Sjostrom has never lived up to the expectations of an 11th overall draft pick. But he does fit perfectly into general manager Brian Burke's expectations of a bottom-six forward. Sjostrom is a great skater and an exceptional penalty killer, and will be the best friend of his goalies for the yeoman's work he performs. His fantasy value lies in leagues with highly specialized or extreme categories; otherwise, he's useless.
Sjostrom has not developed into quite the player people were expecting after he was taken with the eleventh overall pick by the Phoenix Coyotes in the 2001 NHL draft. He is still a valuable defensive forward and the Flames will rely heavily on him to shut down opponents this season. Unfortunately the things that he does well are not rewarded in fantasy play. Do not anticipate much of a fantasy contribution from Sjostrom.
Sjostrom was acquired from Phoenix at the trading deadline last season. He had two goals and two assists in 18 games for the Rangers in limited time. Nothing more than a third or fourth line player.
Last season, Fredrik Sjostrom had an average year with momentary flashes of brilliance. After the team was being decimated by the New York Rangers early in the season last year, Sjostrom showed that he still has skill and determination as he went coast to coast to score a top shelf goal against Henrik Lundqvist. However, for most of the season, he did not show the same offensive punch. He scored 18 points (six goals with six assists) for a minus 11 rating. He was used in Penalty Kill situations, especially five-on-three. Sjostrom could have a better year in 2007-2008, but there is increased competition with the addition of the younger players, so he will have to work harder than ever before. If he doesn't improve his offensive production, he could be traded elsewhere.
Sjostrom's climb to the NHL is finally complete as he is expected to make the team out of camp and play regular minutes. Unfortunately, with such depth up front, those minutes may be limited and make him a long shot for fantasy worth. Keep this guy on the radarm as he is a former first round selection and could be surprise this year or next.
Sjostrom is hoping to stay with the Coyotes for the entire year after splitting time between the big club and Springfield in 2003-04. A strong physical winger, Sjostrom was the team's first round pick in 2001, but only had 13 points in 57 games in 03-04.
