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y NoWayOut
I'm going to break things down by goaltending, forwards, and defense and give you some things I'll be
watching with the Stars and a fantasy angle to watch in each area.
Goaltending – The one true bright spot last year. Lehtonen continues to get better, albeit still a BAB, and
Bachman did a great job stepping in after Raycroft's collapse. Bachman's ability to build on last year is
going to be huge. If he can that's one less worry for the coaching staff.
(G) Fantasy – Don't sleep on Bachman. Given Lehtonen's injury history I think the Stars would be wise to
give 20-25 starts to Bachman. He should build on last year and is a necessary handcuff for Lehtonen
owners and is worthy of spot starter status in all but the shallowest leagues.
Defense – While goaltending was an asset last year, defense was a liability. Unlike the forwards where
moves were made this offseason the defense hasn't seen any. The question now is can this group step
up their play? When does Joe Nieuwendyk pull the trigger on a trade? Who goes if he does? This will be
the make or break area for the Stars this season.
(D) Fantasy – Philip Larsen is the name to watch. If you’re in a
dynasty league or partial keeper with farm teams he's likely gone.
That said I think he's a good trade target. In deeper one year
leagues he may be worth drafting depending on league setup. In
shallower one year leagues he's one to watch in your free agent
pool if injuries or under-performersforce you to look to the waiver
wire for help. This year likely won't be the breakout but he should
take a big step forward and he isn't facing the stiffest competition.
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