Laich moves up to the second line wing after playing third line center most of the season. He scored two goals and nine points over 13 games so far.
Laich could center the third line, which would eliminate any fantasy hockey value for Mathieu Perreault, Matthias Sjogren and Cody Eakin. Last season Laich alternated between center and wing which netted him his worst offensive season in three seasons. Expect no higher than 50 points should he remain on the third line.
Laich should be fully healthy but his place in the lineup is debatable. Last season the versatile forward scored 16 goals and 48 points while rotating between the second and third lines. If he is featured in a scoring role, Laich could come near 60 points.
Certainly doesn't sound like the injury will extend into the regular season. Laich scored 16 goals and 48 points through 82 games last season with the Caps. Expect him to play anywhere between the first and third lines this year.
When healthy. Laich should be playing on the team's second line. Last season he scored 16 goals and 48 points in 82 games. He figures to return to the 50-point range with more playing time.
Bouncing between lines hurt Laich's offensive numbers slightly, decreasing from 59 points to 48. With the Caps expected to tweak their system and added depth down the middle, Laich should play a more defined role. Nevertheless, he remains one of the more flexible forwards in all of hockey.