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The following is a list of the impact UFAs goalies for 2002. We also give you our analysis, from a fantasy perspective, of where these guys may go and how they may do.
Curtis Joseph (group III): Rumors abound on the deal that was offered to
Joseph and his agent, Don Meehan. Was it 2, 3 or 4 years. Was it for $7, $8, or
$9 million per season? I guess only the parties involved really know. Latest
news is that the Rangers are said to be hot for CuJo - and have privately
advised his agent not to sign anywhere without talking to them first. Rangers GM
Sather remembers Joseph's feats of grandeur with the Oilers 5 years ago and
thinks Joseph is the key to getting the Rangers into the playoffs. Our guess is
that he winds up either with the Rangers or the Red Wings (now that Hasek has
retired); but there is a chance he could come back to the Leafs if the Rangers'
offer is just hype. His asking price is said to be at least a 4 year deal worth
a minimum of $9million per season. Big dollars and a big commitment for a guy
who is 35 and hasn't been able to get to the Finals yet. But come July 1, let
the bidding begin.
Fantasy Impact: If he becomes a Ranger, he'll get shelled which will
translate into 25 wins and a .920 %. If he's a Wing, 35 wins and the same save
%.
Ed Belfour (group III): Supposedly the Leafs "plan B" is that if CuJo leaves
for greener pastures then the Leafs are reportedly ready to sign Belfour (or
perhaps Dafoe) for a lot less money than CuJo and try and improve the team with
another positional player - preferably on the blueline. Detroit is said to be
becoming an ever growing potential suitor as not only Chelios, but also
Brett Hull are said to be bending GM
Ken Holland's ear about landing the "Eagle". In a locker room full of hall
of famers, the thought is that Eddie will have no choice but to tone down his
act.
Fantasy Impact: An easy 30 + wins if he's a Wing, and 25 + with the Leafs
- watch his save % though, as he'll struggle to keep it above .900.
Mike Richter (group III): After a comeback year, from two seasons of
consecutive knee surgeries and sub-par performances, Richter played very well
for a defensively woeful Rangers club. That said, the NY Post is reporting that
the Rangers are not going to pursue Richter with much vigor, if any, and have
Curtis Joseph firmly in their cross hairs. He'll be 36 before training camp
breaks, but odds are that Richter will land on his feet somewhere - but it may
only be for a two year deal in the $5-$6 million per season range. That said,
his performance at the Salt Lake Olympics should alleviate most pundits concerns
about his abilities sliding - for Richter, it's just a matter of staying
healthy.
Fantasy Impact: 20+ wins and a .905%.
Byron Dafoe (group III): A great regular season was followed up with a
mediocre playoffs and that is going to hurt Lord Byron in the goalie
sweepstakes. He also is coming off a litany of knee injuries in the past, which
have prevented him from entering the top echelon of NHL netminders. He is
rumored to be requesting a long term deal in about the $6 million per season
range. At 31 years of age, Dafoe's hospital record may keep him from getting
exactly what he wants, but a chance to play in Toronto could be in the offing.
The Bruins are reportedly interested in re-signing Dafoe, but have not made any
overtures to his agent, adopting a "wait and see" strategy, while insulating
themselves with the acquisition of veteran
Steve Shields from Anaheim.
Fantasy Impact: If he's a Leaf, it's 25+ but .900%.
Felix Potvin (group III): Becoming well traveled, and has an option
remaining on his contract that the Kings are likely to pick-up and see how he
performs before making a longer commitment.
Fantasy Impact: Staying put and 25+ wins and .908%.
Update: Kings picked up the option and will
keep Potvin in LA.
Tom Barrasso (group III): Was resurrected early in Carolina, but fell off in
the later half of the season. Barrasso proved he can still play, but any team
that signs him is rolling the dice if they anoint him the #1 without a more than
capable back-up in reserve. He may be "Plan F" for the Leafs should Cujo, Dafoe,
Belfour and Richter all find other places to play - but he would come much more
cheaply than any of those netminders.
Fantasy Impact: Too much depends on where he goes.
Defensemen | Centers |
Wingers
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