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Fantasy Hockey Insights: Separating Fact from Fiction

As the NHL season heats up, fantasy hockey enthusiasts are eager to capitalize on early trends and hot streaks. But, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction and avoid getting caught up in small sample sizes.

Paul Cotter: A Flash in the Pan?

New Jersey Devils’ third-liner Paul Cotter is on pace for an impressive 66 goals and 280 hits. While he’s certainly worth considering, it’s crucial to temper expectations. Cotter’s current pace is unsustainable, and his production will likely cool off. If you can snag him for a trivial bench spot and no waiver position loss, go for it. However, don’t sacrifice valuable assets to chase a bottom-six hot streak.

Alternative Options for Hits and Blocks

If you’re looking to add some physicality to your team, consider these under-the-radar players:

• Martin Pospisil (LW, Calgary Flames): Averaging 2.0 fantasy points from hits and blocked shots per game.
• Mark Kastelic (C, Boston Bruins): Leading the league with 19 hits and adding five blocked shots across four games.
• Wyatt Kaiser (D, Chicago Blackhawks): Collecting 2.8 fantasy points per game through shot blocking and hits.
• Eeli Tolvanen (LW, Seattle Kraken): Finishing checks and getting in front of pucks, with seven hits and seven blocks in three games.

Goalie Notes: Who to Watch

As the goalie landscape continues to evolve, keep an eye on these developing situations:

• Vancouver Canucks: Kevin Lankinen and Arturs Silovs are vying for the crease, with no clear timeline for Thatcher Demko’s return.
• Dallas Stars: Jake Oettinger and Casey DeSmith are off to strong starts, making them desirable assets.
• Minnesota Wild: Filip Gustavsson and Marc-Andre Fleury are splitting duties, with Gustavsson holding a slight edge.

Power Play Performers

Don’t sleep on these power-play specialists:

• Josh Norris (C, Ottawa Senators): On the Sens’ top power-play unit, with three points on the advantage so far.
• Shayne Gostisbehere (D, Carolina Hurricanes): Leading the Hurricanes in power-play minutes, making him a valuable addition.
• Jake DeBrusk (RW, Vancouver Canucks): Joining the Canucks’ overpowered top unit, with potential for big returns.

Droppables: Time to Cut Bait?

Consider dropping these underperforming players:

• Frank Vatrano (RW, Anaheim Ducks): Limited ice time and no clear path to significant production.
• Anders Lee (LW, New York Islanders): Stuck on the third line and off the top power-play unit.
• Neal Pionk (D, Winnipeg Jets): Secondary power-play minutes won’t cut it with this top-heavy Jets roster.

Stay ahead of the curve by separating fact from fiction and focusing on sustainable production. Make informed decisions to propel your fantasy hockey team to success.