The fantasy hockey landscape is always shifting, providing managers with both challenges and opportunities to improve their rosters through strategic waiver wire acquisitions. As we delve into the week ahead, it’s essential to focus on lesser-known players who may surprise everyone with their performance. This article will spotlight several players, along with insights and analysis that could shape your decisions in various fantasy leagues.
With each passing week of the NHL season, new talents emerge that fantasy managers should consider adding to their roster. For instance, Logan Stankoven of the Dallas Stars is a promising option. Rostered in only 29.1% of ESPN Fantasy leagues, his recent form shows great potential. Skating alongside high-profile linemates like Roope Hintz and Jason Robertson, Stankoven has already registered four assists in his initial games following the season’s commencement. He’s emerging as a legitimate offensive contributor at just 21 years old, making him an intriguing target for teams seeking depth.
Jonathan Huberdeau of the Calgary Flames, while traditionally a prolific scorer—a notable 115-point season just three years ago—has not been able to replicate that form recently. Still, his start this season with three goals and two assists signals a potential rebound. Currently rostered in 43.6% of leagues, investing in Huberdeau could yield favorable returns, especially in deeper formats, where his proven history of success cannot be ignored.
Casey Mittelstadt offers another intriguing choice for fantasy managers. With a current roster rate of 20.2%, he has shown early promise within the Colorado Avalanche lineup, notching two goals in just as many games. Even though Mittelstadt may face competition when top players return from injury, his performance in these games could make him a candidate worth holding onto during the transitional phase.
Teams can benefit from players excel in premium positions or roles, such as those who are currently lining up alongside established superstars. Pavel Zacha, who plays for the Boston Bruins, fits the bill. Currently available in 70% of leagues, Zacha is playing on the top line and contributing alongside elite forwards David Pastrnak and Elias Lindholm. Scoring 59 points last season, he could hit new heights, especially if he continues to see extensive ice time.
Ivan Barbashev of the Vegas Golden Knights is another player whose performance warrants consideration. While he is slightly more commonly rostered at 61%, his chemistry with Jack Eichel and Mark Stone makes him a valuable asset. With three goals and three assists across three games, Barbashev’s capability of hefty contributions—coupled with notable hitting metrics—makes him a dual-threat player.
Additionally, pay close attention to burgeoning talents like Barrett Hayton. Despite being overshadowed by teammate Dylan Guenther’s impressive start, Hayton’s calculated play as the top-line center for the Utah Hockey Club yielded five points through a compact three-game stretch. With a current roster rate of 29.3%, he could prove to be a significant asset, providing more visibility for your roster than his peers.
Scoring on the power play can often be a game-changer in fantasy hockey, and players like Shayne Gostisbehere are crucial to this dynamic. The Carolina Hurricanes’ defenseman boasts an impressive history of power-play proficiency, delivering 29 points during his last stint. Currently, Gostisbehere is available in over two-thirds of leagues (32.3%). His role on the top unit could yield substantial dividends for managers willing to prioritize defensemen in this category.
Brandt Clarke of the Los Angeles Kings presents another unique opportunity, particularly since he’s filling in for the injured Drew Doughty. Rostered in just 7.6% of leagues, Clarke’s AHL performance showcased his offensive prowess, likely translating well to the NHL, especially if paired with power-play assignments.
In goal, the situation boasts potential candidates as well. Sam Montembeault for the Montreal Canadiens recorded an impressive shutout and strong subsequent performance—factors worth monitoring for goalies flying under the radar. Currently touted in 45.9% of leagues, his role as the team’s No. 1 could climb in value if the Canadiens maintain competitiveness throughout the season.
When scanning the waiver wire, it’s imperative to consider players that could not only contribute immediately but could also grow into consistent fantasy assets. Ross Colton (8.7% rostered), with his presence in the Colorado Avalanche’s top-six lineup and productive outings early in the campaign, exemplifies this notion.
Similarly, other players like Phillip Danault and Mikael Granlund may not command top billing but carry the potential to produce with favorable schedules. They can emerge as key contributors, especially when other fantasy options falter due to injury or inconsistency.
Successfully maneuvering the waiver wire can be a pivotal aspect of any fantasy hockey team’s strategy. By investing time into scouting less-publicized yet high-potential players, managers can enhance their competitive edge throughout the season.
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