Carolina Hurricane captain Eric Staal has always been considered one of the best players in the league throughout his young career, and has always been a good fantasy hockey pickup because of it. This year, however, his team’s offseason has caused his fantasy value to skyrocket. Not only are the Hurricanes one of the most improved teams on paper, Staal’s stats should see an increase despite already being good due to Carolina’s additions.

The Hurricanes made a splash at the draft in June by striking a deal with the Pittsburgh Penguins that sent Jordan Staal to Carolina to play with his brother, Eric. Then, in free agency in July, the Hurricanes signed Alexander Semin: a high scoring forward that had been a big part of the Washington Capitals’ offense in recent years. Eric Staal will likely play on a line with at least one of these two additions, and it would be very likely that they could help him pad his numbers.

In addition to the signings, 2011 Calder Trophy winner for Rookie of the Year Jeff Skinner will be back full-time after suffering an injury that caused him to miss the majority of last season. Skinner and Eric Staal formed quite the due two seasons ago, and there is no reason to believe that they can’t do it again in 2012-13.

Eric Staal should be a superb addition to your fantasy team; make sure you get him while you can. Also, Jeff Skinner or Jordan Staal could be great to have as well, especially if you already have Eric Staal.