaters in the shootout to seal a 2-1 victory Saturday night.
Analysis: He was channeling his best Eddie the Eagle as the Stars honored former twinetender Ed Belfour. Belfour was a childhood fave of Kari Lehtonen's and he was impressive in his efforts to shine. Kari has three consecutive wins and should be active in all but the deepest of formats.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start Saturday against Minnesota, according to Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis: If history is any indication, you have to like the Stars' chances in this one, as they currently own a 10-0-4 record against the Wild at home dating back to 2003. Furthermore, Kari Lehtonen is coming off a very tidy 33-save win over the Ducks on Thursday, and appears to have rediscovered the form he showed at the start of the season before missing a dozen games with a groin injury suffered Nov. 26. Bottom line, as long as Lehtonen is healthy and playing well, he should be in your starting fantasy lineup.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start in goal Tuesday against Anaheim, Mark Stepneski of ESPN Dallas reports.
Analysis: The Stars have gone 16-11-1 with Kari Lehtonen in the net, but he's lost four consecutive starts. The 28-year-old has posted a 2.54 GAA and a .916 save percentage this season, but it's hard to trust a guy who just gave up four goals on Saturday.
News:Kari Lehtonen is the expected starter for Saturday's game at Minnesota, according to Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has struggled in the win column lately with three straight losses currently on the books. However, those can hardly be pinned on Lehtonen as he sports a 1.71 GAA and .930 save percentage over that stretch. Once his teammates start finding the back of the other team's net again, expect more W's for Lehtonen. For now, keep him active as long as he continues to hold up his end of the bargain.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 20 of 22 shots on Friday night in Dallas' 2-1 loss to Tampa Bay.
Analysis: To start the third period, Dallas got a goal from an unlikely source -- forward Tom Wandell -- only his third goal of the season. However, only two minutes later Kari Lehtonen gave up the lead when Lightning forward Teddy Purcell netted his second goal and the eventual game-winner. The Stars' bounce back Saturday against a disappointing Minnesota Wild team, but it has not been determined as of yet if Lehtonen will get the back-to-back start.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start in goal Friday against the Lightning, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: The Stars will play again Saturday at Minnesota and it remains to be seen if they will consider playing Kari Lehtonen (over Richard Bachman)in back-to-back contests.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped all but one of the 32 shots he faced in Monday's loss to St. Louis, his third loss in the last four starts.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen did everything short of scoring a goal to keep Dallas in the game against a red-hot St. Louis squad. Owners of Lehtonen will be comforted by his strong goals-against average and save percentage from Monday, but the win was elusive. In his last two games, he has not received much help, allowing three goals in the losses.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start in goal against St. Louis on Monday, according to the Stars' official Twitter page.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen will be looking to get back on track Monday after absorbing a 2-1 loss at the hands of Colorado on Monday.
News:Kari Lehtonen allowed two goals on 23 shots in the Stars' loss to the Avalanche on Saturday.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen played well Saturday, but Colorado's Jean-Sebastian Giguere played a bit better between the pipes in the Avalanche's 2-1 victory. Having started three straight games, expect Lehtonen to sit out one of the Stars' upcoming back-to-back games Monday and Tuesday.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start against Colorado on Saturday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Colorado is an unimpressive 10-9-2 on the road this year, but Kari Lehtonen has allowed four goals in each of his last two. Still, his teammates have put up 15 points in his four January starts, so you have to like his chances of getting the win.
News:Kari Lehtonen allowed four goals on 37 shots, but stopped all three shootout attempts Thursday to take home the win over Los Angeles.
Analysis: He's allowed 14 goals in his last four games and has generally failed to recapture his pre-injury form, but Kari Lehtonen faced a ton of chances Thursday and still did make 37 saves and notch a win.
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to get the start against the Kings on Thursday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: The Stars have a tough matchup as they are expected to face Jamie Quick, who sports a career 12-3-1 mark against the Stars.
News:Kari Lehtonen returned from an illness Tuesday, only to give up four goals in a loss to the Ducks.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen was done in by his fellow Finn Saku Koivu on Tuesday night, as Koivu had his second career hat trick (the third on an empty net).
News:Kari Lehtonen (illness) is feeling fine and is expected to start Tuesday's game against the Ducks, ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen gave way to Richard Bachman on Saturday, but it looks like he should be okay to return to the Dallas net against the Ducks, winners of two straight.
News:Kari Lehtonen did not start Saturday due to an illness, according to the Stars' official Twitter page.
Analysis: Richard Bachman started against the Oilers on Saturday in Kari Lehtonen's place. The Stars are off until Tuesday, which will give Lehtonen a chance to rest and avoid missing any further action.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start against Edmonton on Saturday, ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has slowed down a bit since his scorching 11-1 start, but he's coming off an impressive 4-1 road victory over Nashville in which he stopped 24 of 25 shots. With Edmonton 6-15-1 on the road this year, Lehtonen is a strong on-paper start Saturday.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 24 of 25 shots Thursday against Nashville, outplaying Pekka Rinne in a 4-1 win.
Analysis: This was easily Kari Lehtonen's best game since returning from the injured list, and that's a good sign for the Stars in the new year. Lehtonen had struggled some even before the injury, as his numbers are significantly boosted by a red-hot October. In the 14 games since the calendar turned to November, his save percentage is just barely .900.
News:Kari Lehtonen will be in net for the Stars in their battle with the Predators Thursday, according to The Dallas Morning News.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen hasn't looked great in his three games back on the ice after returning from injury as he has permitted 10 goals, including five in a rough outing the last time he took the ice against the Red Wings.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start against Detroit on Tuesday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen was solid in a 4-2 win over the Bruins in his last start, and gets another tough test with the Red Wings on Tuesday.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 18 saves in a 4-2 win over Boston on Saturday.
Analysis: One of the goals came on deflection; the other on a wicked one-timer. He looked strong between the pipes and should be activated if you still have him on your bench.
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to get the start against Boston on Saturday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen was in goal for a 4-1 loss to Columbus is his return to action Thursday, and will face a much tougher test Saturday when he faces the Bruins. Given the large number of games Saturday, there are better options in daily leagues.
News:Kari Lehtonen allowed three goals on 28 shots to take the loss Thursday against Columbus in his return from a groin injury.
Analysis: He'd been out for just over a month, so some rust is forgivable, even against the worst team in the NHL. It clearly took Kari Lehtonen some time to feel good on the ice again, but he should be fine going forward. The important thing is that he's healthy again.
Stars' Lehtonen To Make Return From Groin Injury Thursday
News:Kari Lehtonen is the expected starter for Thursday's game against Columbus, according to Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis: What better opponent to face after a month-long stint on the IR than the last-place Blue Jackets, who are 2-6-2 in their last 10 games and have won just three games on the road all season? Kari Lehtonen was one of the hottest goalies in the NHL over the first two months of the season, posting a 13-4-1 record, 2.34 GAA and .926 save percentage, so it will be interesting to see if he can pick up where he left off before succumbing to a groin injury Nov. 26.
News:Kari Lehtonen, who has been out with a groin injury since Nov. 26, has been activated off injured reserve, according to the Stars' official Twitter feed.
Analysis: There's a decent chance Kari Lehtonen will start Thursday against the Blue Jackets, and if not that one than almost for sure Saturday against the Bruins. It's interesting to note the Stars decided to keep Richard Bachman around as Lehtonen's backup and not journeyman Andrew Raycroft, who has been waived.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) is expected to return to action this week, perhaps as early as Thursday against Columbus, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: According to Dallas coach Glen Gulutzan, Kari Lehtonen has skated the last few days and is close to returning. "I wouldn't be surprised to see him against Columbus (Thursday)," said the coach.
News:Kari Lehtonen, who has been out with a groin injury since Nov. 26, went through his second practice with the team Friday, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen will skate again Monday before the team heads to St. Louis and would have two practices to be ready to play Thursday against Columbus. With the way Richard Bachman has played, it appears that Andrew Raycroft would be the one to get demoted when Lehtonen returns.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) remains on target to return shortly after Christmas, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen could rejoin the team for workouts during the break leading up to Christmas before a return date is penciled in.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) will likely return after Christmas, ESPN Dallas reports.
Analysis: He skated Saturday for the first time since suffering the injury, but the current timetable suggests that Kari Lehtonen will miss another six games with his injury.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) has responded well to his initial treatment, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: "I saw Kari [Tuesday] and (athletic trainer Dave) Zeis said he's reacting really well to treatment, so it could be better than we expected," Stars' coach Glen Gulutzan said. Kari Lehtonen is still expected to miss at least three weeks, but the initial news is a bit encouraging.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) will miss at least three weeks, ESPN Dallas reports.
Analysis: "Kari will be out at least three weeks," said Stars coach Glen Gulutzan. "We got some good news on that front as far as the MRI. It's not a high groin pull or anything; it's kind of a low strain, low pull. Those tend to heal a little better, so we're looking at the three week mark before he can get going again." Kari Lehtonen will miss at least eight games with the injury, leaving a heavy workload for Andrew Raycroft and Richard Bachmann in his absence.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) has been sent back to Dallas for an MRI after landing on IR earlier in the day Sunday, ESPN Dallas reports.
Analysis: The Stars will likely provide more information following the MRI, but for now he's simply ruled out for the next week which should cover games Monday against Colorado, Thursday against Ottawa and Saturday against the Islanders. Beyond that, it's unclear if Kari Lehtonen will miss additional time.
News:Kari Lehtonen (groin) has been placed on IR, the Stars' official Twitter feed reports.
Analysis: He was already ruled out of Monday's game against the Avalanche, but this assures that Kari Lehtonen will miss at least two contests. Richard Bachman was recalled from Texas (AHL) on Sunday and will likely serve as the backup to Andrew Raycroft in the short term. Meanwhile, we'll await a more concrete diagnosis and timetable for Lehtonen's return.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start Saturday for Dallas, ESPN Dallas reports.
Analysis: It is a bit of a surprise to see Kari Lehtonen get the call in back-to-back games, but it appears the Stars will choose to rest their goaltender Monday instead. Andrew Raycroft will get Monday's game against Colorado.
News:Kari Lehtonen has a groin injury and will miss Monday's game at Colorado, reports NHL.com.
Analysis: He was unable to put much weight on his right leg and that's horrible news for the Stars and his fantasy owners. He has been exceptional this year but he does have an injury-riddled history.
Stars' Lehtonen Leaves Game With Lower Body Injury
News:Kari Lehtonen left Saturday's game with a lower body injury and will not return, the Stars' official site reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen should be considered day-to-day until the team announces the severity of his injury. Andrew Raycroft replaced him.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 20 of 23 saves on Friday night but unfortunately took the loss in overtime against Toronto.
Analysis: The loss has to be hard on the team as they had the lead 3-2 late in the third period before ending in defeat. Kari Lehtonen and the Stars will bounce back. The team and Lehtonen, individually, are a very good team and Lehtonen remains a number one fantasy goaltender.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start against the Maple Leafs on Friday, according to ESPN Dallas.
Analysis: In eight November Lehton has slowed from his tremendous October pace with a 2.97 GAA and .905 save percentage. Still, he's 13-4 wit' a .928 save percentage so shame on you if you're thinking of complaining.
News:Kari Lehtonen is the expected starter for Wednesday's game against the Kings, according to ESPN Dallas.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has been nothing short of a pleasant surprise for fantasy owners who drafted him this year. Largely unproven as a starter coming into this season, he currently leads all NHL goaltenders with 12 wins. His peripheral stats aren't bad either (2.35 GAA, .928 save percentage). Keep him active and enjoy the streak while it lasts.
News:Kari Lehtonen turned aside 17 of the 18 shots he faced Monday in a victory over Edmonton.
Analysis: The once oft-injured netminder has become a workhorse in Dallas, and he currently leads the NHL in wins.
News: A familiar mask will be in net for the Stars on Monday as Kari Lehtonen will guard the crease for the Stars, according to Mark Stepneski of ESPN Dallas.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen ha appeared in 15 of 19 games for the Stars this season, and he's played like an elite netminder virtually every time. He'll take on the Oilers tonight at home where he has gone 6-2 this season.
News: Per usual, Kari Lehtonen will be in goal for the Stars on Friday, according to Mark Stepneski of ESPN Dallas.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is 11-3-0 on the year as he continues to motor along as one of the elite keepers in the Western Conference. He did allow six goals in his last outing, so he'll be looking for a strong bounce back effort against the Avalanche.
Stars' Lehtonen Gets Start Tuesday Against Panthers
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to get the start Tuesday against Florida, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dallas has lost two straight, albeit on the road against Pittsburgh and Detroit (both games were tied entering the third period as well), but Kari Lehtonen should be well rested after having not played since Friday. He makes for a nice play in daily leagues.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start against Pittsburgh on Friday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen will be looking to add to his NHL-leading win total, and is expected to serve as the backup in Saturday's tilt in Detroit.
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to start Tuesday night in Washington, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has 10 wins on the season, but Tuesday could prove his toughest test to date. Backup Andrew Raycroft is expected to get a start at some point during the current roadtrip, but Lehtonen remains a must-start in daily leagues as long as he remains this hot.
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to start Sunday afternoon at Carolina, according to Stars reporter Mark Stepneski.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has long been touted as having the potential to be an elite NHL starting goaltender, but he's had trouble living up to those expectations until now, largely due to injuries. However, with a 9-1-0 record, Lehtonen is the surprise leader in goalie wins so far this season. He's also top-10 among everyday starters in GAA (2.16) and save percentage (.936), making him a must-start in all fantasy formats. Enjoy the hot streak while it lasts.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 34 saves Friday night in the win over Colorado.
Analysis: Maybe the five-day layoff between games was too much for Kari Lehtonen and the Stars but they still found a way to get the win. Lehtonen earned his ninth victory of the season and remains a must start option in net.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start against Colorado on Friday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dallas has had the luxury of five days off between games, so expect a solid effort out of a well-rested Kari Lehtonen here as he chases his ninth win on the season.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 31 saves in a 3-1 win over the Devils on Saturday night.
Analysis: He's now 8-1 on the season with absolutely sparkling ratios. Press auto-play and enjoy.
Stars' Lehtonen Expected To Start Saturday Against Devils
News:Kari Lehtonen was first off the ice at Saturday's morning practice, making him the likely starter later in the day against the Devils, Stars reporter Mark Stepneski reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has been one of the NHL's early-season surprises thus far with a 7-1-0 record, 1.84 goals-against average and .945 save percentage. He should be in your starting fantasy lineup whenever you get the chance to deploy him.
News:Kari Lehtonen will attempt to continue his early season role Thursday night for the Stars, according to ESPN Dallas.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is off to the best start of his career as he has yet to lose in seven outings this season. As long as he can hold off the injury bug, something he has struggled with his entire career, we could be witnessing the emergence of a potential star in net.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start against the Kings on Thursday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is 7-0 on the season, but will face a tough test in a Jonathan Quick-led team that shut out the Stars this past weekend.
News:Kari Lehtonen will look to move to 7-0 on Tuesday when he patrols the crease for the Stars against the Coyotes, according to ESPN Dallas.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has been on fire in the early going, tying for the league lead with six victories thanks to some stellar work (.957 save percentage and 1.48 GAA). He's got the ability to be a top-10 keeper, but injuries have always held him back.
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to start Friday's game against the Ducks, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has been stellar this season, posting wins in all five of his starts, so those in daily leagues will likely want to ride the hot streak Friday.
News:Kari Lehtonen stood tall between the pipes again Tuesday night, stopping 38 shots to beat the Blue Jackets.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen won for the fifth time in five starts, drawing praise from his team afterward. "We turned the puck over four times in the last 10 minutes of the (second) period," coach Glen Gulutzan said. "They got their flurry of chances from there. That's when Kari was the difference for sure."
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to start Tuesday in Columbus, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is off to a flying start, posting four wins in four starts, and was named one of the NHL's players of the week for his efforts last week. Dallas dominated much of the game against Columbus on Saturday, making Lehtonen a decent option in deeper daily leagues despite a road start and a busy night in the NHL.
News:Kari Lehtonen will start Saturday's home game against Columbus, according to ESPN.com.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen is one of the NHL's hottest goalkeepers to start the season, having stopped 113 of 117 pucks enroute to a 3-0-0 record. Keep him active and enjoy the hot streak while it lasts.
News:Kari Lehtonen saved 36 of 38 in Thursday's win over the Blues, improving to 3-0-0 on the year.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen has played so well early on that this was actually the worst of his three starts on the young season, as he'd allowed just one goal in each of the first two. As long as he can stay healthy -- always an issue throughout his career -- Lehtonen could have a very big year for Dallas (and fantasy owners).
News:Kari Lehtonen is expected to get the start against the Blues on Thursday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen was posted victories in both starts this season, though Dallas was badly outplayed by Phoenix last game and managed to steal a win with a late goal and a shootout win. There are likely better options out there in daily leagues with the high volume of games Thursday.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 40 out of 41 shots in a shootout win over Phoenix on Monday.
Analysis: As long as Kari Lehtonen is healthy, he's going to be the guy for the Stars. Dallas may not be all that good this season, but Lehtonen is still worth playing in most matchups.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start Monday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dallas plays three home games this week, and early indications are that Kari Lehtonen could start all three. He makes for a strong play in deeper weekly leagues as a result.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 37 saves, earning his first victory of the season in Friday's 2-1 win over the Blackhawks.
Analysis: Although Kari Lehtonen was brilliant on opening night for the Stars, be sure to check his status nightly as the team plays three games in four nights to start the year. It was a fine start for him and his team in this one, however.
News:Kari Lehtonen will get the start in Friday's season opener.
Analysis:Kari Lehtonen will be between the pipes against Chicago, though there's no word yet on if he'll get the start Saturday in Chicago as well. Dallas plays three games in four nights, so expect Andrew Raycroft to pick up a start at some point during that stretch.
News:Kari Lehtonen played the first half of Saturday's game against St. Louis and stopped all 11 shots he faced.
Analysis: He was replaced by Andrew Raycroft. He'll be critical to the Stars' ability to try to seal a playoff spot this season -- he should deliver good fantasy value.
Stars' Lehtonen Wraps Up Regular Season Sunday In Minnesota
News: Lehtonen will start Sunday's season finale against the Wild, according to ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski.
Analysis: The Stars kept their playoff hopes alive with a 3-2 win against the Avalanche in Denver on Friday night. They need Detroit to beat Chicago in regulation Sunday and then get a regulation or overtime win against the Wild to secure themselves the eighth and final playoff spot in the West.
News: Lehtonen will start Friday against the Avalanche, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: It's hard not to recommend any goalie going up against the lowly Avs these days, who have lost 33 of 42 games since the start of January. However, it's worth noting that the Stars are 1-6-0 in their last seven trips to Denver, and have been outscored 9-25 in that span. The Avs are playing the spoiler role these days and will surely be looking to throw a wrench into the Stars' plans of qualifying for postseason play.
News: Lehtonen stopped 15-of-17 shots in a win over Colorado on Friday.
Analysis: He kept the Stars' playoff hopes alive and will undoubtedly get the call against the Wild in Minnesota for the regular season finale Sunday night. Roll him again with confidence.
News: Lehtonen stopped 21 of 23 shots to beat the Avs on Thursday.
Analysis: On Friday, Dallas draws the Avs again. The Stars are still desperately in need of a win to help them make the playoffs, so Lehtonen may start the second of back-to-backs here.
News: Lehtonen slammed the door on the Blue Jackets on Tuesday for his 17th career shutout.
Analysis: Twenty-three saves was all that Lehtonen needed to shut out the Jackets and keep his team in the playoff race. He's been inconsistent at times, but Lehtonen has won the past two starts, making him a decent fantasy option with the regular-season scheduling winding down.
News: Lehtonen is expected to square off against the Blue Jackets on Tuesday, Stars reporter Mark Stepneski reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen's win against the Ducks on Sunday was his first in seven games, although he did it in less-than-convincing fashion (.889 SV%, 3.00 GAA). For better or worse, he continues to be the netminder of choice down the stretch in Dallas, as the 10th-place Stars try to make a last-gasp attempt to land a playoff spot.
Stars' Lehtonen To Make 18th Straight Start Saturday
News: Lehtonen will start Saturday's road game against the Kings, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen is really struggling these days, with zero wins in his past five starts, and just two in his past 10. Saturday's game against L.A. will be his 18th consecutive start, so perhaps the strain from overuse is beginning to show.
News: Lehtonen was pulled early in the third period Thursday in San Jose after Patrick Marleau scored to put the Sharks up 4-0.
Analysis: He stopped 29 of 33 before being yanked, so it's not like Lehtonen was having a horrible day. This was probably more to give him some rest with the team out of the game than anything else.
News: Lehtonen will start Thursday in San Jose, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen has lost his last four starts - three of them in OT - despite providing some pretty solid netminding over that stretch (2.44 GAA, .911 SV%). Bottom line, he's been giving his team a chance to win almost every night, so keep him active.
News: Lehtonen stopped 26 of 27 shots in Tuesday's 2-1 shootout loss to Phoenix.
Analysis: Lehtonen played well, but Phoenix is on fire and picked up the extra point in the shootout. Lehtonen has now lost his last four games, three of them coming in extra time, so at least he's been giving his team a chance to win.
News: Lehtonen will start in Phoenix on Tuesday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen will face a tough task against the Coyotes, who are 7-2-1 in their last 10 games. In addition, the Stars have the poorest road record of any team in the Pacific division (18-15-2). With a full slate of games on tap for Tuesday, you might want to look at other goalie alternatives before rolling with Lehtonen.
News: Nashville's Pekka Rinne outdueled Lehtonen on Saturday as the Predators took a 4-2 decision. Lehtonen allowed three goals on 31 shots.
Analysis: Lehtonen's clearly hit a rough patch, going 1-3-2 in his last six games. The lone win in that span was terrific -- a shutout of the Stanley Cup Champion Blackhawks -- but he's allowed 16 tallies in the other five games. The Stars are very much in the hunt for a playoff spot, so expect the coaching staff to lean on him heavily the rest of the way unless he tires noticeably.
News: Lehtonen will get the start against Nashville on Saturday, according to SB Nation's Brad Gardner.
Analysis: Lehtonen is 1-2-2 in his last five games, with a shutout sandwiched between two regulation losses and two overtime losses. His recent struggles have brought his overall record to 30-20-10 - still respectable in the grand scheme of things, but disappointing considering how hot he was to start the season. He doesn't make for a particularly good fantasy play right now, given his inconsistency.
News: Lehtonen let in four goals on 26 shots Wednesday night as Dallas lost to Anaheim 4-3 in overtime.
Analysis: It was his second straight overtime defeat after losing 3-2 to Chicago in his last start.
News: Lehtonen will get the start against Anaheim on Wednesday, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.
Analysis: Dallas is riding Lehtonen hard as they chase a playoff spot, and Wednesday's game against Anaheim is one of the more crucial games on their schedule in recent weeks. Expect a heavy dose of Lehtonen in the final two weeks.
Stars' Lehtonen Gets Starting Nod Saturday Versus Philly
News: Lehtonen will start Saturday against the Flyers, according to ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski.
Analysis: Lehtonen has two shutouts in his last four games, including Thursday against the defending champion Blackhawks. Keep in mind, however, those two games aside, he's allowed at least three goals in five of his past six games. Thus, some nights he's posting goose eggs, and other nights he's barely keeping his team in games. Keep Lehtonen active and hope that he can show a little more consistency over the Stars' last 11 games of the regular season.
