19 Derick Brassard C

Penguins' Derick Brassard: Seeing trade winds swirling

Brassard hasn't lived up to expectations since joining the Penguins, who were looking for a third-line center to mesh with Phil Kessel. In his last 20 games, Brassard has managed just five goals and a pair of helpers -- well off the 30-plus point campaigns he was putting together in Ottawa. Despite offseason tensions between the two organizations over the signing of Jack Johnson, the Blue Jackets are reportedly interested in reclaiming Brassard, who they drafted sixth overall in the 2006 NHL Draft, per Aaron Portzline of The Athletic.

Penguins' Derick Brassard: Boosts shooting percentage

Brassard's shooting percentage rose from 8.9 percent to 12.7 percent after this latest performance. Between a lower-body injury that he sustained in mid-November and starting 56.5 percent of his 5-on-5 shifts in the defensive zone this season, Brassard generally hasn't been able to meet expectations in the fantasy realm. He has six goals, five assists and a single power-play point (an assist) through 28 games as part of his first full season with the Penguins.

Penguins' Derick Brassard: Finds back of net against Isles

The 31-year-old's numbers has suffered through the early part of the season due to a lower-body injury that cost him almost three weeks of action in late October and November, but Brassard finally seems to have his legs under him again, scoring three points in the last four games. His spot on the Pens' third line and limited ice time with the man advantage put a ceiling on his fantasy value, but he's still capable of supplying decent production now that he's healthy again.

Penguins' Derick Brassard: Minus-2 versus Sens

It was an underwhelming return to action for Brassard considering he tallied four helpers in his two outings prior to getting hurt. The center will need to step up his offensive production if the Pens are going to turn their season around. Once Sidney Crosby (upper body) gets the green light to play, Brassard could find himself back on the wing of Sid the Kid.

Penguins' Derick Brassard: Activated off IR

Brassard is still technically a game-time decision for Saturday night's matchup with the Senators, but all signs point to the veteran pivot making his return to the lineup in Ottawa. The 31-year-old is expected to jump into a top-six role Saturday, centering Phil Kessel and Jake Guentzel on Pittsburgh's second line.