Follow theScore's fantasy feed on Twitter (@theScoreFantasy) for the latest news, features and more. And download Squad Up, theScore's free-to-win-money sports game.
theScore will be giving out fantasy report cards discussing the fantasy value of key players on each of the 30 teams. This edition focuses on the Dallas Stars.
ANA | ARI | BOS | BUF | CGY | CAR | CHI | COL | CLB | DAL | DET | EDM | FLA| LA | MIN | MTL | NAS | NJ | NYI | NYR | OTT | PHI | PIT | SJ | STL | TB | TOR | VAN | WAS | WPG
G Kari Lehtonen/Antti Niemi
The tandem of Lehtonen and Niemi has been underwhelming for the second consecutive season. The original hope with the duo was split work would help keep both players fresh and boost the performance of each as individuals. Lehtonen's save percentage is sub-.900 and Niemi's is just a fraction better. Both have a GAA over 2.80, and they're a combined 14-14-7. Grade: F/D-
C/RW Tyler Seguin
A slow start to the season and poor team performance have Seguin on pace for his lowest goal and point totals since his final season with the Boston Bruins. He is averaging nearly four shots on goal per game and his shooting percentage will trend upward slightly, but he won't return value on the third- or fourth-overall pick. Grade: D
LW Jamie Benn
Benn has been even worse than Seguin, without the excuse of a low shooting percentage. His average shot distance is considerably further out from the net than it has been in recent years, indicative of potential injury concerns carrying over from offseason surgery. He's still a prime source of hits and blocked shots with immense offensive upside, but a dramatic turnaround shouldn't be expected. Grade: D-
RW Patrick Eaves
Eaves is already near a career season in all major offensive categories, as he started the year alongside Seguin and Benn. He has since dropped down the lineup, but he remains in possession of power-play opportunity. Eaves can only be considered in very deep leagues, but he is a quality, cheap daily fantasy option. Grade: B+
C/RW Jason Spezza
While dealing with nagging injuries, Spezza is on pace for his lowest point total since becoming a full-time NHL player. His shooting percentage is below his career rate, but he is attempting fewer shots per game than in recent seasons. Typically a versatile player, he can be jostled throughout the lineup, but he has spent far too much time on the third line this season. Grade: D
C Radek Faksa
Faksa entered the break with four points in his past five games, trending upward for a meager season total. He has been a surprise source of hits and blocked shots, helping to balance out the streaky offensive contributions. He's a deep league option. Grade: C
LW Antoine Roussel
The NHL's penalty minute leader, Roussel has also contributed a half-point per game. He's well on his way to a career-high. The hits count is lower than would be expected, but the penalty minutes and surprising offense keep him on rosters in banger leagues. Grade: A-
D John Klingberg
One of the biggest busts of the season, Klingberg's offensive contribution has much more similar to that of Roussel, after riding the coattails of Benn and Seguin last season. He is shooting at a much lower rate and hasn't been nearly the same contributor on special teams. He's only still a fantasy option due to the few options at his position. Grade: F
D Jordie Benn
Benn's ice time and offensive role have grown with the departure of Alex Goligoski to the Arizona Coyotes, but the production has not increased at all. He has no business anywhere near a fantasy roster. Grade: D
Player to watch: RW Brett Ritchie
Only an option when given the chance on the Stars' top line, Ritchie has been jostled throughout the lineup this season. He isn't ever guaranteed to skate with Benn and Seguin at 5v5 or on the power play, but he's a very safe daily fantasy play when given the chance.
