News: Zherdev has agreed to a two-year contract to return to the KHL, Renaud Lavoie of RDS reports.
Analysis: Zherdev returns to Atlant Mytishchi, the team he left the NHL for the last time around. We may have seen the last of Zherdev stateside after the way his stint in Philly panned out.
News: Possible league destinations for Zherdev this season include the KHL in Russia, or in the NHL with the Jets, the Winnipeg Sun reports.
Analysis: "I don't know all the details of the situation. The agent does," said Zherdev, who made $2 million as a Flyer last season. "But I can say that I'm seriously considering all offers from both NHL and KHL." Zherdev is a sublime talent with blazing speed and first-rate ability handling the puck, but he has yet to reach his full potential in the NHL. Since Columbus made him the fourth overall draft pick in 2003, the Russian has accumulated 261 points (115 G, 146 A) in 421 games between the Blue Jackets, Rangers and Flyers, respectively. Those are average numbers and Zherdev, who has the reputation of being a greedy player, has shown in the past (2009-10) that he's not afraid to play in the KHL when he doesn't command the right salary from an NHL club.
News: With Andreas Nodl (facial injury) out for Monday's Game 2, Zherdev will take his place in the lineup, The Buffalo News reports.
Analysis: It'll be Zherdev's first action of the playoffs, and he'll be slotted on a good line with Jeff Carter and Claude Giroux. Zherdev didn't do much this regular season (22 points) to cause us to believe he'll save your fantasy playoffs, but if any forward on a scoring line has some value in your format, consider him for your Monday pickup.
News: Zherdev cleared waivers Thursday, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis: Zherdev was reportedly unhappy with Philadelphia, so it's not clear what they'll do from here, as sending him to the AHL doesn't figure to make him any happier.
News: The Flyers have placed Zherdev on waivers, CSNPhilly.com reports.
Analysis: The report adds that the enigmatic winger was unhappy as a Flyer, and that his agent called for him to be waived after GM Paul Holmgren had no luck in trading him. We expect this whole situation involving Zherdev to become much more clear once the waiver process runs its course.
News: Zherdev (lower body) returned to action Thursday.
Analysis: Zherdev picked up a goal and an assist in Thursday's 7-5 loss to the Bruins. Eight of Zherdev's 17 points this season have come in the last eight games he has appeared in.
News: Zherdev (groin) did not play Saturday against the Devils.
Analysis: There was word that Zherdev would be healthy enough to play Saturday, but he watched from the press box, officially with a groin injury. Continue to consider him day-to-day.
News: Zherdev has a lower body "issue" and will be held off the ice Wednesday, the Flyers' official site reports.
Analysis: Zherdev will be reevaluated before Thursday's game against the Devils, but for now his status remains uncertain. We should know more after Thursday's morning skate.
News: Zherdev scored twice, including once on the power play, in Saturday's win over the Rangers.
Analysis: He's a pure finisher this season and is on pace to potentially hit 35 goals. But unfortunately, he's also on pace for just five assists this season. You may have room for a one-hit wonder but you need to seriously compensate for his shortcomings.
News: Zherdev did not play Saturday. He was also a healthy scratch Friday night.
Analysis: Nicky, nicky nine doors has been horrific thus far; maybe the view from the press box will inspire the enigmatic star.
News: Zherdev has been scratched from Friday's lineup, according to the Flyers' official Twitter page.
Analysis: Zherdev was demoted to the fourth line earlier in the day and was not on the ice for warm-ups. It remains to be seen how the demotion, and Zherdev's reaction, affect his standing on the team going forward.
News: Zherdev has been demoted to the fourth line, according to CSN Philly.
Analysis: The winger has had a slow and inconsistent start to the season with only two points in nine games. He will now skate alongside Jody Shelley and Blair Betts while Andreas Nodl will take his spot on a line with Mike Richards and James Van Riemsdyk. Zherdev should remain on fantasy benches and owners should consider looking for alternatives until he turns it around.
News:Nikolai Zherdev ended his one-year sabbatical from the NHL and returned from playing overseas by signing a one-year contract with the Flyers on Friday. Zherdev played the 2009-10 season for Atlant-Moscow of the Kontinental Hockey League. He totaled 13 goals and 39 points in 52 games. "Nik is a highly-skilled player who, at 25-years-old, we feel will be a good fit to our core of forwards," Flyers GM Paul Holmgren said in a statement. "Prior to playing last season in Russia, Nik ranked as one of the top young point-producers in the NHL. We are pleased to add him to our team."
Analysis: The No. 4 pick in the 2003 NHL draft, Zherdev spent time with the Blue Jackets and Rangers before heading overseas. He has 99 goals and 239 points in 365 career NHL games. He has three seasons of 50-plus points in the NHL. Philadelphia should allow him to be a 20-goal, 30-assist threat, so consider Zherdev a decent No. 4 Fantasy forward on Draft Day.
News: Free-agent forward Nikolai Zherdev has signed a one-year contract with Atlant Mytishchi of the Kontinental Hockey League (Russia). Zherdev was let go by the Rangers after the team chose to walk away from an arbitrator's award in early August.
Analysis: Zherdev was toying with the idea of joining the Thrashers, but it seems he was more intrigued to play at least one season over in Russia. It's a real shame because Zherdev was a developing scorer in the NHL. He could return in 2010-11, but Zherdev only has Fantasy value in the deepest of keeper leagues. Zherdev totaled 23 goals and 58 points in 82 games for the Rangers last season.
News:The Sports Xchange reports RW Nikolai Zherdev reportedly was close to signing with Salavat Yulaev Ufa in Russia (KHL) after the Rangers "walked away" from the $3.9 million salary he was awarded earlier this summer in arbitration. Zherdev tied for the team lead in points (58) during the 2008-09 regular season but was held without a point in a seven-game loss to Washington in the first round of the playoffs. "With the additions we've been able to make this summer, we feel we've been able to add scoring and offense from the wing position," GM Glen Sather said. "Following the arbitration process and subsequent award given, we feel it is in our best interest to walk away and continue to explore all available options to improve our roster."
Analysis: It's very surprising that a NHL team hasn't swooped in to sign Zherdev, who has managed two straight 20-goal, 30-assist seasons. It's not like the 24-year-old forward is on the decline either. His career seems to be on the rise. Zherdev is trying to use the threat of playing overseas to get a long-term deal, but he might have to sign a one-year contract if he wants to stay in the NHL. With an uncertain future, Zherdev remains a risky Fantasy selection Draft Day.
