77 Jeff Carter C

Kings' Jeff Carter: Will be protected from expansion draft

Carter turned 32 this year, but he shows no signs of slowing down. His $5.25 million cap hit is a steal for a player who has showed three consecutive seasons of more than 60 points. This move shouldn't come as a surprise to fantasy users, as Carter played in the top-six rotation all year, and posted up on the blue line during the man advantage.

Kings' Jeff Carter: Trio of helpers too little, too late for season

Carter was storming to his best season in a long time and he had 59 points in his first 67 games. Then, the wheels fells right off his game. Four points, including a single goal, in 13 games followed and with that, so did the Kings and their playoff hopes. Carter's 66 points are his best tally since his final season in Philly (2010-11). He earned his cap hit of $5.27 mil, but at 32, his best days are behind him. And so is his value -- that cap hit stays with the Kings until 2021-22. Ouch.

Kings' Jeff Carter: Nets 31st goal against Washington

The good times continue to roll for Carter, who is now up to 59 points in 67 games. While that was his first goal in six outings, Carter has been so consistent with his production this season, he's an automatic roll every game. The Kings are battling for a playoff spot, so look for Carter to build off his 31st goal and finish the season on a strong note.

Kings' Jeff Carter: Records Gordie Howe hat trick in win

The goal went into the empty net, but it still counts and it gave Carter his first 30-goal season since 2010-11. The fight with Ryan Kesler does make us pause, though -- Kesler landed a right straight to the kisser and it put Carter temporarily down on a knee. Much to our relief, Carter seems none the worse for wear because of the punch.

Kings' Jeff Carter: Definition of clutch

Carter is enjoying an incredible campaign, as he's just one tally shy of matching Sidney Crosby for the league lead at 30 goals, plus his 16 power-play points stand as his highest total since he was a member of the Flyers in 2009-10. The Kings are working with the league's second-ranked Corsi For percentage of 54.5; this means the team is controlling the puck very well and has factored into the savvy pivot's impressive shooting percentage of 16.9 through 55 games. He's a set-and-forget weapon in virtually any fantasy format.