Hedberg, 38, will spend at least two more seasons as the Devils’ number two netminder after signing a two-year contract in July. Arguably one of the league’s top back-up goaltenders, Hedberg isn’t just a handcuff for Martin Brodeur owners, as those in deep leagues that start many goaltenders can rest easy knowing that Hedberg figures to see more than his share of starts this season. Moose posted a 17-7-2 record last year with strong peripheral stats in 27 starts. Fortunately for Hedberg, the Devils’ farm system is not stocked with NHL-ready goaltending. He’s an experienced netminder that’s worth a look in deeper leagues; if injury should befall Martin Brodeur, Hedberg’s value in all formats rises.
Hedberg proved his worth to New Jersey last year during the team's winter resurgence by winning 15 games, including three shutouts, as a nice complement to a robust .912 save percentage and 2.38 goals-against average. He's essentially the Devils' security blanket and offers value to Martin Brodeur owners as a handcuff. Hedberg will make the occasional spot start, but his value is always tied to the health of Brodeur.
Hedberg becomes the latest to assume the mantle of the highest-paid spectator in the Prudential Center. New Jersey's backup netminders have played 10 games or fewer most seasons save for 2008-09 when Martin Brodeur suffered a torn biceps injury. As for Hedberg, he's a safe handcuff pick for Brodeur but won't offer much value unless Brodeur is injured.
Hedberg was 14-15-3 in 2007-08. He played a lot due to Lehtonen's injury problems. Thrashers intend to stick with Hedberg as their backup goalie this season rather than give 21-year-old Ondrej Pavelec a try. Hedberg probably would have improved his fantasy value had he signed elsewhere, but there's a possibility he plays close to 40 games given the fragile nature of starter Kari Lehtonen.
The poise and calm Hedberg is exactly what the Thrashers needed after their five of their goaltenders were injured in 2005-06. Hedberg is one of the better backup goalies in the league but with Atlanta's weak defense he posted a moderate 2.89 GAA and .898 S%. His fantasy value goes up and down based on what's happening with Kari Lehtonen. The talented Lehtonen has been very streaky his first two seasons in the league and has shown a history of injuries. Both of these should result in Hedberg getting at least 20 starts this season. He's good to pick up in very deep leagues and a great addition for Lehtonen owners if they can afford the bench spot.
The Thrashers struggled to fill the shoes of Kari Lehtonen when he went down with injuries early last season. Hedberg should help stabilize the backup goalie position for Atlanta in 2006-07. Last season, filling in for Marty Turco in Dallas, he went 12-4-1 with a 2.67 goals-against average in 19 games. His value would skyrocket if Lehtonen (who has a checkered past when it comes to injuries) went down again. He’s a good guy to stash on the bench, especially if you’re a Lehtonen owner.
Marty Turco's capable caddie for 2005-06.