News: Lehtonen stopped all 23 shots directed on goal by the Blackhawks in Thursday's 5-0 rout.
Analysis: After starting 63 games for Dallas without a shutout, Lehtonen has now posted two in his last four. He's been a solid presence for the Stars down the stretch, and they've been leaning heavily on him.
News: Lehtonen will get the start against Chicago on Thursday, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.
Analysis: The will be Lehtonen's 21st start in the past 23 games for Dallas, as he's being relied on heavily as the Stars chase down a playoff spot.
News: Lehtonen will continue to get the majority of starts for Dallas, including Tuesday night's matchup with San Jose, according to ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski.
Analysis: Stars coach Marc Crawford said he'll continue to ride Lehtonen, who has started in 10 straight games and 19 of the last 21. This should benefit fantasy owners, as Lehtonen is 29-19-8 on the season thus far and should finish with 35+ wins if he keeps up his current pace.
News: Lehtonen stopped 33 of 37 shots in Tuesday's 6-3 loss to the Sharks.
Analysis: The Sharks added a couple empty net goals at the end to make the score a bit more lopsided than it actually was. Tuesday's poor performance alone isn't a huge concern for Lehtonen's owners, but he has now started 20 of Dallas' last 22 games and one has to be worried if he's going to tire down the stretch.
News: Lehtonen stopped 27 of the 30 shots he faced against the Kings on Sunday, but he let in a late goal that led to a loss.
Analysis: Lehtonen has morphed into an unexpected ironman this season, and he should be getting most of the starts for the Stars until they clinch a playoff spot at least. As such, he's worth having around and starting in good matchups.
News: Lehtonen stopped all 14 shots he faced in Friday's win over Minnesota.
Analysis: The Wild have been one of the league's worst teams on the road this season, so Lehtonen cruised to one of the easiest shutouts of his career. He's now 4-0-2 with just 14 goals allowed over his last six starts and the Stars need him to stay hot if they're going to secure a playoff berth in the Western Conference.
News: Lehtonen missed practice on Thursday, but will start Friday against the Wild, according to ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski.
Analysis: Lehtonen has five wins in his last seven starts, with a very solid .915 SV% and 2.36 GAA over that stretch. He makes for a good fantasy play most nights, especially now that the Stars have Brad Richards back in their lineup.
News: Lehtonen will start Wednesday against the Flames, according to ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski.
Analysis: Lehtonen hasn't lost a start since February 22 and the Stars have played some tough teams since then, including the Red Wings, Coyotes, and the Sharks. But also be forewarned that he carries a .895 save percentage and a rather weak goals-against average of 3.16 in five career starts against Calgary.
News: Lehtonen turned away 20 of the 23 shots he faced Monday in an overtime win against the Kings.
Analysis: Lehtonen has won five of his last six starts and his .915 SV% is still strong. Unless it's a bad matchup, he's worth sticking in your lineup.
News: Lehtonen is expected to start against the Kings on Monday.
Analysis: Lehtonen will be making his third start in four nights as Dallas plays a crucial game in Los Angeles. He'll get a breather at some point, but Dallas' upcoming schedule is full of tilts against teams in the Western Conference so Lehtonen figures to carry a heavy load for the next week or so.
News: Lehtonen turned away 29 shots to pace the Stars to a 3-2 win at San Jose on Saturday.
Analysis: The wins are his principal source of fantasy value, as he has no shutouts all year and his composite numbers (2.61, .915) are out of the league's Top 30. His value to you thus depends on how heavily your league weighs the wins column.
News: Lehtonen will start against San Jose on Saturday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Despite allowing four goals in an overtime loss to Anaheim, Lehtonen has been fairly tough lately, winning the three matches prior to the loss. Of course, the Sharks are pretty tough, too.
News: Lehtonen will start Friday against Anaheim, according to ESPN.com.
Analysis: Lehtonen has three consecutive wins under his belt heading into Friday's matchup with the Ducks. With two or fewer goals allowed in each of his last four games, Lehtonen seems to have gotten his groove back following a stretch that saw him win just one of nine starts last month. He makes for a very attractive fantasy option right now.
News: Lehtonen stopped 25 of 27 shots in Tuesday's 3-2 win over Phoenix.
Analysis: It looked like the game was headed to overtime, but Jamie Benn scored with 4.8 seconds in regulation to get Lehtonen the victory. Lehtonen has now won three in a row and his record on the season improved to 26-18-6.
News: Lehtonen will start Tuesday against Phoenix, according to ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski.
Analysis: After a rough patch that saw him win just one of nine starts, Lehtonen has looked more like his usual steady self, with two straight wins coming into Tuesday's contest. The eighth-place Stars will continue to rely heavily on Lehtonen as they try to lock up a playoff spot in the tightly contested Western Conference, where the difference between fifth place and 11th place is all of three points right now.
News: Lehtonen made 25 saves Saturday as the Stars defeated the Predators, 3-2.
Analysis: It's been a tough month for Lehtonen and the Stars -- he was 2-7-1 in the 10 games leading into Saturday. But the win over the Preds gives him back-to-back victories, a span in which he has allowed just three goals. Get him back in there if you've been sitting him.
News: Lehtonen will start Saturday against Nashville, ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen's win Thursday against Detroit was just his second in his past 10 starts. While Lehtonen has overall been very good this season, we need to see a more consistent win pattern out of him before we can start recommending him again. He's only had three nights off since the start of January, so fatigue may be playing a factor for him right now.
News: Lehtonen was excellent Thursday in Detroit, making 38 saves in a 4-1 win over the Red Wings to snap a four-game losing streak.
Analysis: Lehtonen had a couple rough outings in Dallas' trip to Western Canada, but he appears to have settled back into fine form. As always, he's prone to the occasional blowup, but in general, Lehtonen has been very good this year.
News: Lehtonen will be between the pipes Thursday against Detroit, ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen has just a single win in his last nine starts, and he's given up at least three goals in seven of those contests. The Stars are reeling right now, and not having Brad Richards (concussion) in the lineup doesn't help much, either. Steer clear of Lehtonen until this team manages to turn things around somehow.
News: Lehtonen kicked away 22 shots against the Devils on Tuesday, yet the only damage against him -- a power-play goal from forward Nick Palmieri -- was enough to send the Stars home with a 1-0 loss.
Analysis: Lehtonen should not be faulted for this loss, as his teammates simply could not solve goalie Johan Hedberg at the opposite end of the ice. The Stars have managed only four goals combined in Lehtonen's last four starts, making the netminder a good fit for benching in fantasy leagues for the time being.
News: Lehtonen will stop pucks Tuesday against the Devils, ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen hasn't found the win column in the past three starts, and a date with the Devils, winners of seven straight games, figures to be no easy task for him. Explore all options before green-lighting Lehtonen for fantasy purposes.
Stars' Lehtonen Looks To Extinguish Flames Wednesday
News: Lehtonen will be in the crease for the Stars on Wednesday, facing the Flames, ESPN Dallas' Mark Stepneski reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen has come up victorious just three times in his last 10 starts, and he will be looking to exact revenge after coming up on the wrong end of a shootout against the Flames on Christmas Eve. He makes for a decent start in standard fantasy formats.
News: Lehtonen will start Wednesday night against the Flames, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen will start his second game in as many nights Wednesday, just a day after allowing four goals on 30 shots in a 4-1 loss to the Oilers.
News: Lehtonen stopped 26 of 30 shots in Tuesday's 4-1 loss to the Oilers.
Analysis: Lehtonen now has just one win in his last seven starts. If possible, it may be a good idea to keep him on the bench until he finds his game again.
News: Lehtonen will start Tuesday against Edmonton, ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should exercise caution here, as Lehtonen has just one win in his past six starts. Furthermore, Brad Richards is expected to miss Tuesday's game with a possible concussion, so the Stars will be without a key component of their offense. Even against a weak team like Edmonton, this could be a factor. You should look closely at all other goalie options available to you Tuesday before going with Lehtonen.
News: Lehtonen will start Sunday's game against Columbus, the Blue Jackets' official site reports.
Analysis: Just an FYI for those in daily leagues wishing to confirm the Sunday status of Lehtonen, who picked up his first win of the month Friday over the Hawks.
News: Lehtonen made 37 saves on 39 shots, but it wasn't enough to beat the Blue Jackets on Sunday.
Analysis: The Stars have struggled a bit recently, and that has hurt Lehtonen, who has only won two of his last 10 starts. However, aside from a seven-goal fiasco, he's played well, and is still worth starting.
News: Lehtonen is expected to start Sunday's game against Columbus.
Analysis: Lehtonen was solid in beating the Blackhawks on Friday despite three first period goals and is a solid play Sunday for those in daily leagues.
News: Lehtonen will get the start against Chicago on Friday, ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen, who had a terrific season going prior to the All-Star break, is now winless in his last four starts. The Stars play three games in four nights beginning Sunday against Columbus, so one would expect Lehtonen to get a rest for at least one of those games.
News: Lehtonen is expected to start Wednesday against Phoenix, reports the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis: Lehtonen, who is 22-14-5 with a 2.63 GAA and .915 SV%, has lost his past three games in goal.
News: Lehtonen made 29 saves Saturday in a 3-1 loss to the Flyers.
Analysis: He wasn't exactly stellar -- he allowed two long-distance wrist shots, one of which came while the Stars were on the power play. His game has had a strong eau de sulfur lately; we just can't recommend him right now.
Dallas Asks Lehtonen To Kari The Load Against Philly
News: Lehtonen is expected to get the start against the Flyers on Saturday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dallas is just 1-4-0 in the last five games, having allowed 25 goals, and faces a Philly team that is second in the NHL in scoring. It's tough to recommend Lehtonen in daily leagues as a result.
News: Lehtonen was supposed to get a day off Thursday, but ended up being inserted only 80 seconds into the game after Andrew Raycroft let in goals on the first two shots. He was solid in stopping 29 of 32, but the Stars couldn't come back.
Analysis: Lehtonen had struggled a bit lately, possibly from overwork, so this certainly won't help in that department. It's hard to imagine the Stars starting Raycroft against Philadelphia on Saturday, so Lehtonen may just have to power through it.
News: Lehtonen stopped 22 of 26 shots in Tuesday's 4-1 loss to Vancouver.
Analysis: Lehtonen has won five of his last seven starts with both of his loses coming to Vancouver. The Stars now head to Boston for a Thursday night matchup against the Bruins.
News: Lehtonen will start Tuesday against the visiting Canucks, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: It was only a week ago that the Canucks shredded Lehtonen with seven goals on 33 shots in Vancouver, but at least this time around he'll have the home crowd pulling for him. Keep in mind the Stars also play the Bruins and the Flyers in the new weekly scoring period, so Lehtonen could be in line for a tough week.
News: Lehtonen stopped 34 shots in Wednesday's win over Edmonton, his fifth win in his last six starts.
Analysis: Throwing out Lehtonen's last outing, which saw him allow seven goals, he's been one of the league's hottest netminders in recent weeks. He's shown little signs of slowing down as Dallas drives toward the postseason.
News: Lehtonen will get the start against Edmonton on Wednesday, ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen was rocked for seven goals against the Canucks on Sunday but was rock solid prior to the outing. Dallas has owned the Oilers in recent years, making Lehtonen a solid play here despite the shaky nature of his last outing.
News: Lehtonen had a start to forget Monday against the Canucks. He let up a whopping seven goals 33 shots. He was finally pulled with about seven minutes left in the game.
Analysis: Lehtonen, and the Stars, had been playing well before this game, so for now this needs to be considered an aberration. Continuing using Lehtonen as you had been.
News: Lehtonen will be in net for the Stars on Monday against the Canucks, the Star-Telegram reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen is red hot right now, with four wins in a row and six in his last seven games. He'll go for five consecutive victories Monday against the Canucks; keep rolling with him.
News: Lehtonen stopped 30 of 32 shots Thursday at Edmonton to pick up his fourth consecutive victory and sixth in his last seven games.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been unreal in the month of January, allowing just 12 goals in seven games for a 1.70 GAA and .947 save percentage. He may be playing the best hockey of his career right now.
News: Lehtonen is expected to get the start in Edmonton on Thursday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: The Stars have handled the Oilers pretty well in recent years, and Lehtonen's been red hot between the pipes in January. He's a solid play in daily leagues despite being on the road.
News: Lehtonen only let one puck past him Monday against the Kings. He made 23 saves and picked up the victory.
Analysis: Lehtonen has stayed relatively healthy this season and played well, with a 20-10-5 record and 2.50 GAA. He's definitely somebody you want to have in your lineup when he takes the ice.
News: Lehtonen will start against the Kings on Monday.
Analysis: Lehtonen is 4-0-1 in his past five starts, making him a solid play in daily leagues despite Dallas' recent struggles against the Kings.
News: Lehtonen was pumped Saturday in his first game against his former team, the Stars. He made 29 saves in a 6-1 win.
Analysis: Mind you, there were only eight guys from the squad that Lehtonen was a part of but he didn't care -- it was about the crest on the chest. Lehtonen has been healthy this season and has been an oustanding fantasy play. He's 4-0-1 in his last five and he hasn't allowed more than two goals in any of those games. Use him whenever he's between the pipes.
News: Lehtonen will start Saturday against the Thrashers - his former team - according to ESPN.com.
Analysis: Lehtonen has three victories in his last four starts, giving him a record of 18-10-5 on the season so far. Furthermore, he gets his former 'mates at just the right time as the Thrashers are winless in three and have won just three of their past 10 games. We like Lehtonen in this matchup - roll him as you normally would.
News: Lehtonen stopped 39 of 41 shots in Tuesday's 3-2 win over the Oilers.
Analysis: The victory also snapped Dallas' five-game losing streak at home. Lehtonen has now allowed just two goals in each of his last four starts. Tuesday's victory improved his record on the season to 18-10-5.
News: Lehtonen will be back in the Dallas nets for Tuesday's game against Edmonton.
Analysis: Lehtonen got a breather Sunday with Andrew Raycroft getting the nod, so Lehtonen should be a nice, fresh option Tuesday. Dallas has lost five straight on home ice, but has handled the Oilers well over the past decade and a half.
News: Lehtonen made 29 saves Friday, but allowed the only shooter to score in the shootout and the Rangers took it by a 3-2 final.
Analysis: Lehtonen was hurt by special teams as his power play let him down early in the second by giving up a shorthanded marker and then his penalty kill couldn't stop the game-tying goal midway through the second period. He still got the team (and fantasy squads) points for the overtime defeat - there is that!
News: Lehtonen will get the start in goal against the Rangers on Friday, the Dallas News reports.
Analysis: Following a four-game winless slide, Lehtonen has now won two straight and appears to have gotten his groove back. The Stars are currently third overall in the West, due in large part to Lehtonen's efforts between the pipes. Keep him active.
News: Lehtonen stopped 35 of 37 shots Wednesday to hold off the host Blackhawks and take a 4-2 decision.
Analysis: Lehtonen has now won his last two starts after going on a four-game losing streak. He continues to be a top option between the pipes, but partly due to the team's commitment to strong play in all zones. Keep him in the starting slot and keep an eye out for a potential goalie upgrade.
News: Lehtonen will get the start against Chicago on Wednesday.
Analysis: It's a tough assignment for Lehtonen, coming off a 4-2 win in St. Louis, but he should be well-rested for the contest.
News: Lehtonen stopped 28 in Sunday's 4-2 win over St. Louis.
Analysis: Lehtonen (16-10-4) had given up 10 goals over his previous two starts and had been winless in his last four (0-3-1). In four starts against St. Louis this season he is 4-0-0 with a 1.72 GAA and .949 save percentage.
News: Lehtonen will be in goal for the Stars on Sunday against the Blues, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen is winless in his last four starts, but working in his favor is that he is 3-0-0 against St. Louis this season.
News: Lehtonen allowed four goals, three on the power play, to the visiting Canucks in Friday's 4-1 loss.
Analysis: Lehtonen is now riding a four-game winless streak (0-3-1) and after giving up 11 goals over his last two games, we can expect to see some more of Andrew Raycroft - plan accordingly.
News: Lehtonen is expected to get the nod in the net Friday against the Canucks, the Vancouver Sun reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen is coming off a disastrous six-goal game and is facing one of the best offenses in the league. Don't hesitate to plug in another option if you have one.
News: Lehtonen allowed six goals on 25 shots as the visiting Red Wings skated away with a 7-3 win Wednesday.
Analysis: Lehtonen will certainly be criticized for this game, especially on the heels of backup Andrew Raycroft's 44-save winning performance Tuesday. The Stars have been playing solid hockey on both ends of the ice, and Lehtonen has been steady, if unspectacular between the pipes. Watch to see if a goalie controversy boils up in Dallas, otherwise expect Lehtonen to continue to be given the majority of the starts.
News: Lehtonen will be the one to try and stop pucks from the Red Wings on Wednesday, the Star-Telegram reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen is in line to start the second game of a back-to-back interdivision set that began with Andrew Raycroft, the team's backup netminder, stopping 44 shots in a win over the Predators on Tuesday. While Lehtonen has been an adequate successor to Marty Turco for Dallas this season, he's best used as a No. 2 goalie in standard fantasy leagues.
News: Lehtonen was the first off the ice, making him the likely starting goalie for the Stars in a Sunday evening contest against the Coyotes, Stars reporter Mark Stepneski reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen has only faced the 'Yotes twice in his career, including his win against them earlier this season. Consider pulling the reins on Lehtonen in fantasy as Dallas currently leads the Pacific Division and Phoenix is last.
News: Lehtonen stopped 31 of 33 shots Thursday against the Flames, then allowed one tally on two attempts in the shootout, enough to take the loss.
Analysis: Lehtonen actually hasn't lost in regulation since Nov. 22; he's won or gone to OT in all 10 games since, and hasn't posted a save percentage under .900 in any of those games.
Stars' Want Lehtonen To Put Out The Flames Thursday
News: Lehtonen will start Thursday against the Flames, ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: "He's feeling great and he'll play tomorrow," Stars coach Marc Crawford said. "We've got the one game left before we get a couple days off, so our guys are pretty excited about it. We know it will be a tough test. Calgary would like nothing better than to come in here and get a win before Christmas and we want to keep it going." Lehtonen's had more ups and downs than an elevator this season, but he appears to be over a recent back injury and ready to go for his third consecutive win. You will want to play the odds in fantasy with Lehtonen facing a streaky Flames squad.
News: Lehtonen is expected to start Tuesday's game against Montreal, according to ESPN.com.
Analysis: After missing four games with a back injury, Lehtonen struggled his first game back - last Thursday against the Sharks - but sparkled two nights later against the Blue Jackets. Overall, his 14-7-3 record, 2.58 GAA and .917 SV% are better than what he's been able to produce the past few seasons. Continue to start Lehtonen as you normally would, and hope he can continue to exceed expectations.
News: Lehtonen stopped 27 of 29 shots in Tuesday's 5-2 win over Montreal.
Analysis: Lehtonen has missed time recently with a back injury, but he appears to be fully recovered and he's safe to activate.
News: Lehtonen made 35 saves in a 2-1 win over Columbus on Saturday night.
Analysis: It's his first win since returning from a back injury. He's 14-7-3 but he'll always be an injury risk. Be sure you have a solid handcuff for him if you have him on your roster.
News: Lehtonen was the first off the ice in the morning skate and will likely start Saturday against the Blue Jackets, the Columbus Dispatch's Thomas Reed reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen will start against a Columbus team that has struggled to score this season, recording just 2.55 goals per game (22nd in the league).
News: Lehtonen stopped 39 shots in his return to the ice from a back injury Thursday against San Jose, but allowed four goals, including Logan Couture's game-winner in OT.
Analysis: You can't say Lehtonen played badly. He looked healthy and ready to build on his solid start to the year.
News: Lehtonen will return to the ice for Thursday's game against the Sharks, according to ESPN Dallas.
Analysis: Andrew Raycroft had played well in his absence, but Lehtonen is still the clear No. 1 as long as he can stay healthy. Of course, this isn't the first (or second) time the notoriously brittle netminder had back problems.
News: Lehtonen (back) will participate in the morning skate before his status for Thursday will be determined.
Analysis: Andrew Raycroft was solid in a shootout win over the Sharks on Monday, which might result in the Stars being extra cautious with Lehtonen for at least one more game.
News: Lehtonen (back) is expected to sit out Monday's game against the Sharks, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Expect Andrew Raycroft to get the start again, with Lehtonen possibly set to return Thursday.
News: Lehtonen will not play Friday against Carolina or Saturday against Phoenix due to back soreness, ESPNDallas.com reports.
Analysis: "The prudent thing to do is be cautious, give him time, nip this in the bud and let his body heal," coach Marc Crawford said. "His body is telling him right now that it needs some time and that's what we are giving him. Andrew Raycroft will start Friday against Carolina.
News: Lehtonen (back) reported improvement Thursday but his status for Friday's game won't be determined until after the morning skate, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: It's nothing more than back soreness, but Dallas may opt to play it safe here given Lehtonen's injury history and a division game in Phoenix on Saturday.
News: Lehtonen has been scratched from his scheduled start Wednesday due to lower body stiffness, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: This merits more attention than usual, given Lehtonen's issues in the past with groin and back issues. Andrew Raycroft will get the start in Lehtonen's absence.
News: Lehtonen will start against Chicago on Wednesday, according to Stars reporter Mark Stepneski.
Analysis: Lehtonen's last start was a 27-save OT loss against the Blue Jackets on Monday, his first defeat in five games. He played well enough to win, however, and looks to be right on top of his game. Lehtonen will be in tough against the Cup Champs on Wednesday, but still makes for a solid fantasy roll.
News: Lehtonen will start against Columbus on Monday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: After struggling through a soft patch around mid-November, Lehtonen has really rounded into form during the last week, with wins in four consecutive starts. His overall numbers have improved to 13-7-1, with a .914 SV% and 2.62 GAA. He looks to be fully in command of the starter's role in Dallas for the time being, so continue to start him as you normally would.
Stars' Lehtonen Back in Saddle Saturday Against Wild
News: Lehtonen will start against Minnesota on Saturday, according to ESPN.com.
Analysis: Coach Marc Crawford said Lehtonen was not feeling well a few days ago, but that wasn't the reason that Andrew Raycroft got the nod Thursday against Washington. "It was fortunate that [Lehtonen] wasn't playing [Thursday] because he was feeling a little bit under the weather, but we had planned to give that game to Andrew," said Crawford. "Now, hopefully he'll be able to play real well on the weekend and then we'll go from there. As we said, Kari will probably play eight of ten."
News: Lehtonen made 35 saves Saturday in a 2-1 win over the Blues.
Analysis: The only goal he allowed carried the Stilton stench -- he thought he had the puck but it trickled through and paused on the goal line where it was pounded home by B.J. Crombeen of the Blues. Lehtonen didn't even know it was behind him. It was the only blemish for an otherwise solid netminder -- it was his 11th win of the year. Use him whenever he's in the blue ice.
News: Lehtonen stopped 25 of 27 Blues' shots Friday to record the 3-2 win.
Analysis: Lehtonen played well enough after resting to an Andrew Raycroft start. He is the number one goalie in Dallas and will provide excellent numbers for fantasy owners this season (and beyond?).
