Fantasy Hockey Pickups: 2/20-2/27

Here are my weekly suggestions for players that are available on free agency.

David Desharnais: The emergence of David Desharnais, Erik Cole and Max Pacioretty gives Montreal fans something to cheer for in an otherwise dreadful season. He has supplanted Tomas Plekanec as the team’s 1st line center while putting up 44 points in 60 games. He’s owned in 66.9% of ESPN Fantasy Hockey leagues. On a team that has struggled to play well, he has is a plus player that also has 14 power play points. If he’s available, pick him up.

Jiri Tlusty: Eric Staal has caught on fire and has brought his line mate along for the ride. Jiri Tlusty has 7 points in the past 6 games (2 on the powerplay). Pick him up while he’s only owned in 8% of ESPN Fantasy Hockey leagues.

Bobby Butler: His NHL season has been a rocky one. He spent the early part of the season playing with a groin injury and was a regular healthy scratch when he came back to play. His promotion to the top line has paid off greatly with 6 points in 5 games. He’s only owned in 0.7% of ESPN Fantasy Hockey leagues. He’s playing with Spezza and Michalek who have been lighting it up all year, so pick him up already.