News: NHL.com reports the Rangers have exercised its right to walk away from the arbitrator's award to right winger Nikolai Zherdev, thereby allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent. "With the additions we've been able to make this summer, we feel we've been able to add scoring and offense from the wing position," Rangers GM Glen Sather said. "Following the arbitration process and subsequent award given, we feel it is in our best interest to walk away and continue to explore all available options to improve our roster."
Analysis: The 24-year-old Zherdev had a pretty solid season with the Rangers, his first and only with the team after being picked up in a summer 2008 trade with the Blue Jackets. Zherdev totaled 23 goals and 58 points in 82 games. It was his third 20-goal campaign and second straight 20-goal, 30-assist season. Now that Zherdev is on the open market, he can sign with whatever NHL team he chooses or perhaps go overseas. That's where this situation gets troubling. Zherdev could attract offers from the KHL and remains a risky Fantasy flier until he signs with a NHL squad. If that happens, he will return to being a viable No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports two players tied for the team scoring lead in the 2008-09 regular season for the Rangers. The first, Scott Gomez, was traded to Montreal in late June to clear salary-cap space. The other, Nikolai Zherdev, also is all but out on Broadway for financial reasons. Zherdev, the 24-year-old winger obtained from Columbus last summer in a deal for top blue-line prospect Fedor Tyutin, is expected to be awarded more than his $3.25 million qualifying offer in salary arbitration later this summer. The Rangers, who recently signed free-agent wingers Marian Gaborik and Ales Kotalik to multiyear deals, appear prepared to "walk away" from Zherdev's arbitration ruling after the in-and-out winger followed up a 58-point regular season with a pointless showing in a seven-game loss in the first round to Washington.
Analysis: The longer Zherdev waits to find a new team, the more Fantasy owners need to worry. But someone should be able to use a 20-goal, 60-point threat like Zherdev. He has been at 20-goals, 30-assists the last two seasons, so it's not like he is on the decline of his career. However, he does have the option of playing overseas. Zherdev will be a viable Fantasy flier if he returns to the NHL in 2009-10, but we continue to play the waiting game in the meantime.
News: The New York Post reports Rangers GM Glen Sather said Saturday that the Rangers have extended $3.25 million qualifying offer to restricted free agent Nikolai Zherdev. "I don't know whether he is going to accept it, though; I can't get an answer from his agent," Sather said of the winger who went scoreless in the final seven games of the regular season and then failed to register a point in the playoffs. "Nik played very well at times, but he has to become more consistent and a little more determined."
Analysis: Zherdev has threatened to play in Russia if he doesn't get the right deal, but by the Rangers extending an offer they get to keep his rights in the event he does leave the NHL. Zherdev's name has also been mentioned in trade rumors to Ottawa involving Dany Heatley. Although, Ottawa GM Bryan Murray isn't happy with the Rangers' total package, which also involves defenseman Michal Rozsival. Aside from the disappearing act down the stretch, Zherdev totaled 23 goals and 58 points in 82 games with the Rangers. It was his first year with the team after being picked up in a trade from Columbus. Zherdev has been a consistent 20-goal, 30-assist guy the last two seasons. If he does return to the NHL in 2009-10, he will be worth a look as a No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News:Nikolai Zherdev had a goal and an assist, and the New York Rangers moved into a sixth-place tie in the Eastern Conference by defeating the Minnesota Wild 2-1 on Tuesday. Zherdev gave New York its seventh straight 1-0 lead when he beat the first-period clock and then helped set up Scott Gomez's second-period tally that snapped a tie and sent the Rangers (39-27-8) to their eighth win in 11 games. Zherdev's shot was stopped by Niklas Backstrom, but Zherdev gained the rebound near the left post. Backstrom was down on his right side as Zherdev waited with the puck on his stick. As Backstrom waved his gloved hand in the air, trying to provide a miniature golf-like impediment, Zherdev calmly waited for an opening and found a small one under the goalie's arm with 4.4 seconds left in the first for his 22nd goal.
Analysis: Zherdev has three goals in his last four games. He has managed a second straight 20-30 season in his first year with the Rangers and it appears he will be a vital scoring option down the stretch. Zherdev is worth a look as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Rangers RW Nikolai Zherdev scored the go-ahead goal with 6:22 left to give the Rangers their first three-game winning streak since Jan. 10-16, beating the Bruins 4-3 on Sunday. Zherdev netted the winner against Manny Fernandez, who got caught out of position while chasing Marc Staal's shot that went wide. The puck slid past the left post and caromed off the end boards and out the right side to Zherdev, who scored his 19th goal into the open net. "For whatever reason, I overplayed it and it comes back to bite me," Fernandez said.
Analysis: Zherdev now has 50 points on the season and has scored in three straight games, compiling five points with three goals and two assists over those three games. Perhaps new coach John Tortorella is getting Zherdev back on the right track. He can be a viable Fantasy option when he is clicking on all cylinders.
News: Rangers RW Nikolai Zherdev scored, tallied an assist and finished at plus-2 during Thursday's game against the Islanders. Zherdev, who earned a roughing penalty along with the Islanders' Trent Hunter, did more damage earlier with his 18th goal. Zherdev picked off Tim Jackman's clearing attempt and snapped a wrist shot from the right-circle dot that beat Yann Danis inside the right post at 8:33.
Analysis: Zherdev has two goals, two assists and a plus-5 rating in his last two games. Zherdev was highly-productive for the Rangers through December, but his offensive game hit a tailspin as soon as the calendar turned to 2009. However, the Rangers have won big in their last two games and Zherdev has contributed in both outings. Perhaps new coach John Tortorella is getting Zherdev back on the right track. He can be a viable Fantasy option when he is clicking on all cylinders.
News:Ryan Callahan and Nikolai Zherdev scored in the first 68 seconds, and the Rangers rolled to a 6-1 victory over the Colorado Avalanche on Saturday. Zherdev doubled the lead at 1:08 when he took a pass in front and pinballed the puck off the skate of defenseman Ruslan Salei on the Rangers' third shot. He also added an assist and finished at plus-3.
Analysis: Zherdev was highly-productive for the Rangers through December, but his offensive game hit a tailspin as soon as the calendar turned to 2009. He has just five goals and eight assists in his last 25 games. Hopefully, new coach John Tortorella can get Zherdev's game going since he can be a viable Fantasy option.
News: Rangers RW Nikolai Zherdev scored his 16th goal of the season Sunday in a loss to the Flyers.
