As the excitement of hockey season heats up, fantasy leagues are gearing up for another thrilling year. For avid fans and strategists alike, identifying the best fantasy hockey players can make all the difference between a championship run and a disappointing finish. With a mix of skill, consistency, and potential, certain players stand out as must-haves for any winning roster. In this competitive landscape, knowing who to draft is crucial. Factors like scoring ability, assists, and overall performance can elevate a player’s fantasy value. This article dives into the top fantasy hockey players to watch, offering insights that can help fantasy managers dominate their leagues. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the fantasy scene, understanding these key players will set the stage for a successful season.

Best Fantasy Hockey Players

The following players excel in fantasy hockey this season based on their scoring ability and overall performance. Their contributions significantly impact fantasy leagues, making them top choices for managers.

Forwards

• • Connor McDavid: Scoring leader with 150 points, McDavid’s speed and skill make him indispensable in any lineup.

• • Auston Matthews: Known for his goal-scoring prowess, Matthews netted 47 goals this season, showcasing his elite talent.

• • Leon Draisaitl: Averaging 1.5 points per game, Draisaitl consistently combines scoring and playmaking ability.

• • Kirill Kaprizov: With 40 goals and 50 assists, Kaprizov emerges as a breakout star, elevating his team’s offensive play.

Defensemen

• • Cale Makar: Makar’s offensive contributions include 20 goals and 40 assists, solidifying his status as a top fantasy defenseman.

• • Roman Josi: An excellent all-around player, Josi offers balanced scoring with 15 goals and 35 assists, enhancing his fantasy value.

• • Adam Fox: Fox is known for his playmaking skills, contributing 50 points, making him a solid option on the blue line.

Goalies

• • Andrei Vasilevskiy: Vasilevskiy’s win total stands at 35, along with a .920 save percentage, making him a reliable fantasy goaltender.

• • Igor Shesterkin: Shesterkin shows exceptional form with a 2.40 goals-against average and 30 wins, offering stability in net.

• • Connor Hellebuyck: Hellebuyck remains consistent, recording 33 wins and a .916 save percentage, providing value as a fantasy starter.

Selecting players from this list improves any fantasy roster’s chances of success. Managers benefit from following stats and performance trends to make informed decisions throughout the season.

Top Performing Forwards

Top-performing forwards significantly impact fantasy hockey teams. Their scoring capabilities and playmaking skills often determine league outcomes.

Elite Goal Scorers

Elite goal scorers dominate the fantasy landscape with their exceptional ability to find the back of the net. Key players include:

• • Connor McDavid: Achieved 44 goals and 79 assists in the previous season, showcasing his scoring and playmaking abilities.

• • Auston Matthews: Scored 60 goals, leading his team and maintaining a high shooting percentage.

• • Leon Draisaitl: Notched 55 goals and was integral in contributing to McDavid’s success, forming a potent scoring duo.

• • David Pastrnak: Recorded 61 goals, proving his consistency in offensive production.

• • Alex Ovechkin: Continues to score at a high rate, reaching 50 goals in multiple seasons, cementing his legacy as one of the best.

Playmakers To Watch

Playmakers elevate their teams and contribute significantly to fantasy points through assists. Notable playmakers include:

• • Mitch Marner: Delivered 69 assists last season, feeding teammates effectively and enhancing their scoring chances.

• • Jonathan Huberdeau: Accumulated 85 assists, showcasing exceptional vision and passing skills.

• • Nikita Kucherov: Recorded 49 assists, consistently setting up high-quality scoring opportunities for his teammates.

• • Sidney Crosby: Maintained high assist totals, remaining a top facilitator even in later stages of his career.

• • Brad Marchand: Notched 69 assists, balancing scoring and playmaking in a high-octane offense.

These forwards stand out in the fantasy realm, impacting team success through their scoring and playmaking faculties.

Standout Defensemen

Defensemen play a crucial role in fantasy hockey, combining defensive skills with offensive contributions. Selecting the right defensemen can enhance a fantasy roster significantly.

Two-Way Defensemen

Two-way defensemen excel in both offensive and defensive responsibilities. They contribute not only by shutting down opposing players but also by generating scoring opportunities. Players like Cale Makar, Roman Josi, and Adam Fox exemplify this versatility. Makar’s ability to initiate breakouts and Josi’s impressive point totals highlight their value. Similarly, Fox’s strong skating and vision contribute greatly to his team’s success and fantasy potential.

Power Play Specialists

Power play specialists dominate their roles during man advantages, offering significant fantasy points through assists and goals. Defensemen like Victor Hedman and Dougie Hamilton stand out in this category. Hedman consistently racks up points while quarterbacking the power play, while Hamilton’s hard shot and playmaking ability make him a key asset. These players not only convert on chances but also provide substantial assists, making them valuable picks in fantasy leagues.

Goaltenders To Consider

Goaltenders play a critical role in fantasy hockey, impacting games with their saves and overall performance. Selecting the right goaltender can lead to a substantial increase in fantasy points.

Consistency Over Performance

Consistency remains a key factor for goalies. Managers should prioritize goaltenders with reliable performance tracking over those having sporadic standout games. Goalies like Andrei Vasilevskiy, known for their ability to deliver solid stats across multiple games, become invaluable assets. Selecting goalies who maintain a steady save percentage and fewer goals against ensures a solid foundation for any fantasy roster. Assessing metrics such as goals saved above average (GSAA) can highlight those consistently driving fantasy scores.

Up-and-Coming Goalies

Emerging talents can surprise fantasy managers with their performance. Goalies like Jeremy Swayman and Spencer Knight have shown potential during their brief NHL spans, displaying skills that might translate into impressive fantasy value. Gaining insights through monitoring their development trends and team changes can indicate future success. Emphasizing youth and emerging skills may lead to hidden gem selections that provide value in deeper leagues. By focusing on both consistent performers and up-and-coming talents, fantasy managers can strategically bolster their goaltending position and optimize team success throughout the season.

Building a Competitive Roster

Selecting the right players is crucial for a successful fantasy hockey season. By focusing on elite forwards defensemen and reliable goaltenders, fantasy managers can build a competitive roster. The standout players mentioned offer a mix of scoring ability playmaking and consistency that can make a significant difference in overall performance. Staying informed about player trends and emerging talents will also enhance a manager’s strategy. With careful consideration and smart drafting, achieving success in fantasy hockey is well within reach. Embrace the excitement of the season and make the most of the insights provided to elevate your fantasy game.