News: Lehtonen will get start against St. Louis on Friday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: After six consecutive starts, and three mediocre ones, Lehtonen finally gave way to backup Andrew Raycroft for Wednesday's game against the Senators. Although Raycroft wasn't tested much, he did pretty well, stopping 18 of 19 shots. For now, Lehtonen will continue on as the Stars' No. 1 shot stopper, but if his so-so play continues, we could start seeing more of Raycroft down the road. Lehtonen owners beware.
News: Lehtonen will start Monday's game against Toronto, according to Leafs reporter Paul Hendrick.
Analysis: Lehtonen (9-6-1) has been a decent source of wins so far this season, but his underlying stats (.908 SV%, 2.82 GAA) are really nothing more than mediocre. If these stats are hurting you fantasy-wise, look for other options.
News: Lehtonen was struck in the mask with a slap shot by Colorado's Kevin Shattenkirk in the second period of Saturday's 4-3 loss but was able to remain in the game.
Analysis: It was a bit concerning to see him get hit and have the trainer run out to attend to him. But he stayed in there and finished with 23 saves through overtime, and then pushed the shootout to five rounds. It's worth watching -- this guy is an injury waiting to happen.
News: Lehtonen will start against the Avalanche on Saturday.
Analysis: Lehtonen was shaky at times in Dallas' 5-4 win over San Jose on Thursday, but gets the benefit of facing Colorado after the Avs played on Friday. It's a busy night in the NHL, so there are likely better options than Lehtonen.
News: Lehtonen will get the start against San Jose on Thursday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen was sharp in a 2-1 win over the Ducks on Tuesday and gets the benefit of playing a Sharks team that played Wednesday night. Dallas has been inconsistent this season, but Lehtonen makes for a decent play in daily leagues.
News: Lehtonen stopped 26 of 27 shots in Tuesday's 2-1 win over the Ducks.
Analysis: Lehtonen was solid Tuesday, but overall he has been extremely inconsistent this season. He's worth starting when he is facing a poor team, but you can probably do better on most nights.
News: Lehtonen will start against the Ducks on Tuesday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: The Stars struggled on a road trip against Pacific Division foes, including the Ducks on Friday, so those in daily leagues may want to find an alternative here until the Stars string together a few wins.
News: Lehtonen made 33 saves in a losing effort as the home team Ducks took a 4-2 decision Friday.
Analysis: Lehtonen can provide solid goaltending, but doesn't steal too many games. His wins may rely more on his offense than other top goalies.
News: Lehtonen will start Friay against Anaheim, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen has seven wins to his credit this year, despite some very mediocre peripheral stats (.906 SV%. 2.87 GAA). This is due to a fairly potent offense in front of him, as the Stars are tied for fifth in goals scored in the Western Conference. If your league counts wins only, Lehtonen should continue to be a solid play. However, he may not be able to hide behind his team's offense all season.
News: Lehtonen allowed three goals on 29 shots in Thursday's loss to Los Angeles.
Analysis: Lehtonen had won two in a row, but he hasn't been playing well and has lost four of his last six starts. You have to wonder if the Stars regret parting with Marty Turco yet, as Lehtonen continues to be injury-prone and inconsistent, as he has been for much of his career.
News: The Stars will send Lehtonen in goal Thursday against the Kings, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been all over the place when it comes to the quality of his performances in the Dallas net. Between each of his last five starts, he's allowed as few as one goal, but as many as five.
News: Lehtonen will get the start against Phoenix on Friday, according to ESPN.com.
Analysis: It's been like a Katy Perry song for Lehtonen so far this year: Hot and Cold. After starting the season with four straight wins, Lehtonen proceeded to lose four of his next five games, then sat out in favour of Andrew Raycroft agaisnt the Sabres on Oct 30. In his return Wednesday against the Penguins, Lehtonen showed more of his early season form, stopping 21 of 23 shots for the win. He will likely need to put together a more substantial winning streak before most fantasy owners feel like they can trust him again. Start him with extreme caution.
News: Lehtonen made 21 saves in a 5-2 decision over the visiting Penguins on Wednesday.
Analysis: Lehtonen had only one win in his last five games after starting the season with four straight victories. He has a ton of talent, some health issues and an inconsistent team, but he gets the bulk of the starts and provides solid numbers. There may still be a buy low window, so explore the possibility if you need help in net.
News: Lehtonen will get the start against Pittsburgh on Wednesday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen and Andrew Raycroft will split the starting assignments over the weekend, but those in daily leagues will have Lehtonen at their disposal Thursday.
News: Lehtonen is expected to start Saturday's game against Buffalo.
Analysis: Dallas has struggled of late after a fast start, losing the past three home games, and Lehtonen will be coming off a sub-par effort against the Kings (four goals on 15 shots). There are likely better options out there in daily leagues given the large slate of games on Saturday.
News: Lehtonen was pulled in Thursday's loss to the Kings after allowing four goals on 15 shots.
Analysis: Andrew Raycroft stopped all eight in relief. Lehtonen has looked great sometimes and very vulnerable at other times. Lately, it's been more vulnerable, as he's allowed nine goals in his last two games.
News: Lehtonen is expected to start Thursday night against the Kings, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen allowed five goals in his last start, and Dallas struggled against the Kings last season (1-3-2) so there may be better options in smaller daily leagues.
News: Lehtonen stopped just 21 of 26 shots in Tuesday's 5-2 loss to Anaheim.
Analysis: Lehtonen has looked very good early in the season so Tuesday's poor effort isn't a huge concern. Make sure he's active.
News: Lehtonen will get the start against Anaheim on Tuesday, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen will have started all eight games for the Stars this season thanks to a light schedule. Ride the hot hand, as Lehtonen is 5-2 on the young season.
Stars’ Lehtonen Draws Short Straw in Saturday’s Goalie Battle
News: Lehtonen allowed just one goal Saturday, but it was one too many as the Stars lost to the Predators, 1-0 at home.
Analysis: This was a solid start from Lehtonen, who made 23 saves in the contest, but even more stubborn was Pekka Rinne, who denied every one of Dallas' shots in the opposite goal. The Stars will hope for better luck when they host the Ducks on Tuesday.
News: Lehtonen will make his seventh consecutive start in goal Saturday versus the Predators, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis: The Stars' forwards are generating plenty of offense this season which undoubtedly makes Lehtonen a happy camper. The Finnish netminder is holding his own with a .927 save percentage and a league-best five wins to his credit. Stars bench boss Marc Crawford has started Lehtonen in every game his team has played this season, and we believe you should follow suit while he's performing at such a high level.
News: Lehtonen carried a shutout deep into the third period and ended up stopping 27 of 28 Thursday to defeat the Panthers.
Analysis: He allowed a goal to Stephen Weiss with just over three minutes left to play, the only damper on another impressive outing. Lehtonen is now 5-1-0 on the year and has been a big reason for the Stars' hot start. The offensive support has helped, of course.
News: Lehtonen is expected to get the start against Florida on Thursday.
Analysis: Lehtonen will have started all six games for the Stars, posting four victories in the early going despite facing over 40 shots per game on average.
News: Lehtonen allowed two quick goals Saturday night, but stoned the visiting Blues thereafter as the Stars rallied for a 3-2 shootout win. He stopped 41 shots to raise his record to 4-0-0.
Analysis: His early-season composite numbers (2.39, .932) are much better than anything he's posted over the course of a season before. We'd normally suspect a return to earth over the next few weeks, but if the Stars continue to play solid defense, he could join the the top five goalies in the league.
News: Lehtonen will get the start against St. Louis on Saturday.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been in net for all three of Dallas' victories to open the season, and makes for a decent play in daily leagues Saturday as a result.
News: Lehtonen stopped 25 of 26 shots in Thursday's home-opening win against the Red Wings.
Analysis: He's now won all three of his starts this year, with a bit of help from the Stars' offense, which has supported him with 13 goals in those three games. Lehtonen will draw the lion's share of starts for Dallas as long as he's able to stay healthy.
News: Lehtonen will get the start in the home opener Thursday.
Analysis: Lehtonen has posted two wins in as many starts to begin the year, winning once in overtime and once in a shootout. He'll square off against the Red Wings on Thursday.
News: Lehtonen will start Saturday against the Islanders, AOL FanHouse's Chris Botta reports.
Analysis: There was some question over whether Dallas would start Lehtonen on back-to-back nights, but they'll roll him out there Saturday after he turned away 27 of 30 shots in Friday's 4-3 win over New Jersey.
News: Lehtonen will get the start in net for the season opener Friday.
Analysis: Lehtonen battled a groin injury during the preseason, but returned with two solid outings to close things out and should be more than ready for the season opener in New Jersey.
News: Lehtonen tuned up for the regular season by stopping all 19 pucks in his two periods of play against St. Louis on Saturday.
Analysis: Lehtonen has stopped 75 of 77 shots this preseason and will be used heavily as Dallas' goalie as long as he remains healthy.
News: Lehtonen stopped 22 shots in a 2-1 win over Colorado on Thursday.
Analysis: This was Lehtonen's first action since a mild groin strain, and he was able to play a full 60 minutes on the night. He could get the nod in the preseason finale as well before taking his place between the pipes in the season opener.
News: Lehtonen (groin) practiced Wednesday and will be between the pipes for Thursday's preseason game, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Lehtonen may also play in the preseason finale on Saturday as well, depending on how well he comes out of Thursday's contest.
News: Lehtonen skipped practice Monday with a groin injury and won't get the start Tuesday as originally scheduled, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: This bears some watching given the injury history of Lehtonen, but the plan currently has him playing a full game Thursday so it doesn't appear to be too serious.
Dallas' Lehtonen Kicks Aside 34 Pucks in Defeat of Avalanche
News: Lehtonen stopped 34 of 35 shots in his preseason debut Friday.
Analysis: The plan is for Lehtonen to stop in two more full games to get ready for the regular season. He'll be relied on heavily as Dallas' netminder as long as he stays healthy.
News: The Dallas Stars and goaltender Kari Lehtonen agreed Tuesday to a three-year, $10.65 million contract extension that locks up Marty Turco's replacement through the 2012-13 season. General manager Joe Nieuwendyk said in April the Stars were moving on without Turco, a three-time All-Star who was their top goalie for nine seasons. He said the 26-year-old Lehtonen showed enough in 12 games with Dallas to justify letting Turco become a free agent. The Stars acquired Lehtonen in February from Atlanta, where he was the No. 2 pick in the 2002 draft.
Analysis: The native Finn was 6-4-0 with a 2.81 goals-against average for the Stars. All six wins came in his final nine starts, when his goals-against average dropped to 2.44. He led the Thrashers to their first division title in 2006-07, finishing with a 34-24-9 record, four shutouts and a 2.79 goals-against average. In 216 career games, Lehtonen is 100-87-17 with a 2.87 GAA. Lehtonen's career was sidetracked by back problems. He underwent surgery twice and had not played all season before the trade to Dallas. The fact Lehtonen will be a starting netminder heading into 2010-11 makes him no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. However, there is considerable injury risk to drafting the Finnish goalie. The Stars TG will be at best a No. 2 option as well.
News: Goaltender Marty Turco's time with the Dallas Stars is over. General manager Joe Nieuwendyk said Tuesday that the Stars will not re-sign Turco, a three-time All-Star who just completed his ninth season with the team. "I just felt like it was time we went in a different direction," said Nieuwendyk, a former teammate of Turco's who became GM last summer. "I think he clearly understands the situation." Kari Lehtonen, acquired from Atlanta in February, will go into next season as the team's top goaltender.
Analysis: The 26-year-old Lehtonen, a native of Finland, was coming back from two back surgeries and had not played this season when acquired by the Stars. He appeared in 12 games for Dallas with a .911 save percentage and 2.81 GAA. He eventually took hold of the starting job and had some impressive starts down the stretch. Lehtonen was the second overall pick by Atlanta in the 2002 draft. However, his career has been marred by injuries and we have yet to see his full potential. The fact Lehtonen will be a starting netminder heading into 2010-11 makes him no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. However, there is considerable injury risk to drafting the Finnish goalie. The Stars TG will be at best a No. 2 option as well.
News: Stars G Kari Lehtonen made 24 saves Saturday in a 4-3 shootout win over the Wild.
Analysis: Lehtonen came over from the Thrashers in a March trade and might have played well enough over his last few games to be brought back next season. Lehtonen's Fantasy value will depend greatly on where he ends up this summer, so keep a close eye on his situation heading into 2010-11. The Stars TG will probably be a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option once again.
News: Stars G Kari Lehtonen made 21 saves Saturday in a 2-1 loss to the Blues.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been getting the bulk of the action lately as the Stars try to see what exactly they have in the former Thrasher. He has been playing very well since getting the extra ice time but is still only a No. 3 Fantasy goalie because of the presence of Marty Turco, while the Stars TG is a No. 2 choice.
News: Stars G Kari Lehtonen made 25 saves during Friday's win over the Oilers. He let three pucks past him during the second period, blowing a 3-0 lead, but his teammates picked him up in the third, scoring three of their own for a 6-3 victory.
Analysis: Lehtonen is coming on in Dallas, heating up at just the right time. He has won four of his last five starts, allowing 12 goals in that span. Consider Lehtonen a sleeper Fantasy start for week 25 (April 5-11). The Stars TG remains a No. 2 option.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 43 shots for the Stars during a 3-1 loss to the Ducks on Monday. The Ducks got away 46 shots despite being down top-line center Ryan Getzlaf, who was out for a second straight game with an ankle injury. The game was scoreless until Nick Bonino scored his first career goal on a power play at 8:11. That sparked a three-goal outburst from Anaheim in a five-minute span. Lehtonen lost for the first time in four outings.
Analysis: Even with the loss, Lehtonen looked pretty strong in net. He has been getting better and better with each outing the Stars have thrown him, and he should see a lot of time in the final weeks as Dallas gauges Lehtonen's future potential. Consider Lehtonen a sleeper Fantasy start for the final weeks. The Stars TG remains a No. 2 option.
News: Stars G Kari Lehtonen stopped 29 shots Saturday as Dallas handed the Kings their third straight loss, 4-1.
Analysis: Lehtonen has won three straight games as the Stars seem to be wanting to ride the hot hand in their bid for a playoff spot. Despite his hot streak, Lehtonen is still a little risky to be used outside of average-point leagues, unless you're really desperate for goalie help. The Stars TG remains a No. 2 option.
News: Stars G Kari Lehtonen made 34 saves during a 3-1 win against the Predators on Tuesday. Shea Weber tied the game at 1 at 16:02 of the middle period with a slap shot from the right circle that sailed over the glove of Lehtonen. But Dallas scored twice in the first two minutes of the third period to give Lehtonen his third win in four outings.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been in net lately for Dallas since Marty Turco has been awful after the Olympic break. But it's not like Dallas is broken up about the goalie switch. The whole reason they traded for Lehtonen was to get a look at possibly a potential franchise goalie. As long as Lehtonen's back doesn't betray him, he could be a sleeper Fantasy option for the stretch run. The Stars TG is a No. 2 option.
News: Stars G Kari Lehtonen allowed four goals on Saturday but his teammates bailed him out, as Dallas beat Ottawa 5-4. He made 25 saves.
Analysis: Lehtonen has started Dallas' last three games, going 2-1 with nine goals allowed. The jury is still out on Lehtonen; it remains to be seen whether he will be the Stars' primary goaltender, so he's still a No. 3 Fantasy goalie at best. The Stars TG is a low-end No. 2 option.
News: Stars G Kari Lehtonen made 28 saves during Thursday's 3-2 loss to the Flyers. It was his second consecutive start, and fifth appearance of the season after undergoing back surgery.
Analysis: Lehtonen isn't shining since returning from a back injury. He's allowed 11 goals in his first three starts, 14 overall in roughly 12 periods in net. While his save percentage has been over .900 in his past two outings, he has a ways to go before he has any significant Fantasy value. The Stars TG is a low-end No. 2 option.
News: Stars G Kari Lehtonen stopped 45 of 47 shots during Tuesday's 8-2 blowout of the Sharks. It was only his second start of the season.
Analysis: Lehtonen made his fourth appearance since the Olympic break on Tuesday. While he's allowed only 11 goals in 180 minutes of ice time, he will have minimal Fantasy appeal until he starts playing on a more regular basis. The Stars TG is a low-end No. 2 option at best.
News: Stars G Marty Turco couldn't hold onto a one-goal lead midway through the second period Sunday against the Avalanche and was eventually pulled during a 5-3 loss. Dallas went up 3-2 at 7:21 of the second period after Brandon Segal scored twice in t he middle frame. Then, Paul Stastny's power-play deflection at 11:05 of the second period made it a 3-all game, and Chris Stewart's wraparound at 13:46 gave the Avalanche a 4-3 edge despite Dallas' 20-12 shots advantage in the period. At that point, Stars coach Marc Crawford replaced Turco with Kari Lehtonen, playing his third game since being acquired in a trade with Atlanta on Feb. 9. Lehtonen allowed Stastny's second goal in the third. Turco made 14 saves and Lehtonen finished with three.
Analysis: Lehtonen has made two of his first three appearances with the Stars in relief. Since he has been out most of the season with a back issue, the Stars are just making sure Lehtonen is ready before trusting him with more starts. Turco is beginning to struggle, so now might be the opportune time for Lehtonen to step up. However, he has minimal Fantasy appeal until he starts playing on a more regular basis.
News: Stars G Kari Lehtonen, making his first start for Dallas, made 28 saves in Saturday's 6-3 loss to the Penguins.
Analysis: Lehtonen was trying to stem the tide Saturday in place of Marty Turco, but the Stars have now allowed 17 goals in their three games since the break and a playoff place looks very remote at this point. Lehtonen will likely get a decent amount of starts down the stretch, especially if Turco continue to struggles, but we wouldn't start either guy until Dallas begins to play a little better. The Stars TG is a low-end No. 2 option at best for the time being.
News: Stars G Kari Lehtonen replaced starter Marty Turco in the second period of Thursday's 6-1 loss to the Blues. Lehtonen allowed two goals on 16 shots.
Analysis: Lehtonen, acquired from the Thrashers in January, is merely Marty Turco's backup. Turco should be used in all two-goalie Fantasy formats once play starts again next week as a solid No. 2 option. Lehtonen still isn't worth playing in Fantasy until we see his role with his new team.
News: The Stars have waived G Alex Auld.
Analysis: This move is a clear statement that Dallas is going to stick with veteran Marty Turco, who was red hot before the Olympic break, as their No. 1 goalie for the rest of the season. Kari Lehtonen, acquired from the Thrashers in January, will back up Turco. Auld, meanwhile, will likely be snagged by another team. While his stats (3.00, .894) aren't great this season, Auld has proven to be a capable backup in the past. Turco should be used in all two-goalie Fantasy formats once play starts again next week as a solid No. 2 option, while Auld should only be held on to in deeper formats.
News:The Dallas Morning News reports Stars G Kari Lehtonen, who was obtained on Tuesday in a trade with Atlanta, passed his physical on Wednesday and could join Dallas on Friday in Phoenix. He might join his new team for a morning skate on Saturday, but it is not know what extent of work he will get before the Olympic break.
Analysis: The acquisition of Lehtonen pretty much signals that Marty Turco will be traded before or at the March 3 deadline. Lehtonen has yet to play in the NHL this season due to a back problem. Dallas is in the playoff race, so we are not sure how much it will lean on Lehtonen. Dallas still has Alex Auld on the roster as well. Lehtonen might be more of a acquisition for future years. Lehtonen isn't worth playing in Fantasy until we see his role with his new team.
News: The Atlanta Thrashers traded a former franchise cornerstone for the second time in less than a week on Tuesday night, sending goaltender Kari Lehtonen to the Dallas Stars. The Thrashers received D Ivan Vishnevskiy and a fourth-round pick in the 2010 draft. Atlanta said Vishnevskiy, 21, is expected to report to the AHL. Lehtonen, a native of Finland, posted a 94-83-17 record in 204 games with Atlanta, setting franchise records for wins and games played by a goaltender. He has not played in the NHL this season following two back surgeries.
Analysis: Lehtonen was recalled from a conditioning stint with AHL Chicago on Feb. 7. He posted a 1-1-2 record with a 2.67 goals-against average in four games with Chicago. The Stars also have Marty Turco and Alex Auld as goalies, and you have to think the chances of Turco being dealt appear to be very high after this move. If Lehtonen is available in your deeper league, you might want to grab him as he could easily become the No. 1 in Dallas if Turco is indeed traded. It's obviously not time yet to activate Lehtonen in Fantasy just yet though. Just keep tabs on this developing situation.
News: Dan Kamal, the radio voice of the Thrashers, tweeted that G Kari Lehtonen did not make the trip to Denver for Tuesday's game against the Avalanche.
Analysis: Lehtonen was recalled on Sunday from an AHL conditioning stint, and practiced on Monday. However, the team is clearly taking things slowly with Lehtonen and his balky back, something they can afford to do with two other capable goalies in Ondrej Pavelec and Johan Hedberg. It's obviously not time yet to activate Lehtonen in Fantasy just yet, but keep tabs on his progress.
News:The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports Thrashers goalie Kari Lehtonen, who was recalled on Sunday from a conditioning stint in the AHL, practiced with the team on Monday. However, there is no timetable for Lehtonen, who has yet to play this season because of back problems, to see game action. "Kari is not going to go just yet," Thrashers coach John Anderson said. "We'll see what he looks like on a day-to-day basis. I don't want to set him up to fail. I want to make sure he's 100 percent ready to go in and make an impact for us. I don't know exactly what we are going to do. We might carry three [goaltenders]. We still have two or three weeks to decide." Johan Hedberg and Ondrej Pavelec are the other two goalies Anderson is talking about.
Analysis: Lehtonen is headed out on the road with Atlanta for a three-game trip that begins Wednesday. He went 1-2-2 with a .899 save percentage and 2.67 goals-against average in four starts in Chicago (AHL). "The first couple of games over there were pretty tough," Lehtonen said after Monday's practice. "They got a lot better and I feel really good. We got what we needed from it. [Playing an NHL game] is going to be different, but I think I'm ready to take that next step." It will be interesting to see how the Thrashers use their goalies moving forward. Rumors have it that Lehtonen is expected to be traded before the March 3 deadline. But potential suitors might want to see him in a NHL game before making a move. Lehtonen has missed all season with a back injury. It's not time yet to activate Lehtonen in Fantasy, but keep tabs on his progress.
News: The Thrashers recalled G Kari Lehtonen from his conditioning stint with Chicago (AHL) on Sunday. Lehtonen, who was assigned to the Wolves for conditioning on Jan. 22, posted a 1-1-2 record with a 2.67 goals-against average and a .899 save percentage in four outings with Chicago. Lehtonen now joins goalies Johan Hedberg and Ondrej Pavelec on the Thrashers' roster.
Analysis: It will be interesting to see how the Thrashers use their goalies moving forward. Rumors have it that Lehtonen is expected to be traded before the March 3 deadline. But potential suitors might want to see him in a NHL game before making a move. Lehtonen has missed all season with a back injury. It's not time yet to activate Lehtonen in Fantasy, but keep tabs on his progress.
News: John Kincade from 680AM in Atlanta speculated Wednesday that G Kari Lehtonen has played his last game for the Thrashers. He will be moved potentially to Dallas or St. Louis.
