Unearthing the Gems and Dodging the Duds in Your Fantasy Hockey Season

As a seasoned fantasy hockey enthusiast, it’s your prerogative to identify those players who might exceed expectations and those who may disappoint. This discernment could make or break your fantasy season. The secret to a successful run is to discover undervalued players while evading those who may underperform. This requires a keen eye for player skill, opportunity, health, past trends, and the current arc of their NHL career.

Finding Value in Fantasy Hockey: The Sleeper Picks

While drafting, it’s essential to keep player performance expectations in check. For instance, if Sam Reinhart delivers 40 goals instead of the anticipated 57, it’s not a letdown if you’ve drafted him expecting the former. The same principle applies to “sleepers.” Overvaluing these hidden talents too early can deflate their potential impact. Timing is everything. With this in mind, here are some potential sleepers to consider as late-round draft picks or even as free agents once the season gets going.

Under the Radar: Potential 2024-25 Fantasy Hockey Sleepers

• Viktor Arvidsson, F, Edmonton Oilers (No. 116 forward): Arvidsson, having inked a $8-million two-year contract, may enjoy a career boost playing alongside Leon Draisaitl. An underrated forward, Arvidsson could be eyeing a 70-point season.
• Jake DeBrusk, F, Vancouver Canucks (No. 146 forward): If DeBrusk takes up a scoring line with Elias Pettersson, he could be a great late-round snag, potentially delivering 40 goals.
• Tommy Novak, Nashville Predators (No. 180 forward): If Novak centers a scoring line between Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault as expected, a 65-point season could be on the cards.
• Morgan Frost, F, Philadelphia Flyers (No. 188): This is Frost’s make-or-break season. If he can establish himself as a top-six NHL center, he could be a big leap forward.
• Anthony Duclair, F, New York Islanders (No. 216 forward): The dynamic goal-scoring Duclair could end up as the Islanders’ leading goal-scorer. Patience is key with this high-ceiling winger.
• Kirby Dach, F, Montreal Canadiens (No. 258 forward): If Dach and his probable linemate, Patrik Laine, both stay healthy and motivated, they could both be in for a big season.

Proceed with Caution: Potential Busts for the 2024-25 Fantasy Hockey Season

While picking out the diamonds in the rough, it’s equally important to be cautious with players who might not live up to the hype. Here are a few players who could potentially disappoint their managers this season, given their draft positions.

Proceed with Caution: Potential 2024-25 Fantasy Hockey Busts

• Frank Vatrano, F, Anaheim Ducks (No. 27 forward): Despite a 37-goal, 23-assist eruption last season, Vatrano might struggle to repeat this performance, especially with competition from rising stars.
• MacKenzie Weegar, D, Calgary Flames (No. 10 defenseman): While Weegar had an impressive 52-point season last year, a repeat performance might be too much to expect.
• Linus Ullmark, G, Ottawa Senators (No. 6 goaltender): While Ullmark is a solid goalie, his move to Ottawa could lead to some rougher games and less stellar performances.

In conclusion, mastering fantasy hockey requires more than just knowledge of the game. It demands strategic thinking, patience, and a keen eye for potential. So, draft wisely, keep an eye on the waiver wire, and may the odds be ever in your favor this season!