Waiver Draft Results - Go Figure

Europeans and tough guys were the prime focus in this year's expansion draft. Pugilists Sylvain Blouin and Jeff Odgers were selected by Wild and Thrashers respectively. The enigmatic Zdeno Ciger (Minnesota) and skilled winger Andreas Johansson (Rangers), both playing in Europe, were pick up as well. The Rangers may try to convince Johansson to come back to North America, but it's unclear what will happen with Ciger. Jason Podollan was also selected. He went to the Lightning. 

Surprises: Well obviously teams avoided young players because they didn't want to expose anyone. But players like Pascal Rheaume and the plethora of goaltenders out there should have attracted some interest, but didn't. It's almost like it was an "if you leave my guy alone, I'll leave yours alone" atmosphere. And that's too bad. There was talent out there. Teams could have addressed some serious issues, especially in net with goalies like Dwayne Roloson, Corey Schwab, Ken Wregget and Jimmy Waite available. 

Fantasy impact: We can go out on a limb here and say that there won't be much fantasy impact here. However, we should qualify this by saying that it is possible that if Johansson and Ciger get lured back to North America that they could have an impact. 

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