News:James Neal notched three points in Wednesday's Game 4 win over the Senators.
Analysis:James Neal recorded two goals and an assist as the flood gates opened for the Pens in a 7-3 dismantling of Ottawa.
News:James Neal (ankle) will play Tuesday against the Islanders.
Analysis: As will Brooks Orpik, as both players made it through pre-game warmups without incident.
News:James Neal (ankle) was on the ice for warmups prior to Tuesday's game against the Islanders, Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: As was Brooks Orpik, as the Penguins as a team are getting healthy at a very opportune time as the postseason progresses.
News:James Neal (ankle) practiced for the second straight day and will likely play Tuesday night.
Analysis: He saw time on the team's top power-play unit. In five regular-season contests, James Neal scored three goals and six points against the Islanders. The Pens have already delivered on six out of 13 power-play opportunities in the playoffs. and adding Neal gives them yet another option.
News:James Neal (ankle) participated in the team's optional practice Monday.
Analysis: This is a good sign for the Pens obviously, but it doesn't mean James Neal will definitely be in the lineup Tuesday against the Islanders. If he suits up, the winger could put up some big numbers on the power play with Sidney Crosby now healthy.
News:James Neal (ankle) attempted to practice Saturday but left after roughly 10 minutes into warmups, the team's official website reports.
Analysis: Although the Pens don't release injury updates during the playoffs, it's safe to say that James Neal will miss Game 3 against the Islanders on Sunday.
News:James Neal (undisclosed) didn't participate in Friday's morning skate, making it highly unlikely he'll play in Game 2 against the Isles.
Analysis: Rumor has it that James Neal is suffering from a high ankle sprain, though that has not been confirmed. Either way, it looks like it's safe to keep him benched Friday night.
News:James Neal (undisclosed) did not partake in Friday's morning skate and may not play in Sunday's Game 3 against the Islanders after missing Game 2 on Friday, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis:James Neal left Wednesday's Game 1 with an undisclosed injury and did not return. Odds are he will not play in Sunday's Game 3 as the Pens have given no hint as to when he might return to practice.
News:James Neal (undisclosed) will not play in Friday's Game 2 against the Islanders, Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: The exact nature and severity of the injury James Neal suffered in Game 1 are still unknown, but he will sit Friday.
News:James Neal (unspecified issue) did not practice Thursday, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.
Analysis:James Neal, who was unable to finish Wednesday's Game 1 against the Islanders after taking a hit, is thought to be dealing with a lower-body injury. Consider him day-to-day for now.
News: Pens' Coach Dan Bylsma did not give a post-game injury update for James Neal, who left with an undisclosed injury in the second period of Wednesday's game.
Analysis: The Pittsburgh coach did not want to talk about James Neal following the game. "I don't have one (an injury update) and I'm not going to give you one." Looks like we'll have to wait until Thursday's practice to see how the Pens' lines break out before getting a better idea of Neal's status.
News:James Neal left early in the second period of Wednesday's game against the Islanders with an undisclosed injury.
Analysis: The power forward was hit along the boards during a Penguins' 5-on-3 power play. There's speculation that the injury could be leg related, but James Neal recently missed a couple weeks with a concussion. He missed the rest of the second period with the injury.
News:James Neal netted a hat trick Saturday with two wristers and a one-time score against Carolina in the season finale.
Analysis: After missing the team's last eight games due to a concussion, the power forward teamed with Evgeni Malkin and Chris Kunitz in a quality reunion from the 2011-12 campaign. One of James Neal's three goals came courtesy of the power play, as did his fourth point -- an assist.
News:James Neal (concussion) will return to the lineup for the Penguins on Saturday against the Hurricanes.
Analysis:James Neal will return to the ice to find his rhythm for one game before the playoffs begin. He has not played since April 5 with the concussion, but still is fifth on the team in scoring this season with 18 goals and 14 assists. He will be back along with Paul Martin on Saturday as the Penguins are slowly returning to health.
News:James Neal (concussion) will not play in Thursday's game against the Devils.
Analysis: The report notes that James Neal is able to practice fully, which suggest that his return to game action is close.
News:James Neal (concussion) missed his seventh straight game Tuesday and has not yet passed the baseline cognitive exam required to return to play, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.
Analysis: The team would like to get him back for a game before the end of the regular season, but time is running out. Fantasy teams still hanging on to him might be wise to dump him, in non-keeper leagues.
News:James Neal (concussion) skated with the Penguins in practice Sunday, but only for 18 minutes before leaving the ice, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Analysis: Pens' coach Dan Bylsma sounded less than enthusiastic about any impending return. "James Neal joined us for just a few drills," Bylsma said. "That would be an indication of him moving along in his protocol." The cryptic coach-speak could be interpreted several ways, but it's fair to say that fantasy owners looking for a final-week surge from the forward might be best served looking elsewhere. Neal has a remote chance of returning Thursday or Saturday, but won't go Monday or Tuesday.
News:James Neal (concussion) will not travel with the Penguins for Monday's game in Ottawa.
Analysis:James Neal is no longer feeling symptoms of his concussion, but he is still not ready to return to game action. He will take part in rehab skate Monday, but there is still no timetable for his return.
News:James Neal, who has been dealing with a concussion, is now symptom-free, the Penguins' official site reports.
Analysis: The reports add that while James Neal skated before practice Monday, there is still no time-frame for his return to game action.
News:James Neal is dealing with a concussion and will miss the Penguins' three-game road trip this week.
Analysis: Based on that report, the earliest we might see James Neal back is April 17 against Montreal, but that's hardly a lock and overall we'd expect the Penguins to proceed cautiously here, with an eye toward having Neal healthy for the playoffs in mind.
News: The Penguins have yet to provide an update on James Neal, who left Friday's game after taking a Michael Del Zotto elbow to the head.
Analysis: The worst-case scenario is that the winger suffered a concussion. Pittsburgh likely won't have anything to say about James Neal until Monday, when the team returns to practice following a weekend break. The Pens did recall fellow forward Beau Bennett on Sunday, but that move was already in the works before Neal got hurt.
News:James Neal left the third period of Friday's game after taking an elbow to the head by Michael del Zotto.
Analysis: He looked wobbly as he left the ice. James Neal, who was pointless before leaving Friday's tilt, has one goal in his last 12 games.
News:James Neal scored his first goal in 10 games Saturday against the Isles.
Analysis: The return of Evgeni Malkin has had a decidedly positive impact on James Neal, and now the impact of adding Jarome Iginla on one of the two wings just makes Neal an even better play. Look for his rebound to continue with Malkin back and Iginla added to the mix.
