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So Tomas Fleischmann is now a member of Colorado Avalanche. Scott Hannan went the other way to Washington but the real fantasy impact for fantasy hockey GM’s is Fleischmann. Many did feel that Tomas Fleischmann is a Top 6 forward in this league. Considering he did have 51 points in 69 games last year, one would think that Fleischmann would be a solid contributing member this season.
However, the problem became those pesky trade rumors. They started almost after the season ending and the reality was they dogged Washington everywhere. Several trade rumors seemed to pop up about the former Caps forward and then finally this week the suspicions were confirmed that this trade had been brewing for some time now. The trade finally happened and really it could not come at a better time for Tomas Fleischmann.
Look, he was a healthy scratch the last couple games anyway so he is well rested. Ten points in 23 games is not a true indication of his worth to a team, especially one like Colorado who desperately needs healthy bodies who can score. When a team like Colorado has as many as ten guys injured and a majority on the Injured Reserve list, necessity becomes an oh my god we need to make a move. Yet, the Avalanche had value on their side on this one and now have a talented forward because thay had a need that the Capitals had to fill or at least attempt to fill.
The question is how will the new Av fit in with the scheme. Tomas Fleischmann is pretty good with the puck and does have an above average shot. He did have 20 points on the man advantage during the 09-10 season but has only 1 point in such situations currently. He will at the very minimum be a Top 6 forward in Colorado. With the bevy of young forwards that are still healthy, fantasy owners should be happy.
Playing with talent like the Avalanche has, especially the young talent could lift Fleischmann to near his career numbers which were set last year. A 50 point season is not out of the question as with about 55 games left, give or take, the forward could easily put up 40 or more points especially as Colorado does get healthy.
So what is the verdict? We believe that Tomas Fleischmann will get 35 to 40 points as a member of the Avalanche from here on out and tally about 14-17 of those points on the man advantage. Yes the latter numbers may seem a bit high but do not be surprised. Colorado clearly has talent and that cannot be overlooked fantasy wise. At the very least, this new Av will be getting the ice time he did not get in Washington. That is something to look forward to Fleischmann owners.
