Welcome to week 22 of the Fantasy Planner, getting you ready for next week's fantasy hockey action. (3/15 through 3/21).
Week 22 Matchups
Teams with 4 games: Atlanta, Boston, Buffalo, Carolina, Calgary, Dallas, Edmonton, Florida, Minnesota, Nashville, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Jose, St. Louis, Tampa Bay
Teams with 2 games: LA, Montreal
It will be a busy week on the NHL schedule, as most teams are looking at 4 games to play. LA and Montreal draw the short stick, with only 2 games a piece, so if you're looking to make a decision based on games, you may want to rest your Kings and Canadiens.
In terms of scheduling advantage, look to the Predators this week. 3 of 4 games at home, with games against non-playoff factors like Minnesota, Columbus and St. Louis.
Who's Hot
Jeff Carter (F - PHI)
It looked as if this season was shaping up to be a major let down after last year's torrid goal scoring display, but Carter has recovered nicely. He's in the midst of an amazing run of 10 goals over 10 games. He's given Flyers fans reason to hope as the playoffs near.
Stamkos / St. Louis (F - TAM)
These guys are tearing it up down in southern Florida. They're both averaging about 2 points per game since the end of January. Stamkos is even making a run at the Rocket Richard Trophy, as he currently sits just 2 goals back of Ovechkin and Crosby.
Who's Cold
Ryan Malone (F - TAM)
Malone seems to be suffering from post-Olympic depression. He's gone cold since the Olympic break, and wasn't performing particularly well before the event either. He's been bumped to the third line and is averaging only 10 minutes a game now. Consider other options at this point.
Ed Jovanavski (D - TAM)
While the Coyotes continue to plug along in the standings, Jovanavski has gone stone cold. He has registered points in only 2 of his last 12 games. After a terrific start, to an uncommon injury-light season, Jovo is starting to show his age.
Waiver Watch
Here are a few names who may be available in your league and are worth a look:
Peter Mueller (F - COL)
Everything the Avalanche touch this season seems to be turning to gold. Mueller was struggling to find relevance during his tenure in Phoenix. Since arriving in Colorado, he's registered 6 points in his first 4 games. He's getting significant time on the power play in Denver, something he didn't see much of recently with the Coyotes. He's available in almost every league out there, so give him a look.
Brian Pothier (D - CAR)
Joe Corvo ran the show for the Hurricanes power play over the past couple seasons, so when he was dealt to Washington, fans wondered who would fill the gap. So far, it's looking like the guy they acquired in the deal may step to the plate. After a two point performance last night, and 3 points in his last 3 games, you may want to consider Pothier as a depth defenseman option. He's logging more time than any other Hurricane since arriving, and hasn't left the ice for the Canes power play time.
David Booth (F - FLA)
When Booth went down with the infamous head shot last fall, most fantasy owners abandoned ship and left him for the taking. He's back and has found his early season form again. He has 7 points in his past 4 games, and is back to top line duties. If you've got room, snatch him now.
To get more free fantasy hockey tips and tools, visit
http://www.landsharkhockey.com.
Jovi plays for PHX not TAM, but otherwise nice blog.