Despite a 6-1-2 record and a .905 save percentage so far this season, the real story behind Ray Emery’s success has been his triumphant return from a career threatening injury. Emery had the same debilitating hip condition that ended Bo Jackson’s career in the mid 1990’s. With the advancements of modern medicine today, Emery has bounced back after missing over an entire year of action. He returned late last season with Anaheim and helped the Ducks secure a playoff berth and then was signed by the Blackhawks just prior to this season. He has won his last three starts and has been a pleasant surprise for fantasy owners as he continues to push Corey Crawford.

Worth a Look

Mason Raymond LW VAN

Raymond’s measly 6% ownership in Yahoo leagues is probably more to do with owners being cautious about his injury status then his abilities. His hot start however may signal it’s time to take a gamble on him. In just four games so far this season Raymond has tallied three points and is a plus-3. He has also recorded six shots in that span and looks to be skating very well which has to be encouraging to potential fantasy owners.

Derek Stepan C NYR

Stepan has really turned it on over the last little while. He has eight points in his last six games and is coming off of a three point performance this past Sunday against the Panthers. The Rangers center is up to seven goals and 13 assists on the season and six of those points have been recorded with the man advantage. His time on the power play has increased and he now ranks fifth on the Rangers in that category. Still just 18% owned.

T.J. Oshie C/RW STL

Just about everyone on the Blues has seemed to have picked it up since Ken Hitchcock took over behind the bench. Oshie has stepped it up lately recording five points in his last seven games and has also posted ten PIM and 23 shots during that span. He is just 36% owned and his versatility also makes him an asset as he can be used at both center and right wing.

Matt Niskanen D PIT

Niskanen has been a pleasant surprise for the Penguins this season. Despite being just 8% owned, he ranks fifth on the team in total ice-time this season and leads Pittsburgh with a plus-12 rating. He has also recorded four points, seven blocks, and seven hits over his last four contests.

Drop ‘EM

Erik Johnson D COL

We have been waiting for Johnson’s emergence but it appears it may not be coming. He has yet to score this season, hasn’t recorded a point in his past seven games, and is a team worst minus-14.

Steve Downie RW TB

Downie has normally balanced his PIM with decent offensive production making him an attractive fantasy option. His numbers this year however have taken a hit. With just seven points on the season and one in his last five games, the PIM numbers may not be enough to keep him on most rosters. Plus with the addition of Antti Miettinen he will probably see his minutes reduced.