Analysis: Lehtonen is currently on an AHL conditioning assignment, and everyone in both the real world and Fantasy world is waiting on Atlanta to make a goalie decision, which was expected to come on Monday but never did. If Lehtonen does end up with either the Stars or Blues, he would surely battle for the No. 1 job just like he did in Atlanta, but will likely have just one other goalie to battle with, not two. It's hard to say that his Fantasy value will get any kind of boost, though.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen allowed two goals on 26 shots Saturday as he fell in a shootout during his latest AHL rehab start for the Chicago Wolves.
Analysis: The Thrashers have said they want to make a decision about which two goalies to keep on Monday, so hopefully we'll hear something before the lineup deadline for Fantasy Week 18 (Feb. 1-7). Lehtonen is worth holding on to in deeper leagues for the time being, but is too risky to start in Fantasy play just yet.
News: The Atlanta Journal Constitution reports that Thrashers management will make a decision on Monday about which two goalies to keep out of Johan Hedberg, Ondrej Pavelec and Kari Lehtonen, who is currently on a conditioning assignment in the AHL. “The plan now is for (Lehtonen) to play there through the weekend,” Thrashers GM Don Waddell said. “Now you are talking about him coming back here Feb. 1. A decision will be made then what we are going to do. Ideally, you don’t want to carry three goalies.”
Analysis: Waddell has said he'll be looking to deal one of the three goalies, but unless Hedberg keeps on his hot run of late, neither him or Pavelec are likely to garner a whole lot of attention on the open market with as poorly as they've played most of this season. Lehtonen is still working his way back from injury, so he is a bit of an unknown factor, too. Hedberg is certainly worth looking at in deeper leagues as a low-end No. 2 choice if your secondary option is struggling right now, but the other two should just be stashed away. The Thrashers TG is a low-end unit.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen (back surgery) started a conditioning assignment with Chicago of the AHL. He stopped 32 of 37 shots in a game against Peoria.
Analysis: Lehtonen can stay in the AHL until Feb. 6. The Finnish goalie has posted a 94-83-17 record with a 2.87 goals-against average and a .912 save percentage in 204 NHL games, all with the Thrashers. However, he has severely underachieved since being the second pick in the 2002 NHL draft and injuries have had a big hand in that. Fantasy owners might want to start adding Lehtonen as a potential Fantasy sleeper for the final weeks.
News: The Thrashers assigned G Kari Lehtonen to Chicago of the AHL on Friday for a conditioning stint. Lehtonen, 26, has not appeared in a game with the Thrashers this season due to a back injury. "Everything feels good, but this will be the real test," Lehtonen told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "I'm really positive now that I believe everything is going to be fine. I'm not 100 percent sure what's going to happen, but I believe everything is going to be fine. That's why we are doing this, to test everything and make sure it's OK."
Analysis: Lehtonen can stay with Chicago until Feb. 6. He is scheduled to make his first appearance for the Wolves on Saturday and then the team will evaluate his status. Lehtonen has been practicing with the Thrashers for several weeks. "At this point, I don't think he's in the very best of condition but you get to the point where you hit a bit of a wall and he's got to play games to get into condition," Thrashers coach John Anderson said. "You can run all you want and ride the Stairmaster and skate as much as you want in practice but it won't get you in game shape." The good news is that this is the first step in Lehtonen's comeback attempts. And it comes at an ideal time since Lehtonen's name has popped up in trade rumors. The Finnish goalie has posted a 94-83-17 record with a 2.87 goals-against average and a .912 save percentage in 204 NHL games, all with the Thrashers. However, he has severely underachieved since being the second pick in the 2002 NHL draft and injuries have had a big hand in that. Fantasy owners might want to start adding Lehtonen as a potential Fantasy sleeper for the final weeks.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen (back) is close to going on an AHL conditioning stint.
Analysis: Lehtonen is probably a week or so away from getting back in net for the Thrashers. Ondrej Pavelec will get a second straight start on Tuesday, and Lehtonen will have to battle him and Johan Hedberg for time once all three are healthy. Continue to stash Lehtonen away in deeper leagues.
News: The Thrashers' official web site reports that G Kari Lehtonen (back) considers himself maybe a week or two away from returning to the ice.
Analysis: The Thrashers will be hoping Lehtonen can get back in game-ready quickly, as the combo of Johan Hedberg and Ondrej Pavelec has been plain awful lately. Keep a close eye on his progress.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen returned to practice Monday for the first time since undergoing two back surgeries.
Analysis: The Thrashers will be hoping Lehtonen can get back in game-ready quickly, as the combo of Johan Hedberg and Ondrej Pavelec has been plain awful lately. Don't risk Lehtonen in Fantasy Week 15 (Jan. 11-17), but owners in deeper leagues should keep a close eye on his progress over the next week or so.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen, recovering from two back operations, has been pain-free while beginning individual workouts on the ice, according to general manager Don Waddell. Waddell said a rehab stint with AHL Chicago hasn't been ruled out when Lehtonen is ready for competition, perhaps in a few weeks.
Analysis: The Thrashers managed without Lehtonen in the first few months, but the goalie play of Johan Hedberg and Ondrej Pavelec has been awful as of late. The sooner Lehtonen gets back the better. However, Atlanta knows not to rush him. They said earlier in the week he could be back before the end of January, so we will keep that in mind for the time being. Lehtonen could be a sleeper option in Fantasy down the stretch.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen (back) is getting closer to a return. "He’s been doing a lot, actually," coach John Anderson said Monday. "We took him on the (recent) road (trip) and practiced him pretty hard. He’s getting closer. It’s a matter of conditioning. I hate to give a time frame, but 2-3 weeks I don’t think is out of the realm."
Analysis: Lehtonen has undergone two back surgeries, the most recent coming in November. Continue to stash him away in deeper formats until he's ready to return to action.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen (back) has begun skating again.
Analysis: Lehtonen is still at least a few weeks away from returning to action after he underwent surgery in early November, so continue to stash him away in deeper formats until he's back healthy again. Of course, the Thrashers goalie situation is a Fantasy mess, so there's no guarantee what sort of impact Lehtonen will have once he returns.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen is expected to miss six to eight weeks after undergoing a second round of back surgery. Lehtonen has not played this season after having an initial surgery July 20 to repair a herniated disc.
Analysis: There hadn't been many updates on Lehtonen recently, and now we know why. At least we now have a return date, as he was previously out indefinitely. Lehtonen's Fantasy value is slipping with every game he misses, and with the emergence of Ondrej Pavelec he might not get his starting job back when he does return to action. Only stash Lehtonen away in super-deep formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen must surely be worried about his job. While players don't typically lose their jobs while recovering from an injury, Lehtonen's hold on the team's No. 1 goalie position wasn't very tight even when he wasn't hurt. With 22-year-old Ondrej Pavelec designated as the team's No. 1 to start the season, Lehtonen has been left to watch and wonder about his future from the press box.
Analysis: The Thrashers have been looking to trade Lehtonen for quite some time, but can't get fair value for an injury-prone netminder. Depending on how well Pavelec plays could dictate Lehtonen's role when healthy. Consider him a low-end Fantasy flier.
News: NHL.com reports the Thrashers have put goalie Kari Lehtonen on injured reserve with a back injury.
Analysis: This is no surprise since Lehtonen has been battling the back issue for quite some time. There is no timetable for his return. Lehtonen is more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: The Atlanta Journal Constitution reports that Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen (back surgery) is expected to begin the season on injured reserve.
Analysis: When Lehtonen is healthy, he should be in net for Atlanta, but his injuries woes have limited his Fantasy value. He's worth stashing in deeper leagues for now, but might just remain more of a bench option once he does get back to action.
News:The Sports Xchange reports when it comes to goaltending in the NHL, it's always nice to have options. But it's even nicer to have a proven star between the pipes ready to handle the bulk of the workload. At the moment, the Thrashers have options, but no star. Will one emerge? Along with Kari Lehtonen, who is recovering from an unexpected offseason back surgery, Atlanta has Johan Hedberg and Ondrej Pavelec. Perhaps most interestingly though, GM Don Waddell added Drew MacIntrye to the mix when he signed him as a free agent this summer. MacIntyre has been one of the top goalies in the American Hockey League over the last several years, posting three straight 25-win seasons. He led the AHL with 34 wins last season.
Analysis: Waddell recently told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that MacIntyre will compete for a job. One can only assume that it would be a backup job. If so, that would likely put Hedberg or Pavelec on the trading block, but by no means is Lehtonen considered a lock for the starting job. One thing is for certain: The goaltending battle in training camp could turn out to be highly contested. As long as Lehtonen is healthy, he should be in net for Atlanta. But his injuries woes have clearly caused for some turbulent times. We think the MacIntyre talk is to motivate the Atlanta goalies, but Lehtonen is pretty much the only Atlanta goalie who should be Fantasy radars Draft Day. Pavelec would be second, but he is more of a long-term keeper. The Thrashers TG remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Thrashers season never truly seems to begin until goalie Kari Lehtonen suffers an injury. In that case, it's "Game On!" in Atlanta. Not long after Lehtonen arrived at the team's training facility in Duluth, Ga., the oft-injured Finn was headed out of the back door to deal with his latest medical issue. This time it was surgery to repair a herniated disk in his back. Lehtonen, who recently signed a one-year, $3-million qualifying offer to remain with the team, began to complain of back pain soon after he began working out with the club. If anything, that gives you a clear indication of just how little Lehtonen works out on his own during the off-season. Thrashers general manager Don Waddell said the injury is related to Lehtonen's back injury suffered during the first month of the 2008-09 season. The fact that it took until now for the 25-year-old Lehtonen to realize that he wasn't fully healthy, is yet another black mark on his less-than-stellar NHL resume.
Analysis: While Waddell termed the procedure "common" and said Lehtonen could be back on the ice by late August, back surgeries often affect different athletes in different ways. Recovery time is largely dependent upon how hard the patient wants to work during his rehabilitation period. And if there has been one consistent knock against Lehtonen throughout his young career, it's his work ethic or lack thereof. For a butterfly-style goalie like Lehtonen, who relies on his lower body strength to get up and down quickly, a nagging back condition could significantly impact his playing time. If Lehtonen isn't able to return to top form quickly, look for the Thrashers to give Ondrej Pavelec more playing time along with backup Johan Hedberg. And with Lehtonen only on a one-year contract, Pavelec's play could determine which one Waddell uses as trade bait during the season. Lehtonen is once again an injury-risk Fantasy flier Draft Day. Pavelec is a decent long-term keeper, while Hedberg is a last resort for Fantasy owners. The Thrashers TG is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports G Kari Lehtonen has accepted his one-year, $3 million qualifying offer and will remain with the Thrashers, at least for now. Lehtonen, who has shown game-changing potential when healthy, remains the subject of trade speculation. Unlike what he has done with Ilya Kovalchuk, Thrashers general manager Don Waddell doesn't deny that he would deal Lehtonen if he gets the right offer.
Analysis: The Thrashers front office has lost a lot of faith in the former first-rounder Lehtonen since injuries have derailed his career. The 25-year-old goalie went 19-22-3 with a 3.06 GAA and .911 save percentage in 46 games for Atlanta in 2008-09. However, he won six of his last 10 appearances. He tied a team-record with a five-game win streak from March 6-16, amassing a 1.18 goals-against average, a .966 save percentage and two shutouts during that span. Lehtonen has the talent to play in the NHL, but has dealt with a bevy of injuries in the past. He is currently the Thrashers' starting goalie, and until that changes, Lehtonen is worth drafting as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie Draft Day.
News: The Thrashers re-signed restricted free agent goalie Kari Lehtonen Wednesday. Although the Thrashers did not release terms of the deal, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports it is a one-year deal.
Analysis: The Thrashers weren't sure if they would bring Lehtonen back for 2009-10 or let prospect Ondrej Pavelec take the reigns in net, but the 6-4, 205-pound Lehtonen did enough down the stretch for Atlanta to keep him around. The 25-year-old goalie went 19-22-3 with a 3.06 GAA and .911 save percentage in 46 games for Atlanta in 2008-09. However, he won six of his last 10 appearances. He tied a team-record with a five-game win streak from March 6-16, amassing a 1.18 goals-against average, a .966 save percentage and two shutouts during that span. The 2002 first-round pick (2nd overall) has the talent to play in the NHL, but has dealt with a bevy of injuries in the past. Consider Lehtonen a No. 2 Fantasy goalie Draft Day.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen was able to come away with a win in Saturday's season finale against the Lightning, making 33 saves and allowing two goals in a 6-2 win. He finishes the season with a 19-22-3 record on the season.
Analysis: Lehtonen was a question mark to finish off the season in net, but was chosen to close out the year against the Lightning. He will be a restricted free agent in the offseason and the team will have to make a decision on whether to keep Lehtonen as their goalie of the future. If he does return, he'll be a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 option. His progress over the offseason should be monitored closely. The Thrashers TG remains a low-end option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen did not start Thursday against the Panthers, but he was finally healthy enough to dress as Johan Hedberg's backup after missing five games with an upper-body injury.
Analysis: Lehtonen might return to net for Saturday's finale against the Lightning and get one more chance to showcase his skills. He will be a restricted free agent in the offseason and Atlanta will have to decide if Lehtonen is the future in net. If Lehtonen is back with Atlanta, he will remain a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. Continue to track his offseason progress.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen (upper body) was held out Tuesday against the Capitals. He has missed the last five games and remains questionable for Thursday against the Panthers.
Analysis: The Thrashers have recalled Ondrej Pavelec from the minors, so Lehtonen can continue to rest up. Injuries continue to slow Lehtonen's progression and he remains more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen (upper body) was held out Sunday against the Capitals, missing a fourth straight game. Ondrej Pavelec was recalled from Chicago of the AHL to backup Johan Hedberg. Lehtonen is still questionable for Tuesday against the Capitals.
Analysis: Lehtonen has had some shining moments in the second half of the season as he tries to impress Atlanta management. Lehtonen is basically playing for his next contract and whether or not he is the future goalie in Atlanta. But injuries have been a big part of his career and it has limited his ability plenty. Lehtonen is more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy. Consider him an injury-risk start Week 27 (April 6-12).
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen was scratched for a third straight game Friday against the Panthers because of an upper-body injury. He remains questionable for Sunday against the Capitals.
Analysis: Lehtonen has had some shining moments in the second half of the season as he tries to impress Atlanta management. Lehtonen is basically playing for his next contract and whether or not he is the future goalie in Atlanta. But injuries have been a big part of his career and it has limited his ability plenty. Lehtonen is more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen could not return to action on Wednesday night against the Sabres. Atlanta made their goaltender a scratch for the game. He could not play on Saturday against Ottawa, as well, after getting hurt with an undisclosed upper body injury Thursday against the Rangers. He's day to day.
Analysis: Atlanta's netminder is likely not horribly injured and should be able to return shortly but the Thrashers are so far out of playoff contention that they are liable to keep him resting with nothing to play for. He's normally a low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie, anyway, so don't bother with him until he returns to the ice again.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen was unable to play on Saturday against the Senators after he sustained an undisclosed upper body injury on Thursday when he was knocked into by the Rangers' Sean Avery and left after the first period. Dan Turple was called from Triple-A Chicago to back up Johan Hedberg who got the start.
Analysis: The Thrashers have no reason to risk anything with Lehtonen as they are well out of playoff contention. The injury is not believed to be serious so he could be back for the upcoming scoring period. However, the risk is not likely worth it as the Thrashers only play three games next week and two are on the road at Florida and Washington. He is usually a low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen sustained an undisclosed upper body injury when he was knocked into by Sean Avery and left after the first period of Thursday's game against the Rangers. He tried to play but was ultimately replaced by Johan Hedberg who made 14 saves before his perfect shootout performance in a 5-4 win. Lehtonen is questionable for Saturday's game against Ottawa.
Analysis: The Thrashers have very little reason to risk further injury with their goalie of the future in Lehtonen, so if it's anything even remotely serious, they'll be as cautious as possible with him. He had lost two straight contests going into Thursday's game and had worked up to being a low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie. Wait to see if there's word on his status on Saturday before making a decision on him for the upcoming scoring period.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen did not have a fun night in net during Tuesday's 6-3 loss to the Canadiens. Lehtonen battled Carey Price and the Canadiens to a 1-all tie after one period before it got ugly in the second. The game was tied at 2 before Montreal ripped off three power-play scores in the last 12 minutes of the middle frame. Saku Koivu gave them a 6-2 lead 23 seconds into the third, but coach John Anderson stuck with Lehtonen, who finished with 16 saves.
Analysis: Lehtonen has lost his last two starts after reeling off a five-game winning streak. He has allowed six goals in each loss and could really use a night off. Atlanta is trying to gauge if Lehtonen will be their long-term solution in net, so he will see plenty of starts down the stretch. Whether he will be effective is another question. He remains a decent low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Thrashers TG has low-end Fantasy appeal as well.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen lost for the first time in five starts as he made 32 saves during a 6-3 loss to the Red Wings Friday. Lehtonen fell behind 4-0 before Atlanta scored their first goal 10:27 into the third. He allowed just one power-play score.
Analysis: Lehtonen and the Thrashers have been playing exceptionally hockey as of late, but they just ran into one of the best teams in the NHL Friday. This game could be the unraveling of Lehtonen and the Thrashers, so keep close tabs on the Finnish goalie. He remains a decent low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Thrashers TG goes as Lehtonen does.
News:Kari Lehtonen made a career-high 49 saves, and Slava Kozlov and Tobias Enstrom each had a goal and an assist to help the Atlanta Thrashers win a team-record sixth straight game, 5-1 over the Washington Capitals on Monday night. Lehtonen, who faced a career-high 50 shots, nearly earned his third shutout in five starts, but Eric Fehr spoiled the bid with 1:15 remaining when he swept in his 11th goal.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been one of the league's hottest goalies, winning five straight starts and six of seven. He has posted two shutouts during his recent five-game run and almost had a third Monday. It's kind of fun to see Lehtonen win every start since the trade deadline. Atlanta was thinking about trading him, but opted to keep him and it appears they could offer the restricted free agent a contract in the offseason. Lehtonen is worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie while he is on a roll. The Thrashers TG goes as Lehtonen does.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen stopped all four shots he faced in a penalty shootout, taking a 4-3 shootout win over the Sabres on Saturday. Lehtonen made 34 saves in the game, allowing three goals.
Analysis: Lehtonen increased his win streak to four games, posting shutouts in two of those four wins. In fact, this was Lehtonen's worst performance in his last four games. He is now worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie while the Thrashers TG is still mostly a low-end option.
News:Kari Lehtonen had 35 saves in earning his third shutout of the season and the Atlanta Thrashers beat the Colorado Avalanche 3-0 on Tuesday. Lehtonen's 14th NHL shutout helped the Thrashers improve to 8-4-1 in their last 13 games. The surge includes a two-game season sweep of the Avalanche, who lost for the seventh time in eight games. It was the eighth time this season Colorado was shut out.
Analysis: While Lehtonen's effort in the net was at the center of the Avalanche's offensive frustration, they also had to deal with some tough luck. Colorado got off 35 shots but saw a pair of solid shots by Milan Hejduk and Darcy Tucker hit the crossbar. Rookie Matt Hendricks also hit the post with a drive. Lehtonen has won three straight starts, which has included two shutouts. He has won five times in his last seven appearances. He might not always put his best foot forward, but Lehtonen has played well since Atlanta opted not to move him at the March 4 trade deadline. Lehtonen is worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Thrashers TG goes how Lehtonen does, but is mostly a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen picked up a win over the Flames and top NHL goalie Miikka Kiprusoff on Sunday. Lehtonen made 27 saves in the game and allowed two goals in a 5-2 victory.
Analysis: Lehtonen hqs now won three of his last four games, shutting out the Canadiens on Friday. He has been a disappointment pretty much across the board this season, compiling a 15-20-3 record this season. Lehtonen will be a restricted free agent in the offseason, so he basically gets a chance to audition down the stretch if he wants to be Atlanta's long-term solution in net. Lehtonen remains a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie since the wins could be a little scarce. The Thrashers TG has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 25 saves and the Atlanta Thrashers had one of their strongest defensive efforts of the season, beating Montreal 2-0 on Friday night to extend the Canadiens' road struggles. Bryan Little scored on a put-back with 2:32 left in the opening period, and Lehtonen protected the lead with his second shutout of the season. The Thrashers helped Lehtonen by allowing only 12 shots on goal in the first two periods. Montreal suffered only its second shutout loss of the season.
Analysis: Lehtonen looked awfully good Friday and that definitely gives Atlanta confidence in the fact they didn't trade him at the deadline. Lehtonen will be a restricted free agent in the offseason, so he basically gets a chance to audition down the stretch if he wants to be Atlanta's long-term solution in net. Lehtonen remains a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie since the wins could be a little scarce. The Thrashers TG has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen made 30 saves during a 4-3 loss to the Panthers Tuesday. Lehtonen led 2-1 heading into the second before Florida scored three unanswered goals. Ilya Kovalchuk scored with three minutes left, but Atlanta couldn't get the equalizer as Lehtonen lost for the third time in five starts.
Analysis: We should know by Wednesday whether or not the Thrashers intend to make Lehtonen a part of their future. There has been a lot of talk about possibly trading Lehtonen at the Wednesday deadline, but if he sticks around, he is likely to finish out the season as Atlanta's top goalie before hitting free agency in the offseason. Lehtonen remains a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie for the time being. The Thrashers TG has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen made 32 saves as Atlanta rallied for a 5-3 win Saturday against the Hurricanes. Lehtonen trailed 2-0 after one period and 3-1 1:41 into the third period before Atlanta scored the final four goals of the game. All four of the goals came in the final 10 minutes. Lehtonen picked up his 13th win and third in six outings.
Analysis: Lehtonen has allowed three or more goals in six straight starts. It's not fair to Lehtonen that he has to make 30-plus saves on most nights as the Thrashers defense is one of the worst in the NHL. Coach John Anderson has expressed great interest in keeping the Finnish goalie by signing him to an extension, but Atlanta has yet to make that commitment. Lehtonen is likely to finish the season as Atlanta's top goalie, but remains a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen made 36 saves during a 4-3 loss to the Capitals Thursday. Lehtonen never led in the game, but battled back from a two-goal deficit as Atlanta tied the game 3:56 into the second. Washington then reeled off the next two goals, including the eventual winner from Eric Fehr 4:47 into the third. Lehtonen is 1-2-1 in his last four starts.
Analysis: It's not fair to Lehtonen that he has to make 30-plus saves on most nights as the Thrashers defense is one of the worst in the NHL. Coach John Anderson has expressed great interest in keeping the Finnish goalie by signing him to an extension, but Atlanta has yet to make that commitment. Lehtonen is likely to finish the season as Atlanta's top goalie, but remains a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 30 shots during a 4-3 win Tuesday against the Avalanche. Lehtonen was handed a 3-0 lead 11:20 into the game. Milan Hejduk then scored the next two goals to make it a one-goal game, but Rich Peverley scored a short-handed score 15:16 into the second for the decisive score. Lehtonen won for the first time in three starts.
