Roto Exclusive : Guest Contributions and Featured Articles

y Trevor “arctic_rogue” Finlay
Buying, Selling, or Standing Pat with Blue Jackets
Regardless of an impending lockout, many keeper league GMs are always looking for the competitive
edge. There are some opportunities within the Columbus Blue Jackets organization where a GM can
make a shrewd move or two with the potential for fantastic returns. Here is a few guys with reasoning
why you should buy, sell, or stand pat.
Steve Mason - When GM Scott Howson acquired Sergei Bobrovsky from the Philadelphia Flyers, it was
blatantly clear that the Steve Mason project in Columbus was over. Not only has he lost the confidence
of his team, he has also spoiled many fantasy seasons with his highly erratic play. This may lead to most
teams dropping or selling him for very little. In many cases, this would be the correct play. However,
keeping him might prove to be beneficial.
Advice: If you can afford a spot on your roster, Stand Pat with him and see what happens. A change of
scenery may do him some good. If you cannot afford the roster spot, flip him for whatever your league’s
market will support.
Brandon Dubinsky - Dubinsky saw his point-per-game pact steadily increase, along with his time on ice,
from 2007-08 to 2010-11. Last season, when his point production took a significant hit, it shouldn’t
come as any surprise that his time on ice also took a notable drop. Compounding this, his shooting
percentage dropped from an average of 12% over the previous two seasons to just above 7% last
season. A correction of this drop alone would return 7 goals to his point output. The additions in New
York really hurt his opportunities - something that should see a full turn around in Columbus.
Advice: Aggressively Buy into Mr. Dubinsky while your league mates still have last year’s season fresh in
their head. A return to the 50 point range combined with his penalty output and hitting will provide you
with underrated roto gem.
Cam Atkinson - A small player who has had success at every level. With nearly a point per game (0.88)
pace in the AHL under his belt, Atkinson demonstrated last season that he was ready for the big time.
He was only of Columbus’ most reliable players down the stretch last season and managed to maintain a
plus rating. Rick Nash’s departure will open opportunity for him, and his track record points to his
readiness to accept the challenge. I see him taking a important role on the power play and finish the
season with 55 - 60 points.
Advice - Kick some tires with Atkinson’s GM. If the price is reasonable, most certainly Buy. If the GM is
aware of Atkinson’s potential, be sure not to overpay as most smaller players are typically boom or bust.
53