News:James Neal collected an assist and registered three shots Thursday against Winnipeg.
Analysis: He looks like a different player with Evgeni Malkin (shoulder) back on the ice for Pittsburgh. James Neal could prove to be wise trade target with his partner healthy. Look for Neal's numbers to spike. He had just one point in seven contests prior to Malkin's return.
News:James Neal, who has one lone assist in the last seven games, could be getting his centerman, Evgeni Malkin, back as soon as Tuesday.
Analysis: There's no doubt James Neal's numbers have suffered with the NHL's reigning MVP sidelined. He's hit a number of posts in the interim, but nothing's found net. Getting Malkin back will create the space Neal needs to fire his blazing one-timer.
News:James Neal will skate with Sidney Crosby and Chris Kunitz while Evgeni Malkin (head) sits out, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis:James Neal goes from one Art Ross Trophy winner to another. Of course, much of Neal's fantasy value comes from the power play. Pittsburgh loses its most prolific point-getter on the man advantage -- Malkin has three power-play goals and 11 assists -- but Neal should still get plenty of chances to add to his league-leading eight power-play scores.
Pens' Neal Nets Second Game-Winner In As Many Games
News:James Neal's seventh power-play goal of the season Friday turned out to be the game-winner in a 3-1 Pittsburgh win.
Analysis: The power forward missed some time early in the third period after taking a hit late in Period 2 to a sensitive area. He returned, however, and tallied his 11th goal during a 5-on-3 man advantage.
News:James Neal registered two goals and an assist, leading Pittsburgh to a 4-2 win Wednesday.
Analysis: His second score proved to be the game-winner, his third GW goal of the season. James Neal leads the league with six PP goals and continues to provide Pittsburgh with sniper-extraordinaire skills.
News:James Neal scored his third power-play goal in four games Sunday night against New Jersey.
Analysis: He led the NHL with 18 goals on the man advantage in 2011-12 and is currently tied with Patrick Marleau for the league lead with five.
News:James Neal netted his third power-play goal -- and sixth overall -- in Tuesday's 3-2 win over the Islanders.
Analysis: He was named the game's No. 1 star for his efforts. James Neal's improved backchecking has turned him into more than just a goal-scoring machine. He has five goals and eight points in eight career games against the Capitals, whom the Pens will face Thursday night.
News:James Neal netted his second power-play goal -- and fifth overall -- in Thursday's win over the Rangers.
Analysis: He redirected a Sidney Crosby pass with a beautiful deflection past New York goalie, Henrik Lundqvist. Pittsburgh moved James Neal back to his spot down low on the man advantage prior to Thursday's contest and the move paid immediate dividends.
News: The Penguins moved James Neal from the right point back to his old position down low on the power play for Wednesday's practice. "I had success on the power play in that spot last year," Neal said. "It's a spot I'm familiar with and I feel comfortable. I'm more comfortable there than on the point," the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: The Penguins scored five goals in their first 10 power-play opportunities, but none in the last 12. James Neal leads Pittsburgh with four goals in six games, including one on the power play. He's not the problem, but Neal fantasy owners could benefit from the move, considering the forward led the league with 18 power-play goals while playing down low in 2011-12.
News:James Neal one-timed an Evgeni Malkin pass for Pittsburgh's only goal in a 2-1 shootout win Sunday.
Analysis: The winger has picked up where he left off from last season, scoring four goals in five games. James Neal also led the team with five hits against the Senators.
News:James Neal lit the lamp twice, including a power-play tally, against the Rangers on Sunday. He also had seven shots on goal.
Analysis:James Neal now has three goals on two games, and seems to still be in the same excellent form he was in last season, albeit in a very small sample size.
News:James Neal notched a game-winning goal Saturday, taking a game-high seven shots on goal against the Flyers.
Analysis:James Neal scored in last season's opener, too, spurring him on to a 40-goal campaign. He looked fairly comfortable handling power-play duties from the point, but if he stays there he's not going to score at last year's rate -- Neal totaled a league-leading 18 power-play goals in 2011-12.
News: The Penguins practiced with James Neal at the point on the power play Monday, opposite of Kris Letang, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis:James Neal says he's being used more as a rover than a traditional point man, one who looks for seams to exploit. It would be surprising if the idea sticks, but the team is searching for a way to keep Evgeni Malkin off the point.
News:James Neal and Evgeni Malkin will skate together in 2012-13, but a third linemate has yet to be determined, according to the Penguins' Web site.
Analysis:James Neal and Malkin skated with Chris Kunitz last year, but the feisty forward will return to his spot alongside Sidney Crosby -- where he played for several seasons previously. Coach Dan Bylsma has hinted at rotating a third linemate in and out on a situational basis, but Neal and Malkin are so strong together that the change shouldn't present a problem. It wouldn't be altogether surprising to see Neal cool off just a tad after a career 40-goal season. Still, it's worth noting that the combo recorded points on the same goal 60 times in 2011-12, 10 times more than the second-highest duo of Henrik and Daniel Sedin.
News: The NHL has suspended James Neal one game for charging Flyers forward Claude Giroux in the third period of Sunday's loss, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: Well, the Penguins certainly have quite the hole to dig themselves out of, as they're down 3-0 in the series and will be missing three players due to suspension when the series resumes Wednesday, including their second-leading scorer in James Neal.
News:James Neal (undisclosed) practiced on a line with Evgeni Malkin and Chris Kunitz the last couple days and will play against Philadelphia on Wednesday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: He sat out the last two regular season games after reluctantly fighting Boston's Andrew Ference on April 3. James Neal scored three goals in five games against Philly in the regular season. He registered a team-high 24 shots but finished minus-5 against the Flyers. Neal finished with 81 points in 80 games and reached the 40-goal mark for the first time in his NHL career.
News:James Neal (undisclosed) will not play against Philadelphia on Saturday, CSN Philly's Tim Panaccio reports.
Analysis:James Neal will more than likely be ready for Pittsburgh's first playoff game, however.
News:James Neal (undisclosed) will likely be ready for Pittsburgh's first playoff game, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: This would seem to imply that James Neal is not especially likely to play against Philadelphia on Saturday, though that hasn't been confirmed to this point.
News:James Neal (undisclosed) is unlikely to play in Saturday's regular season finale, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: The Penguins have nothing tangible to play for Saturday against Philadelphia. If James Neal doesn't go, then he'll close the season with 40 goals and 81 points in 80 games. The forward also leads the league with 18 power-play goals and is second in shots (329).
