Fantasy Hockey 2013: Josh Harding, Stud Performer

By Adam Pfeifer
Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Last season, Minnesota Wild goaltender Josh Harding was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Despite the illness, Harding stated that he would manage his illness and continue to play.

On Sunday night, Harding sure played – all the way to an impressive shutout.

Harding saved all 24 shots fired his way, leading to a victory over the Dallas Stars. It was his first start since being diagnosed with the illness. He looked great between the pipes, calm and composed, especially after stopping a breakaway opportunity from Ray Whitney. It was a very inspirational performance from Harding, and every single person in attendance on Sunday night had to have tipped their hat to the 28-year old.

Fantasy owners were very pleased with Harding’s performance, as they received both a win and a shutout. However, his fantasy value is tricky, due to the fact that he may be in a timeshare with teammate Niklas Backstrom. However, Harding has earned his playing time, which makes him a very good spot start in fantasy, especially if one of your other goaltenders is off for the night. Next year, however, Harding’s fantasy value could go through the roof, assuming he stays healthy. Expect him to be the number one goaltender for the Wild next season, especially if he continues to play well when given the opportunity in 2013.

Regardless of what the future holds for Harding, his performance on Sunday night was quite noteworthy.

Adam Pfeifer is a featured fantasy football / hockey columnist for Rant Sports.

You can follow him on Twitter @aPfeiferRS.

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