How to use the NHL Standing to your Advantage

My fantasy flock, let us play . . .

Any fantasy hockey GM is inundated with trade offers every month. Some are just terrible. It is obvious the other GM is simply looking to "win" a trade, a term the modern media has so unfortunately coined. We will cover this in future columns and I promise it will be a commandment at some point.

However, today we will discuss the other trades. The close ones. With most leagues' only weeks away from their respective trade deadlines it is important to have an idea of what your needs are down the line. It is also important to understand what you are comfortable in giving up to get what you need. As we all know, "you have to give to get."

Blessed be he who draft before us . . .

My fantasy flock, let us play . . .

I am heading to the NHL All Star Fantasy Draft tonight. This is where respective captains, this year Daniel Alfredsson and Zdeno Chara, pick their teams like a game of pond hockey.

Know your opposition, but know your own team and needs better.

Onward Fantasy Forwards

My fantasy flock, let us play . . .

Most pools have between 12 and 14 teams. If you are in a larger league or a smaller league this sermon is not for you.

As we approach the All Star break many teams on the cusp of contention will be looking for an upgrade a forward. You may still be a few days or weeks from pulling a trade. If you are in a keeper league it could be worse. You may be a tweener and not sure if you are buying or selling. However, a waiver move at this time of year can pay huge dividends either way. If you get the right player now you can use him for the rest of the season or your can move him in a package for a more valuable keeper who is under performing at the deadline.

Welcome to Statistical Salvation

Dearly Beloved,

We are gathered here today in the presence of you and your computer screen, to join your fantasy team and first place in matrimony, which is commended to be honorable among all men. As I stand before you I can openly tell you that there is one thing, and one thing alone that will pry your team out of first place. It is not the devil. It is not just Lady Luck, although she has had a hand in the downfall of many a team. It is not the your opposition and their ability to spend hours a day pouring over stats and to predict the exact player you are targeting, only moments before your pick.

It is, simply, yourself.