News:James Neal (undisclosed injury) will miss Thursday's game against the Rangers, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis:James Neal is questionable for Saturday's regular-season finale against Philadelphia, but fortunately, he's expected to be okay by the time the playoffs start.
News:James Neal scored for the third consecutive game and added seven penalty minutes in Tuesday's win over Boston. The goal was his 40th of the season.
Analysis: The penalty minutes are a nice boost for owners who have received monstrous production from James Neal. His 40 goals, 81 points and 87 penalty minutes through 80 games have made Neal one of the league's rising stars. He is not shy about shooting the puck, obviously, as he has averaged more than four shots per game.
News:James Neal scored two goals on 12 shots Tuesday against the Islanders.
Analysis: He has a career-high 37 goals and could reach the 40-mark for the first time in his career. James Neal is likely on a lot of fantasy teams contending for titles. He now has 78 points in 76 contests.
News:James Neal collected four assists in Thursday's 5-1 win over Nashville.
Analysis: He's got eight points in his last two games. In a league where scoring is falling by the wayside, the line unit of James Neal, Evgeni Malkin and Chris Kunitz continues to blaze. Neal now has 76 points (35, 41) in 73 contests.
News:James Neal posted his first hat trick of the season in Tuesday's rout of Winnipeg, also adding an assist.
Analysis:James Neal has five goals over the last five games with 10 points over that span. The dynamic power forward is loving life in Pittsburgh and has an outside shot at bagging 40 goals for the season. His trade for Alex Goligoski last winter may be looking a bit lopsided at this point.
News:James Neal had a goal and two assists in Sunday's 5-2 win over the Bruins. Neal now has 65 points in 68 games.
Analysis:James Neal is on track to destroy his previous career mark of 55 points with a little less than a month still left in the regular season.
News: The Penguins have signed James Neal to a six-year, $30 million contract extension, the Pittsburgh Post reports.
Analysis: The deal ensures that the 24-year-old James Neal, who is having a career year with 56 points (30 goals, 26 assists) with the Penguins, will remain in Pittsburgh through the 2017-18 season.
News:James Neal reached the 30-goal plateau Saturday for the first time in his four-year NHL career.
Analysis: With 57 points in 58 games, James Neal has a chance to average a point per game for Pittsburgh. Skating next to Hart Trophy front-runner, Evgeni Malkin, hasn't hurt much, either. Neal will be a restricted free agent in the summer, making him a fantasy owner's dream right now as his salary drive continues. The only area where he's cooled off in is power-play goals. Neal has scored only one time on the man-advantage in the last 14 games. Even with his special teams slump he still leads the NHL with 13 power-play goals.
News:James Neal set a new career-high in goals scored with his 28th goal Tuesday night.
Analysis: Thirteen of the power forward's scores have come in the third period. He remains tied with Scott Hartnell for the NHL-lead in power-play goals (13), even after a five-game drought. James Neal and Evgeni Malkin continue to provide much of the scoring for Pittsburgh.
News:James Neal netted his 27th goal of the year in a 3-2 shootout win over St. Louis on Tuesday.
Analysis:James Neal is now tied for the second-most goals in the league and shares the NHL-lead with 13 power-play scores, but apparently isn't good enough for the All-Star Game -- so far.
News:James Neal scored two goals and notched an assist in a 4-3 overtime win against Washington on Sunday.
Analysis:James Neal is now up to 26 goals and 46 points on the season including five and 10 respectively in the last 10 days. He remains a rock for the Penguins even in the absence of Sidney Crosby.
News:James Neal chipped in with two assists and a plus-2 rating Thursday night against the Rangers.
Analysis: It's a tribute to his goal-scoring ability that he has more two-goal games (four) than two-assist contests (three). James Neal has 24 goals, tying him for the team lead with Evgeni Malkin, and 42 points in 46 games. He continues to lead the league with 12 power-play goals and 193 shots on goal.
News:James Neal potted his league-leading 11th and 12th power-play goals Sunday afternoon.
Analysis:James Neal has three goals in two games since his All-Star Game snub. The power forward also picked up 10 penalty minutes, adding to a productive fantasy start against the Lightning. Not a bad game for a player who was expected to miss "weeks, not days" less than a week ago.
News:James Neal netted his first goal in seven games Friday in Florida.
Analysis: His third-period wrister gave Pittsburgh breathing room in a 4-1 win. James Neal, snubbed by the All-Star electoral college, now has 22 goals and 38 points in 43 games. He led his team Friday with a season-high nine shots on goal.
News:James Neal, who has a broken foot, says he's "good to go" for Tuesday's game against the Senators, according to the Penguins' official site.
Analysis: Wow. Usually injury news ends up being worse than expected, but it looks like James Neal has gone from possibly being out weeks to missing no time at all. They didn't misdiagnose the injury, it's just that the pain is bearable and he apparently can't do any more damage to it. It's still worth checking his spot in the lineup a few minutes before the opening face-off, but it looks like Neal owners can breathe a big sigh of relief.
News:James Neal (foot) skated with his customary linemates, Evgeni Malkin and Chris Kunitz, during practice Tuesday morning, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: Reports of his demise have apparently been greatly exaggerated, despite coach Bylsma's declaration that he expected James Neal to miss "weeks, not days." It appears the Penguins have dodged an injury bullet to a top-six forward for this one rare occasion. Stay tuned for status confirmation.
News:James Neal is out indefinitely with a broken foot, the Penguins' official site reports.
Analysis: He currently leads the Penguins with 21 goals, but head coach Dan Bylsma said that James Neal will miss "weeks not days," and this is just the latest in a long line of injuries suffered by key Penguins this season.
News:James Neal notched his 21st goal and added a power-play assist Tuesday night against Carolina.
Analysis: He now has 36 points in 36 games. James Neal also took a game-high nine shots on goal Tuesday, adding to his NHL best total of 150 shots. The power forward has 14 goals and 20 points in 16 home games.
News:James Neal picked up his 20th goal of the year Friday night as the Penguins dumped the Jets, 4-1. He's now scored a goal in each of his last three games.
Analysis: Friday's goal extended his points streak to seven games and moved him into a tie for second place in the chase for the Rocket Richard trophy and only one goal behind Marion Gaborik. During James Neal's seven-game points streak he's picked up six goals and added three assists.
News:James Neal scored his 19th goal of the season in Tuesday's win over the Blackhawks.
