Braun has found his way into eight consecutive games but sits tonight. He has only posted an assist despite playing a healthy amount of minutes which limits his fantasy hockey value.
Looks like Johansen will be moved back to center after getting scratched. The 19-year-old scored three goals and five points over 11 games which includes an even plus/minus and two game winning goals.
Braun may stick on the second defensive pairing with a stabilizer in Vlasic. He has no points through six games with a plus-3 rating on the season.
Johansen continues to go through growing pains despite improving modestly. So far the rookie has three goals and five points through his first 11 games.
Thompson could be taking a maintenance day in preparation for tomorrow's tilt against the Panthers. He has two goals and four points through 14 games.
Johansen has looked quite dynamic over the past four games with two goals and three points with both markers becoming game winners. He will remain a Blue Jacket for the rest of the season.
Couturier moves back to a scoring line after getting demoted to the fourth line.
Braun played in 29 games last season with the Sharks, producing two goals and 11 points. He likely serves as depth should the team need to rest Colin White or not dress 12 forwards.
The former fourth overall pick is currently on the 'Tyler Seguin' track, playing limited minutes if he's even in the lineup. In his NHL debut he was held without a point while playing 08:46. He could replace the injured Jeff Carter in the lineup.
Johansen continues his growing pains, keeping him out of the lineup for the time being. If you own him this year, it might be safe to drop him if you need the room.
Johansen likely will grow into the lineup. Look for Maksim Mayorov to take his place in the lineup.
Couturier has almost nothing left to prove in the QMJHL, making him a fit on the team's third line. Look for him to at least receive his nine-game tryout.
No immediate fantasy hockey value in the AHL.
No immediate fantasy hockey relevance while in the AHL.
Sounds like Johnson had a scare. Last season he scored eight goals and 29 points through 77 games between the St. Louis Blues and Colorado Avalanche. Expect him to produce around 10 goals and 40 points as the number 1 defender in Colorado.
Ellis may have earned a roster spot with his play last night. The Freelton, ONT native scored 24 goals and 101 points in his final season with the Windsor Spitfires. If he stays on the team, look for him to help man the bottom pairing.
Johansen looks to make the team in a depth role, which should ease the blue-chip prospect in the NHL. Last season, he scored 40 goals and 92 points with the Portland Winterhawks of the WHL. He should be a key contributor to the team for years.
Couturier has almost nothing left to prove in the QMJHL and could make the team as a third-line winger. The injury to Brayden Schenn also helps open a roster spot for the 8th overall pick.
No immediate fantasy value in the AHL.
Following back-to-back 96 point seasons in the QMJHL, Couturier has very little to prove at the Junior level. The pivot could convert into a left wing at some point this season, if he sticks with the big club.