Analysis: Lehtonen has not allowed less than three goals in his last four outings. He has also had to make 30-plus saves in three of those appearances. The Thrashers defense is one of the worst in the NHL and Lehtonen usually has a heavy workload on a nightly basis. He will be a restricted free agent in the offseason, so he still has a lot to play for down the stretch. However, Atlanta might not win very often, so Lehtonen remains a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen was beat three times by the Sharks in a 3-1 loss on Saturday. He made 28 saves in the game as well as his record fell to 11-18-3 overall. He has now lost three of his last four starts.
Analysis: Not too many teams have picked up victories against the Sharks this season and even fewer teams that are of Atlanta's caliber have won. He is forced to make a ton of saves most nights, which is good in leagues that reward heavily for saves, but he wins only seldomly. He remains a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 option with the Thrashers TG being a low-end option.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen was beat three times by the Sharks in a 3-1 loss on Saturday. He made 28 saves in the game as well as his record fell to 11-18-3 overall. He has now lost three of his last four starts.
Analysis: Not too many teams have picked up victories against the Sharks this season and even fewer teams that are of Atlanta's caliber have won. He is forced to make a ton of saves most nights, which is good in leagues that reward heavily for saves, but he wins only seldomly. He remains a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 option with the Thrashers TG being a low-end option.
News:Daniel Carcillo scored in the eighth round of the shootout past Kari Lehtonen and the Phoenix Coyotes beat the Thrashers 4-3 on Thursday to snap a six-game home losing streak. Lehtonen had 37 saves Thursday and battled back from a 3-1 deficit. Ilya Kovalchuk scored the tying goal with 53 seconds left to give Lehtonen a chance to win, but he couldn't pull it out in the long shootout frame.
Analysis: Lehtonen has traded wins and losses over six February starts. He has made 30-plus saves in eight of his last 12 appearances. The Thrashers defense is pretty horrid and that means Lehtonen is in line to make a lot of saves. That's good in Fantasy leagues that reward heavily for saves, but the wins are still scarce and Lehtonen also lets in a lot of goals. He is just a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 option as the Thrashers aren't very good. The Thrashers TG is a low-end option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen was helped out by eight goals from him teammates in a 8-4 win over the Ducks on Sunday. He made 31 saves in the game as he improved his record to 11-17-2. Three of the goals scored against Lehtonen basically came when the game was already out of reach.
Analysis: Lehtonen didn't really play much better than he has lately, allowing four goals to get by him. However, he very rarely gets solid support from the skaters in front of him. He has won three of his last five games, alternating wins and losses. He is just a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 option as the Thrashers aren't very good. The Thrashers TG is a low-end option.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen had a solid effort against the Blackhawks on Wednesday, giving up two goals and making 25 saves in a 3-1 loss. The loss drops his record to 10-17-2 on the season. He came into the game with a 3.18 GAA.
Analysis: Lehtonen had won two of three coming into the game against Chicago, which is a pretty rare feat in Atlanta these days. The Thrashers simply aren't good enough to have Lehtonen as anything more than a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 option at this point. The Thrashers TG is also a low-end option.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 40 saves to lead the Atlanta Thrashers past the Tampa Bay Lightning 3-1 on Tuesday. Lehtonen made a lunging glove save along the goal-line on Tampa Bay rookie Steven Stamkos' penalty shot with about eight minutes to play in the third. The play was reviewed by replay and the ruling on the ice was upheld. Tampa Bay had several good scoring chances turned aside by Lehtonen early in the third, including in-close shots by Martin St. Louis and Ryan Craig during a pair of power plays. Tampa Bay got their only goal when Gary Roberts opened the scoring 1:24 into the game.
Analysis: Lehtonen has won two of his last three games, and in both of those wins he has allowed a total of two goals while making 79 saves. In fact, Lehtonen has had to make 30-plus saves in four of his last six games. That just goes to show you how poor Atlanta is on defense. Continue to treat Lehtonen as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG is a low-end option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 19 shots Friday against the Devils, but he was pulled after giving up five goals in 28 minutes during a 5-1 loss. "I don't think he was very sharp tonight," said coach John Anderson of Lehtonen, who allowed two short-handed goals. "He didn't stand a chance on a couple of those goals. We need him to make big saves for us. We are that type of hockey team." Johan Hedberg replaced Lehtonen in the net for Atlanta and stopped all seven shots he faced over the final 31:26.
Analysis: Lehtonen has just one win in his last six outings. He has allowed four or more goals in half of those appearances. Lehtonen is as inconsistent of a goalie you are going to find in the NHL. For that, he is still only worth a look as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG is a low-end option.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 39 saves and then stopped two more shots in the shootout, shaking off a late blown lead and leading the Atlanta Thrashers to a 2-1 victory over the New York Rangers on Tuesday night. The Thrashers were primed to win 1-0 on Joe Motzko's third-period goal before Markus Naslund got the Rangers even with only 10.7 seconds remaining in regulation. Naslund then started the shootout with a goal, but Lehtonen turned aside Nikolai Zherdev and Fredrik Sjostrom. Bryan Little and Slava Kozlov scored on Atlanta's attempts to help the Thrashers snap a four-game losing streak. New York has lost three straight.
Analysis: Lehtonen won for the first time in five outings Tuesday. We can expect this kind of inconsistency from him since Atlanta isn't going to contend down the stretch. Lehtonen is a strong goalie at times, but is still only worth a look as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG is a low-end option.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen put together a solid performance against the Hurricanes on Saturday but could not overcome a shutout at the hands of Cam Ward. Lehtonen made 38 saves and allowed two goals in the game. He has lost three straight games and got pulled on Thursday against the Islanders in a no decision after allowing four goals in the first period.
Analysis: Lehtonen and the Thrashers are simply floundering at this point of the season. Lehtonen is in the middle of yet another bad streak and cannot really be trusted in Fantasy right now beyond a No. 3 option. The Thrashers TG is also a low-end option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen couldn't survive a first-period onslaught from the Islanders, but dodged the loss as his replacement, Johan Hedberg, was shouldered with the defeat in a 5-4 win for New York. Doug Weight's eighth goal chased Lehtonen, who faced just 15 shots, just 13:17 into the game as New York built a 4-0 lead. With 7:21 remaining, Kyle Okposo's ninth goal, a wrister from the bottom of the right circle, gave New York a 5-3 lead. It also made a tough-luck loser out of Johan Hedberg, who stopped 17 of 18 shots, but was saddled with the defeat since Okposo's second goal proved to be the difference.
Analysis: Lehtonen is winless in his last three appearances (0-2-0) and has allowed four goals in two of those outings. Every time he seems to be settling down, Lehtonen puts together another bad streak. He is still a better option on most nights over Hedberg, but Lehtonen has definitely been a first-round bust. Consider Lehotnen a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 option. The Thrashers TG is still a low-end option.
News: The Thrashers, shut out for the fourth time this season, wasted Kari Lehtonen's 31-save performance during a 2-0 loss to the Stars Tuesday. Jere Lehtinen's third goal was upheld by video review after the puck caromed in off his chest from a centering pass by Mike Ribeiro at 3:48 of the first period. Ott's sixth goal came on a tap-in of Trevor Daley's goal-mouth pass 28 seconds into the second period to push Dallas' lead to 2-0. Lehtonen stopped Steve Ott's breakaway with 4:07 remaining and denied Loui Eriksson from close range with 2:44 left to keep the Thrashers within two goals.
Analysis: Lehtonen has lost his last two starts after winning three-in-a-row. However, he has allowed two or fewer goals in four of his last five appearances. He is finally starting to buckle down in net after a back injury plagued him for most of the first half. Lehtonen has potential to be a reliable every-night option, but the wins might be scarce playing for Atlanta. Consider Lehotnen a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 option. The Thrashers TG is still a low-end option.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen gave up four goals and made 28 saves in a 5-3 loss to the Flyers on Wednesday. Lehtonen had won three straight games heading into Wednesday's contest, his longest winning streak of the season. Lehtonen fell behind 3-0 before a third period surge by the Thrashers tied the game up at 3-3. Lehtonen then allowed a goal to Mike Knuble with less than eight minutes left in the game and ultimately took the loss.
Analysis: Lehtonen was hoping to go into the All-Star break with some serious momentum at his back, but this comeback then let down could end up doing more harm than good. He and the Thrashers have been anything but good in the first half of the season, so the second half will hopefully be better for them. Consider Lehotnen a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 option. The Thrashers TG is still a low-end option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen walked away with First Star honors Tuesday against the Canadiens after making 34 saves in a 4-2 win. Lehtonen never trailed in the game and built a 3-0 lead before allowing two goals in the second period. He then shutout Montreal in the third period on 18 shots while Zach Bogosian sealed the win with a goal 8:55 into the final frame. Lehtonen won his third straight start.
Analysis: Lehtonen has allowed just four goals during his recent win streak and is starting to look like the high-end prospect he has been touted as for years. Injuries have really curtailed Lehtonen's career, but he did win 34 games in 2006-07. Lehtonen will have his winning streaks, but still projects more as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG remains a low-end option.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen saw his team put up seven goals in front of him as he was easily able to come away with a 7-2 win over the Predators on Saturday. Lehtonen made 31 saves on the night and allowed the two goals. He had a 4-0 lead heading into the end of the first period and that just about sealed the deal for Lehtonen.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been anything but consistent for the Thrashers in net this season. He is building on a two-game win streak now which is promising, but until he wins with more regularity, it's hard to call him anything more than a No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG remains a low-end option.
News: Three early goals cost Johan Hedberg a chance to finish out Friday's game against the Maple Leafs, but Kari Lehtonen took over and led Atlanta on a 4-3 comeback win. Hedberg allowed three goals in the final eight minutes of the first period and didn't return to the pipes to begin the second. Lehtonen then took over in net and made nine saves the rest of the way to secure the win. He didn't have to face a shot in overtime. Hedberg made five saves before exiting the game.
Analysis: Lehtonen really needed a strong performance after losing four of his previous five outings. Maybe the relief win is what he needs to get his confidence back up. Lehtonen is a former high-pick first-rounder, but has been short of a bust to this point in his career. Consider him more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie until he gets back on track.
News:The Sports Xchange reports just when Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen looked as if he was ready to return to his game-stealing ways, he puts up a stinker against the Panthers. Coming off his first shutout of the season, an impressive performance against the New Jersey Devils, Lehtonen allowed several borderline goals Saturday in the loss to Florida. The Panthers outplayed Atlanta, but Lehtonen failed to make key saves when the team needed him. It was easy to tell that Lehtonen was slightly off his game when Florida scored its first goal, on a penalty shot by Panthers rookie Michael Frolik. On a slow-moving deke, Frolik was able to squeak a shot under his arm.
Analysis: Sure, it's tough to blame Lehtonen for a penalty-shot goal, but Radek Dvorak's shorthanded goal with 11 seconds remaining in the first period clearly should have been stopped. In total, Florida scored four of its seven goals over Lehtonen's catching glove before he was yanked with eight minutes remaining in the game. Without Lehtonen performing at a high level, the Thrashers have little chance of winning games, let along making a run at the playoffs. Lehtonen has been a little slow to work back into shape after a back injury sidelined him for several weeks. Johan Hedberg is of little threat, but Lehtonen does need to step up his game or else fear seeing reduced PT. Consider Lehtonen a No. 3 Fantasy goalie until he gets on track. The Thrashers TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 20 of 27 shots before being pulled in the third period of Saturday's 8-4 loss to the Panthers. Johan Hedberg replaced him.
Analysis: Lehtonen has now lost three of his last four starts and is an awful 5-11-1 on the season. You should stay well away from all Thrashers goalies for now as they're just not a very good team. The Thrashers TG is not a viable Fantasy option.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen made 29 saves in a 4-0 shutout of the Thrashers on Thursday, his first shutout of the season. Lehtonen had lost his last two starts coming into the contest. The win improves his record to 5-10-2 on the year as well.
Analysis: Thia was a highly unexpected result for Lehtonen as the Devils are a pretty good offensive team. Lehtonen has been pretty terrible so far this year and his record demonstrates that. Hopefully this performance will get Lehtonen on track this season, but the Thrashers are pretty bad and Lehtonen has been part of the reason. He's a No. 3 option at the moment and the Thrashers TG is a low-end option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 26 shots during a 3-1 loss to the Penguins Tuesday. Lehtonen never led in the game and allowed a pair of power-play scores to a team that came into the game in a 0-for-33 man-advantage slump. Lehtonen lost for the fifth time in six outings.
Analysis: Lehtonen has allowed three or more goals in six of seven starts since returning from a back injury in late December. He is trying to get his sea legs back, but it doesn't help that Atlanta is one of the worst teams in the NHL. We don't expect Lehtonen to get a ton of wins in the second half, so treat him as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie until further notice. The Thrashers TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen continued his miserable season on Sunday with a 4-1 loss to the woeful Lightning. Lehtonen gave up the fours goals on 35 shots, making 31 saves. His GAA coming into the game was 3.34 and this performance will only make that number marginally higher.
Analysis: Lehtonen has lost four of his last five contests and remains one of the worst starting goalies in the league. This is only his sixth game since returning from a back injury that kept him out two months, but he hasn't looked very good in most of those games. Lehtonen is nothing more than a No. 3 goalie until he can get back on his feet while the Thrashers TG is a low-end option.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 35 saves for Atlanta and turned back the final shootout bid by Daniel Sedin as the Thrashers won for the first time this season against a Western Conference team after five losses, 4-3 Friday against the Canucks. Lehtonen allowed one power-play goal and held a 3-2 lead before Sedin tied the game at 11:16 of the third period. However, Lehtonen got the last laugh against Sedin in the shootout.
Analysis: Lehtonen put an end to a three-game slide Friday and won for the second time in five starts since returning from a back injury that kept him sidelined nearly two months. Lehtonen is losing some starts to Johan Hedberg, but coach John Anderson still leans on him as Atlanta's No. 1 goalie. Continue to view Lehtonen as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Thrahsers G Kari Lehtonen made 25 saves but allowed three goals in a 3-1 loss to the Hurricanes on Wednesday. Lehtonen's record since returning from a back injury that kept him out over a month is 1-3.
Analysis: Lehtonen is falling further and further out of favor with Fantasy owners with this loss to the Hurricanes. He is only a No. 3 option until he can start picking up wins. The Thrashers TG is a low-end No. 2 option as well.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen gave up two goals and made 26 saves in a 2-1 loss to the Bruins on Sunday. Lehtonen is now 1-2 since returning from a back injury that kept him out a month and a half.
Analysis: Lehtonen falls to 3-7-2 this season and is not exactly reliable in Fantasy play at the moment. He's a No. 3 option at best, but we recommend avoiding him if possible.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen, making his second start since returning from a back injury, gave up five goals in Atlanta's 6-2 loss to the Leafs on Monday. He made 32 saves in defeat.
Analysis: Lehtonen is only 3-6-2 on the season and with as poor as the Thrashers are, he's really not worth relying on in Fantasy play right now. Consider him a No. 3 option worth keeping on your bench in deeper leagues, but nothing more.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen gave up goals on the first two shots he faced in his first game in seven weeks, but didn't let another puck get past him until late in the Atlanta Thrashers' 4-3 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Saturday. With this return, it is expected that he will return to being the everyday starter in Atlanta and Johan Hedberg will be the backup. Lehtonen had been out since Oct. 30 due to a back injury. His return helped lift Atlanta to its fourth win in 16 games.
Analysis: With Lehtonen back in action, Fantasy owners can consider picking him up off of waivers if he isn't owned in your league. He is no longer an injury risk and should be considered a No. 3 goalie for Week 12 (Dec. 22-28).
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen (back) could play this weekend vs. Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been out since October. He is likely to regain his starting role over Johan Hedberg once he is healthy, but he might be on a short leash since Ondrej Pavelec and Hedberg have played well in his place. View Lehtonen as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy, which isn't likely to be until Fantasy Week 12 (Dec. 22-28).
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Thrashers D Kari Lehtonen practiced fully Monday. "The last week I’ve been pain-free," Lehtonen said. "That should do it. I just hope it doesn’t come back." Thrashers coach John Anderson estimated Lehtonen needs a couple of weeks of practice before he’ll be ready to start a game.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been out since October. He is likely to regain his starting role over Johan Hedberg once he is healthy, but he might be on a short leash since Ondrej Pavelec and Hedberg have played well in his place. View Lehtonen as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy, which isn't likely to be until at least Fantasy Week 12 (Dec. 22-28).
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen (back) skated Monday, but is still 10 days to two weeks from returning to action.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been out since October, and his return just keeps getting pushed back. He is likely to regain his starting role pver Johan Hedberg once he is healthy, but he might be on a short leash since Ondrej Pavelec and Hedberg have played well in his place. View Lehtonen as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy, which isn't likely to be until at least Fantasy Week 11 (Dec. 15-21).
News: Atlanta goalie Kari Lehtonen, who hasn't played since Oct. 30, had an injection Thursday as part of the treatment for his ailing back and could be skating in a few days. He is not likely to play Sunday against the Blues.
Analysis: The fact Lehtonen finally seems on the rehab trail is a good sign, but it still appears he could be 7-10 days away from playing. Lehtonen is likely to regain his starting role once he is healthy, but he might be on a short leash since Ondrej Pavelec and Johan Hedberg have played well in his place. View Lehtonen as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen (back) was scratched for Wednesday's game against Washington. Lehtonen is expected to return shortly for the Thrashers but has already been pushed back once. He could return at any time.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been out since Oct. 30 with an illness and then this back issue, but he looked to be on track to return this week. Now he's back to being a massive question mark again. He is a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen (back) was scratched for Tuesday's game against Toronto. Johan Hedberg got the start in his stead. Lehtonen is expected to return shortly for the Thrashers and that could come as soon as Wednesday at Washington.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been out since Oct. 30 with an illness and then this back issue, but he looked to be on track to return this week. Now he's back to being a massive question mark again. He is a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: The official Web site of the Atlanta Thrashers reports that G Kari Lehtonen is out for Thursday night's game vs. Pittsburgh and remains day-to-day, although he is highly unlikely to play this weekend.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been out since Oct. 30 with an illness and then this back issue, but he looked to be on track to return this week. Now he's back to being a massive question mark again, and you should probably plan to look elsewhere for Fantasy Week 8 (Nov. 24-30).
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen (back) is highly unlikely to play this weekend against the Hurricanes or Flyers. To cover for him, the team recalled Ondrej Pavelec from the AHL on Wednesday.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been out since Oct. 30 with an illness and then this back issue, but he looked to be on track to return Wednesday. Now he's back to being a massive question mark again, and you should probably plan to look elsewhere for Fantasy Week 7 (Nov. 17-23).
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen re-injured his back at practice Tuesday and might not play Wednesday against the Hurricanes after he missed the morning skate.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been out since Oct. 30 with an illness and then this back issue, but he looked to be on track to return Wednesday. Now he's back to being a massive question mark again, so hopefully many of you shied away from using him in Fantasy Week 6 (Nov. 10-16).
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen missed a fifth straight game Sunday against the Hurricanes because of a back injury. GM Don Waddell expected him to start against Buffalo on Friday, but coach John Anderson went with Johan Hedberg, who started again Sunday. Unfortunately, Lehtonen didn't even dress as the backup for either games.
Analysis: We are getting mixed signals here from the Thrashers. They said Lehtonen would return to net Friday, and not only doesn't he play, he doesn't even dress. And then he doesn't even play Sunday. Lehtonen is still the Thrashers' starter despite a so-so beginning to the season. He is a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy, but remains an injury-risk start heading into Week 6 (Nov. 10-16).
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen missed a fourth straight game Friday against the Sabres because of a back injury. GM Don Waddell expected him to start against Buffalo, but coach John Anderson went with Johan Hedberg, who had a better track record against the Sabres. Unfortunately, Lehtonen didn't even dress as the backup.
Analysis: We are getting mixed signals here from the Thrashers. They said he would return to net Friday, and not only doesn't he play, he doesn't even dress. The Thrashers have one more game in the current scoring period, Sunday against the Hurricanes. If Lehtonen is not in uniform by then, he has to be considered an injury-risk start Week 6 (Nov. 10-16). Lehtonen is still the Thrashers' starter despite a so-so beginning to the season. He is a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: Thrashers goalie Kari Lehtonen missed his third straight game Thursday against the Islanders because of a stiff back and flu symptoms, but GM Don Waddell expects him to return Friday night against the Sabres.
Analysis: Lehtonen was struggling before he went on the injury list, so hopefully a week of rest will get him back on track. Lehtonen is still the Thrashers' starter despite a so-so beginning to the season. He is a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen, who missed two games over the weekend with an illness, was well enough to skate before practice Wednesday but could not participate in the full session because of a stiff back.
Analysis: Lehtonen was struggling before he got sick, and now it's a back injury. Things just keep piling up for the Thrashers goalie. Atlanta has three games this week, but Lehtonen is big question mark for all of those now. When healthy, Lehtonen is a low-end No. 2 or high-end No. 3 option, but he's clearly not worth thinking about right now in any format.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen was held out again Sunday against the Panthers after missing Saturday's game against the Devils because he was "under the weather." G Ondrej Pavelec was recalled from Chicago (AHL) on Saturday and started Sunday in Lehtonen's place.
Analysis: Lehtonen could use the time off after going winless in his previous four starts (0-3-1). The good news is that Lehtonen is not suffering from any major injuries and could be back by Thursday against the Islanders. He is a low-risk start Week 5 (Nov. 3-9). Lehtonen sees most of the starts in net for Atlanta, but he remains more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie when healthy since the Thrashers aren't a top contender.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen finished with 30 saves Thursday against the Rangers, but Atlanta (2-6-2) dropped their fourth consecutive game in regulation and fifth overall (0-4-1) as New York won 3-2. Lehtonen bounced back from a 7-0 home loss to Philadelphia on Tuesday in which he allowed all the goals on 31 shots. Lethonen allowed the decisive goal Thursday when Daniel Girardi's slap shot gave New York the lead 13:33 into the third.
Analysis: The fact Lehtonen was back in net Thursday just goes to show first-year coach John Anderson is committed to standing behind his goalie. However, the results haven't been good lately for Lehtonen, so despite most of the starts, he still remains a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG is also a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen suffered his worst outing of the young season on Tuesday as the Thrashers fell 7-0 at the hands of Philadelphia. Lehtonen allowed all seven goals and stopped 24 in the game. It was three goals more than he'd allowed in any game this season.
Analysis: Lehtonen is now just 2-4-2 on the season for the Thrashers. He's allowed 28 goals in eight games. He has had mixed results in his first season under John Anderson, but the good news is that he still remains the team's No. 1 goalie. For Fantasy purposes, Lehtonen is more of a No. 3 Fantasy option since the Thrashers are not contenders. The Thrashers TG is also a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen made 41 saves Friday against the Red Wings, but it wasn't enough as Detroit won 5-3. Lehtonen allowed four goals and Detroit added an empty netter with less than a minute to play. Lehtonen never led in the game and allowed three power-play scores.
Analysis: Lehtonen has allowed four goals three times in 2008-09, but came into Friday with a 2.81 GAA and .919 save percentage. He has had mixed results in his first season under John Anderson, but the good news is that he still remains the team's No. 1 goalie. For Fantasy purposes, Lehtonen is more of a No. 3 Fantasy option since the Thrashers are not contenders. The Thrashers TG is also a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Atlanta fell to the Lightning in overtime, 3-2, on Tuesday as G Kari Lehtonen was beaten by Vincent Lecavalier with 3:19 left the extra frame. Lehtonen stopped 35 shots in the game and allowed three goals.
