Standard Analysis: Tasigur, the Golden Fang

When Tasigur was first spoiled, there wasn't very much buzz around the card despite Delve being one of the strongest mechanics from the last set. Post-spoiler futures had the card trading at an average $2.66 but saw the price settle and open at roughly $5.00 on January 23rd.


Tasigur, the Golden Fang: Averages and Lows (Jan. 8 - Jan. 23)

Source: MTG Stocks, mtgstocks.com

However, something very surprising happened: the card put up a very good showing at the first Standard event of the new Fate Reforged season the same weekend. With that, the card jumped to an impressive, yet over-inflated, $12.89 average and still currently remains at roughly $9.50. While the showing wasn't very strong, the card was then put under the microscope when people realised that a one-mana 4/5 may have been something they had initially overlooked.

Tasigur, the Golden Fang: Averages and Lows (Jan. 23 - Feb. 6)

Source: MTG Stocks, mtgstocks.com

Now as to whether it's buy, sell, or hold time. And, to be honest, there are quite a few routes you can go depending on what you believe. One major question that remains unanswered, is whether Tasigur will show up at Pro Tour Fate Reforged in the Modern portion of the event and what this will mean for prices. The card has already shown very good Standard results recently, but the card has also found its way into the top tables of both Modern and Legacy events very recently. And I personally think that now is the time to buy. And when I say now, I mean stop reading this article and grab these before the Modern rounds start.

It's no secret that demand is very sensitive to showings at the Pro Tour (just look at the affect that Pro Tour Theros had on the price of Master of Waves).

Master of Waves: Averages and Lows (Sep. 5 - Jan. 1)

Source: MTG Stocks, mtgstocks.com

Now, what are the chances that Tasigur spikes to $20.00 with a strong showing at the Pro Tour? Very unlikely just because of the obvious difference between rares and mythics when it comes to tournament results. But, the likelihood of the card jumping to a solid $15.00? Very high to almost certain. And with a return like that, it doesn't seem like such a bad idea to pay just $8.00 a piece does it?

One other thing to remember, is that this card also has at least another year before rotation, meaning that Standard could see a major shake-up from this card long-term. But, if this card really is as good as we think it is, and it really will find it's way back into Modern and Legacy, then demand might be driven down gradually after the Pro Tour, especially if Fate Reforged has some other high demand cards that may warrant more product to be opened.

I'm anxious to hear what you all have to say.

Thanks for the support and happy hunting.

 - Jay

*Disclaimer: all prices are in USD"