Eric Staal

Florida Panthers forward Eric Staal will make his season debut Thursday versus the Philadelphia Flyers.

Fantasy Impact

Staal didn't play in the NHL last season but signed a one-year deal off of a professional tryout with the Panthers this season. The long-time NHLer last played in the league in the 2020-21 campaign, tallying 13 points across 53 games split between the Buffalo Sabres and Montreal Canadiens. Barring a major turn of events, his fantasy-relevant days are well behind him.

The Florida Panthers announced on Friday they have signed Eric Staal to a one-year contract.

Fantasy Impact

The one-year pact is worth $750K. Staal didn't play in the NHL last season, but the 17-year-veteran has latched on with a contending team this time around. He'll also get a chance to play alongside his brother, Marc, after previously suiting up alongside another brother, Jordan, while with the Carolina Hurricanes. Staal's most recent NHL action came in the 2020-21 season when he posted five goals and 13 points across 53 games split between the Buffalo Sabres and Montreal Canadiens.

Eric Staal had a second-period goal during Buffalo's 4-3 shootout win versus New Jersey. He scored on his only shot on goal during the game in 16:08 minutes of ice time.

Fantasy Impact

The veteran center now has three goals and two assists in nine games played with the Sabres. After years of being the number one center in Minnesota, Staal is a sneaky good fantasy option in a second-line center role with Buffalo. Most opponents will be sending their top defensive/checking lines after the top line led by Jack Eichel and Taylor Hall.

Staal recorded an assist in Minnesota's loss in Dallas.

Fantasy Impact

The Wild fell 3-1 in their first game back but Staal was able to chip in his 20th assist of the season. He ended the first half on fire, and now has 11 points in his last nine games. With the deadline coming up in a few weeks Staal's future in Minnesota is uncertain. He'll look to stay hot Saturday night against the Blackhawks.

Eric Staal managed to notch his 13th goal of the season on Thursday in the loss to Chicago.

Fantasy Impact

Staal has 25 points in 35 games and is a +1 making him an okay fantasy option.