Analysis: That's an outstanding number. But there's an interesting trend developing here, as James Neal is on a six-game point streak (five goals, three assists) since Sidney Crosby went back on the shelf. He had just two goals and three helpers in the eight games that he played with Sid, but 28 points in 26 games without him. He didn't really have time to mesh with Crosby, but Neal obviously relishes the time and chemistry he has with Evgeni Malkin. Just something to file away.
News:James Neal picked up a pair of power-play points -- a goal and an assist -- Saturday against Buffalo.
Analysis:James Neal and Evgeni Malkin continue to exhibit excellent chemistry together. The power forward leads the league with 10 power-play goals.
News:James Neal scored two goals Saturday in a 6-3 win over the Islanders.
Analysis: He now has 17 goals (and 11 assists) in 30 games, including nine on the power play. It's hard to believe that James Neal netted but one goal in 20 games for Pittsburgh in the spring.
News:James Neal scored his 15th goal -- and eighth on the power play -- Thursday night in Philadelphia.
Analysis:James Neal broke a mini-slump that saw him go pointless in the first three games of December. He fanned on a slap shot from the slot with two seconds remaining in regulation, but at least he got on the board. He plays an even bigger role with Sidney Crosby sidelined.
News:James Neal was fined $2,500 for a high-sticking offense against Montreal's P.K. Subban from last Saturday, The Associated Press reports.
Analysis: Luckily for fantasy owners, this means James Neal won't be missing any time due to suspension. He is averaging a point per game through the Penguins' first 25 games and is a very valuable piece on any fantasy roster.
News:James Neal grabbed a goal and an assist in Tuesday's loss to the Rangers, giving him five points in the last five games.
Analysis:James Neal is back to a point-per-game pace (25 in 25) with the Pens and has enjoyed life in the Steel City in 2011-12. He remains one of the team's top performers and an excellent complement to Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Neal scored two goals against Thursday's opponent, Washington, in his only game against the Caps this year. He now has three road goals after Tuesday's contest to go with 11 in 11 home games.
News:James Neal set up Kris Letang's overtime winner with a beautiful back-handed shot Saturday night.
Analysis:James Neal made the play happen, but the hot starter has only three points in his last six games. He's still playing well, but the focus with the Pens has understandably shifted to Sidney Crosby. Long-term, his fantasy value figures to stay consistent, but right now everything's shifted toward Crosby. Neal has 23 points (13, 10) in 24 contests.
News:James Neal picked up his 13th goal of the season Wednesday night.
Analysis: He's held onto his spot on the Pens' top power-play unit, too. It was either James Neal or Kunitz who figured to get booted upon Sidney Crosby's return and the team stuck with Neal. After Wednesday's score, 11 of Neal's 13 goals have come at Consol Energy Center.
News:James Neal will stick with Evgeni Malkin as a linemate Monday following Sidney Crosby's return from a concussion, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: Penguins Coach Dan Bylsma sees no reason to mess with the chemistry between James Neal and Malkin, even though Neal was brought in presumably to give Crosby the talented winger he's never had. From Neal's perspective, he gets to play with either Malkin or Crosby -- not a bad gig. Neal leads the Pens with 12 goals and 20 points in 20 games.
Penguins' Neal With Three Points In Colorado Comeback
News:James Neal had a goal and two assists in the Penguins' comeback win over Colorado Tuesday night.
Analysis:James Neal caught fire in the third period assisting on the tying and go-ahead goals, not to mention netting one of his own. Neal continues to have a stellar year with a team-leading 20 points. The winger is one of the major factors in the Penguins' success, who've been without Sidney Crosby all season.
News:James Neal netted two power-play scores Friday night against the Stars.
Analysis: The ex-Dallas Stars player collected his second game-winner of the season. He narrowly missed posting a hat trick, whiffing on an open-net pass from Evgeni Malkin and later failing on an empty-net feed from Malkin. James Neal now has 11 goals and 16 points in 16 games.
News:James Neal doubled his assists' total Thursday night with a pair of helpers against the Sharks.
Analysis: Playing on a line with Evgeni Malkin and Steve Sullivan, James Neal has scored nine goals and 13 points in 14 games. He led the Pens with eight shots on goal Thursday and continues to exceed expectations.
News:James Neal netted his eighth goal and ninth point in 10 games Saturday night.
Analysis: He took a team-high five shots and leads the NHL with 39 shots. The talk on James Neal has gone from wondering if he'd ever score another goal in 2010 to wondering how much the soon-to-be restricted free agent might cost in the offseason.
News:James Neal (undisclosed) did not practice Friday, TSN reports.
Analysis:James Neal has been outstanding thus far this season, netting seven goals in just nine games. His availability for Saturday's game against New Jersey is unknown but he missed Thursday's skate and still played that night. His absence from Friday's practice could just be another chance to rest up.
News:James Neal (undisclosed) gave few clues as to his ailment during an in-game interview Thursday night on ROOT Sports.
Analysis: "I got a little break this morning, got some treatment and am ready to go tonight," James Neal said. Pens coach Dan Bylsma shed little light on Neal, saying only that he was getting a maintenance day off to rest. Seeing as though he played -- and scored his NHL-leading seventh goal -- there's no reason to sit him down on fantasy rosters.
News:James Neal scored his seventh goal of the season in Thursday's win over Montreal, tying him with Phil Kessel for the early NHL lead.
Analysis:James Neal didn't seen to be slowed by whatever kept him out of Thursday's morning skate. He's been everything the Penguins could possibly ask for despite Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin missing time with injuries early on this season. You can only imagine that Neal's production will rise further when the two superstars return.
News:James Neal missed the morning skate as part of a maintenance day but is expected to play Thursday night, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: The cryptic coach Dan Bylsma said that James Neal was simply getting the day off. Hopefully there's nothing wrong with the red-hot Neal -- but don't be surprised if there is.
News:James Neal scored his sixth goal of the season in Tuesday's win over the Wild.
Analysis: Even with the Penguins shorthanded, James Neal has gotten off to a great start. Neal is doing it all - he got off four shots and three hits Tuesday night.
News:James Neal finished without a point Monday, taking four shots and a pair of minor penalties in a 2-1 loss.
Analysis:James Neal rung one shot off the post and continued his strong early-season play. He saw 2:46 TOI on the power play -- Pascal Dupuis led all Pittsburgh forwards with 3:30 PP TOI -- but the team failed to generate much offense and has one goal in its last 21 power-play chances.
News:James Neal scored his fifth goal in six games Saturday night against the Sabres.
Analysis:James Neal, who has 12 shots in the last two games, continues to click with Steve Sullivan. With six points in six games, Neal is a must start again next week with Pittsburgh playing another heavy, four-game schedule.