Analysis: Zherdev leads the Rangers with 44 points and has pretty much been one of their best all-around players in 2008-09. He is going to get ample scoring chances down the stretch, but 30 goals is going to be a reach. Consider Zherdev more of a No. 4 Fantasy forward to start when he is on a roll or has favorable matchups.
News:Nikolai Zherdev had both goals for the Rangers during Friday's 10-2 loss to the Stars. The Rangers opened the scoring at 3:35 of the opening period when Zherdev banked a shot off the back of goalie Marty Turco's pads on a wraparound. Zherdev pulled the Rangers to 3-2 on the power play at 3:15 of the second period, again banking the puck off Turco's pads. Zherdev, who has 15 goals, scored just once in his previous 16 games.
Analysis: Zherdev still leads the Rangers with 43 points and has pretty much been one of their best all-around players in 2008-09. He is going to get ample scoring chances down the stretch, but 30 goals is going to be a reach. Consider Zherdev more of a No. 4 Fantasy forward to start when he is on a roll or has favorable matchups.
News: Rangers RW Nikolai Zherdev assisted in Tuesday's win over the Hurricanes, giving him 40 points on the season.
Analysis: Zherdev has gone 13 games without a goal after scoring four times in nine games at the beginning of December. That's not going to please his Fantasy owners, who must have been ecstatic when the Russian looked like a point-per-game earlier this season. Now they're begging for a goal from him. Bench Zherdev in 10-team leagues until he shows some signs of life.
News: The New York Post reports that RW Nikolai Zherdev and his agent are in discussions with management to remain a member of the Rangers. "This is where I want to be," Zherdev said. "I don't want to play in Russia next year. I want to stay here and play in the NHL, in New York, with the Rangers. I'm very happy here. I like the team. I like the guys. I like living here. Everything is good."
Analysis: This news is great for Zherdev's owners in keeper leagues, as the Rangers are one of the better teams in the league and the Russian has played pretty well since arriving in the Big Apple. He remains a solid starting forward in most Fantasy formats.
News: Rangers RW Nikolai Zherdev was awarded a goal Tuesday when Chris Pronger tripped him while the Russian was trying to score on an empty net.
Analysis: Zherdev's points have come in spurts this season, and he now has six points in his last three games. His 31 points put him on pace to eclipse his 61 from last season, and Zherdev is worth starting in most Fantasy leagues right now.
News:Nikolai Zherdev had a goal and three assists for the Rangers during a 8-5 loss to the Devils Friday. Zherdev had a goal and assist 2:36 apart -- setting up Scott Gomez's goal at 18:22 of the second after Gomez assisted on his tally. He had his first multi-point game in seven outings.
Analysis: Zherdev has three multi-point games in his last 10 games and 13 points (three goals) in that span. He has been quite the offseason addition for the Rangers and has developed into a nice No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports so much for that top-heavy first line. Rangers coach Tom Renney has scrapped the idea of aligning high-scoring wingers Markus Naslund and Nikolai Zherdev with No. 1 center Scott Gomez, especially after that potentially explosive trio combined for a minus-10 rating in a blowout loss Thursday in Montreal. Thus, those three skill players were spread across three lines Sunday against Calgary. And Renney expects to stick with his current alignments for the foreseeable future, including Wednesday's visit to Atlanta. "There's a defensive concern there, but I don't think it's something I wouldn't come back to," Renney said before the Rangers sacrificed offense for defense in a 3-0 loss to Calgary. "What I want to do... maybe for the next couple of games, is get some defensive traction."
Analysis: It would have been nice to see Naslund, Zherdev and Gomez give a jolt to the Rangers' offense, but Renney will not sacrifice defense for the improvement on offense. Zherdev is having an excellent first season with New York, while Gomez and Naslund have played a little sluggish. All three players still have high-end Fantasy potential, so don't give up yet.
News: Rangers RW Nikolai Zherdev had three assists in Monday's 4-1 win over Phoenix. He has four assists in his last two games.
Analysis: Zherdev is starting to get back on track after going three straight games without a point. He has gotten his 20 points in streaks this season, but is still averaging near a point per game. He has emerged as a high-end Fantasy forward.
News:Michal Rozsival and Nikolai Zherdev scored during two-man advantages in New York's four-goal second period, and the Rangers routed Kevin Weekes and the Martin Brodeur-lessNew Jersey Devils 5-2 on Wednesday night. Zherdev added New York's second 5-on-3 goal with 4:10 left in the second period to make it 4-1. Zherdev added his second of the night 9:51 into the third against backup goalie Scott Clemmensen. It was his first scores in six games.
Analysis: Zherdev had just two points in his first five November games after ending October with a four-game point streak (3 G, 4 A). He has gotten his 16 points in streaks this season, but the fact remains he still is almost averaging a point-per-game. Zherdev has emerged as a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Rangers RW Nikolai Zherdev tallied a pair of assists and finished at plus-1 during Thursday's game against the Lightning. He also took four shots on net and spent two minutes in the penalty box. Zherdev has three multi-point games in his last seven outings and nine points total (three goals) in that span.
Analysis: Zherdev was recently realigned with Brandon Dubinsky and Aaron Voros on the second line, but no matter who he plays with, he seems to be thriving in New York. Zherdev remains a high-end Fantasy option as long as he stays red hot.
News:Nikolai Zherdev had a goal and assist in the third period, and the New York Rangers fought off the slumping Atlanta Thrashers 3-2 Thursday. Zherdev gave the Rangers a 2-1 lead with a power-play goal early in the third period and then helped set up Dan Girardi's winner with 6:27 left to give New York its fourth straight win. Markus Naslund also scored for the Rangers, who have won 10 of 13 (10-2-1). With the game tied at 2, Zherdev shot the puck through the crease on a wraparound try. Girardi scored the winner on the putback.
Analysis: Zherdev extended his points streak to four games. He has three goals and four assists in that span. Zherdev was recently realigned with Brandon Dubinsky and Aaron Voros on the second line, but no matter who he plays with, he seems to be thriving in New York. Zherdev remains a high-end Fantasy option as long as he stays red hot.
News: LoHud.com reports that Rangers coach Tom Renney has switched up his lines for Thursday night's game against the Thrashers. Scott Gomez will center Markus Naslund and Chris Drury on the top line, while Brandon Dubinsky will center Aaron Voros and Nikolai Zherdev reuniting as the PlayStation line on the second scoring unit. The third line will consist of Dan Fritsche centering Nigel Dawes and Ryan Callahan, while the fourth line will be Fredrik Sjostrom, Blair Betts and Colton Orr.