Analysis: Lehtonen was coming off a shootout victory over the Sabres that stopped a two-game losing streak for him. His 35 saves were impressive Tuesday but he couldn't finish the deal. Treat Lehtonen as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen beat the Sabres on Saturday in a shootout. Lehtonen allowed two goals but kept Buffalo silent in the shootout. He stopped 28 shots to earn his second victory of the year.
Analysis: Lehtonen stopped a two-game losing streak with the shutout victory Saturday. Treat Lehtonen as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Martin Brodeur made 25 saves for his 97th career shutout -- just six away from Terry Sawchuk's NHL record -- and Brian Rolston scored past Kari Lehtonen before getting hurt in New Jersey's 1-0 victory over the Atlanta Thrashers on Thursday. Lehtonen had a strong game in goal, making 34 saves, but it wasn't enough to prevent the Thrashers from their second straight loss after a 1-0-1 start for new coach John Anderson. The game was scoreless when Garnet Exelby was called for his second penalty of the second period, sent to the box for roughing. The Devils took advantage. Dainius Zubrus had the puck along the boards, then dumped a pass behind the net to Rolston. He popped out front and got off a shot that Lehtonen knocked away, but Rolston swatted in the rebound for his first goal of the young season with 1:03 left in the period.
Analysis: The Thrashers pulled Lehtonen in the final minute, but never had a good chance against the defensive-minded Devils, who have allowed just six goals in four games this season. Lehtonen is winless in his last three starts, but allowed fewer than three goals for the first time Thursday. Lehtonen is going to have his ups-and-downs again in 2008-09 as Atlanta adjusts to Anderson's coaching style, but he is still their top goalie and could get 60-plus outings. Treat Lehtonen as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Atlanta fell to Minnesota on Tuesday and goalie Kari Lehtonen picked up the loss. Lehtonen allowed four goals and saved 22 of 26 shots.
Analysis: This was Lehtonen's first loss in regulation after winning the team's opening contest. Still, they were very weak defensively in the opener and Lehtonen could be in for a long season. He is expected to start on most nights and remains a decent low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie. Atlanta's team goalies are a low-end No. 2 as well.
News: Atlanta G Kari Lehtonen allowed three goals and stopped 35 shots on Saturday against the Panthers to pick up the loss, 3-2.
Analysis: The Thrashers added a defensive coach in John Anderson in the offseason and bolstered their blue line with Ron Hainsey, Mathieu Schneider and Zach Bogosian. Still, they were very weak defensively in the opener and Lehtonen could be in for a long season. He is expected to start on most nights and remains a decent low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie.
News: Despite squandering a 3-0 and 4-1 lead Friday against the Capitals, Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen held on for the win in a 7-4 victory. Lehtonen made 39 saves in the game and even stopped reigning MVP Alex Ovechkin on a penalty shot as the game was tied at 4 in the third period.
Analysis: The Thrashers added a defensive coach in John Anderson in the offseason and bolstered their blue line with Ron Hainsey, Mathieu Schneider and Zach Bogosian. Still, they were very weak defensively in the opener and Lehtonen could be in for a long season. He is expected to start on most nights and remains a decent low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports expect Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen to carry the bulk of the workload in net this season. Coach John Anderson said he wants Lehtonen to start at least 60 games. If not, Johan Hedberg has proved himself to be more than capable of handling the starting role. Goaltending remains one of Atlanta's bright spots.
Analysis: Lehtonen appeared in 48 games last season, posting a mediocre 17-22 record with a 2.90 GAA and four shutouts. He was slowed to begin the season because of a groin injury and never really recovered. Add to the fact Atlanta didn't have a very good defense, and the recipie for disaster was evident. Well, a lot has changed in Atlanta since last season. They have added Mathieu Schneider, Ron Hainsey and Zach Bogosian on defense, while bringing in a defensive-minded coach in Anderson. The fact Lehtonen is being counted on heavily by Anderson makes him a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie to open the season.
News: The Atlanta Thrashers have agreed to terms with goaltender Kari Lehtonen, who was an restricted free agent. Terms of the deal were not announced Wednesday. The Thrashers signed Lehtonen's backup, Johan Hedberg, to a two-year deal last month.
Analysis: The 24-year-old Lehtonen matched his career high with four shutouts and posted a 17-22-5 record last season. He had a 2.90 goals-against average and set a Thrashers record with his .916 save percentage. Lehtonen, from Helsinki, Finland, has played in 158 games with the Thrashers, going 75-61-14 with 11 shutouts. His 2007-08 season got off to a slow start because of a groin injury and he never really recovered. Also, the Thrashers had a pretty poor defensive showing as rookie Tobias Enstrom ended up being their top defenseman. Atlanta did add Ron Hainsey in the offseason, but Lehtonen is still more of a No. 2 Fantasy goalie heading into 2008-09.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen closed his season out Saturday with a third win in a row as Atlanta defeated the Lightning 3-1. Lehtonen made 30 saves in the victory.
Analysis: Lehtonen's 2007-08 season started on the wrong foot because of a groin injury and he never really got on track. He was drafted as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie with the ability to be a No. 1 option. Well, he heads into 2008-09 as more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG will also a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 36 shots, and Atlanta defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning 2-0 on Monday night. Lehtonen found little comfort in keeping his team out of last place. "I haven't looked too much at the standings in the last couple of weeks," Lehtonen said. "It really doesn't matter if you're in last or second to last." Lehtonen has now won his last two starts and has four shutouts in 2007-08.
Analysis: Lehtonen has allowed only two goals in his last two starts, but prior to that, he allowed three or more goals in four straight starts. His season started on the wrong foot because of a groin injury and he never really got on track in 2007-08. He was drafted as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie with the ability to be a No. 1 option. Well, he is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie these days. The Thrashers TG is also a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen allowed a goal to Radek Dvorak with three seconds left in Thursday's game against the Panthers, but by then the game was already decided. Lehtonen made 42 saves during a 3-2 win that nearly crippled Florida's playoff hopes. The win also snapped a three-game losing streak for Lehtonen.
Analysis: Lehtonen had allowed three or more goals in four straight starts before Thursday's game. His season started on the wrong foot because of a groin injury and he never really got on track in 2007-08. He was drafted as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie with the ability to be a No. 1 option. Well, he is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie these days. The Thrashers TG is also a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Kari Lehtonen saw 22 shots alone coming his way in the third period when he gave up three goals as the Washington Capitals came back from a 3-1 deficit to beat the Atlanta Thrashers 5-3 on Friday night. Lehtonen stopped all 14 shots in the second period, but allowed four goals and made 40 saves.
Analysis: Neither of the Thrashers goalie are doing particularly good at the moment. Lehtonen has allowed 32 goals in the last eight games for an average of four per game. He remains a No. 2/No. 3 Fantasy goalie for the time being and the Thrashers TG is also a middle of the road Fantasy option.
News: The Flyers attacked Kari Lehtonen with a flurry of shots from the start and ended up with 47 total in a 3-2 win over the Thrashers on Monday. Lehtonen gave up a goal in each period, facing 20 shots in the second period alone.
Analysis: Neither of the Thrashers goalie are doing particularly good at the moment. Lehtonen has allowed 28 goals in the last seven games. He remains a No. 2/No. 3 Fantasy goalie for the time being and the Thrashers TG is also a middle of the road Fantasy option.
News: One night after earning his first win in 10 games, Kari Lehtonen was back to losing ways with a 4-1 setback at Washington. Atlanta was seeking its second consecutive regulation win for the first time since Dec. 18-20.
Analysis: Neither of the Thrashers goalie are doing particularly good at the moment. Lehtonen has allowed 25 goals in the last six games. He remains a No. 2/No. 3 Fantasy goalie for the time being and the Thrashers TG is also a middle of the road Fantasy option.
News:Kari Lehtonen allowed four goals on 32 shots but his Atlanta Thrashers scored six past the Calgary Flames for an 6-4 win on Thursday night to give their goalie his first victory in 10 games. It is his 14th win of the season.
Analysis: Neither of the Thrashers goalie are doing particularly good at the moment. Lehtonen has allowed 21 goals in the last five games. He remains a No. 2/No. 3 Fantasy goalie for the time being and the Thrashers TG is also a middle of the road Fantasy option.
News:Kari Lehtonen replaced struggling Johan Hedberg at the start of the third period, but by then all the damage was done as the Atlanta Thrashers were already down 5-1 before losing 5-2 to the Colorado Avalanche.
Analysis: Neither of the Thrashers goalie are doing particularly good at the moment. Lehtonen has allowed 31 goals in his last eight starts. Lehtonen remains a No. 2/No. 3 Fantasy goalie for the time being and the Thrashers TG is also a middle of the road Fantasy option.
News: Atlanta's Kari Lehtonen stopped 40 shots, but it all came in a losing effort, 3-2 in overtime against the Florida Panthers. Lehtonen is now winless in his last eight games (0-5-3) and has allowed four or more goals five times in that span.
Analysis: Lehtonen has now given up 31 goals in his last eight games. Needless to say he has been struggling, but a lot of that has to do with the poor Thrashers defense. Lehtonen remains a No. 2/No. 3 Fantasy goalie for the time being and the Thrashers TG is also a middle of the road Fantasy option.
News:Kari Lehtonen was replaced by Johan Hedberg in the second period after giving up four goals on 22 shots and taking a 6-3 loss against Carolina. Lehtonen is now winless in his last seven outings (0-5-2) and has allowed four or more goals five times in that span.
Analysis: Lehtonen has now given up 28 goals in his last seven games. Needless to say he has been struggling, but a lot has to do with the bad Thrashers defense. Lehtonen remains a No. 2/No. 3 Fantasy goalie for the time being and the Thrashers TG is also a middle of the road Fantasy option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 32 shots but allowed Kris Letang to score the only goal during a shootout Sunday, as Atlanta lost 3-2. Lehtonen is now winless in his last six outings (0-4-2). He has allowed four or more goals four times in that span.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been pretty awful in net as of late and it shows in the numbers. He has allowed 24 goals in his last six games. The Thrashers defense is pretty bad and Lehtonen is left out to dry often. Lehtonen remains a No. 2/No. 3 Fantasy goalie for the time being and the Thrashers TG is also a middle of the road Fantasy option.
News:Kari Lehtonen gave up goals in every period Thursday and one Trent Hunter in overtime after the Thrashers battled back from a three-goal deficit to lose 5-4 in overtime to the New York Islanders. It was the fifth straight loss for Lehtonen and the Thrashers.
Analysis: During Lehtonen's losing streak, he has allowed four or more goals four times and has yielded a total of 21 goals. Lehtonen dropped to six games under .500 after this loss. He remains a No. 2 Fantasy goalie for the time being and the Thrashers TG is also a middle of the road Fantasy option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen was involved in a heated battle Tuesday against the Canadiens, well, at least through the first two periods. The game went 1-1 tied into the third period before Montreal exploded for four goals and stole the 5-1 win. Lehtonen made 28 saves in the losing effort. He has now lost his last four starts.
Analysis: During Lehtonen's losing streak, he has allowed four or more goals three times and has yielded a total of 17 goals. Atlanta had a chance to pick up a goalie at the trade deadline, but decided to stick with Lehtonen. He has been hovering around .500 all season and he isn't getting a lot of help from his defense. Lehtonen remains a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Thrashers TG is also a middle of the road Fantasy option.
News: Atlanta goalie Kari Lehtonen took his third loss in a row Saturday after conceding three goals on 25 shots in a 3-1 setback at Toronto. Lehtonen was perfect in the first perido with 12 saves, but collapsed thereafter.
Analysis: Lehtonen has now dropped four games under .500, but has not received much support from his defensive core. Lehtonen remains a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Thrashers TG is also a middle of the road Fantasy option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 41 shots during a 5-3 loss to the Hurricanes Thursday. Lehtonen has made 40-plus saves in his last two outings, but he has also lost both starts and has allowed nine goals.
Analysis: Lehtonen is now 0-2-0 in two starts against the Hurricanes this season and has allowed nine goals. Lehtonen was having a pretty good run in February before his last two outings. He has been hovering around .500 all season and he isn't getting a lot of help from his defense. Lehtonen remains a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Thrashers TG is also a middle of the road Fantasy option.
News: Not only was Kari Lehtonen pelted with 49 shots, but he got very little offensive support on Saturday night when the Thrashers only took 10 shots on goal against the Islanders in the 60 minutes of play. Lehtonen took a 4-1 loss, his 15th of the season.
Analysis: Lehtonen, who faced 20 shots in the first perriod and 17 in the second, is a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time and the Thrashers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 39 shots before denying Washington's Alexander Semin and Boyd Gordon in the shootout and earning a 3-2 win on Wednesday. Lehtonen, who also had an assist, made a glove save on Gordon's shot to finish the win. Lehtonen also made several strong saves in the period, including a glove save against Gordon 4:17 into the game that was upheld with an officials' review. Lehtonen's glove slid behind the line after making the save. The win left Atlanta, Washington and Carolina tied for first in the Southeast Division.
Analysis: Lehtonen set up Marian Hossa's goal in the final minute of the second period. Lehtonen recorded his second assist of the season. His first came on Dec. 18 against Tampa Bay. The Thrashers improved to 7-4 in shootouts and 13-4 in overtime. Lehtonen is a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time and the Thrashers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 27 shots for Atlanta who beat Tampa Bay when Alexei Zhitnik scored 1:26 into overtime to complete a comeback for a 2-1 win in this key Southeast Division game. The Thrashers snapped a two-game losing streak in home games and ended Tampa Bay's six-game winning streak on the road.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been winning and losing in pairs or bunches. Lehtonen's record is 12-14-2. Lehtonen is nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Thrashers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:Kari Lehtonen was unable to stop a goal by Alex Burrows in the third period after contact between teammate Ryan Kesler and Atlanta's Eric Perrin in front of the goal led to Perrin's stick apparently knocking Lehtonen off his feet. Lehtonen was sitting on his backside in front of the net and was unable to defend Burrows' shot.
Analysis: Lehtonen has lost his lst two starts after winning two straight. Lehtonen dropped to 11-14-2 on the season and has just four wins since the calendar year turned to 2008. A groin injury earlier in the season seems to have derailed his progress and he just can't stay consistent in net. Lehtonen is nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Thrashers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 33 shots during a 3-2 loss Tuesday against the Flyers and saw his personal two-game winning streak come to an end. Lehtonen had allowed just one goal during his win streak.
Analysis: Lehtonen dropped to 11-13-2 on the season and has just four wins since the calendar year turned to 2008. A groin injury earlier in the season seems to have derailed his progress and he just can't stay consistent in net. Lehtonen is nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Thrashers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:Kari Lehtonen had 36 saves for his third shutout of the season and the Atlanta Thrashers beat the Washington Capitals 2-0 Saturday night despite playing without leading scorer Ilya Kovalchuk and mustering only 13 shots on goal. Lehtonen has 10 career shutouts.
Analysis: It is Lehtonen's second win in a row after losing four straight and 11th win this season. Lehtonen and the Thrashers TG a nice low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for the period.
News:Kari Lehtonen stopped 29 shots but lost his bid for a shutout when Ryan Whitney scored for Pittsburgh with 8:42 left. The Thrashers snapped a five-game losing streak with a 4-1 win.
Analysis: Lehtonen wins his 10th game of the season and snaps a personal four-game losing streak. Lehtonen and the Thrashers TG a nice low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for the period.
News:Johan Hedberg will get the call in goal Thursday for the Thrashers, not Kari Lehtonen, as Atlanta take on the Rangers for the second time in three nights.
Analysis: If your league has daily lineup changes, you will want to bench Lehtonen for tonight. We're not sure why the Thrashers made this move, as Lehtonen played very well on Thursday in a 4-0 loss to the Rangers.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen lost 4-0 to the New York Rangers on Tuesday, his fourth consecutive defeat. Lehtonen allowed four goals on 39 shots. He has given up three or more goals in the last three starts.
Analysis: Atlanta play the Rangers again at Madison Square Garden on Thursday in Fantasy Week 17 (Jan. 21-28), so consider Lehtonen and the Thrashers TG a nice low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for the period.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen lost only his second game of 2008 Sunday as Atlanta fell 4-2 at home to the Edmonton Oilers. Lehtonen made 20 saves in defeat.
Analysis: Lehtonen had won two of his last three starts before Sunday, as the Thrashers moved into first place in the Southeast Division. However, they are back in second now after allowing 16 games in three straight losses. Atlanta play the slumping Rangers twice in Fantasy Week 17 (Jan. 21-28), so consider Lehtonen and the Thrashers TG a nice low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for the period.
News:Kari Lehtonen replaced Johan Hedberg in the Thrashers net 12:41 into the game against Buffalo on Friday. After Hedberg allowed four goals on 11 shots, Lehtonen nearly matched him by giving up three goals on 21 shots the second period before Hedberg returned for the third. Hedberg conceded three more goals in the third period as Atlanta lost 10-1.
Analysis: Lehtonen was yanked after allowing five goals in 40 minutes in Buffalo's 6-0 win over Atlanta in October. Lehtonen is the type of goalie who can go hot and cold. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The same goes for the Thrashers TG.
News:Kari Lehtonen had his short two-game win streak snapped Thursday after losing a shootout 3-2 to Montreal. Lehtonen allowed to goals on 29 shots in regulation and overtime before Andrei Kostitsyn converted his shootout attempt for the winner.
Analysis: Lehtonen is playing solid hockey once again, but he has shown this season that he can go cold as fast as he can go on a tear. For now, treat him as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The same goes for the Thrashers TG.
News:Kari Lehtonen made 46 saves to lift the Atlanta Thrashers to a 5-1 win over the Detroit Red Wings on Tuesday night. Niklas Kronwall foiled Lehtonen's shutout bid with 6:18 left. Still, Lehtonen has won his last two starts and has allowed just three goals.
Analysis: Lehtonen is playing solid hockey once again, but he has shown this season that he can go cold as fast as he can go on a tear. For now, treat him as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The same goes for the Thrashers TG.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen allowed two goals in regulation and overtime before winning Saturday's contest against the Penguins in a shootout. Lehtonen wins for the first time in his last four starts.
Analysis: Lehtonen will likely continue to start in net until he goes cold again, but can still be used as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen made 38 saves in regulation and overtime, but couldn't outduel Tomas Vokoun in a shootout and took the 3-2 overtime loss Thursday against the Panthers. Lehtonen is now winless in his last three appearances (0-2-1) and has allowed 11 goals in that stretch.
Analysis: Lehtonen showed an improvement Thursday after sitting a few games while Johan Hedberg was in net. It is possible that Lehtonen will start in net until he goes cold again, but can still be used as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 29 shots during a 4-3 loss Friday against the Hurricanes. He has now lost his last two starts while allowing nine goals and has also lost three of his last four appearances.
Analysis: Lehtonen has settled into a swoon after reeling off four straight wins from Dec. 18-23. He continues to see the majority of starts in net over Johan Hedberg, but needs to pick up the pace. He remains a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie at this time. The Thrashers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen made 32 saves during a 5-2 loss to the Bruins Monday. The loss comes less than two days after blanking Boston for his second shutout of the season. He has allowed four or more goals in two of his last three starts.
Analysis: Lehtonen has looked good in net for the most part since mid-December and appears over a groin injury that kept him out several weeks. He is back to seeing the majority of starts for the Thrashers and can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy goalie. The Thrashers TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option at this time.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen claimed his second shutout of the season Saturday night when Atlanta blanked Boston 5-0. Lehtonen made 26 saves in the victory.
Analysis: Lehtonen had let in only two goals in each of his last six games before allowing four on Thursday night, so he is clearly seeing the puck very well lately. He has a tough schedule next week with another game against Boston (who he's unlikely to shut out again) and two vs. Carolina, so you might want to look elsewhere for a No. 1 goalie in Fantasy Week 14 (Dec. 31-Jan. 6). However, with as well as he's playing, we would still feel confident leaving him in the lineup.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen lost for the second time in as many nights on Thursday when Atlanta fell at home 5-3 to the Panthers. Lehtonen made 35 saves on the night, with one of the five Florida goals coming on an empty-netter.
Analysis: Lehtonen had let in only two goals in each of his last six games before allowing four on Thursday night. He has a tough schedule next week with a game against Boston and two vs. Carolina, so you might want to look elsewhere for a No. 1 goalie in Fantasy Week 14 (Dec. 31-Jan. 6).
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen saw his four-game winning streak snapped on Wednesday night when Blue Jackets G Pascal Leclaire shut out Atlanta 2-0.
Analysis: Lehtonen has let in two goals in each of his last six games and is definitely playing well lately. However, he has a tough schedule next week with a game against Boston and two vs. Carolina, so you might want to look elsewhere for a No. 1 goalie in Fantasy Week 14 (Dec. 31-Jan. 6).
News:Kari Lehtonen allowed two goals on 20 shots in a win at St. Louis Sunday.
Analysis: Lehtonen has had some good and bad moments since returning from a groin injury in early December. He finally appears comfortable in net and he has allowed two goals in each of his past five starts. He can be treated as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy goalie if you like. The Thrashers TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option at this time.
News: Panthers G Kari Lehtonen, who made 32 saves in regulation and three in overtime, stopped the two attempts he faced in the shootout during Saturday's 3-2 win. Lehtonen, who won a third straight start, improved to 5-2 since returning from a groin injury that sidelined him for 16 games. He stopped shootout attempts from Sergei Kostitsyn and Saku Koivu.
Analysis: Lehtonen has had some good and bad moments since returning from a groin injury in early December. He finally appears comfortable in net and that is great news for Fantasy owners. He can be treated as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy goalie if you like. The Thrashers TG is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option at this time.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 28 shots during a 3-2 win Thursday against the Senators that halted Ottawa's six-game winning streak. He has now won consecutive starts while making 60 saves and allowing just four goals.
Analysis: Lehtonen has had some good and bad moments since returning from a groin injury in early December. Lehtonen will eventually emerge as the No. 1 goalie in Atlanta, but should be treated as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie until he gets his feet back under him. The Thrashers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option at this time.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 32 shots during a 6-2 win Tuesday against the Lightning. It was his first win since Nov. 5 against the Islanders. He has allowed just two goals in each of his last two appearances.
Analysis: Lehtonen has had some good and bad moments since returning from a groin injury in early December. Lehtonen will eventually emerge as the No. 1 goalie in Atlanta, but should be treated as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie until he gets his feet back under him. The Thrashers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option at this time.
News: Thrashers G Johan Hedberg started for Atlanta Saturday against the Senators, but he was pulled in the second period after allowing five goals on 24 shots. Kari Lehtonen took over in net and gave up two goals on 19 shots. Atlanta lost 7-3. Lehtonen stopped 31 shots during a 4-0 loss to the Maple Leafs Friday. It was his second straight loss and he has now allowed 12 goals in his last three appearances.
Analysis: Lehtonen returned from a 1 1/2-month stint on the IR in early December to the tune of two wins, including a shutout. However, he has looked pretty poor in his last three outings. Lehtonen will eventually emerge as the No. 1 goalie in Atlanta, but should be treated as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie until he gets his feet back under him. The Thrashers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option at this time.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 31 shots during a 4-0 loss to the Maple Leafs Friday. It was his second straight loss and he has allowed 10 goals in that span.
