from Scott Cullen of TSN,
Since 2000, 67 rookies have scored at least .50 points per game (minimum 50 games), a level of production that at least puts them in consideration for many fantasy owners.
Here are some of the top rookie candidates this season:
Mikael Granlund, C, Minnesota - A brilliant puckhandler who was the ninth overall pick in 2010, Granlund finally arrived in North America this year and the 20-year-old scored a point-per-game in 19 AHL contests, but that doesn't quite cover his adjustment. He suffered a knee injury that kept him out for more than a month and, when he returned, he scored just two points in the next eight games. Sliding into the second-line centre role in Minnesota, Granlund should be able to avoid tough checking matchups and, if skating with Pierre-Marc Bouchard and Devin Setoguchi, still has capable scoring wingers.
Vladimir Tarasenko, RW, St. Louis - The 16th overall pick in 2010, Tarasenko is a sturdy and skilled winger; strong enough to win battles down low and along the boards, but deft enough to create and finish plays in the offensive zone....
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