Mattias Ohlund

What a sad story. Ohlund inked a seven-year free agent deal with Tampa in the summer of 2009, but hasn't played since March 2011 because of chronic knee issues. Those chronic issues turned into arthroscopic surgery and finally a partial knee replacement in February 2012. It will take a miracle for him to return to the ice.

Ohlund has been a good soldier on D over the years. But he's currently rehabbing from major knee surgery and his career is in doubt. That call could come by September. We hope he gets to go out on his terms and not because of an injury.

Slow and steady wins the race. Ohlund, who turns 35 just before camp opens, is entering Year 3 on a seven-year deal. His game has slowed but he's still an on-ice Clydesdale, logging heavy minutes and contributing in PIMs, hits and blocked shots. His fantasy value is nil beyond that.

Ohlund used to be a solid if not unspectacular defender who could dish the body, clear the crease and fire pucks with power. But he's not any more. He can still be a stabilizing force, particularly for fellow Swede Victor Hedman as he matures. But he all too often gets beaten by the speed of today's young stars. He's signed to a long, long deal in Tampa Bay but he's on a steady path of decline already. He'll be lucky to earn power play time this year so don't expect a return to 25 points. His value will be restricted to leagues that weight sin bin points but only if he can return to his near-100 PIM history.

Ohlund teases you with bits of offense here and there, but he’s really a shutdown defender who’ll consistently bring his owners 25 points and 100 PIMs. He’s not the 35-point guy you think he is. Playing on the left coast tends to disguise a few things.

The veteran defenseman battled injury and suspension last season, appearing in only 53 games. He still should the ability to quarterback the Canucks, totaling nine goals and 15 assists. Ohlund should be back to full health entering the season and is likely to be undervalued in drafts. Look for the longtime Canuck to return to his 30-point form.

Ohlund is constantly called underrated, but that time may be over. His is good for just over 30 points, 80 PIMs and a smattering of power play points. There is little upside with him as it seems this is his ceiling, thus owners know what they are getting.

Ohlund will be taking on a much larger role as the undisputed top defender on the Canucks blueline. Expectations are high and he should surpass all previous highs in goals and assists. He is a fantasy contributor in all formats and would be a key addition to any team.

Someone needs to take the place of Brent Sopel, and that person should be Ohlund. He’s been a solid point producer throughout his career (he averages about 30 points per season), but with increased playing and power play time, he may be able to produce in/around the 40 to 45 point range.