Maxim Afinogenov

Afinogenov could be the key to Buffalo�s 2007-08 success. He�s an immensely talented player that can also be maddeningly inconsistent and turnover-prone. Head coach Lindy Ruff admits that it�s hard to find linemates that mesh with Afinogenov�s whirling dervish style. A separated shoulder cost him about six weeks last year, yet he still averaged just over a point per game in 56 contests. Afinogenov should move up to the second line this year and has a good chance to skate on the Sabres� top power-play unit. He has the talent to be an 80-to-90 point scorer if he can remain under control.

Afinogenov came out of nowhere to have a huge season in 2005-06, scoring 22 goals and 51 assists in 77 games. The 2006-07 season should be no different, as Afinogenov is only 27 and in his fourth season. Expect big things out of the winger, especially if Daniel Briere can stay healthy the entire season. Eighty or 90 points are not out of the question.

Afinogenov had a few sparks in 2003-04 and finished with 17 goals and 31 points, a decent return considering he was marred by a major concussion injury the previous season. He's more B-level sniper than playmaker, and if he ever learns how to use his sheer speed the right way, he'll be a 25-30 goal scorer. Afinogenov isn't a bad late upside pick in deep leagues, and the coaching staff expects big things from him. With Miro Satan gone, this could be a breakout season.

Afinogenov had a few sparks in 2003-04 and finished with 17 goals and 31 points, a decent return considering he was marred by a major concussion injury the previous season. He's more B-level sniper than playmaker, and if he ever learns how to use his sheer speed the right way, he'll be a 25-30 goal scorer. Afinogenov isn't a bad late upside pick in deep leagues.