Unveiling the Future Stars of Fantasy Hockey

The up-and-coming stars of the NHL are not only the backbone of their respective teams but also the secret weapons of your fantasy team. These fresh talents are prime targets in dynasty and keeper leagues, and also show potential for redraft leagues. Let’s dive into the top 10 early Calder Trophy contenders who are set to make waves in the upcoming season.

The Rising Star: Macklin Celebrini, C, San Jose Sharks

Macklin Celebrini’s impressive showing during his first pre-season match has set expectations high. As the first-overall draft pick, Celebrini is expected to lead the San Jose Sharks’ top line, partnered with Tyler Toffoli and potentially Fabian Zetterlund. The 18-year-old’s position in the primary power play appears secure, and while matching last year’s impressive scores from Boston University (1.7 points/game) may be ambitious, he is projected to comfortably reach 60 points this season.

The Determined Rookie: Logan Stankoven, RW, Dallas Stars

Logan Stankoven, after playing 24 matches last season, remains a rookie full of promise. Despite his limited NHL experience, he has shown great potential, having scored six goals and eight assists in addition to 57 points in 47 games in the AHL. Stankoven’s impressive five-on-five stats, in particular, mark him as a player to watch.

Dynamic Performer: Matvei Michkov, RW, Philadelphia Flyers

Matvei Michkov has been a notable performer for the Flyers during the preseason, demonstrating his ability to create opportunities, guard the puck, and score goals. Expected to start the 2024-25 season on a scoring line with Morgan Frost and Owen Tippett, Michkov is set to deliver strong results this season.

The Powerhouse: Cutter Gauthier, LW, Anaheim Ducks

Cutter Gauthier’s significant physical transformation in the offseason has prepared him for a dominant role in the young Ducks team. Having scored 38 goals and 27 assists in 41 games at Boston College last season, Gauthier is expected to contribute significantly to the Ducks’ performance this season, especially alongside center Leo Carlsson and either Troy Terry or veteran Alex Killorn.

The Potential Supremacy: Will Smith, C/W San Jose Sharks

Will Smith, who is projected to feature within San Jose’s top six, could potentially outperform fellow rookie Celebrini in the scoring department. Regardless of the outcome, the internal competition for rookie productivity supremacy will definitely be intriguing.

The Wild Card: Nikolai Kovalenko, RW, Colorado Avalanche

Nikolai Kovalenko, despite his uncertain position in the team, has shown promise. His offensive skills, coupled with his KHL experience, make him a potential asset, particularly if he secures a prime position with the Avs.

The Promising Kid: Lane Hutson, D, Montreal Canadiens

Lane Hutson has been the center of attention among Canadiens fans. After a successful stint with Boston University, the young defender is expected to make significant contributions to the Canadiens, especially if he secures a place in the team’s No. 1 power play.

The Unexpected Hero: Arturs Silovs, G, Vancouver Canucks

With Thatcher Demko’s continued absence, Arturs Silovs has stepped up as the Canucks’ primary goaltender. Despite his limited experience, Silovs’ impressive performance in recent games suggests potential for a strong season.

The Undercover Asset: Dustin Wolf, G, Calgary Flames

Despite the rebuilding phase of the Flames, Dustin Wolf is expected to play a substantial number of games this season, potentially making him a valuable under-the-radar pick if the Flames perform better than expected.

The Valuable Standby: Justus Annunen, G, Colorado Avalanche

Justus Annunen, the 24-year-old backup to Alexandar Georgiev, has shown impressive form in previous opportunities. If anything happens to Georgiev, Annunen is likely to step up as Colorado’s No. 1, potentially making him a valuable asset for the team.

As these young talents continue to grow and develop, they not only shape the future of their respective teams, but also offer an exciting opportunity for fantasy hockey enthusiasts to bolster their squads. Keep an eye on these potential stars as they may be the game-changers you need to dominate your league.