Analysis: This move by Renney isn't anything too drastic Fantasy-wise, although Ryan Callahan and Nigel Dawes drop off the scoring lines. They only have minimal Fantasy value anyway. Naslund, Gomez and Zherdev remains solid starts in all formats, while this move might help Drury get back involved, so he has some value as a mid-level starting Fantasy forward. Voros is the only other guy with any Fantasy value, and his lies only in deeper leagues.
News: Some people in Columbus said Nikolai Zherdev was a malcontent, or that he was selfish. They said he dogged it in games and was a bad teammate. He looked pretty good on Friday night. Zherdev had a successful return to Columbus with a goal and two assists to lead his new team, the New York Rangers, to a 3-1 victory over the Blue Jackets. "It was a good team win," Zherdev said. "I was just happy to score." With Columbus controlling the puck for much of the third period, Zherdev took a deflection off of Markus Naslund's pass to Chris Drury and lifted a shot high into the net for his third goal of the season and a 3-1 lead with 6:12 remaining. His third-period goal prompted a mixture of boos and cheers from a crowd of 14,724. That didn't upset Zherdev one bit. "Yes, that's OK," he said with a smile.
Analysis: Zherdev, the third-leading scorer in Blue Jackets franchise history, was traded after four up-and-down seasons along with Dan Fritsche for defensemen Fedor Tyutin and Christian Backman on July 2. Zherdev said it was a relief to get the Columbus trip out of the way. "Yes. Because tomorrow is next game and a new game," he said. Zherdev posted his first points in five games and now has eight points in his first 10 games with New York. The move north hasn't hindered Zherdev's burgeoning offensive skills and he remains a decent No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Rangers RW Nikolai Zherdev, obtained from Columbus in the offseason to help offset the offensive loss of Jaromir Jagr and others, posted his second straight multi-point game with a goal and an assist in a 4-3 win Saturday in Philadelphia.
Analysis: The Rangers lucked out by nabbing Zherdev in a trade with Columbus and intend to treat him as a top-six forward all season. He is currently on the second line with Brandon Dubinsky, but Zherdev remains a nice No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward as he looks to build off a career-high 61 points he set last season.
News: Rangers RW Nikolai Zherdev put Friday's game against the Blackhawks away when he snapped in a shot off passes from Aaron Voros and Brandon Dubinsky to make it a two-goal game with 10:27 left. The Rangers won 4-2 as Zherdev scored his first goal and finished at plus-2.
Analysis: The Rangers lucked out by nabbing Zherdev in a trade with Columbus and intend to treat him as a top-six forward all season. He is currently on the second line with Dubinsky, but Zherdev remains a nice No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward as he looks to build off a career-high 61 points he set last season.
News: The Blue Jackets traded enigmatic RW Nikolai Zherdev and C Dan Fritsche to the New York Rangers for D Christian Backman and D Fedor Tyutin on Wednesday.
Analysis: Zherdev put up a career-high 61 points last season. He was only owned in 32 percent of leagues at the beginning of the year, but finished the campaign owned in a solid 87 percent. He is a solid low-end starting forward in most formats and could have an even better season in 2008-09. Tyutin is a decent young blue-liner, but shouldn't be drafted except in the deepest of formats. Fritsche put up only 22 points last season and should continue to be ignored in all leagues. Finally, Backman has never been much of an offensive producer in his four full NHL seasons, so ignore him too. All in all, Zherdev is the only one worth worrying about in this deal.
News:Nikolai Zherdev scored his 25th goal for the Blue Jackets, who recorded only 17 shots but beat the Detroit Red Wings for the third straight time, 4-3, on Sunday. Rick Nash added two assists for Columbus, who set a franchise record with 75 points.
Analysis: Zherdev was only owned in 32 percent of leagues at the beginning of this season, but now is owned in a solid 87 percent. That tells you all you need to know about his performance this campaign. A reliable Fantasy contributor, Zherdev is a solid low-end starting forward in most formats.
News: Blue Jackets RW Nikolai Zherdev set a new single-season career-best point total and went over the 30-assist mark for the first time in his four-year career Sunday when he helped out twice in a 4-3 loss to the Oilers. He now has 31 assists and 55 points on the season.
Analysis: Zherdev was only owned in 32 percent of leagues at the beginning of this season, but now is owned in a solid 87 percent. That tells you all you need to know about his performance this campaign. He has improved his plus/minus rating by 15 points and is only three goals behind his best total of 27. A reliable Fantasy contributor, Zherdev is a solid low-end starting forward in most formats.
News:Nikolai Zherdev had the only goal for the Blue Jackets, which started the night three points out of a playoff spot in the West. Zherdev beat Vesa Toskala with a quick shot after taking a pass from Michael Peca at 15:43, but Columbus lost 3-1 to Toronto. Columbus barely threatened during the final two periods and head to Ottawa for a game Thursday before visiting Montreal on Saturday.
Analysis: Zherdev, who has 24 goals, is one of only three Columbus player with more than 10 goals; Rick Nash has 31 goals amd Jason Chimera 11. He is a pretty reliable player and should be started in most Fantasy formats.
News:Nikolai Zherdev scored his 23rd goal and had an assist and the Columbus Jackets beat the Red Wings 5-1 on Friday night, handing NHL-leading Detroit its fifth-straight loss. Zherdev has an assist in each of the last three games.
Analysis: Zherdev has 23 goals and 27 assist for Columbus this season. He is a steady player and should be started in most Fantasy formats.
News:Jason Chimera and Nikolai Zherdev scored early in the first period to lead the Columbus Blue Jackets to a 2-1 win over the Phoenix Coyotes on Thursday night. Zherdev picked up his 22nd of the season on a rebound at 9:09 during a 5-on-3 power play. The goal gave Columbus a 2-0 lead.
Analysis: The win was the Jackets' third straight over Phoenix and moved Columbus to within one point of Phoenix in the race for a playoff spot. Zherdev has 22 goals and 24 assist for Columbus this season. He is a steady player and should be started in most Fantasy formats.
News: Blue Jackets RW Nikolai Zherdev tallied three assists Tuesday in a 4-2 win over the Dallas Stars.
Analysis: Zherdev is now only 11 points behind his career-best season of 54 points and appears well on his way to setting a new mark this season. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy forward at the moment.
News:Nikolai Zherdev notched the only goal for Columbus on Saturday in the 3-1 loss to Dallas. The Blue Jackets cut the deficit to 2-1 with 11.4 seconds remaining in the second period on Zherdev's power-play goal from the left circle, his 20th of the season. But that was all the Jackets were able to muster.
