Steve McCarthy

In 2005-06, after being traded to Atlanta, McCarthy put up 10 points in the final 16 games of the season. He came into last season as the Thrashers' power play QB and all signs pointed to a breakthrough season. Things didn't work out and he was benched after the Thrashers acquired Alexei Zhitnik. He managed a disappointing 16 points in 46 games. Somewhat surprisingly, the Thrashers re-signed McCarthy this past off-season, so he'll try to show us which McCarthy is the real one. It's not impossible to invision McCarthy getting some fantasy attention this year, but he's a long way from contributing to your fantasy squad.

McCarthy came over to Atlanta from the Canucks in a late season trade and blossomed under Coach Bob Hartley. He had only 6 points in 51 games with the Canucks but managed 10 in 16 games with the Thrashers. We don’t expect McCarthy to continue at that pace but he was getting a lot of playing time, especially on the power play. With Jaroslav Modry gone and no other established offensive defensemen on the team McCarthy should continue to get lots of playing time which means a nice point total. It wouldn’t surprise us if he easily toped 30 points, which makes him a great last round pick in large pools.

McCarthy has considerable upside in terms of offense. However, he's had a few stints in the NHL with the Blackhawks (he's played in 134 games in five seasons) and has not had any impact offensively (16 career points). Must get better defensively and find his game when given the opportunity if he wants to earn a regular spot in the lineup.