Antropov notched just six goals and 18 points in 40 games last season. Given his size, skill and salary, the 2012-13 season was quite a disappointment for the 13-year veteran. Given the amount of top flight scoring and playmaking players typically available in any given year fantasy wise, Antropov is more of depth player in fantasy leagues these days.
Antropov strung together some impressive hot streaks in 2011-2012, proving that the 12-year veteran still has some hockey left in him, notching 35 points last season in 69 games. Though he will likely not approach the offensive output he totaled in 2009-2010 again in his career, fantasy owners who don't mind rolling the dice on No. 80's hip flexor (he missed the World Championships in favor of letting the injury heal in time for 2012-2013) could score some late-round value by drafting the 32 year-old.
Antropov went through one of the biggest letdown seasons of his career last season, posting just 16 goals, 25 assists and 41 points and a minus-17 rating (24 G, 43 A for 67 points and a plus-13 rating in the 2009-10 season). He started last season in a huge slump and with so much young talent on the Jets, don't expect him to flirt with the 70-point plateau this year as he seems more comfortable in a supporting role.
In his first full season with the Thrashers Antropov proved he can contribute as a No. 1 center in the NHL, posting career highs in games played (76) and points (67 - 24 G, 43 A). His steady production is encouraging considering the team traded the face of the franchise, Ilya Kovalchuk, after they could not hammer out a new contract agreement with the superstar. The Thrashers though look to be much improved as a team, and the addition of Dustin Byfuglien should create more space for Antropov. Peg him for 65-plus points in 2010, with the possibility of breaking the 30-goal mark for the first time in his career.
The 6’6” 210 pounder has a great net presence and likes to drive to the net. Antropov has also played with Kovalchuk on the same line during the lockout, so they already familiar with one another. He will get his share of opportunities with the Thrashers and has the ability to cash in on them. He had 59 points in 81 games for the Rangers last year, but he showed some flashes of talent on a few hot streaks. The big man does have some injury troubles from time to time, so be weary of that. If healthy, he can be a point per game player, but realistically think 60 or 70 points.
The big Kazakh came into his own in 2007-08 with 26 goals and 56 points in 72 games and will be called upon to anchor the Leafs' top line this season if Mats Sundin doesn’t re-sign. Despite playing in 72 games last season, he remains an injury risk -- he's the most fragile big man we've ever seen. And that means he shouldn’t be a high pick on your squad. Grab him if you can get him cheap.
This big Kazakh came into his own in 2007-08 and will be called upon to anchor the top line this season if Mats Sundin doesn’t re-sign. Despite playing in 72 games last season, he remains an injury risk. And that means he shouldn’t be a high pick on your squad. Grab him if you can get him cheap.
Antropov limped through another disappointing, injury-plagued season, recording 31 points in 57 games despite significant ice time alongside Mats Sundin. He's running out of chances with the Leafs.
Antropov is the darling of Leaf coach Pat Quinn but is almost universally abhorred by fans and fantasy owners alike. Sure, he's big with lots of "potential" but close really does only count in horseshoes and hand grenades. Once thought to be a 70-point a season power forward, Antropov appears to be a third-line checker at best. Draft with caution, and try to trade him to one of those delusional Leaf fans if he runs a hot streak or ends up skating with one of the big four (Mats Sundin, Jeff O'Neill, Jason Allison or Eric Lindros).