Analysis: Zherdev is having a fine season with 20 goals and 20 assists for the season. Consider Zherdev a No. 3 Fantasy forward at the moment.
News: Blue Jackets RW Nikolai Zherdev tallied a goal and assist Tuesday in a 3-2 win over the Vancouver Canucks. Zherdev now has five points in his last three games.
Analysis: Zherdev is having a nice season with 18 goals and 38 points in 46 games. He's averaging 3.3 Fantasy points over the last seven weeks, after averaging only 1.7 in his first nine weeks this season. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy forward at the moment.
News: RW Nikolai Zherdev scored the lone shootout goal and set up the tying goal in regulation to help Columbus end a 12-game losing streak against the Nashville Predators with a 2-1 victory Saturday. "Right now, this is a lot of games in a row where he's stepped up and made good account of himself when we've need him the most," coach Ken Hitchcock said of the 23-year old Russian. Zherdev also scored twice in the third period to help Columbus beat St. Louis 6-4 on Friday.
Analysis: Zherdev has 17 goals this season after scoring just 10 in 71 games a year ago. He had been shuffled to the second line with Jason Chimera and Jiri Novotny, and his game began to suffer somewhat. He is still worth a look as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Columbus RW Nikolai Zherdev was back on the ice Friday after being sidelined with a quad injury and scored two goals in the 6-4 win over St. Louis. They are his first points in five January games. He has 17 goals this season after scoring just 10 in 71 games a year ago.
Analysis: Zherdev had been shuffled to the second line with Jason Chimera and Jiri Novotny, and his game began to suffer somewhat. He is still worth a look as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Blue Jackets RW Nikolai Zherdev left Tuesday's game against the Blues with an apparent right quad injury.
Analysis: Zherdev doesn't have a point in four January games after such a solid December. He scored eight goals and added seven assists in 14 games. Zherdev had been shuffled to the second line with Jason Chimera and Jiri Novotny, and his game began to suffer somewhat. He is still worth a look as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Blue Jackets RW Nikolai Zherdev tallied two assists and finished at plus-2 during Monday's game against the Oilers. This comes a game after he scored two goals and added two assists against the Hurricanes on Saturday. He now has three goals and six assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Zherdev had an impressive December with eight goals and seven assists in 14 games. Zherdev has struck gold skating on the top line with Rick Nash and Michael Peca. He has looked his best in his four-year career and there is no doubt he can set a new career-high in points as long as he stays active. He has emerged as a viable No. 3 Fantasy forward at this time.
News:Nikolai Zherdev had a goal and an assist to help the Columbus Blue Jackets hand the Los Angeles Kings their sixth straight loss, 2-1 on Friday night. Zherdev broke a tie 37 seconds into the third period, redirecting Ron Hainsey's centering pass from the corner for his 13th goal. He now has six goals in December.
Analysis: Zherdev opened December with a goal in five straight games before being shutout in three straight games coming into Friday. Perhaps he received the spark to ignite his offensive game once again. Zherdev has struck gold skating on the top line with Rick Nash and Michael Peca. He has looked his best in his four-year career and there is no doubt he can set a new career-high in points as long as he stays active. He has emerged as a viable No. 3 Fantasy forward at this time.
News:Nikolai Zherdev scored for Columbus during Saturday's 2-1 loss to the Wild, giving him four games in a row with a goal. It was his 11th goal in 29 games this season. He had 10 in 71 games a year ago.
Analysis: Zherdev has struck gold skating on the top line with Rick Nash and Michael Peca. He has looked his best in his four-year career and there is no doubt he can set a new career-high in points as long as he stays active. He has emerged as a viable No. 3 Fantasy forward at this time.
News:Rick Nash set up the regulation Columbus goal, stepping in to steal the puck from Hagman deep in the offensive zone. Nash then slid a pass into the slot where Nikolai Zherdev redirected it past Marty Turco for his ninth of the year Monday against Dallas.
Analysis: Zherdev only had 10 goals all last season and didn't score his ninth until Feb. 18. He is skating on the top line with Michael Peca and Rick Nash, and it is really paying off. He might have more opportunities for assists than goals, but remains a decent No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Columbus opened the scoring Saturday against the Flames at 8:20 of the first period when Michael Peca won a faceoff from Craig Conroy in the Flames zone and Nikolai Zherdev whipped a 40-foot wrist shot past Miikka Kiprusoff on his glove side. It was Zherdev's eighth goal this season and third in his last seven games.
Analysis: Zherdev has been playing strong since mid-November. He has three goals and five assists in his last eight games, that included a five-game points streak. He is skating on the top line with Michael Peca and Rick Nash, and it is really paying off. He might have more opportunities for assists than goals, but remains a decent No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Blue Jackets RW Nikolai Zherdev had an assist and finished at plus-1 during Friday's game against the Wild. He also spent two minutes in the penalty box for hooking. Zherdev has at least one point in four straight games. He has one goal and five assists in that span.
Analysis: The only other points streak Zherdev had this season was in the first two games when he totaled three assists. He is skating on the top line with Michael Peca and Rick Nash. He might have more opportunities for assists than goals, but remains a decent No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Blue Jackets RW Nikolai Zherdev scored a goal, finished at plus-1 and spent two minutes in the penalty box during Saturday's game against the Predators. He now has three goals in five games.
Analysis: Zherdev has 11 points in 16 games. As long as Zherdev is skating on one of the top two scoring lines and seeing power play time, he remains a decent No. 3 or No. 4 forward in all Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams.
News: Nikolai Zherdev tied Thursday's game at Anaheim on a power play with his third goal of the season. Zherdev skated down the right of the crease, beat Anaheim defenseman Sean O'Donnell to the rebound of Ron Hainsey's 50-foot slap shot and knocked the puck into the net behind Giguere at 3:46 of the period.
Analysis: As long as Zherdev is skating on one of the top two scoring lines and seeing power play time, he remains a decent starter in all Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams.
News: D Ole-Kristian Tollefsen and RW Nikolai Zherdev each posted a goal and plus-3 rating in Tuesday's game at Chicago.
Analysis: As long as Zherdev is skating on one of the top two scoring lines and seeing power play time, he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams. The Jackets are back in action on Thursday against the Blues.
News: Nikolai Zherdev scored an empty-net goal for the Blue Jackets during Friday's 3-0 win over the Sabres. He finished with a plus-1 rating and now has three points in his last two games (1 G, 2 A).
