Fantasy Impact: Lee Stempniak has signed with the Phoenix Coyotes for two years.

The Coyotes get: a third-line sniper in a second-line costume. Stempniak has proven that he can get 50 points and has hinted at 60-point ability, but he has yet to show 80-game consistency. That said, he had 14 goals in 18 games with Phoenix last year and fits into coach Dave Tippett's system well. If he reaches the 60-point mark ever in his career, it will be this year on this team.

Fantasy Players Impacted: Radim Vrbata just went from second-PP-unit stalwart, to off the power play altogether. He was probably a third liner during even strength anyway, but this signing solidifies that. Furthermore, promising prospect wingers Brett McLean and Mikkel Boedker will be looking at a tough battle to crack the roster this year. McLean is close to being NHL ready and it would be a shame if he has to make the AHL his bitch this year - which is exactly what will happen if he goes back there.

Fantasy Players This Helps, In Order:

1. Stempniak

Fantasy Players This Hurts, In Order:

1. McLean

2. Vrbata

3. Boedker

Comments (3)

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David Lutz said:

	... Felt Lee was a failure here in Toronto, he disappeared for long streches, he has the heart just don't think he has strong enough skill set / hockey vision. Over paided 3rd liner. He will as he does every year a long sterch of nothinginess and 10 goals in 14 games.
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August 30, 2010
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DuklaNation said:

	... Always felt he would be a good fit on PIT. Yet they seem content with a weak supporting cast for their 3 centres.
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August 30, 2010
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Chicleteur said:

	Any impact on Upshall? Does this signing have any impact for Upshall? He was doing great and even saw top line minute before his injury.
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August 30, 2010
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