Fantasy Hockey Waiver Wire: Key Picks for Your Playoff Roster

As the NHL season approaches its climax, fantasy hockey managers are eager to make strategic moves that could bolster their rosters. With a wealth of options available, focusing on specific categories can help identify hidden gems that may provide the edge needed for a successful playoff push.

This week’s targets feature players who have shown promise and could be invaluable as the regular season winds down.

Gabriel Landeskog made a triumphant return to the ice during Sunday’s thrilling 3-2 overtime victory over Washington, after missing seven games due to a lower-body injury. He left an immediate mark on the scoresheet, contributing one goal, two shots, three hits, and one blocked shot. Since returning from the Olympics, the Avalanche captain has netted two goals and provided five assists, demonstrating his potential to be a key player in Colorado’s top six. With three games on the docket this week, Landeskog could be a valuable asset if he stays healthy.

Frederik Andersen has been a reliable presence in net, stopping 102 of the 117 shots he faced during a five-game winning streak. Although the season has been a challenge for the 36-year-old goaltender, he has been sharing duties with Brandon Bussi, a trend likely to continue as the season progresses. Andersen is expected to start in the first half of Carolina’s back-to-back against New Jersey on Saturday, where he has posted a 2-0-0 record against the Devils, allowing just four goals on 52 shots. With a solid team in front of him, he offers significant upside.

Tristan DeSmith has faced his share of difficulties lately, suffering two consecutive losses, including a rough outing against Utah where he allowed five goals on 21 shots. Despite this setback, he has generally performed well this season, boasting a 14-6-5 record. The Stars are set to play four games this week, and DeSmith could see action in at least one of those matches, particularly with contests against Pittsburgh and Philadelphia on the horizon.

In New York, Anthony Perreault has thrived in his role on the top line, racking up four goals and eight assists in March. His chemistry with Mika Zibanejad and Alexis Lafreniere has been evident, and even with a reduction in power-play time, Perreault is expected to log significant minutes as the Rangers head into a week featuring four games, three of which will be played at home.

Victor Arvidsson’s four-game point streak came to an end in a 4-2 win over Detroit, but he has still been a crucial contributor for Boston, accumulating 15 points in his last 16 games. While he has shifted towards a more playmaking role, his production remains impressive, with three goals and eight assists in his last ten outings. With the Bruins playing four games this week, Arvidsson’s offensive upside continues to shine.

Jonathan Marchessault has turned his season around, bouncing back with four goals and 15 points over his last 21 games. His resurgence has been marked by increased shot volume and physical play, making him a valuable asset for fantasy managers as Nashville prepares for an important four-game week.

Meanwhile, Gabriel Goncalves has made a significant impact since returning from injury, scoring five goals and providing 11 points over his last 11 games. Playing alongside Brayden Point and Jake Guentzel in Tampa Bay’s top six, he has showcased his offensive prowess and versatility, making him a compelling option as the Lightning gear up for a four-game week.

Owen Cates has also been on fire since returning from the Olympic break, scoring five goals and totaling 12 points in his last 13 games. His recent three-game point streak highlights his current form, and with Philadelphia set for four games this week, he could be a strong addition for managers in deeper leagues.

Finally, Miles Brown has been quietly effective, notching three goals and nine assists in his last ten games while averaging over 23 minutes of ice time. With New Jersey playing four times this week, he could continue to thrive alongside Jack Hughes, making him a player worth considering.

Looking ahead, Blackhawks prospect Adam Frondell is poised to make his NHL debut after an impressive season in the Swedish Hockey League. Drafted third overall in 2025, Frondell notched 20 goals and eight assists in 43 games and is expected to join Chicago, where he could see time on the top power-play unit alongside Connor Bedard. His potential makes him an intriguing addition for those in keeper leagues as the Blackhawks prepare for four road games this week.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.