Analysis: Zherdev is off to a solid start this season and Fantasy owners would love nothing more if he can keep this great pace up. Playing alongside Rick Nash and Michael Peca, he will see some good opportunties. Zherdev remains useful as a No. 4 or 5 Fantasy forward in leagues of 12 or more teams at this point.
News: Nikolai Zherdev posted two assists and a plus-1 rating with two shots on goal in 19:31 of ice time in Wednesday's game against Dallas.
Analysis: Zherdev was skating on the team's top scoring line with Rick Nash and Michael Peca, who was recently promoted to the top unit. Zherdev remains useful as a No. 4 or 5 Fantasy forward in leagues of 12 or more teams at this point.
News: The Columbus Dispatch reports Nikolai Zherdev will not center the team's top scoring line after all. He was slated to skate with Rick Nash and David Vyborny, but will now apparently be back to a second line role after going scoreless in four preseason games at center.
Analysis: Zherdev was not thrilled with the position change when coach Ken Hitchcock and general manager Scott Howson floated the idea before the preseason and apparently he played with that same kind of enthusiasm. Still, he remains a dangerous offensive force, although his Fantasy appeal won't be nearly the same now that he is not skating with Nash and Vyborny, two prolific scorers.
News: TSN.ca is reporting Nikolai Zherdev will see time during the preseason centering a line consisting of Rick Nash and David Vyborny. "We're going to experiment with a line for the first week to 10 days of training camp that no one's seen before," Ken Hitchcock said. "It's not going to be cast in stone, but we've talked to the three players involved and we want to see how this looks on the ice."
Analysis: It appears that Zherdev is viewed in a lot more positive of a light with Hitchcock and general manager Scott Howson than the previous regime lead by Doug MacLean. Howson told Zherdev what he expected of him and what kind of shape the player needed to be in. Then Howson dropped a bomb on Zherdev. "We suggested it and he about fell off the back of his chair," Hitchcock said with a grin. This line will be first be on display in a home preseason game on Sunday against the Predators. Zherdev might be a nice sleeper in the middle rounds if he can stay on a line with such talented players.
News: Nikolai Zherdev (back) picked up an assist and minus-1 rating in 18:16 of ice time in Tuesday's game against the Blackhawks.
Analysis: Zherdev has been producing well on a line with All-Star Rick Nash and Geoff Platt. It appears safe to get him back in the active Fantasy lineup in daily leagues if you reserved him as a precaution.
News: The Columbus Dispatch reports Nikolai Zherdev was forced from practice early on Monday due to back spasms.
Analysis: Zherdev has been producing well on a line with All-Star Rick Nash and Geoff Platt, so hopefully he isn’t sidelined for too long. Consider him day to day for now.
News: Nikolai Zherdev picked up three assists to go along with a plus-2 rating in Saturday's game at Los Angeles.
Analysis: After a six-game scoreless stretch, Zherdev has managed two goals and five points over his past three games. He remains useful only in larger Fantasy leagues and keeper formats.
News: Blue Jackets RW Nikolai Zherdev scored two goals in Wednesday's 5-4 shootout win over Anaheim, his first two-goal game since the third game of the season, Oct. 9. For Zherdev, it marked his ninth and 10th goals in the 2006-07 season.
Analysis: Zherdev hasn't been much of a goal scorer this season after showing much promise last year on his way to 27 goals. He remains a low-end Fantasy option in deeper leagues at this time.
News: Two days after getting kicked out of practice by coach Ken Hitchcock, RW Nikolai Zherdev was back in the lineup for Wednesday's 4-2 loss to St. Louis. Zherdev started on the fourth line but drew ice time with scoring lines later in the game, finishing with 13 minutes and three shots on goal.
Analysis: Zherdev is not having the type of year he had hoped. He has just seven goals and 14 assists to go along with a nasty minus-19 rating. Now that he is skating on the fourth line, won't help his Fantasy value. He remains a low-end Fantasy option in deeper leagues at this time.
News: The Columbus Dispatch reports coach Ken Hitchcock mixed up his lines with the return of Nikolai Zherdev from a severe chest cold. Nikolai Zherdev joined Sergei Fedorov and Fredrik Modin on the top scoring line. Dan Fritsch is centering the second line with Rick Nash and David Vyborny.
Analysis: The third line consists of Anson Carter-Jason Chimera-Alexander Svitov and the checking line is made up of Gilbert Brule-Manny Malhotra-Jody Shelley. Zherdev appears over his chest cold and he is once again useful as a No. 5 or 6 Fantasy forward in larger leagues.
News: Nikolai Zherdev (chest cold) was able to play in Thursday's game against the Flames. He picked up an assist and plus-1 rating in 14:36 of ice time.
Analysis: Zherdev is only worth a look in larger Fantasy leagues and long-term keeper formats at this point. He has really struggled under Ken Hitchcock's system.
News: Zherdev (flu) is not listed in the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Coyotes, according to NHL.com.
Analysis: Zherdev was able to ride a stationary bike for 50 minutes on Monday, according to the Columbus Dispatch, so that is a good sign. The team is bringing him back slowly, so keep him out.
News: RW Nikolai Zherdev sat out Friday's game in Calgary, and the Blue Jackets are worried that his illness is more serious than just a flu/chest cold. Zherdev will undergo a battery of tests when the Blue Jackets return to Columbus.
Analysis: It is probably best to keep Zherdev reserved in all Fantasy leagues for the upcoming scoring period (Feb. 5-11). Don't return him to active Fantasy lineups until the Blue Jackets give him a clean bill of health. When healthy, he is a decent low-end Fantasy option.
News: The Columbus Dispatch reports Nikolai Zherdev will not play on Friday at Calgary due to the flu. "He woke up [Thursday] morning and felt awful, so he went back to his room," coach Ken Hitchcock said.
Analysis: Zenon Konopka is likely to take his roster spot. Keep him reserved in all larger leagues for Fantasy Week 19 (Feb. 5-11) if you have more certain alternatives.
News: Nikolai Zherdev (flu) scored the winning shootout goal with a wrist shot off Roberto Luongo's glove, lifting the Columbus Blue Jackets to a 3-2 victory over the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday night.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Zherdev back into the active Fantasy lineup in all larger leagues. Perhaps this will spur him on and give him offensive confidence going forward.
News: Nikolai Zherdev missed Saturday's game against the Wild due to the flu. Recently acquired Zenon Konopka was recalled from Syracuse of the AHL to take his place.
