This article is part of our Neutral Zone Wrap series.
The Buffalo Sabres and the Edmonton Oilers. Two clubs sharing rather dubious distinctions. The former has missed the playoffs five of the last seven seasons while the latter hasn't seen action in late spring since losing in the Finals in 2006.
While neither could be described as a model franchise, both are proactive in the transaction market. The Oilers have had the recent fortune of earning high picks in the draft, yet some have proven to be of the disappointing or wait-and-see variety. Edmonton has stockpiled selections through other teams, which leaves it in a prime position for the future. And just last week, Buffalo acquired Evander Kane. Hopefully, this move will turn out better than the Sabres' track record when it comes to trades the last decade. But it's a step in the right direction.
So why am I bringing up some sad story that most people already know? Because I'm clearly here to bore you. Well, that and to impart some form of wisdom.
This week's lesson relates to keeper fantasy leagues. Your squad may be in the middle of a long-standing slump. Perhaps you're perennially out of contention and pining for the next major sport to roll around. But if you make efforts to improve -- no matter how small -- you're at least going about things the right way, even if you're not always successful.
Check out these five NHL outfits and pick out who is taking care of business and who is throwing
The Buffalo Sabres and the Edmonton Oilers. Two clubs sharing rather dubious distinctions. The former has missed the playoffs five of the last seven seasons while the latter hasn't seen action in late spring since losing in the Finals in 2006.
While neither could be described as a model franchise, both are proactive in the transaction market. The Oilers have had the recent fortune of earning high picks in the draft, yet some have proven to be of the disappointing or wait-and-see variety. Edmonton has stockpiled selections through other teams, which leaves it in a prime position for the future. And just last week, Buffalo acquired Evander Kane. Hopefully, this move will turn out better than the Sabres' track record when it comes to trades the last decade. But it's a step in the right direction.
So why am I bringing up some sad story that most people already know? Because I'm clearly here to bore you. Well, that and to impart some form of wisdom.
This week's lesson relates to keeper fantasy leagues. Your squad may be in the middle of a long-standing slump. Perhaps you're perennially out of contention and pining for the next major sport to roll around. But if you make efforts to improve -- no matter how small -- you're at least going about things the right way, even if you're not always successful.
Check out these five NHL outfits and pick out who is taking care of business and who is throwing it away:
Philadelphia Flyers
Don't look now, but Philadelphia is climbing back into contention. Steve Mason (minor knee surgery) is sidelined again, but Ray Emery (no regulation losses in his last six appearances) has proven a capable No. 1. Brayden Schenn (five points in 13 games) should be posting better numbers as a first-liner, but at least there's no danger of demotion. Sean Couturier (four in eight) was drafted for his size, but he's starting to make a name with his hands (12 goals overall). After a brief illness, Michael Raffl (game-winner Sunday) is looking to build upon a promising rookie campaign (22 in 68). It wasn't long ago people wrote off Michael Del Zotto (nine in 11), but he's rewarded those who have stuck with him. Nick Schultz's recent offensive "binge" (three in seven) may appear confusing, considering the 13-year veteran has never topped 20.
Chicago Blackhawks
Chicago is spreading its talent, yet the scoring is concentrated among the few. Just like at the beginning of the season, Brad Richards (one in eight, minus-6) is struggling to find the scoresheet. Kris Versteeg (28 in 37) missed a month but won't find it difficult to readjust. Skating on the top power-play should net Andrew Shaw more. He may have already topped last season's production (23 compared to 15), but Bryan Bickell (two in 11) isn't the forward for whom you are looking. With only 17 goals in their last eight games, maybe it wasn't the Blackhawks' best decision to send down Teuvo Teravainen (24 in 35 in Rockford). One of these days, David Rundblad (11 in 36) will become a fine everyday defenseman; but for now, try to enjoy whatever he can provide in minor minutes.
San Jose Sharks
The Sharks might not be as menacing as their name suggests. Tommy Wingels (hand) has recovered and might be the boost San Jose needs. Matthew Nieto (three in three) can make an impact but only looks like he's just turning the corner after a December setback. Undrafted Melker Karlsson (nine goals, six assists in 29) may be unfamiliar to East Coasters, but he's quietly entering the Calder conversation. Tomas Hertl (three in nine, with all three at once) is still only 21, so a little patience is necessary for long-term survival. Matt Tennyson (five in 10) is another relative unknown who is getting the job done on the blueline. Justin Braun (hand) is on the mend, so opportunities for Brenden Dillon (scoreless in nine) will soon be dwindling.
Arizona Coyotes
For a lineup filled with aging veterans, green prospects and spare parts, you have to give Arizona credit for trying. Shane Doan (six in 14) remains the rock and ambassador. Sam Gagner (six in 11) is thriving in a quieter environment. The coaching staff is showing its confidence in Tobias Rieder (14 points), though he hasn't paid off fantasy-wise (nothing in seven). One-year journeyman (the Coyotes are his fourth team this season) Mark Arcobello (two goals in three since arriving) might have found a home in the desert. Lauri Korpikoski has been mired lately (zero in seven), but the preceding stretch (five in four) reveals his true abilities. Lucas Lessio has already shown what he can do on the farm (18 in 29), so now's his moment in the big leagues.
New Jersey Devils
And speaking of generation gaps, nobody does it better than the Devils. You might mistakenly believe you've been transported to the early 2000s since Scott Gomez (nine in 13, including five PPAs) is scoring again. If there's one thing that can be said about Patrik Elias (six in 13), it's consistency. Travis Zajac (18 in 48) does a decent job of injecting offense, but not enough (like two in nine) to justify a pickup. Steve Bernier has already spent time on waivers and in the AHL, so it's good to see him shine again (eight in 12, with three PPGs). Most would forget Adam Larsson (fourth pick in 2011) was once considered a blue-chip prospect, but his latest output (six in 13) may jog a few memories. Eric Gelinas has been stuck on the bench (six consecutive healthy scratches), but he's worth a shot (PPA Saturday) when in the lineup.
