Fantasy Hockey Faceoff: Sidney Crosby vs. Tyler Seguin
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Here's a look at whether fantasy hockey owners would be better off selecting Pittsburgh Penguins C Sidney Crosby or Dallas Stars C Tyler Seguin:
2015 Stats
| Stat | Crosby | Seguin |
|---|---|---|
| GP | 80 | 72 |
| G | 36 | 33 |
| A | 49 | 40 |
| P | 85 | 73 |
| +/- | 19 | 2 |
| PIM | 42 | 16 |
| PPP | 24 | 24 |
| Shots | 248 | 278 |
| Hits | 90 | 80 |
| Blocks | 35 | 27 |
The Case for Crosby
There was a point in time many though Crosby was "done" last season after an awful start. He had just six goals and 19 points through the first 28 games, but a coaching change rejuvenated the longtime superstar. It's by no coincidence Crosby had 30 goals and 36 assists in 52 games once Mike Sullivan took over as the club's head coach December 12.
Best Case Scenario: Crosby continues to flourish under Sullivan while surrounded by an abundance of talent up front. Having three dynamic scoring lines keeps Crosby's target on his back smaller than usual and he leads the NHL in points with 110.
Worst Case Scenario: Aside from injury, it's difficult to imagine Crosby performing at a sub-par level. At 29, he is still in his prime and it's hard to see him taking a step back. Recording 75 points seems like his floor at this point.
The Case for Seguin
Seguin is still just 24 years old, although it's kind of hard to believe considering this will be his seventh season in the NHL. He still has room to grow as a player, so this creates a very high ceiling considering he is already a point-per-game player. He also plays on a line with arguably the best all-around winger in the entire league in Jamie Benn.
Best-Case Scenario: Seguin stays healthy for 82 games, matures as a player and leads the NHL in scoring with 100 points. He and Benn finish first and second in the league in scoring, becoming an unstoppable duo.
Worst-Case Scenario: Seguin suffered a hairline fracture in his heel in a pre-tournament game for the World Cup of Hockey while playing for Team Canada. The off-chance this injury lingers and derails the early portion of his season would be catastrophic for such a high draft pick.
Verdict
Regardless of the format or league scoring, go with Crosby. He is as safe a pick as they come, but also has the upside to lead the NHL in scoring. A full season with Sullivan behind the bench could help him have his best statistical season since he was a 19-year-old kid.