Analysis: Zherdev is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all larger Fantasy leagues if you have more certain alternatives heading into the upcoming scoring period.
News: Nikolai Zherdev was a healthy scratch in Friday's game before the All-Star break. He has really struggled with new coach Ken Hitchcock’s system.
Analysis: Zherdev has just one goal, eight points and a minus-15 rating over the past 21 games. He remains useful only in the largest of Fantasy leagues and keeper formats at this point.
News: Nikolai Zherdev was scoreless with a minus-2 rating with a shot on goal in 17:42 of ice time in Friday's game at Nashville.
Analysis: Zherdev has managed a goal and four points over the past four games. He is still a far way from re-emerging as a must-start in anything but the largest of Fantasy leagues.
News: Nikolai Zherdev has managed no goals and just two assists with a minus-10 rating in the past 13 games, as the Columbus Dispatch reports he is having difficult adjusting to the system of new coach Ken Hitchcock. "It’s very difficult for me, a new style," Zherdev said. "I played different hockey before. (The coaches) have put certain goals in front of me, and I’m trying to achieve them right now."
Analysis: Hitchcock intimated that the team is willing to be patient with the talented youngster, but he remains useful only in larger Fantasy leagues right now until he re-gains his deft scoring touch.
News: Nikolai Zherdev (shoulder) returned to the lineup for Tuesday's game at Dallas. He was scoreless with four shots on goal in 13:08 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Zherdev back into the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues.
News: Nikolai Zherdev (shoulder) missed another game on Sunday against Ottawa and he remains questionable for Tuesday's game at Dallas.
Analysis: Zherdev is considered day to day. Keep him sidelined in all leagues heading into Fantasy Week 11 (Dec. 11-17) until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Blue Jackets RW Nikolai Zherdev (shoulder) did not play Saturday against the Blues.
Analysis: Zherdev should be kept reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health. He has six goals and 12 points through the first 22 games.
News: The Columbus Dispatch reports that Nikolai Zherdev, who was out for the past two games due to an "upper body injury", is nursing a sore shoulder and is considered day to day.
Analysis: Zherdev should be kept reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health. He has six goals and 12 points through the first 22 games.
News: Nikolai Zherdev (upper body injury) missed Tuesday's game at Colorado. He was able to skate on Monday, however, which is a good sign. "He’s not ready. He’s still sore and tentative," coach Ken Hitchcock told the Columbus Dispatch.
Analysis: Keep Zherdev reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: The Columbus Dispatch reports Nikolai Zherdev was scratched from the lineup on Saturday at Edmonton due to an "upper body injury."
Analysis: The report did not get into the severity of the injury or how long he is expected to miss. Be cautious and keep him reserved for Fantasy Week 10 (Dec. 4-10) until his situation becomes more clear.
News: The Columbus Post-Dispatch reports Anson Carter is skating on the team's top scoring line along with Sergei Fedorov and Nikolai Zherdev.
Analysis: Zherdev has managed five points (2 G, 3 A) and a plus-4 rating over the past five games. He is a solid No. 4 or 5 Fantasy forward in most leagues.
News: The Columbus Dispatch reports head coach Gerard Gallant shook up his lines in practice on Tuesday, pairing Anson Carter with Sergei Fedorov and Nikolai Zherdev on the top scoring unit.
Analysis: Zherdev has been solid, but not great so far this season. He has four goals and three assists with a minus-2 rating through 10 games. He remains useful in all Fantasy leagues of 10 or more teams.
News: Nikolai Zherdev scored a goal on Friday to help the Blue Jackets end a four-game losing skid in a 2-0 win over the Kings. He finished with a plus-1 rating and took three shots on net.
Analysis: Zherdev now has four goals and one assist on the season. Zherdev has steadily improved his point total through two full seasons in the NHL. He had 34 points as a rookie and 54 points last season. He could post even better point totals this season. Be careful though of his plus/minus rating. Playing for the Blue Jackets he has been on the minus-side in his two years in the league. Outside of that, he is a decent No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: The Jackets shuffled their lines to get Nikolai Zherdev on the ice Monday. Zherdev joined LW Fredrik Modin and C Alexander Svitov on the No. 2 line, bumping RW Anson Carter to the No. 3 line with LW Jason Chimera and C Manny Malhotra. C/RW Dan Fritsche (shoulder), who had skated with Chimera and Malhotra, replaced Brule on the fourth line between LW Jody Shelley and RW Jaroslav Balastik.
Analysis: Carter will be hard-pressed to duplicate the numbers he produced in Vancouver -- especially from the third line. Use him only as a reserve in deeper leagues.
News: Nikolai Zherdev (visa problems) was able to make his regular season debut in Monday's game against the Coyotes after clearing up his visa problems. He scored two goals and had a plus-1 rating with five shots on goal in 16:26 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Zherdev back into the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues, as there was no rust at all. He obviously made an immediate impact for the Jackets and the Fantasy owners who rolled the dice that he would be ready.
News: The Columbus Dispatch reports Nikolai Zherdev had the paperwork for his visa issues cleared up on Friday and he will have a physical on Sunday.
Analysis: Zherdev might be ready for Monday's game against the Coyotes. Consider keeping him on reserved until he can officially play and shake off any possible rust.
News: In the wake of his three-year, $7.5 million contract, the Blue Jackets say they'll expect more from Nikolai Zherdev this season, including in the dressing room. "We need him to be a better teammate," president and general manager Doug MacLean said. The club is insisting that Zherdev learn better English, interact with teammates and reach out in the community. On the ice, they won't allow any corners to be cut. Gallant plans to blow the whistle if Zherdev's not 100 percent into it.
Analysis: Zherdev will likely skate on the team's second line and has 50-60 point potential if he can stay healthy for the full season. He remains one of the top young forwards in the NHL.
News: Nikolai Zherdev signed a three-year contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday, ending a bitter contract squabble. An injury to Sergei Fedorov (shoulder) might have lit a fire under general manager Doug MacLean to get things done.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in keeper leagues are breathing a sigh of relief, as one of the most talented young forwards in the NHL is back under contract. He will likely skate on the team's second line and has 50-60 point potential if he can stay healthy for the full season.
News: Nikolai Zherdev is expected to miss a minimum of 10 days due to a sprained knee. "We’ll see how it goes," general manager Doug MacLean told the Columbus Dispatch. "(Trainer Chris Mizer) is saying 10 days, but you never really know. He could be back before the end of the season."
