Buffalo's addition of Niedermayer in July was a bit of a head-scratcher to most. The Sabres just did not seem to need a fourth-line winger who turns 36 in December. Regardless, Niedermayer is in Buffalo because he is a veteran, and he is a winner. Ten goals and 15 assists is about the ceiling for Niedermayer in 2010-11, but his likelihood for a collapse are pretty high.
Niedermayer tallied just eight goals and eight assists last season and he's no longer a fantasy option in anything but the deepest of leagues. Playing on the third line should yield a lot of shifts up against opponents' best offensive players, and it also explains his limited offensive numbers of late. Two season ago he fell just short of 40 points so some offensive skills exist in those hands, but he is long in the tooth and as a part of a defensive-minded checking line, Niedermayer's fantasy value is dwindling fast.
The assistant captain is known more for his hard work, defensive skills and leadership qualities then for his scoring ability. He posted 16 points (11 goals and five assists) in 82 games last season with a fairly explosive offense. In the 2005-06 season he posted 39 points (15 goals and 24 assists) in 76 games. With the Ducks offense taking a step back, except Niedermayer to help pick up some of the slack, possibly earning a roster spot in a deeper league.
Niedermayer had his best season in eight years in 2005-06, scoring 39 points in 76 games. Despite his resurgence, he does not score enough to warrant many fantasy starts, as he will be a second or third line center.
Niedermayer will probably center the third line, so he won't be a big fantasy factor this season. Look for, at best, 35-40 points from the veteran. To be honest, Anaheim may have re-signed Niedermayer as a way to entice his brother, Scott, to sign with the Ducks.
