I will be the first to admit that this week's crop of must-adds are nowhere near sure bets, but there is alot of high upside associated with the young wingers, plus a few goalies that have done it before. So, there is plenty of opportunity to bolster your team's output by adding the right guy from this list:
Marcus Johansson LW, Washington:With 4 points in his last 4 games, the left winger has been flourishing lately on the second line with Andre Burakovsky. While Johansson didn't deliver last season as a top liner(44 pts/80 gms), he is still one of the team's better offensive weapons and has the ability to pad 10-15 points to last season's point total. Also, the 24-year old continues to play on the primary power-play unit alongside Ovechkin and Backstrom. Need I say more?
Nikita Kucherov RW,Tampa Bay:The 21- year old has been white hot with nine points over the last five games. He has played himself up to the 2nd line while clicking with Ondrej Palat and Tyler Johnson. With 11 points in 12 games, he is off to a tremendous start but keep in mind that second-year players will have their offensive production hit a wall a few times. If you can stomach the inconsistencies, this youngster has the skill to put up 50+ points provided he stays in the top-six. He is well worth the shot..
Derek Stepan C, New York Rangers: His impending return to the Blueshirts could provide the jolt of confidence that the pivot-deficient Rangers need to revive their offense. Coming off a career-high 57 points, he will probably be back centering the "hot" Rick Nash which should only help him get back in the offensive swing of things.This addition is a no-brainer if he is available.
Ray Emery G, Philadelphia: Three winnable home games on the upcoming docket and Steve Mason's well-documented struggles could contribute to a huge fantasy week for Emery. Despite a poor outing against Lightning his last time out, he could grab all three starts a if he gets the nod and plays well against Edmonton. Berube will ride the hot hand, so only start him if you are in desperation for 2nd goalie help.. High risk/ high reward candidate with potential to unseat Mason.
Cam Ward G, Carolina: Yeah, I know I haven't been high on him but man, did he look good this weekend in securing back-to-back wins for the previously winless Hurricanes! If he is still available and you are stinking up the joint in the goalie department, give him a chance and stash him on your bench. Carolina has plenty of money invested in him and he just earned himself another shot with his recent performances.
ADD'EM: WARD SHOWS SOME LIFE! primepucks.comMon 11/3/14 5:23 AM