Analysis: Zherdev should be reserved in all Fantasy leagues, as it is possible that he will be sidelined for the remainder of the season. He is only worth hanging onto as a reserve in keeper leagues at this point.
News: Nikolai Zherdev scored a goal and added an assist with a minus-1 rating and five shots on goal in Sunday's game against the Ducks in 20:43 of ice time.
Analysis: Zherdev has 12 points (7 G, 5 A) over the past 12 games. He has emerged as a solid Fantasy option in most weekly leagues.
News: Zikolai Zherdev picked up an assist with a minus-1 rating in Wednesday's game at Chicago.
Analysis: Zherdev has 10 points (6 G, 4 A) and a plus-2 rating over the past nine games. He is an outstanding keeper prospect if you need help for the future.
News: Nikolai Zherdev scored a goal in Sunday's game at Anaheim with six shots on goal in 23:10 of ice time.
Analysis: Zherdev has posted seven goals over the past nine games, as he has really emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues this season. He is also a top keeper prospect.
News: Nikolai Zherdev has a team-high 19 goals along with 20 assists and a minus-15 rating with 38 penalty minutes through 57 games at the Olympic Games break.
Analysis: Zherdev continues to adjust to the North American game and is doing very well. He is on pace for 27 goals, 28 assists and 55 points. This guy has emerged as an outstanding keeper prospect in all formats, but be wary of his awful plus/minus rating.
News: Nikolai Zherdev was scoreless on Wednesday's game against Los Angeles with a minus-1 rating in 17:40 of ice time.
Analysis: Zherdev had scored in three straight games heading into Wednesday's game and the Jackets posted seven goals in the win. Unfortunately for his Fantasy owners, Zherdev was not among the scoring parade.
News: Nikolai Zherdev scored a goal and added an assist and minus-1 with eight shots on goal in 18:27 of ice time in Tuesday's game against the Canucks.
Analysis: Zherdev has posted nine points (4 G, 5 A) and a minus-2 rating over the past eight games. He remains a solid No. 4 or 5 Fantasy wing in most formats.
News: Nikolai Zherdev scored a goal and had a plus-1 rating in Wednesday's game against the Penguins.
Analysis: Zherdev has been productive recently, posting 10 points (4 G, 6 A) and a plus-2 rating over the past 11 games. He remains an outstanding keeper prospect, but can also be helpful in weekly leagues when the matchup is favorable.
News: Nikolai Zherdev scored a goal and added an assist in Thursday's game at Detroit. He also had a plus-1 with two shots on goal in 16:23 of ice time.
Analysis: Zherdev has posted six points (5 G, 1 A) over the past seven games. He is a solid keeper prospect, as he continues to get better and better.
News: Nikolai Zherdev scored a goal on three shots on goal in 16:09 of ice time in Thursday's game against the Islanders.
Analysis: The Ukranian entered Thursday's game with just one goal and one assist over his past 10 games, so the goal was very calming for his impatient Fantasy owners. He is still worth a roster spot in larger Fantasy leagues and those which allow keepers, but keep him reserved in all leagues of 12 teams or less until he starts playing more consistently.
News: Nikolai Zherdev was recalled from Syracuse of the AHL on Monday.
Analysis: The youngster was sent down to the minors to stay fresh, since the club had a week between games. He remains an outstanding keeper prospect in all leagues.
News: Nikolai Zherdev was one of a group of seven players assigned to Syracuse of the AHL on Friday. The move is not so much a demotion as it is a chance to keep the young players fresh, since the Blue Jackets do not skate again until Thursday against the Islanders. "It's simply a situation with a week off, and with us not skating due to all of our bumps and bruises, we wanted to keep them playing," general manager Doug MacLean said. "We'll recall the guys again on Monday."
Analysis: Zherdev will be back in the lineup for the upcoming week with the Blue Jackets, so don't consider this a bad thing. However, with a limited amount of games, you might want to keep him and all Blue Jackets reserved in cumulative leagues.
News: Nikolai Zherdev had a pair of assists in Wednesday's game against the Blues. He also posted a plus-2 rating with one shot on goal in 13:37 of ice time.
Analysis: Since scooting up to the team's top scoring line, Zherdev has five points (2 G, 3 A) in two games. He is replacing Rick Nash on the No. 1 line alongside Jan Hrdina and David Vyborny.
News: Nikolai Zherdev will slide up to the top scoring line alongside Jan Hrdina and David Vyborny with Rick Nash (knee) sidelined until at least late November or early December.
Analysis: Zherdev is finally starting to show signs of life recently after a sluggish start.
News: Nikolai Zherdev had a pair of assists in Thursday's preseason win against the Red Wings.
Analysis: Zherdev might be a surprising player in his first full year with the Blue Jackets. With the dispute with the IIHF well behind him, look for the fantastic keeper prospect to emerge as a must-start by season's end.
News: Zherdev was deemed eligible to remain with the Blue Jackets by an arbitrator on Thursday. He will not have to return to Russia for military obligations.
Analysis: Zherdev is an outstanding prospect in most Fantasy leagues which hold players over.
News: Nikolai Zherdev scored a goal in Saturday's game against Colorado.
Analysis: It was Zherdev's first game since traveling to Switzerland for a meeting with IIHF officials to determine if he is eligible to play in North America. He will remain in the lineup until the federation makes a ruling.
News: Nikolai Zherdev will miss at least three games, as he has flown to Switzerland for arbitration proceedings on Thursday and Friday to determine if he is eligible to play in North America.
Analysis: Keep Zherdev reserved in all Fantasy leagues until a decision is handed down by the International Ice Hockey Federation.
News: The Columbus Dispatch reports a Feb. 26 date has been set for a hearing to determine if under International Ice Hockey Federation rules, Nikolai Zherdev is free to play in North America.
Analysis: The team remains confident he will remain with them for the remainder of the season, but keep in mind the promising young player might be forced to sit for the remaining 17 games, as well.
News: Nikolai Zherdev picked up a goal and assist in 11:40 of ice time in Saturday's Young Stars game in St. Paul, Minn.
Analysis: Zherdev and the Columbus Blue Jackets have a bright future playing with All-Star and NHL leading goal scorer Rick Nash and the newly-acquired Alexander Svitov.
News: Nikolai Zherdev (groin) was able to play on Thursday night against Nashville. He had an assist and minus-1 rating in 15:20 of ice time.
Analysis: It appears safe to keep Zherdev active in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Nikolai Zherdev left Tuesday's game against New Jersey after being hit in the groin in the third period.
Analysis: Zherdev is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in larger daily Fantasy leagues.