News:James Neal scored a goal, added an assist and finished plus-3 in his lone game against the Sabres -- Saturday's opponent -- for Pittsburgh last year.
Analysis:James Neal, who scored just one goal in 20 regular-season games with the Pens last year, has transitioned from left wing to right with ease. The Pittsburgh winger has tallied an NHL-leading four goals as the team's most productive forward.
News:James Neal scored both of Pittsburgh's goals in Thursday's overtime loss to the Capitals.
Analysis: One of the goals came on the power play, where three of his five points thus far have been scored. He also took eight shots in this one, easily the most he's taken in a game so far. The Pens certainly would love to see him keep firing the puck.
News:James Neal netted his second goal of the season Tuesday night against the Panthers.
Analysis: The power forward potted only one in 20 games after coming over to Pittsburgh for Alex Goligoski last spring. The fact that he's playing so well without Evgeni Malkin or Sidney Crosby in the lineup bodes well for his production this season.
Pens' Neal Off To A Better Start Second Time Around
News:James Neal, who scored only one goal and six points in 20 games after being traded to Pittsburgh last year, matched that goal total Thursday in the first game of the season. He opened the scoring five minutes into the game with a power-play tally in the shootout win over Vancouver.
Analysis:James Neal also threw five hits, the highest total on the team. He'll be counted on to flank Sidney Crosby once the Pens' superstar returns, which could potentially lead to very nice point totals. Playing on the team's top power-play unit doesn't hurt, either.
News:James Neal continues to adjust well after moving from left wing to right, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis:James Neal is expected to wing Sidney Crosby once the superstar returns to action. For now, he'll have to settle on serving as a right winger for Evgeni Malkin. "Anytime you come off your off-wing and are able to shoot the puck, it's an advantage," he said. "So I'm looking forward to playing there." Neal scored only one goal in 20 games for Pittsburgh last year, making it imperative he starts strong in 2011-12.
News: The Penguins are moving James Neal from left wing to right with hopes that he'll eventually serve on a top line with Chris Kunitz and Sidney Crosby, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: While Crosby is unlikely to open the season on the active roster, coach Dan Bylsma envisions James Neal working with Crosby and Kunitz on the top line at some point in 2011-12. "He (Neal) has speed, he has physicality, he has attributes that work well with Sidney Crosby, in terms of wingers he likes to play with," Bylsma said. "In addition, he has proven (capable of scoring) 20-plus goals per year. In addition to that, he's probably got 30 in him in a year." The Pens have no skilled right wingers and are looking for Neal to make that transition.
News: Though he struggled in Pittsburgh after a deadline deal in the spring, James Neal believes he can reach the 30-goal plateau for the first time in his career, the Penguins' Web site reports.
Analysis: "I've never scored 30 goals in the league, so it's something to strive for," he said. "You just want to better yourself every year." James Neal netted one goal in 20 games with the Pens after scoring 21 times with Dallas in 2010-11. He's averaged 24 goals and 167 hits in his first three NHL seasons and looks to settle into a lineup that includes Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby (potentially).
News: Neal scored a game-winning goal in double overtime Wednesday night in Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Neal's wrister from along the boards, by the hash marks, somehow eluded goalie Dwayne Roloson's glove. The goal by the 23-year-old forward was the first of his playoff career and ended a string during which he'd scored just two times in his last 34 games.
News: Neal (hand/wrist) is expected to "be OK" for the playoffs, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Analysis: He sat out the regular-season finale Sunday in hopes of recovering in time for Game 1 of the playoffs Wednesday.
News: Neal (undisclosed injury) won't play Sunday in Atlanta, the Penguins' official site reports.
Analysis: Consider Neal, who has six points in 20 games with the Penguins to date, day-to-day heading into the playoffs.
News: Neal (undisclosed) didn't take part in practice Saturday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Neal appeared to injure his hand during Friday's game. He probably won't play Sunday in Atlanta with the Pens locked into fourth place in the East.
News: Neal missed the last two periods of Friday's game as a "precautionary measure" with an undisclosed injury, according to coach Dan Bylsma, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Bylsma referred to Neal as "day to day, at this time." Neal has six points (1, 5) in 20 games, but has chipped in with three game-deciding shootout goals.
News: Neal scored the only shootout goal to send Pittsburgh to a 1-0 victory over New Jersey on Friday night.
Analysis: He only has four points (1G, 3A) in his last 14 games, but his shootout winner might be a nice confidence booster for the power forward.
News: Neal tallied a game-deciding shootout goal in Monday's 5-4 win over Detroit.
Analysis: The former Stars player has scored only one time in 12 games for Pittsburgh, but his shootout score saved his team embarrassment after it squandered a 4-0 lead.
News: Neal finished pointless with a minus-2 rating and played poorly in his own end Saturday.
Analysis: His lack of defensive instincts is something the Penguins will have to help him with, especially if he's to play on the same line with Alexei Kovalev. Neal did pick up his play in overtime, but he's still looking for his first point in black and gold.
News: Neal went pointless in his debut Wednesday, finishing with two shots, three hits and a plus-1 rating.
Analysis: Neal picked up his game in the third period and overtime, leading rushes and showing the type of force he can be.
News: Neal will serve as Jordan Staal's left winger Wednesday against San Jose, according to coach Dan Bylsma.
Analysis: Neal and Matt Niskanen got stuck in New Jersey on Tuesday due to snowy conditions in Pittsburgh, but are expected to participate in Wednesday's game-day skate. Tyler Kennedy will serve as the unit's third forward.
News: The Penguins acquired Neal and Matt Niskanen for defenseman Alex Goligoski on Monday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis: Neal immediately becomes a No. 1 winger on the Penguins and figures to see plenty of time alongside Sidney Crosby -- if and when Crosby returns from a concussion. Neal has 21 goals and 39 points in 59 games for Dallas. All three players in the trade are signed through the end of 2011-12.
News: Neal has yet to record a point in February (six games).
Analysis: This is likely just a small road bump for the talented Neal. He may not be the model of consistency for the Stars but this (23-year-old) kid already has 20 goals on the season. Be patient with Neal as he tries to work his way out of this slump.
News: Neal scored his 20th goal of the season Friday night, but Dallas still lost 7-4 to Calgary.
Analysis: The 23-year-old winger now has six goals in his past six games.
News: Neal potted two goals Saturday to stretch his goal streak to three games and four goals.
Analysis: He has five goals in six games in 2011 and is on pace to top 30 for the first time in his young career. He and Jamie Benn are the future of the Stars; get on board now in keeper formats or forever hold your peace.