Analysis: Lehtonen returned from a 1 1/2-month stint on the IR in early December to the tune of two wins, including a shutout. However, he has looked pretty poor in his last two outings. Lehtonen will eventually emerge as the No. 1 goalie in Atlanta, but should be treated as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie until he gets his feet back under him. The Thrashers TG is also a No. 2 Fantasy option at this time.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 21 shots during a 6-3 loss Saturday against the Capitals. Five of the six goals were scored against Lehtonen in the first two periods. The loss snaps a two-game winning streak for Lehtonen and it is the third time in his last six appearances that he has allowed five or more goals.
Analysis: It's not really fair to group Saturday's loss in with some of Lehtonen's previous horrific outings because they came while he was nursing a groin injury. He has actually looked fairly sharp since returning from a long stint on IR and remains a high-end Fantasy option at this time. The same goes for the Thrashers TG.
News:Kari Lehtonen turned aside 30 shots against the Islanders Wednesday to win his second game since being activated from injured reserve.
Analysis: It already looks as though he has laid claim as the Thrashers' No. 1 goalie, pushing Johan Hedberg back to a reserve role. Make sure to activate Lehtonen in all Fantasy leagues. He has the abilities to be treated as a No. 1 Fantasy option. The Thrashers TG is also a high-end option.
News:Kari Lehtonen turned aside 30 shots in his first NHL appearance in six weeks during the Atlanta Thrashers' 4-0 win against the New York Islanders on Saturday. Lehtonen, who got his first shutout this season and eighth in his career, lost his first four decisions before being placed on injured reserve with a groin injury. He missed 16 games, dating to Oct. 18, before being recalled from Chicago (AHL) earlier Saturday. The Islanders came close to breaking Lehtonen's shutout bid with 9:30 left during a power play, but Marc-Andre Bergeron's shot from the right point hit the left post.
Analysis: Lehtonen was 2-0 with a 1.92 goals-against average with Chicago before his recall. Lehtonen has a career record of 59-43-9 with Atlanta, holding the franchise record in wins and shutouts. It already looks as though he has laid claim as the Thrashers' No. 1 goalie, pushing Johan Hedberg back to a reserve role. Make sure to activate Lehtonen in Fantasy leagues for Week 10 (Dec. 3-9). He has the abilities to be treated as a No. 1 Fantasy option. The Thrashers TG is also a high-end option.
News: Thrashers goaltender Kari Lehtonen was recalled Saturday from an AHL reconditioning assignment after missing 16 games with a groin injury. The Thrashers sent goaltender Ondrej Pavelec back to the Chicago Wolves, their AHL affiliate.
Analysis: Lehtonen, who opened the season as the starting goalie, was placed on injured reserve on Oct. 19. He was 0-4 in five games before the injury and was 2-0 with a 1.92 goals-against average with Chicago. Lehtonen has a career record of 58-43-9 with seven shutouts for Atlanta, holding the franchise record in wins and shutouts. Expect him to work his way back as the Thrashers' No. 1 goalie in the coming weeks, if not games. He can be a viable No. 1 Fantasy goalie.
News:The Sports Xchange reports G Kari Lehtonen, who was placed on injured reserve with an injured groin on Oct. 19, will be sent to Atlanta's American Hockey League affiliate in Chicago on Sunday to begin a conditioning stint. NHL rules allow him to play in the AHL for only two weeks.
Analysis: Johan Hedberg and rookie Ondrej Pavalec have done an admirable job in Lehtonen's place, so there is no need to rush him back. However, the Thrashers would sure love to have him back as soon as possible. He remains an injury-risk start heading into Fantasy Week 9 (Nov. 26-Dec. 2), but now might be the time to scoop him up in Fantasy leagues. He will be the top goalie in Atlanta as soon as he is healthy.
News: G Kari Lehtonen, who was placed on injured reserve with an injured groin on Oct. 19, could return to the lineup at any point. He has returned to practice and is working on getting his timing back before getting back into a game.
Analysis: In the meantime, veteran Johan Hedberg has won four straight starts while Lehtonen heals. Keep Lehtonen reserved in all formats.
News:Kari Lehtonen, the Thrashers' No. 1 goalie, has been out since Oct. 20 with a strained groin, but he returned to practice on Sunday.
Analysis: General manager Don Waddell doesn't anticipate that Lehtonen will return in the next two weeks. In the meantime, veteran Johan Hedberg and youngster Ondrej Pavelec continue to start while Lehtonen heals.
News: G Kari Lehtonen, who was placed on injured reserve because of an injured groin on Oct. 19, could return to practice next week.
Analysis: In the meantime, veteran Johan Hedberg and youngster Ondrej Pavelec continue to start while Lehtonen heals.
News: G Kari Lehtonen will be out for at least another two weeks after being placed on injured reserve Oct. 19, a day after injuring his groin during the first period of Atlanta's 5-3 win over the Rangers.
Analysis: In the meantime, veteran Johan Hedberg and youngster Ondrej Pavelec continue to start while Lehtonen heals. The Thrashers TG is one to consider as a No. 2 unit.
News: Atlanta Thrashers goaltender Kari Lehtonen is expected to be sidelined at least four to six weeks due to a strained groin. He suffered the injury during Thursday's game against the Rangers. "It's safe to say it'll be at the high end [six weeks] because it's a goalie," general manager and interim coach Don Waddell told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "This is a totally separate injury than the ones he's had before. If it was his core muscles, we'd be more concerned."
Analysis: It sounds like the injury is a little different than the one Lehtonen has dealt with and had so many problems in the past, but it is still a groin injury. That's never good for a goaltender who must make quick and sudden movements with his lower body. Waddell said that he is likely out for the high end of the expected time, so don't look for Lehtonen until at least December. In the meantime, veteran Johan Hedberg is expected to start with youngster Ondrej Pavelec seeing an occasional start.
News: The Thrashers placed goalie Kari Lehtonen on the injured list Friday after he hurt his groin in Atlanta's first win of the season. The previous night, Lehtonen left a 5-3 victory over the New York Rangers with 8 1/2 minutes left in the first period. The team said he strained his groin, but in a different area than a similar injury that kept him out for more than two months in 2005. "Certainly, he'll be out a while," said general manager Don Waddell, who also is serving as Atlanta's interim coach.
Analysis: Lehtonen played only 38 games in the 2005-06 season, missing 2 1/2 months because of a groin injury. He passed up a chance to play for his native Finland in the 2006 Turin Olympics and trained extensively the next summer to build up his muscles. Last season, Lehtonen played a career-high 68 games for the Thrashers, helping them win the Southeast Division and make the playoffs for the first time. He was off to a slow start this season along with the rest of the struggling team: 0-4 with a 4.49 goals-against and .879 save percentage in five games. Johan Hedberg will take over as the No. 1 goalie, and Atlanta called up 20-year-old Ondrej Pavalec from its American Hockey League farm club in Chicago.
News: Kari Lehtonen stopped eight shots in Thursday's game against the Rangers before going out with 8 1/2 minutes left in the first period, having injured his troublesome groin again. A similar problem in the 2005-06 season sidelined the Finn for more than two months, and general manager and interim coach Don Waddell did not sound hopeful of a quick recovery this time either. "Certainly, he'll be out a while," Waddell said.
Analysis: With Lehtonen sidelined, Johan Hedberg came on and stopped 24 of 27 shots to preserve the win. Pick up Hedberg in all Fantasy leagues, as Waddell sounds as if Lehtonen will be sidelined for a while. Reserve Lehtonen immediately in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen was one period away from his first win of the season during Saturday's game against the Devils. He took a 4-3 lead into the final 20 minutes, but then the meltdown began. He allowed two goals in the first 12 minutes and then the game winner with less than 30 seconds to remain winless. He stopped 29 shots in the 6-5 loss and is now 0-4.
Analysis: Poor Lehtonen. Teams have been lighting him up left and right to open the season. In fact, he has allowed a total of 11 goals in his last two starts. Don't be surprised if Johan Hedberg gets a start here and there. Lehtonen has potential, but is nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy goalie heading into Fantasy Week 3 (Oct. 8-15). The same goes for the Thrashers TG until Atlanta starts to win.
News: Atlanta goalie Kari Lehtonen finished with 15 saves while allowing five goals on Thursday at Buffalo before being lifted for Johan Hedberg to start the third period. Hedberg made seven saves. "Right now we're not playing good hockey," Atlanta coach Bob Hartley said. "We're so tight and anxious to get that first win that we forget to do the right things."
Analysis: Lehtonen has been a little shaky early on, but he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. It was rather surprising that Hartley used Lehtonen on back-to-back nights considering he is still just a couple of games removed from a groin injury in the preseason. Don't be surprised to see Hedberg hold down the fort on Saturday against New Jersey.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed three goals on 36 shots in Wednesday's game against the Senators, as he did a decent job, but still took the loss. Brian Elliott, who was making his NHL debut, got the win for Ottawa. "He played great," Thrashers goalie Kari Lehtonen said. "When they're going with a guy who's playing his first NHL game, you think you have the advantage. But he proved us wrong. He played tremendous."
Analysis: Lehtonen has been a little shaky early on, but he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. He might get a chance to redeem himself in Buffalo on Thursday night, although coach Bob Hartley might play it safe and use Johan Hedberg so Lehtonen doesn't have to test his groin injury on back-to-back nights.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen allowed three goals Friday against the Capitals. He registered 37 saves in taking the 3-1 loss.
Analysis: Lehtonen struggled with a groin injury all preseason, leaving him a No. 2 Fantasy option until he proves his health. With Atlanta a contender, consider the Thrashers TG a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Kari Lehtonen (groin) made his preseason debut on Wednesday night at Florida. He allowed just one goal on 27 shots to pick up the victory.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been sidelined for the entire preseason, but he remains a solid No. 2 option to start the season. He'll be a No. 1 Fantasy netminder eventually, but we need to see him perform regularly to prove his health. Grab Johan Hedberg in all leagues as insurance against his tricky groin.
News: According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Kari Lehtonen is expected to make his preseason debut on Wednesday at Florida. Coach Bob Hartley originally had him penciled in for Tuesday's game, but he elected to give him another day to rest his groin injury.
Analysis: Lehtonen has not played during the preseason, but he remains the bona fide No. 1 goaltender in Atlanta. He is also a must-start in all Fantasy leagues heading into the new year and has been fine practicing with the team. He'll likely rest on Friday when the Panthers come to Atlanta for the preseason finale and then the team doesn't open their regular season until Oct. 5 against Washington, giving him eight more days of rest.
News: Kari Lehtonen stopped 25 shots, and the Atlanta Thrashers moved closer to clinching their first playoff berth with a 3-2 win over the Boston Bruins on Saturday. The win ends a three-game winless streak for Lehtonen.
Analysis: The Thrashers will be counting on Lehtonen in the final week of the regular season as the team looks to clinch a playoff spot. Consider him a high-end Fantasy goalie for the upcoming scoring period (April 2-8).
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports Kari Lehtonen will start Wednesday's game at Florida and Saturday's game at Boston, while Johan Hedberg will start on Thursday against Toronto.
Analysis: Set your daily Fantasy lineups accordingly. It sounds like Lehtonen gets the two more favorable games out of the three matchups, especially for Fantasy owners in leagues which average points per game in a scoring period.
News: Thrashers goalie Kari Lehtonen could barely describe Pittsburgh's winning goal, so it's no surprise he couldn't stop the peculiar puck. Jordan Staal was credited with the fluky winning goal with 9:41 left and the Penguins beat Atlanta 2-1 on Saturday. "It was some kind of monkey puck or something," Lehtonen said. "It started climbing the side of the net and then it hit my pad and went in. It's just weird, weird stuff." Lehtonen stopped 26 shots in the loss. He is now 2-4 in his last six games.
Analysis: Despite being on the losing end Saturday, Lehtonen had a strong performance in net. Continue to start him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen was yanked from net on Thursday against the Sharks after givin up four goals on 23 shots. He was replaced by Johan Hedberg, who stopped eight of nine shots.
Analysis: Perhaps Hedberg has earned himself another start after his solid relief appearance Thursday. Still, only use him in leagues that have average scoring systems. Despite the poor outing from Lehtonen, he remains a high-end Fantasy goalie.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed three goals on 38 shots in Sunday's win against the Sabres.
Analysis: Lehtonen remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. He was hit in the helmet by a shot which left him stunned for a bit, but he will be just fine heading into the new week.
News: Kari Lehtonen, who had won six of seven starts, made 33 saves. He kept the Thrashers even midway through the first period when he smothered a short-handed breakaway attempt by R.J. Umberger.
Analysis: Lehtonen has managed 31 wins this season, but he is 0-3-0 against the Flyers this season. Fortunately for his Fantasy owners, the Thrashers are done with Philadelphia for 2006-07.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed two goals on 33 shots in Monday's game against Washington, as he has now won six of his past seven starts.
Analysis: Lehtonen allowed two goals to Alex Ovechkin, which is not a big deal. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues and will look to keep his hot streak going on Thursday at Philadelphia in a very favorable game.
News: Kari Lehtonen had 36 saves for Atlanta in a 3-2 loss to the Panthers Saturday. The loss snapped a five-game winning streak for Lehtonen.
Analysis: Lehtonen had a 1.80 goals-against average during the winning streak. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Kari Lehtonen had 33 saves in Thursday's win against the Canadiens, as the Thrashers are in the midst of a five-game winning streak. "Kari played great," teammate Jon Sim said. "He's a great goalie. He played well for us early and then we got our heads in it and came back strong."
Analysis: Lehtonen has a 1.80 goals-against average during the winning streak. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. The Thrashers goaltender will face the Panthers on Saturday. He is 11-1 in his past 12 games against Florida and Atlanta is 6-0 this season against the divison rivals.
News: Keri Lehtonen stopped 38 shots to improve to 29-19-8. In 13 career games against Florida, Lehtonen is 11-1. "Kari made some unbelievable saves and bailed us out in the second period," coach Bob Hartley said. "He is playing like a veteran now and he is confident in there."
Analysis: Lehtonen has re-emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues after some struggles early in February. In case you were wondering, the Thrashers travel to Florida on Saturday, so it might be a big week for the Thrashers goaltender.
News: TSN.ca announced Kari Lehtonen has been named as the NHL's number one star of the past week after posting a 3-0 record, 1.67 GAA and .940 save percentage.
Analysis: Lehtonen started the month with terrible numbers, but certainly is back and ready to roll. He has re-emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Marian Hossa scored two goals and Kari Lehtonen had 35 saves to help Atlanta beat the Carolina Hurricanes 3-1 on Sunday. The Thrashers moved into a tie with Tampa Bay for first place in the Southeast Division. "It feels good to be back in first place," Lehtonen said.
Analysis: Lehtonen allowed just one goal, as he has won three straight starts for the first time since since a five-game run back from Dec. 19-27. He remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 21 shots on his way to a 4-2 win over the Senators Friday. He now has consecutive wins after losing his previous four starts.
Analysis: Lehtonen is definitely a very streaky goalie. He will have spurts in which he wins a lot, and then he will go in spurts in which he loses a lot. Use him as a high-end No. 2 goalie at this time, but when he is on a roll, he is a must-start in all leagues.
News: Kari Lehtonen recovered from a shaky first period to save 22 shots, including six in the third period. He held the Bruins scoreless after the first period on Monday night.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been shaky lately, but he looked dominant in the final two periods. He remains a must-start in most Fantasy formats despite some recent inconsistency.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen made 24 saves in a 4-1 loss to the Hurricanes Saturday. Lehtonen has now lost his last four starts.
Analysis: Lehtonen is definitely a very streaky goalie. He will have spurts in which he wins a lot, and then he will go in spurts in which he loses a lot. This is one of those times. Use him as a high-end No. 2 goalie at this time, but when he is on a roll, he is a must-start in all leagues.
News: Johan Hedberg got the start in Tuesday's game at Carolina and he allowed one goal on 34 shots in the win. Hedberg got the start over Kari Lehtonen, who had given up four goals in each of his last two starts and had lost three straight.
Analysis: Hedberg might draw another start over Lehtonen on Thursday at Tampa Bay as a reward for this strong performance. Reserve Lehtonen in all daily Fantasy leagues just in case.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen made 25 saves in a 5-3 loss to the Senators Saturday.
Analysis: February has not been kind to Lehtonen. He has just won once this month and has lost three straight starts. He remains the No. 1 goalie in Atlanta, but you might want to demote him to a No. 2 Fantasy goalie until he gets back on track.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed four goals on 27 shots in Tuesday's game at Calgary to take the loss against Miikka Kiprusoff and the Flames.
Analysis: Despite the loss, Lehtonen has a tight grip on the team's No. 1 starting goaltender job. He remains a solid Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Coach Bob Hartley told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution earlier in the week that Johan Hedberg will likely start one of the Thrashers back-to-back games on Saturday at Vancouver or Sunday at Edmonton.
Analysis: Lehtonen has a tight grip on the team's No. 1 starting goaltender job. He remains a solid Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Kari Lehtonen faced a season-high 48 shots, including 20 in the third period on Thursday at Colorado. "Too many for my liking," he said. "You'd like to see some, but not this many." He allowed three goals in the win.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been a little shaky lately, but he looked tremendous in Denver. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed three goals on 28 shots in Tuesday’s shootout loss to the Sabres.
Analysis: Despite the loss, Lehtonen remains a must-start Fantasy goaltender in all formats.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen made 19 saves in a 5-2 loss to the Flyers Saturday.
Analysis: Lehtonen has now lost three of his last four starts. Despite his recent struggles, he remains a solid Fantasy option in most formats.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed four goals on 30 shots in Thursday's game against the Islanders to take the loss.
Analysis: Lehtonen remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite the loss.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed four goals on 40 shots in Tuesday's game against the Devils to pick up the win in a shootout.
Analysis: Lehtonen has been a little shaky lately, but he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed two goals on 23 shots in Sunday's loss against the Flyers.
Analysis: Despite the loss, Lehtonen remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen won his first start after the All-Star break, making 29 saves in a 5-4 OT win over the Islanders Friday.
Analysis: Lehtonen has had some rough spots this season, but he remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues as a No. 2 goalie.
News: Kari Lehtonen was a big reason why the Thrashers beat the Rangers 3-1 on Saturday. The third-year goalie made 29 saves and won for the third time in four starts after dropping four straight.
Analysis: Lehtonen has had some rough spots this season, but he remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues as a No. 2 goalie.
News: Kari Lehtonen made 29 saves against Montreal in a loss Thursday. He allowed four goals -- three in the second period.
Analysis: Lehtonen has had some rough spots this season, but he remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues as a No. 2 goalie. He is 2-3 in his past five starts.
News: Kari Lehtonen turned aside 28 shots for first-place Atlanta, which won its second in a row after a five-game losing streak. "It's kind of fun winning with a big margin, rather than by one or two goals," Lehtonen said of Tuesday's win against the Kings. "We've been playing very well the last few weeks, but there's always been one bad period. (Tuesday), we played solid for three periods."
Analysis: Lehtonen has had some rough spots this season, but he remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Kari Lehtonen picked up his 20th win of the season Saturday after the Thrashers beat the Hurricanes in a shootout. Lehtonen had 24 saves on 27 shots during regulation and over times.
Analysis: Lehtonen now has just two wins in his last seven starts. He can be kind of streaky, but remains a fairly solid Fantasy option.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed two goals on 34 shots in Friday's game at New Jersey. The two goals came within 29 seconds of each other late in the third period, with one coming on the two-man advantage to Scott Gomez and the game-winner on the power play to Sergei Brylin.
Analysis: Lehtonen and his Fantasy owners were given a bitter pill to swallow on Friday. He'll look to bounce back on Saturday at Carolina, although it would not be a surprise to see Johan Hedberg in the crease for that contest.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed four goals on 34 shots in Tuesday's game at Montreal to take the loss.
Analysis: Lehtonen is 0-2-1 over his past three games after managing to win six of seven starts. He remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues despite this recent shaky period.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 34 shots on Saturday, but allowed one to get by him in overtime in a 3-2 loss to the Capitals.
Analysis: Despite the loss, Lehtonen remains one of the better Fantasy goalies on the market.
News: Kari Lehtonen picked up a win in Wednesday's game at Pittsburgh, allowing just two goals on 37 shots.
Analysis: Lehtonen had a rough stretch recently, but he is back on track and remains a must-start in most Fantasy formats.
News: Lehtonen stopped 36 shots in Thursday's shootout win against the Penguins to improve to 15-7-6.
Analysis: Lehtonen remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, as the Thrashers have played steady hockey all season.
News: If it weren't for Alexander Ovechkin on Friday, Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen would have had his 14th win of the season. But as luck has it, Ovechkin scored his third goal of the game six seconds into overtime to power the Washington Capitals to a 3-2 win over the Atlanta Thrashers on Friday night. Lehtonen has 30 saves in the loss.
Analysis: Lehtonen has struggled as of late, losing three of his last four starts. He is kind of a streaky goalie, but when he is on, he is one of the best goaltenders in the game. Look for him to bounce back in the next Fantasy scoring period (Dec. 18-24) and keep him active in most Fantasy formats.
News: Kari Lehtonen stopped 30 shots to keep the Thrashers close, but it wasn't enough in a 2-1 loss to the Ducks on Wednesday.
Analysis: Despite the loss, Lehtonen makes for a pretty strong Fantasy option.
News: Thrahsers G Kari Lehtonen made 40 saves on Saturday, but took the 4-3 loss to the Penguins.
Analysis: Lehtonen has now lost two straight games after winning four straight. He remains a pretty strong Fantasy goalie with 13 wins on the season.
News: Kari Lehtonen was pulled after allowing five goals on 30 shots over two periods in Thursday's game at Tampa Bay. The Thrashers' franchise record-tying five-game winning streak ended. "This a good wake-up call," Lehtonen said. "Everybody has a lot of things to make better in the next game."
Analysis: Lehtonen has been sailing right along until this pounding. He'll look to bounce back on Saturday against Sidney Crosby and the Penguins back in Atlanta.
News: Kari Lehtonen had 27 saves to help the Atlanta Thrashers to a 3-1 victory over the Florida Panthers on Saturday night.
Analysis: After a rough batch of outings in early November, Lehtonen seems to have regained his top form with four straight wins. He is once again a must-start Fantasy goalie.
News: Lehtonen stopped all 36 shots he faced in Thursday's game against Toronto, as he posted his fourth shutout of the season.
Analysis: Lehtonen added to his team record with seven career shutouts, including two straight in home wins. He blanked Florida 1-0 on Saturday.
News: Kari Lehtonen stopped 37 shots to give the Atlanta Thrashers a 1-0 victory over the Florida Panthers on Saturday night.
Analysis: Lehtonen has now started on back-to-back nights after logging only five starts since the start of November. It was his first win in his last five starts. It looks as though Lehtonen might be winning back his starting job in net, but until he officially gets that job back, consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy goaltender.
News: The Thrashers pulled goalie Kari Lehtonen from net on Friday after he gave up three goals on seven shots. Johan Hedberg replaced him in the second period and stopped 13-of-15 shots. The Thrashers lost 5-3.
