With 18 years of service time in the NHL, Guerin is an oldie but a "goodie." The 39-year-old registered 21 goals and 24 assists last season, serving as a right pivot to offensive wizard, Sidney Crosby. Unfortunately, teams have been stubborn this past offseason, and as of mid-August 2010, he still has free-agent status. Of course, there is always the possibility that Pittsburgh may re-sign him at a cheaper rate, but that is mere speculation at this point. Monitor his status carefully because if he latches on with a new team, we think he could motor his way to one more decent season.
Some fantasy poolies might overvalue Guerin because of some centerman named Sidney to his side. Don't get us wrong -- we're not saying he's going to go Satan on Crosby. He still figures to have some productivity. In fact, he might be the perfect October through December fantasy candidate. Still, the upside is gone, unfortunately, for the soon-to-be 39-year-old veteran NHLer.
Old man time is indeed catching up to Guerin, but he showed he still has some gas left in the tank. He led the team in goals with 23 (11th career campaign with 20 or more) and was second in points with 44 (ninth-straight 40-or-more campaign). He may often be paired with former line mate Doug Weight in the off-season to see if they can re-kindle their past magic. However, don’t expect a return to their salad days in Edmonton or St. Louis. Guerin will turn 38 in November and is coming off shoulder surgery in May. The prospects of his surpassing last year’s totals aren’t too rosy but he should still be able to churn out another 20 or so goals.
Guerin potted 36 goals last season, the third-highest total in a single season for his career. At 36 years old, we’re a tad worrisome about his being able to duplicate that. However, he will be given every opportunity to do so, and that means of plenty of ice time, shots (over 200 for the sixth straight season) and power-play time. While we’re not expecting him to flirt with 40 goals, he should have one more 30-goal campaign in him.
Despite only having 13 goals and 40 points last season, Guerin should see a rise in his numbers this year with the Blues. It's quite possible he will play with fellow Americans Doug Weight and Keith Tkachuk. A return to 30 goals is not out of the question. Don't forget about him on draft day.
Remained in Dallas, despite a contract out of line with the post-CBA world of the new NHL. Perfomed as expected in 2003-04, and should be counted on for another 35+ goal season this year.
