Left, Right & Center: Luck of the Shaw

How many transactions are too many for a fantasy season? 50? 100? 200? Is it really worth constantly swapping out players to match NHL schedules?

Making trades and other moves simply because they can be done isn't sound justification. There has to be a reason for each activity, and that reason shouldn't be related to boredom or anger. Just because another owner picked up someone you may have wanted shouldn't force you to make a rash or uninformed decision.

Do what benefits you. It's often difficult to figure if a transaction will end up hurting others since there are many factors in this type of situation you can't control. Go with something that helps you, whether it be short or long-term, position-oriented or point-specific.

Now that you've read the primer, it's time to put your plan into action. Here are a couple players who should spark some interest:

Left Wing

Two Steps Forward: Anders Lee, NY Islanders

As the Isles have begun to climb out of their rut (5-1-1 over their last seven outings), a couple forwards have followed suit. Lee may currently be positioned on the third line, but receives substantial power-play duty (averaging 2:20 the last 13). Perhaps he'll earn added attention based on recent form (seven goals in nine) and his willingness to expend maximum effort. And when you can't provide offense, you might as well do something else of service.

Broken Wing: Alex Killorn, Tampa Bay

It's amazing that with all their talent, the Lightning have encountered problems putting the puck in the net (11 regulation tallies in their last seven games). We've already covered a couple Tampa underperformers in this column before, so let's add another one. Killorn started off on fire (goals in six of his first seven matchups), making him a waiver-wire darling. Unfortunately, the heat died down (four points in 19) and the Harvard alum has been frustrating those that took the plunge with him. His chance of recovery depends on if others can step up, so it's probably best to look for help elsewhere.

Between the Lines: Jimmy Vesey, NY Rangers

After a super start to his NHL career (nine points in his first 10 games), Vesey settled back to fantasy earth (three in his next 11). The numbers are recovering (three goals, two assists in eight) and, more importantly, he's being tasked with sufficient opportunities (like over two minutes of PP time the last couple weeks). Vesey will endure his share of hardships in his rookie campaign, but should be positioned well enough to make his mark on a regular basis.

Right Wing

Two Steps Forward: Sam Gagner, Columbus

When Gagner finally inked a one-year deal (at $650K) in August, it was believed he would play a minor role in Columbus. Not many thought the 2007 Edmonton first-rounder would impress, especially after last season in Philly (16 points in 53 matches). But here he is racking up the points (19, with seven on the power play) and praise. Gagner's relatively low ice time (13:37 average) may be a problem down the line if it doesn't increase, unless you believe Columbus can maintain their torrid scoring pace (at 3.27 goals per night) throughout the season.

Broken Wing: Matt Moulson, Buffalo

Moulson's point haul seems decent (10), but looks problematic when you realize how many have come while up a man (nine). Fantasy comes down to balance, and you shouldn't reserve a regular roster spot based on a niche role this early in the season. Don't expect him to have any more efforts similar to this, especially when he's not being boosted by an elite center or given proper minutes (under 10 minutes over his last six).

Between the Lines: Craig Smith, Nashville

It's only been 27 games, but the Preds – even with their winning record – haven't lived up to their preseason billing. The same can be said regarding several of their players, whether in net or up front. Smith has been reliable for goals in the past (68 over the last three seasons) and earlier this year (five goals in the first nine games), but the supply has dried up (one in 17). He continues to skate among the top six, so the chances will be there as long as others provide adequate service.

Center

Two Steps Forward: Andrew Shaw, Montreal

Shaw was acquired from Chicago in the summer and immediately signed a new six-year contract. Throughout his brief career, he has served mainly as the guy to stand in front of the net (16 power-play goals) and use his body to take out opponents (300 PIM, 595 hits). Shaw continues to act in these capacities for Montreal (six goals, 58 PIM, 74 hits), but has added a playmaking skill (nine assists) to his repertoire. And to enhance his appeal, there's the bonus of qualifying as a winger in most formats.

Broken Wing: Cody Eakin, Dallas

Eakin has not been able to get back on track (one assist in 12 games, minus-7) after missing the first 17 games of the season. Perhaps not too much should be expected from the Winnipeg native, considering his previous point totals (peaking at 40 in 2014-15) never amounted to anything special. And with 22-year old centers Radek Faksa (over a 16-minute average) and Devin Shore (four goals in his last six) eating up minutes and opportunities, there's not much more Eakin can add unless someone gets injured.

Between the Lines: Vincent Trocheck, Florida

More points are required (two in his last 10 outings), but at least Trocheck has contributed in other areas (27 shots, 31 hits over the same period). He's not lacking in talent, as this highlight shows. And as Nick Bjugstad (zero in 10) has been invisible since his return late November, there's no immediate risk of him usurping Trocheck for the No. 2 pivot job.