Analysis: Lehtonen had given up four or more goals in his previous six starts heading into Friday and the team obviously wasn't going to let it be seven games. Don't be surprised if Hedberg starts the next game for the Thrashers. Consider using a better Fantasy option while Lehtonen works out the kinks. Hedberg could be a possible replacement in Fantasy leagues. The Thrashers TG can be used as a solid No. 2 unit.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen stopped 31-of-36 shots on Saturday in a 5-3 loss to the Lightning.
Analysis: Lehtonen hadn't been starting as of late after a solid start to the season. He did come in an relieve Johan Hedberg on Wednesday and picked up the win. However, he has now lost consecutive starts on consecutive nights. The Thrashers TG is a No. 1 unit despite the recent struggles by Lehtonen and Hedberg, but keep an eye on the situation to see who will get the bulk of starts.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen was not sharp on Friday stopping just 20-of-25 shots on Friday in a 5-2 loss.
Analysis: Lehtonen hadn't been starting as of late after a solid start to the season. He did come in an relieve Johan Hedberg on Wednesday and picked up the win. However, Friday could have been another setback. The Thrashers TG is a No. 1 unit no matter who is in net, but keep an eye on the situation to see if Lehtonen gets the bulk of starts in net.
News: Johan Hedberg, who had allowed only 2.01 goals per game in three straight wins, was pulled after Ottawa took a 4-2 lead midway through the second period. Hedberg stopped 15 of 19 shots before giving way to Kari Lehtonen. Thrashers LW Slava Kozlov gave credit to Lehtonen, who stopped 19 shots in a relief role, shutting out the Senators for the last period and a half. The Thrashers won 5-4.
Analysis: Hedberg started his fourth straight game on Wednesday before being pulled and that could mean Lehtonen will be back in a starting role. Coach Bob Hartley said it would be a game-by-game choice on who would start in net. We expect Lehtonen will get the bulk of starts once again, but it is purely speculation at this time. Make lineup changes accordingly. The Thrashers TG is a No. 1 unit no matter who is in net.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports Johan Hedberg will make his fourth straight start on Wednesday against the Senators. Coach Bob Hartley went on to add that the starting goaltender will be a game-by-game choice.
Analysis: Hartley is basically going with the hot hand and right now that is not Kari Lehtonen. He should be reserved in all Fantasy leagues in the short term and is limited to formats which average points per game in a scoring period.
News: Kari Lehtonen sat again on Monday night, as Johan Hedberg made the most of his third straight start against Boston. Hedberg allowed three goals on 27 shots for his third win in as many games.
Analysis: Coach Bob Hartley continues to reiterate that Kari Lehtonen is the team's starting goaltender, but as long as Hedberg wins he is likely to ride the hot goaltender. Keep Lehtonen reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he gets back in between the pipes and starts playing on a regular basis again.
News: Kari Lehtonen has not played since Nov. 1 when he was yanked in the middle of the second period in favor of Johan Hedberg. The backup has made the past two starts in his place.
Analysis: Lehtonen remains the future of the Thrashers, but keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues right now until he can get back into the lineup on regular basis and get back on track.
News: Johan Hedberg made 23 saves to win his second straight start in the Atlanta Thrashers' 4-1 victory over the New York Islanders on Saturday night.
Analysis: It appears as though the Thrashers are going with the hot hand at the moment and that is Hedberg. But Kari Lehtonen owners shouldn't worry. He will probably be back in net on Monday against the Bruins. The Thrashers TG is a solid No. 1 unit, as is Lehtonen. Only consider Hedberg in very large leagues since he probably won't get that many starts.
News: Kari Lehtonen is 5-0 with a 2.33 goals-against average against the Capitals, and defeated them in back-to-back starts Oct. 14 and 19, both times by a 4-3 score. He made 35 saves in the first meeting as the Thrashers won in overtime, and lifted Atlanta to a shootout victory in the second matchup, stopping 27 shots.
Analysis: Lehtonen is a must-start in all Fantasy leagues for Friday's game against Washington, as is the Capitals TG.
News: Kari Lehtonen stopped only nine of 13 shots before being pulled in the second period against Carolina Wednesday. Johan Hedberg went the rest of the way in the Atlanta nets and was barely tested, facing just four shots. "That's just the way it sometimes goes," Lehtonen said. "I didn't think they were good shots. They shouldn't have gone in."
Analysis: Lehtonen has allowed four goals in each of his past three games. He's certainly struggling after he got off to such a strong start on the season. It might be time to start considering playing one of your backups until the Finnish netminder snaps out of it. The Thrashers TG is also a unit to consider sitting.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed four goals on 22 shots in a loss at Toronto on Monday.
Analysis: Lehtonen loses his second game of the season, but he remains a solid Fantasy starter despite allowed 13 goals in his past three games. The Thrashers TG should be starting in all leagues that use that format.
News: Kari Lehtonen and the upstart Atlanta Thrashers put an end to the Buffalo Sabres' bid for an NHL record start. Barely. Lehtonen denied all three Sabres shootout attempts and stopped 32 shots overall in a 5-4 win Saturday night, ending Buffalo's season-opening winning streak at 10. The Sabres will settle for sharing the league record for best start to a season set by Toronto in 1993.
Analysis: Lehtonen is finally living up to his potential and is staying healthy on top of it all. Saturday's win over previously unbeaten Buffalo is proof enough. Lehtonen and the Thrashers TG remain No. 1 Fantasy options.
News: After Johan Hedberg had 29 saves in regulation and overtime for the Thrashers, he was pulled for Kari Lehtonen. The Flyers jumped all over the goalie change, with Simon Gagne and Peter Forsberg scoring on the Flyers' first two shots. The Flyers went on to beat the Thrashers 3-2 on Thursday.
Analysis: Hedberg gave Lehtonen a much needed rest up until the shootout, but expect Lehtonen to be back in net the next time the Thrashers take the ice. The Thrashers TG remains a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Goalie Kari Lehtonen stopped 33 of 38 shots on Wednesday, but allowed the game-winning goal to go past him in overtime as the Thrashers lost 5-4 to the Hurricanes.
Analysis: Lehtonen lost for only the second time this season and now has a 7-2-2 record. He has emerged as a bonafide No. 1 Fantasy goaltender in all formats. He will remain as such as long as he can finally avoid the injury bug.
News: Kari Lehtonen, who has started every game for Atlanta (7-1-1), made 25 saves in Monday's game at Florida for his third win of the season against the Panthers.
Analysis: Lehtonen has emerged as a bona fide No. 1 Fantasy goaltender in all formats. He will remain as such as long as he can finally avoid the injury bug.
News: Thrashers G Kari Lehtonen turned aside 18 shots in the Thrashers' 4-2 win over the Panthers on Saturday. It was their sixth win in the first eight games.
Analysis: Lehtonen has re-emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues and will continue to be a great option as long as he can avoid the injury bug. The same goes for the Thrashers TG.
News: A big reason for Atlanta's good start (5-1-1) has been goaltender Kari Lehtonen. He's started all seven games, has a 1.81 goals-against average and is tied with San Jose's Evgeni Nabokov for the league lead with two shutouts.
Analysis: Lehtonen is 4-0 with a 2.21 GAA at home in his career against Florida, Atlanta's opponent Saturday, including the shutout win earlier this month. He has re-emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues and will continue to be a great option as long as he can avoid the injury bug. The same goes for the Thrashers TG.
News: Kari Lehtonen continues his assault on the rest of the NHL, allowing three second period goals before getting a win in the shootout against Washington on Thursday. He made 27 saves in the win.
Analysis: Lehtonen improved to 5-0 in his career against the Capitals. He has re-emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues and will continue to be a great option as long as he can avoid the injury bug.
News: Goalie Kari Lehtonen and the Atlanta Thrashers needed overtime on Saturday to put away the Washington Capitals 4-3. Lehtonen had 35 saves and now sits with a .921 save percentage.
Analysis: Lehtonen rebounded nicely from a poor showing on Friday to get the Thrashers back in the win column and their fourth win of the season. Lehtonen is a must-start Fantasy goalie.
News: Ray Whitney scored on a tip-in with one-half second left in the third period Friday night, lifting the Carolina Hurricanes past the Atlanta Thrashers 4-3, the defending Stanley Cup champion's first win of the season. The last-second shot capped a frustrating night for Atlanta goaltender Kari Lehtonen, who gave up three first-period goals and then shut out the Hurricanes until Whitney's game-winner. Lehtonen, who allowed only three goals in the first four games, had that total doubled in the Hurricanes' strong opening period. Lehtonen is 1-4 in five career starts against Carolina.
Analysis: Lehtonen has had a pretty decent start to the season leading up to Friday. It is just one game, so there is no need to get frustrated with Lehtonen just yet. He is finally showing the potential that made him the No. 2 pick in the 2002 NHL draft. As long as he stays healthy, he is a pretty good goaltender. Needless to say, he has re-emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: G Kari Lehtonen set a team record for shutout minutes before finally giving up a goal, and the Atlanta Thrashers won their third straight by defeating the Boston Bruins 4-1 on Wednesday night. After back-to-back shutouts, Lehtonen stretched his scoreless streak to 167 minutes, 56 seconds before P.J. Axelsson scored off a deflection at 5:14 of the second period. Still, the Atlanta goalie broke Michael Garnett's team record of 155:55 over a three-game span last December. Otherwise, Lehtonen stopped everything the Bruins sent his way, including several shots from point-blank range in the third period. He finished with 22 saves.
Analysis: Lehtonen is finally showing the potential that made him the No. 2 pick in the 2002 NHL draft. As long as he stays healthy, he is a pretty good goaltender. Needless to say, he has re-emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Kari Lehtonen had 34 saves on Monday night at Tampa Bay for his second consecutive shutout. "It was just one of those days when everything seems to go your way," Lehtonen said. "I try to do everything the same way, and sometimes the post helps me and sometimes I'm just able to get the great save. That's the most fun you can get out there. It's not going to last forever."
Analysis: Lehtonen, coming off a 6-0 win over Florida on Saturday, has five career shutouts. He has allowed two goals in three games this season. Needless to say, he has re-emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: G Kari Lehtonen made 20 saves Saturday night earning a 6-0 shutout win over the Florida Panthers.
Analysis: Lehtonen might be a top-notch No. 1 Fantasy goaltender if he can stay healthy for a full season. He has displayed a propensity for injury in the past, which has limited him in Fantasy Hockey and on the ice in real life as well.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed just two goals on 26 shots in Thursday's shootout loss against the Lightning, as the Thrashers lost their regular season opener.
Analysis: Lehtonen might be a top-notch No. 1 Fantasy goaltender if he can stay healthy for a full season. He has displayed a propensity for injury in the past, which has limited him in Fantasy Hockey and on the ice in real life as well.
News: To make up for its offensive losses, Atlanta is counting on goaltender Kari Lehtonen to be healthy and more consistent play from its defense. The Thrashers open the season at home against Tampa Bay Thursday.
Analysis: Lehtonen, the second overall pick in the 2002 draft, won 20 games last season, but missed 41 contests with groin and ankle injuries. The 22-year-old was 20-15-0 with a 2.94 goals-against average and a 5-0 mark in shootouts, but missed the final six games of the playoff push with an ankle injury. The Lightning won the season series 4-3-1 last season. Atlanta won the last meeting 6-2 in Tampa Bay on April 11. Start Lehtonen in all formats.
News: Kari Lehtonen (ankle) remained sidelined for Thursday's game against the Capitals. Mike Dunham got the start with Michael Garnett serving as the backup.
Analysis: Lehtonen is likely sidelined for the remainder of the season. He remains useful only in keeper leagues at this point.
News: Kari Lehtonen (ankle) was out for Tuesday's game against the Lightning, as Mike Dunham got the start and Michael Garnett was recalled from Chicago of the AHL to serve as backup.
Analysis: Things are looking pretty gloomy for the Thrashers, as they struggle to stay in the race for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. When they are officially eliminated, expect Lehtonen to be shut down.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports Lehtonen (ankle) is wearing a protective boot and he will be re-evaluated mid-week. General manager Don Waddell added he expects Lehtonen to be sidelined at least two games and is questionable for the remainder of the year.
Analysis: Needless to say, Lehtonen is way too risky of a play to use in any Fantasy league. Mike Dunham will remain the team's starter in net until the Finn is ready to roll.
News: Kari Lehtonen left Thursday's game at Tampa Bay in the first period due to a sprained left ankle. Mike Dunham replaced him in between the pipes.
Analysis: Lehtonen's status is uncertain. He will be re-evaluated on Friday. If he is unable to start Saturday's game against the Hurricanes, Dunham would get the call.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed two goals on 40 shots in Wednesday's win at Florida, edging Roberto Luongo and the Panthers in an important game.
Analysis: Lehtonen has won just two of his past five starts and he has given up at least four goals in six of his past nine appearances. Despite the recent futility, he looked awfully good on Wednesday and remains a decent No. 2 Fantasy goaltender.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed five goals on 41 shots, but he got the win in overtime against the Devils on Thursday night in overtime.
Analysis: Lehtonen was making his first-career appearance against the Devils. He is 10-3 in his past 13 starts, allowing three of fewer goals in 11 of those games. He remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy netminder in most formats.
News: Kari Lehtonen stopped all 20 shots he faced in Monday's game against the Sabres to earn his second shutout of the season and the third of his NHL career.
Analysis: Lehtonen bounced back from a beating at the hands of the Flyers on Saturday and is now 9-3 in his past 12 starts. He has allowed three or fewer goals in 11 of those starts.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed two goals on 30 shots in Thursday's game against the Islanders to pick up the victory.
Analysis: Lehtonen is 8-2 over the past 10 starts, allowing three or fewer goals in each game. He has emerged as a fantastic No. 2 Fantasy goaltender in most formats.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed two goals on 35 shots in Sunday's game at N.Y. Rangers to pick up a win in overtime.
Analysis: Lehtonen has posted a 7-2 record while allowing three or fewer goals in nine starts dating back to Feb. 7. After some difficulties immediately following his return from injury, he has emerged as an outstanding No. 2 Fantasy goaltender in all formats.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed three goals on Friday vs. Ottawa, but that was enough to earn him a loss in a 3-1 game. He stopped 32 shots in the effort, but it wasn't enough.
Analysis: Lehtonen has not allowed more than three goals in his last nine games. He has re-emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues for the Thrashers who are making some noise in the Eastern Conference.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed two goals on 34 shots in Wednesday's game against the Rangers to pick up the win in a shootout. He allowed his first two goals of the season on the shootout, but he managed to hang on for the win.
Analysis: Lehtonen is 5-1-1 over his past seven games and he has allowed three or fewer goals in each of the appearances. He has re-emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues for the Thrashers who are making some noise in the Eastern Conference.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed three goals on 40 shots in Monday's game against the Panthers to win in a shootout.
Analysis: Lehtonen has won five of the past six starts, allowing three or fewer goals in each of his appearances. He is a decent No. 2 Fantasy goaltender while he is playing well.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed two goals while making 34 saves in Wednesday's game at Buffalo to pick up the win.
Analysis: Lehtonen has won three straight starts and four of his past five. He is suddenly looking like a really sharp goaltender and that is good for patient Fantasy owners who waited it out while he struggled after his return from injury.
News: Kari Lehtonen stopped 26 of 27 shots on Saturday at Montreal in a shootout win over the Canadiens.
Analysis: Lehtonen seems to have come out of a funk that saw him lose seven of his last nine games. He's heading into the break on a high note and is worth starting in all formats when the matchup is right.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed just one goal on 35 shots in Thursday's game at Ottawa, as he rebounded from a beating at the hands of the Maple Leafs on Tuesday.
Analysis: Lehtonen had his best game in quite some, after dropping seven of his past eight starts coming in. Who would have thought he would stem the tide of losing against the high-flying Senators?
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed four goals on 28 shots in Tuesday's game at Toronto to take another loss.
Analysis: Lehtonen has dropped seven of his past eight starts and should be kept reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he starts to produce better results.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed five goals on 35 shots in Tuesday's game against the Sabres, as he suffered his fifth consecutive loss.
Analysis: Lehtonen has allowed 16 goals over his past four starts and should be kept on reserve until he starts to produce more consistently.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed five goals on 33 shots in Thursday's game against the Hurricanes, as he dropped his third consecutive start.
Analysis: Lehtonen got off to a decent start in his first few starts following a return from a groin injury, but his offense has decided to take the last few nights off. He has allowed three or fewer goals in the losing streak, with the exception of Thursday night which was on him. He remains a decent No. 2 or 3 Fantasy netminder depending on the matchups.
News: Kari Lehtonen has averaged only two goals allowed over his past five starts. His re-emergence has meant fewer starts for Mike Dunham is back to being a backup.
Analysis: Lehtonen's groin injury appears to be a thing of the past. The rookie goalie should be owned in all leagues at this point and starting in most.
News: Kari Lehtonen stopped 37 shots on Friday vs. St. Louis. He picked up his first shutout of the season and improved to 5-2.
Analysis: Lehtonen appears to be over the groin injury that sidelined him for much of the season. He could be in line for big things the rest of the way and should be starting in all leagues.
News: Kari Lehtonen allowed four goals on 22 shots in Wednesday's game at Carolina.
Analysis: Lehtonen has not been particularly sharp since his return from injury, so keep him reserved for the upcoming week until he starts playing more consistently.
News: Kari Lehtonen (groin) allowed four goals in Friday's game at Buffalo in his return to the lineup after a lengthy injury.
Analysis: Lehtonen did not look particularly sharp, but that was also against a hot Buffalo offense. Keep him reserved and monitor his play in the next week before deciding on his as a No. 2 Fantasy goaltender for future weeks.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports Kari Lehtonen (groin) might start on Friday at Buffalo. He has been ready to go since Monday, but Michael Garnett has been on a hot streak.
Analysis: Monitor Lehtonen's status and if he plays well, consider him as a No. 2 Fantasy netminder for the upcoming scoring period.
News: Kari Lehtonen (groin) was activated from injured reserve on Monday and he dressed as the backup for Monday's game against Montreal. Michael Garnett got the start, as the team wants to ease him back into the lineup.
Analysis: Lehtonen is now simply considered day to day, as he might be able to start Wednesday's game against Philadelphia. Keep him reserved until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Barring any setbacks, Kari Lehtonen (groin) will represent Team Finland in the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin.
Analysis: This is good news for Finland, as Calgary's Miikka Kiprusoff turned down an invitation to let his hip injury heal over the break. Lehtonen might make the same decision since he has been out for the season so far, possibly leaving Fredrik Norrena of Linköpings HC of the Swedish Elite League as the starter.
News: According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Kari Lehtonen (groin) is expected to return to practice on Monday. He hasn't been able to perform any hockey-related activities in six weeks.
Analysis: Lehtonen is almost fully recovered from a series of groin muscle injuries. He should be ready to return to game-action by the end of December.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports Kari Lehtonen (groin) was able to skate on a limited basis on Friday. It was the first time in six weeks he was able to take to the ice.
Analysis: The team is being extra cautious with their top prospect, as they will make sure he is 100 percent before he is back in the lineup. We are estimating that he is still likely three to four weeks away from a return, as the team has not given any official timetable.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports Kari Lehtonen (groin) is expected to miss at least another month to rehab his injury and strengten the area around his groin.
Analysis: The club has signed veteran Steve Shields to serve as the backup to Mike Dunham (groin), so there is no hurry for Lehtonen to return.
News: Kari Lehtonen (groin) will see a specialist on Boston on Monday, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Analysis: Lehtonen skated on Wednesday, but he is expected to miss at least two more weeks. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports the team feels Kari Lehtonen (groin) might be out of action for at least a few weeks.
Analysis: Lehtonen should be kept reserved in all Fantasy leagues. With Mike Dunham (groin) also nursing an injury, the club will likely use Michael Barnett in net on Friday night against Toronto.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports the Thrashers feel that Kari Lehtonen's groin injury is "definitely more serious" than the one he suffered in the preseason.
Analysis: Lehtonen was unable to skate for 10 days with his injury during training camp, so he might not return until late October or early November. Mike Dunham will get a bulk of the starts with Michael Garnett serving as the backup.
News: Kari Lehtonen was placed on injured reserve on Thursday due to the groin injury he aggravated on Thursday.
Analysis: Mike Dunham will take over as the full-time goaltender and the Thrashers will recall help from Chicago of the AHL to serve as his backup.
News: Kari Lehtonen left Wednesday's game after only one period at Florida after aggravating his pulled groin injury. He was unable to return.
Analysis: Mike Dunham replaced him in net. Lehtonen is considered day to day, but keep him reserved until he can return to the ice and play a full game without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Kari Lehtonen (groin) was able to tune up in Friday's preseason game against the Predators. He allowed two goals and 35 saves.
Analysis: Lehtonen is likely to split time with Mike Dunham early on in the season, but talent should prevail by midseason and the young Finn should be starting full-time.
News: Kari Lehtonen (groin), who was able to practice on Wednesday, did not play in Thursday's preseason game at Nashville.
Analysis: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution is reporting that Lehtonen has been improving, but he still might not be ready for the team's opener on Wednesday at Florida. Mike Dunham would get the start if Lehtonen is unable to go. Keep him reserved for the first scoring period if you have healthier alternatives.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports Kari Lehtonen (groin) was able to practice for the first time in 10 days on Wednesday.
Analysis: Lehtonen might be able to get into one of the team's two final preseason games. Mike Dunham will likely open as the team's starting netminder, but Lehtonen has by far the most Fantasy appeal of the two.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports Kari Lehtonen (groin) might be able to play in Saturday's preseason game against the Hurricanes.
Analysis: Lehtonen still has a chance at winning the team's starting goaltender chores, but it appears it is Mike Dunham's job to lose right now.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Kari Lehtonen will start against Washington Friday.
Analysis: Lehtonen stopped 19 of 21 shots in his NHL debut Friday against Florida. Consider starting him again as a No. 2 goalie in this favorable matchup.
News: Kari Lehtonen was recalled by Atlanta on Friday, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Analysis: Lehtonen will likely get a couple starts as the season's end draws near. He is the best goaltending prospect in the minors and would be an excellent keeper if he had more of an opportunity to play. Pasi Nurminen is playing very well ahead of him for the Thrashers.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Kari Lehtonen could make his NHL debut this week.
Analysis: Lehtonen would replace Frederic Cassivi as Pasi Nurminen's backup and could get an occasional start to spell Nurminen. Lehtonen garners attention in larger keeper leagues only.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports Kari Lehtonen might be recalled in March. "My plan was that, I said all along, we'd get him in some games at the appropriate time," general manager Don Waddell said. "First of all, he's got to get healthy and then playing well. With our schedule in the month of March, we have a lot of games, so that would be a good chance to find a place to bring him up."
Analysis: Lehtonen has a 14-10-1 record, with a 2.36 GAA and a 92.8 save percentage this season in the minors. He is battling a mild concussion and a strained hamstring, but if he can recover, he might see some time between the pipes for the Thrashers this season.
News: Kari Lehtonen, who missed two weeks with a groin injury, will play in his first preseason game Friday in Carolina, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Analysis: Lehtonen is a longshot to make the Thrashers out of camp, although he is considered the team's goaltender of the future. He's only useful in long-term keeper leagues.