News: Neal continues to post steady numbers, finding the back of the net in the second frame of Dallas' 5-2 loss at Phoenix on Saturday.
Analysis: That's seven score sheets in a row for the young forward, who has a good chance to crack the 70-point plateau for the first time. He's picked up his scoring pace after a four-game drought, and is now up to second place on the team scoring list. If he stays hot like this, he'll blow through last season's 55 points by Valentine's Day.
News: Neal scored his 12th of the season in Friday's 2-1 shootout win over the visiting Hurricanes.
Analysis: With the goal, Neal extended his point streak to six games where he has tallied four times and chipped in with four assists. He is as hot as any in the NHL right now, so ride the offensive wave.
News: Neal ended a four-game point drought with two goals Monday in the win over Carolina.
Analysis: Neal's been a bit streaky this season, but when he's on, he's a reliable player. The four-game drought was preceded by four games in which Neal posted seven points. Look for his numbers to go up and down but he's been reliable when on.
News: Neal's two-point Saturday stretched his current point streak to four games and seven points.
Analysis: He has five points in his last two games and he's pushing a point-per-game pace. James Neal and Jamie Benn are the future up front for the Stars; get on board now.
News: Neal scored twice and added an assist Thursday against San Jose, his first multi-point game since October 16.
Analysis: That gets him back on a point-per-game pace, as Neal now has seven goals and 10 assists in 17 games.
News: Neal scored his first goal of the year and added an assist in a win over the Red Wings on Thursday.
Analysis: He's off to a fine start, tallying four points in three games, as the Stars as a team have been firing on all cylinders right out of the gate.
News: Neal agreed to a two-year, $5.75 million contract with Dallas.
Analysis: Neal was a restricted free agent, and will be set to make $2.25 million in 2010-11 and $3.5 million in 2011-12. Neal followed up a nice rookie campaign with a solid 28 goal/55 point season last year and will be counted upon to provide scoring on Dallas' top line.
News: Stars LW James Neal scored his first goal in six games Monday as Dallas edged the Capitals in a shootout.
Analysis: After a brutal January, Neal picked up the pace again last month and his goal on Monday gave him a new career high of 25. Neal remains a promising young talent worth using in msot Fantasy leagues as a starting forward.
News: Stars LW James Neal scored his 24th goal of the season and added two assists in Tuesday's loss to the Blackhawks. He now has five points in his last two games.
Analysis: Neal didn't have the best January (five points in 15 games), but he seems a new man since the calendar flipped. Hopefully the Olympic break doesn't knock him off rhythm, and the youngster remains worth using in all leagues with 10 teams or more right now.
News: Stars LW James Neal scored and assisted in Saturday's 4-0 win over the Coyotes.
Analysis: Neal is up to 42 points on the season, and appears to be over his funk from early January. He was minus-9 last month, which won't have pleased his Fantasy owners, but he's off to a better start in February. Neal remains a viable option in most Fantasy formats.
News:James Neal's goal with 22.2 seconds remaining helped the Dallas Stars snap a 10-game, road-losing streak and beat the struggling Edmonton Oilers 4-3 on Friday. Down 3-2, Edmonton appeared to force overtime when Sam Gagner was credited with his second goal of the game after Mike Modano kicked the puck into his net with 1:02 to play. But less than a minute later, the Stars netted the winner. Jason Strudwick's clearing attempt went straight to Neal's stick, and he put his 20th of the season past goalie Devan Dubnyk.
Analysis: Neal has three points (one goal) during a three-game point streak and two scores in his last six games. He is starting to settle back into a rhythm after having a cold spell to begin January. Neal has been very good in his first season under coach Marc Crawford and has become a viable Fantasy option.
News:James Neal, who leads Dallas with 19 goals, went to the dressing room early in the second period on Thursday against the Canadiens after he broke some teeth when he was struck by a teammate's stick. He returned at the beginning of the third. Neal had no points in 12:42 of ice time and finished at minus-1.
Analysis: We saw on Wednesday how detrimental a puck to the face could be when Teemu Selanne was hit there. He is now out 4-8 weeks with a broken jaw. Neal got lucky and seems to have avoided a serious injury. Neal has scored only once in his last 10 games and his first-half surge seems to be fading. We hope Neal avoids a second-half letdown because he has become a nice Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Stars LW James Neal, who started on a line with Mike Modano and Toby Petersen, was moved up to the Brad Richards line later during Sunday's contest against Columbus. Neal logged nearly 20 minutes of ice time, and was one of three Stars with a team-high four shots on goal (Mike Modano and Brad Richards).
Analysis: Dallas really needs to jump start Neal's game since he hasn't been producing in the last few weeks. He has no goals in eight games and only two points in that span. Playing him with a solid talent like Richards could be the key. Or, Neal could be a huge second-half letdown. We hope he avoids the latter since Neal has been a solid Fantasy option thus far.
News: Stars LW James Neal scored twice in Wednesday's win over Columbus.
Analysis: Neal now has a pair of goals in two of his last three games and remains a solid starting option in all Fantasy formats.
News: Stars LW James Neal scored a goal and finished at plus-1 on Saturday against the Kings. Neal opened the scoring at 1:22 of the first period with his team-high 14th goal. He has three goals and two assists in five December games after finishing November with no points in his last five outings.
Analysis: We have seen a few times this season where Neal goes cold for a few games to only get hot again. He has really transformed into a dangerous scoring threat under first-year coach Marc Crawford. Neal is back to producing at a point-per-game pace, so keep him active in Fantasy.
News: Dallas LW James Neal returned from a two-game suspension on Wednesday against the Blues. He did not record a point in the game but did take three shots on goal.
Analysis: Neal has 22 points in 20 games this season as he has produced at a pretty high level. He had a 10-game point streak snapped in the game that he ended up getting suspended for and has now failed to record a point in two straight games. However, he is a solid play in all Fantasy formats for Fantasy Week 9 (Nov. 30-Dec. 6).
News: The NHL has suspended Stars LW James Neal two games for his hit on Blue Jackets RW Derek Dorsett.
Analysis: Neal has 22 points in 19 games this season, so his absence will certainly hurt a few Fantasy players in Week 7 (Nov. 16-22). Luckily, the Stars play four times in Fantasy Week 8 (Nov. 23-29), so Neal will still be worth using in all formats for the scoring period.
News: Stars LW James Neal tallied a pair of assists during Wednesday's game against the Red Wings. It pushed his point streak to 10 games. Neal has eight goals and seven assists in that span.
