Caution. With the 'Canes now featuring a younger blend of talent, Samsonov is falling out of favor in Carolina. It's become extremely difficult to predict how he'll perform on a week-to-week basis, making it safe to avoid him in most fantasy circles. He'll likely be relegated to third or fourth-line duty with limited upside in his favor.
Samsonov recorded 48 points (16G, 32A) in 2008-09, the winger's most impressive output since his 70-point showing with Boston in 2001-02. Still, he's wildly inconsistent, prone to lengthy slumps, timid with the puck, and never a sure bet to land on the positive end of the plus/minus category. With plenty of forward depth across the league, consider alternative options unless unpredictability from your players doesn't strike you as bothersome.
If you have moderately high risk tolerance, Samsonov makes an excellent sleeper pick. His year-long numbers are depressed by his abysmal stint in Chicago (four points in 23 games), so his full-season point total of just 36 points is deceptive. Expect him to add at least 20 points to that if he stays healthy.
It's the old change of scenery routine for Samsonov, who is coming over to the Hawks from the Canadiens. Samsonov's potential will make him a higher pick in your draft compared to where he should really go based on his past production. Remember, this is already the fourth organization for Samsonov and he still has not fulfilled his promise after being the eighth-overall selection in the 1997 NHL Entry Draft.
Samsonov hasn't scored 70 points since 2000-01. There's reason for at least 60pt+ optimism, for Sammy will be playing with the talented Mr. Kovalev. The other linemate, Tomas Plekanec, is still developing but possesses the needed speed to keep up with his new linemates. Add likely first power-play duty to Samsonov's job requirement and it looks like (health-permitting) a promising season.
Samsonov is gifted winger with speed, touch and agility, and he's looking to earn himself a handsome contract next summer as a free agent. Combine that with a season riding shotgun with either Joe Thornton or Alexei Zhamnov and the word magic comes to mind. This is going to be a big season for the little man; you'll be glad you went out and got him for your fantasy squad.
