Ad
Pittsburgh Penguins News
Center Jeff Carter, one of two major acquisitions over the summer, suffered a bruised right foot when he was struck by a Rick Nash shot in Team McConnell's opening loss to Team Pizzuti. He did not play in the consolation game.

Although the injury only appears to be a bruise, Carter has surgery on both feet this past offseason. This malady could be a sign for a nagging injury, which is enough to worry fantasy owners. Regardless, Carter has missed only 10 games over the past two seasons.

Jeff Carter
If Malkin -- who has done some of his finest work when Crosby has been out of the lineup -- is completely healed and can elevate his game to the level he has reached at times in recent years, he will pick up much of the slack caused by Crosby's absence, however long it lasts.

Malkin claimed he was at 90 percent today despite training at an elevated level all summer. The talented Russian has too much talent not to step up with added ice time. As long as Crosby remains out you can expect Malkin to hold even more value.

Evgeni Malkin
Malkin spent the offseason recovering from a February surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament. After a summer of skating and working out in the gym, Malkin said his knee felt "pretty good."

Reports out of Pittsburgh yesterday showed the team lineup with Sidney Crosby. Without the talented captain, most offensive pressure will fall on Malkin. Stay tuned for further updates from the team as camp breaks.

Evgeni Malkin
Carter played mostly right wing last season in Philadelphia. But after enduring a first decade without a No.?1 center, the Blue Jackets are set on playing Carter there, with captain Rick Nash on one side, probably the left.

Despite the warning signs from Philadelphia, Carter will start his career in Columbus at center. One way or another he will play with superstar Rick Nash, which should keep his fantasy value in check.

Jeff Carter