Analysis: Neal missed a few games during his recent point streak with a groin injury, but it doesn't seem to have caused an issue. He has played pretty lights out under first-year coach Marc Crawford and showing his breakout rookie season was no fluke. You might as well start Neal in Fantasy while he is red hot.
News: Stars LW James Neal, who missed the previous two games because of a groin injury, recorded points in his eighth consecutive game during Thursday's 3-2 shootout win against San Jose. His goal hit off Sharks defender Jason Demers' skates and floated over Evgeni Nabokov's left shoulder and into the net 5:50 into the third period. He also had an assist and finished at plus-1.
Analysis: Neal has seven goals and five assists during his point streak. He has played pretty lights out under first-year coach Marc Crawford and showing his breakout rookie season was no fluke. It's good to see Neal pick up where he left off prior to the injury. You might as well start Neal in Fantasy while he is red hot.
News: Stars LW James Neal (groin) sat out Saturday's game at Minnesota. He has now missed two straight contests.
Analysis: Neal has six goals and four assists during a career-high seven-game point streak. The second-year forward has been outstanding for the Stars to begin the year and it's a real shame he now has to fend off an injury. Neal has emerged as a viable Fantasy start when healthy, but Dallas only has two games in Fantasy Week 6 (Nov. 9-15), so you might just want to bench him anyway.
News: LW James Neal, who leads the Stars with nine goals, was scratched on Friday against the Canucks due to a groin injury and is listed as day-to-day.
Analysis: Neal has six goals and four assists during a career-high seven-game point streak. The second-year forward has been outstanding for the Stars to begin the year and it's a real shame he now has to fend off an injury. Neal has emerged as a viable Fantasy start when healthy.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Stars LW James Neal has a groin injury and will not play Friday vs. Vancouver. He is also unlikely to play at Minnesota on Saturday.
Analysis: Neal has 17 points in 15 games this season and is proving that his solid rookie campaign was no fluke. He's emerged as a great starting option in all leagues when healthy, so keep a close eye on his progress over the weekend before deciding whether to play him in Fantasy Week 6 (Nov. 9-15).
News: Stars LW James Neal scored in Wednesday's loss to the Flames, giving him six goals in six games.
Analysis: Neal now has 17 points in 15 games and is emerging as a must-start Fantasy forward. Get him active in more than 76 percent of leagues.
News: Stars LW James Neal scored the game-winner Wednesday and also added an assist as Dallas edged the Maple Leafs in OT. Neal now has seven points in four games.
Analysis: Neal is one of the most promising young forwards in the game and has 14 points already this season. He's worth using in all formats right now as a starting Fantasy forward.
News: Stars LW James Neal scored twice in Thursday's loss to the Kings, ending a six-game drought. He now has 11 points in 10 games this season.
Analysis: Neal has managed four multi-point games already this season and the 22-year-old is emerging as one of the league's best young forwards. Continue to start him in the majority of leagues.
News: Stars LW James Neal, who scored three goals in his first two games this season, has yet to score in six games since then. He did have a hat trick of assists in one game last week, however.
Analysis: Neal was a shooting machine in those first two games, amassing 12 attempts on goal, but has just 16 over his six-game skid. Neal is worth owning in all formats right now, but the Stars power play is currently without Mike Modano and Brad Richards, which is a sure drop in talent. Hopefully Neal will get things going again soon.
News: Stars LW James Neal tallied three assists and finished at plus-2 during Wednesday's game against the Predators. Neal has three goals and four assists in five games.
Analysis: There really hasn't been more surprising of a player to begin the season than Neal, who has been heavily involved on offense down in Dallas. He did burst onto the scene with 24 goals as a rookie last season, but we never expected this kind of production. We are not sure if this scoring pace will continue, but Neal is definitely a player to watch in Fantasy.
News: Stars LW James Neal, off to a fabulous start offensively, scored his third goal of the season against the Oilers on Tuesday. It was a shorthanded effort, the first of his career. The shootout, however, has not been kind to him. Neal has hit the post in his shootout attempts in the Stars' first two games.
Analysis: Neal came onto the scene as a rookie in 2008-09, when he put up 24 goals in 77 games. We weren't sure how he would fit into the Stars' game plan this season under first-year coach Marc Crawford, but it seems Neal has made the transition very well. We are not sure if this scoring pace will continue, but Neal is definitely a player to watch in Fantasy.
News: Dallas LW James Neal scored two goals on Saturday in a 3-2 shootout loss to the Predators in the team's opening game. His first goal came 19:50 into the second period on a wrist shot. The second came unassisted on a power play 4:05 into the third period.
Analysis: Neal saw a decent amount of top-six time in 2008-09 because Brenden Morrow missed most of the year with a torn ACL. Now that Morrow is back that could force Neal down to the checking lines. He totaled 24 goals and 37 points as a rookie. However, Neal doesn't have an all-around game and remains a low-end Fantasy forward despite a great opening game against Nashville.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Stars LW James Neal wasn't shy in his rookie year last season. Willing to do the work in practice and showing his true talent in games, Neal was a fearless player despite his youth and NHL inexperience. He should continue that this season, considering his confidence level and experienced gained last season. With Brenden Morrow healthy, he and Neal should help give the Stars two strong, physical and offensively productive lines.
Analysis: Neal saw a decent amount of top-six time in 2008-09 because Morrow missed most of the year with a torn ACL. Now that Morrow is back that could force Neal down to the checking lines. He totaled 24 goals and 37 points as a rookie. However, Neal doesn't have an all-around game and remains a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Stars LW James Neal scored a goal and finished at plus-1 during Tuesday's game against the Canucks. Neal was able to notch his 23rd goal as he beat Roberto Luongo with a backhand shot 9:00 into the third. Neal has three goals in seven games.
Analysis: The rookie forward has been a great source of offense in 2008-09 and has been able to help pick up the slack on the left side of the ice with Brenden Morrow sidelined by a knee injury. However, Neal doesn't have an all-around game and remains a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Stars LW James Neal scored in Tuesday's loss to the Blues, giving him 22 goals on the year.
Analysis: Neal is now only one goal behind Bobby Ryan for the rookie goals lead, and would have had a decent shot at the Calder if not for Steve Mason. Neal remains a low-end seasonal Fantasy option, but is making plenty of noise in keeper leagues.
News: Stars LW James Neal tallied an assist and finished at minus-1 in 16:58 of ice time Saturday against the Blackhawks. He has two goals and two assists in his last five games.
Analysis: Neal hasn't been an overly impressive passer with just 10 assists on the season, but he has 18 goals (seven on the power play). He doesn't yet have a complete game and isn't always factoring on the stat sheet, so the rookie Neal remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Stars LW James Neal had two third-period power-play goals during Friday's 10-2 rout of the Rangers. It was his fourth multi-goal game of the season and second in four games. Neal has five goals and four assists in his last seven outings.
Analysis: Neal is up to 18 goals on the season and has been one of the Stars' top goal scorers in 2008-09. He doesn't yet have a complete game and isn't always factoring on the stat sheet, so the rookie Neal remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Stars LW James Neal scored and assisted in Tuesday's win over the Flames. He now has seven points in his last five games and 25 on the season.
Analysis: Neal is having himself a solid rookie season and is starting to make some noise in deeper formats. He remains a low-end Fantasy option for now, but is someone worth keeping a close eye on.
News: Stars LW James Neal scored two goals and had an assist in a 7-3 rout of the Blue Jackets on Saturday. Neal opened the scoring and scored the fourth and decisive goal in the game, his 14th and 15th goals of the year. Neal now has 23 points on the season with 15 goals and eight assists.
Analysis: Neal has been pretty quiet in the latter part of January, failing to score since Jan. 13 before Saturday's performance. Hopefully he'll be able to carry over this impressive performance into February and the next scoring period. However, the rookie forward remains only a low-end option until he can keep this pace up.
News: Stars LW James Neal failed to record a point and finished at minus-1 during Monday's 5-4 overtime win against the Red Wings. He has just one goal and one assist in his last seven games.
Analysis: Neal has been an effective scorer this season for Dallas with 13 goals. But he has just 18 points and is not an all-around offensive threat. The rookie forward still remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News:James Neal had a power-play tally for the Stars during Thursday's 6-5 shootout win against the Blue Jackets. Neal gave Dallas a 4-2 edge on a power-play deflection 2:29 into the second period. He had his second goal in five games and also totaled seven penalty minutes Thursday.
Analysis: The rookie forward has totaled eight goals in 26 games this season and remains one of the Stars' top scorers. Neal is a nice developing talent, but still remains just a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Stars LW James Neal recorded his seventh goal of the season Wednesday in a loss to the Coyotes.
Analysis: Neal is a nice young talent, but he needs to pick up the pace a little if he's going to be a Fantasy factor this season. He remains just a keeper option at best for the time being.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Stars LW James Neal is doing well since his call up in mid-November. He has nine points in 21 games after spending all of last season in the AHL. "When you go down and play there, you really learn about the game and what it takes, and you see just how much work you have to do," Neal said. "I look at myself now and know I still need to work on a lot of different things. But I look at myself from back then, and I know I've come a long way."
Analysis: Neal is a nice young talent, but he needs to pick up the pace a little if he's going to be a Fantasy factor this season. He remains just a keeper option at best.
News: Dallas LW James Neal scored twice in the Stars 4-3 win over Minnesota on Wednesday night. Neal scored his fourth of the season in the 1st period and added his fifth in the 2nd to make it 3-2 Wild. His second goal was unassisted.
Analysis: Neal was a regular in the Dallas lineup before poor production got him sent down to the minors. He looked like a man on a mission Wednesday, but we need to see him keep up the scoring before recommending him in Fantasy.
News: Stars LW James Neal, recalled from the AHL Wednesday, scored Thursday against the Blackhawks. Neal pulled Dallas even at 3 on a rebound at 16:06 of the second period. It was his third goal of the season and first since Oct. 18.
Analysis: Neal was a regular in the Dallas lineup before poor production got him sent down to the minors. He looked like a man on a mission Thursday, but we need to see him keep up the scoring before recommending him in Fantasy.
News: The Stars have recalled LW James Neal from Manitoba (AHL).
Analysis: Neal has some minimal value in keeper formats but ignore him outside of super-deep Fantasy leagues.
News: The Dallas Stars have sent D Mark Fistric, LW James Neal and RW Chris Conner to the minor leagues. Fistric and Neal were assigned to the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League. Conner is going to the AHL's Peoria Rivermen after his emergency recall.
Analysis: Neal has some minimal value in keeper formats, but none of these players have any Fantasy value in seasonal leagues, so continue to ignore them for the time being.
News: Stars LW James Neal scored a goal in Saturday's game against Colorado. He attempted two shots in the game and finished the game with an even plus/minus rating.
Analysis: Rookies Fabian Brunnstrom and James Neal have combined for six of Dallas' 16 goals this season. Neal now has a point in three of his first five games and is off to a very promising start. He was the 33rd overall pick in 2005 but only put up 37 points in 62 games last season in his first AHL campaign. He is considered to have high upside and this is a sign that maybe he'll be worth taking a flier on in deeper formats.
News: Stars LW James Neal scored a goal in Friday's game vs. Columbus. He finished with an even plus/minus rating during 16 minutes of ice time.
Analysis: Neal was the 33rd overall pick in 2005 but only put up 37 points in 62 games last season in his first AHL campaign. He is considered to have high upside and this is a sign that maybe he'll be worth taking a flier on in deeper formats.
News: Although they were temporarily assigned to Oklahoma City of the CHL on Wednesday as part of a paperwork move, both LW James Neal and D Mark Fistric have made the opening night Stars roster.
Analysis: Neal was the 33rd overall pick in 2005 but only put up 37 points in 62 games last season in his first AHL campaign. He is unlikely to be much of an offensive force in the NHL in 2008-09 and might not see much ice time, so continue to ignore him in all formats for the time being. Fistric also isn't worth owning.
News: The Dallas Stars sent Mark Fistric, Perttu Lindgren and James Neal to their AHL affiliate in Iowa. "They're all very good prospects," coach Dave Tippett told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. "And they need to get to playing."
Analysis: Neither of the three players are worth using in any seasonal Fantasy leagues. It's unlikely they'll make a splash in Fantasy Hockey until at least 2008-09 at the earliest.
News: The Stars announced the signing of LW James Neal to a three-year contract. Neal, currently playing with the Plymouth Whalers in the Ontario Hockey League, was Dallas' second-round selection in the 2005 entry draft. The 6-foot-3, 200-pounder had 21 goals and 37 assists for Plymouth last season.
Analysis: Neal is the future in Dallas, but the team has not announced when they plan to bring him up. Also, the Stars have not mentioned in what capacity he would be used if he were to be called up anytime soon. Keep an eye out for Neal's callup, but he is not worth adding to your Fantasy roster just yet.
