Introducing Frozen Frenzy, an event that took place on Tuesday and left viewers overwhelmed with 16 games in one night. With so many choices, it was challenging to watch them all on different screens. (And yes, there was a broadcast that moved between arenas, but I’m referring to those who prefer the traditional channel-changing option.)
Fantasy hockey can also be overwhelming at times. Choosing the right player to add to your team can feel like an endless task. The key is to focus on the categories you want to improve and then move on to other areas of concern. To assist you in your search, here’s a condensed list of lesser-known fantasy NHL players to consider. (Rostered rates as of Oct. 27)
Forwards
Ryan Hartman, Minnesota Wild (Yahoo: 46%)
Hartman’s recent performance has likely made him unavailable in many leagues, thanks to his five-point game, including a hat trick. While he had a slow start offensively, he consistently directed pucks on net. Plus, Hartman centers the line with Kirill Kaprizov and Mats Zuccarello at five-on-five, making him a valuable asset to add to your team.
Adam Fantilli, Columbus Blue Jackets (Yahoo: 33%)
Fantilli has been impressive since joining the Blue Jackets. While he may not have been the first pick in the most recent draft, he dominated the USHL and won awards at Michigan as a freshman. He’s already picked up two goals, an assist, and 10 shots in his last three games. As his opportunities increase, so will his stock.
Dylan Strome, Washington Capitals (Yahoo: 27%)
Strome has taken the top center spot on the Capitals and has been productive, scoring four goals with two assists. He also plays a significant role on Washington’s top power play, which is bound to improve. With 13 shots and 39 faceoff wins, he’s a valuable addition to consider.
William Karlsson, Vegas Golden Knights (Yahoo: 27%)
Karlsson may be under-appreciated in fantasy hockey, but he consistently gets the job done. He’s a key part of the Golden Knights’ success and is tied for second in club scoring with seven points. Even as the third center at even-strength and the backup on the power play, he continues to deliver steady scoring.
Casey Mittelstadt, Buffalo Sabres (Yahoo: 19%)
After a slow start, Mittelstadt has found success playing with Jeff Skinner and Alex Tuch. The trio has combined for four of Buffalo’s last seven goals at five-on-five. Mittelstadt’s recent performance suggests that he’s found a good spot in the lineup, making him a valuable addition to consider.
Trevor Moore, Los Angeles Kings (Yahoo: 11%)
Moore often goes unnoticed due to his bottom-six role, but he’s already scored five goals and added an assist with 16 shots. He’s developed a strong rapport with Phillip Danault and contributes on both special-teams units. Despite his placement, he’s someone worth considering for your roster.
Matias Maccelli, Arizona Coyotes (Yahoo: 5%)
Maccelli had a strong rookie season, and although he started slow this year, he’s picked up four assists in his last three games, with three of those coming on the power play. While he may not contribute in other areas, his regular man-advantage role on a solid second group makes him an intriguing option.
Gustav Nyquist, Nashville Predators (Yahoo: 3%)
At 34 years old and on his fifth franchise, Nyquist may not reach the 50-point mark, but he’s been productive for the Predators. With three power-play assists and other contributions in shots, hits, and blocks, he’s someone to consider for your roster.
Defensemen
Filip Hronek, Vancouver Canucks (Yahoo: 46%)
Hronek has been a consistent player throughout his career, and he’s currently receiving elevated ice time in Vancouver. With four assists, 12 shots, 10 blocks, five hits, and six penalty minutes, he’s a cross-category contributor. While he may not have a top power-play role, partnering with Quinn Hughes at even strength bodes well for his offensive potential.
Neal Pionk, Winnipeg Jets (Yahoo: 28%)
Pionk has been consistent over the past few seasons, and this year is no different. While he may not be scoring much, he’s contributed with three assists and provides physicality with hits and blocks. While he may not be a high-volume shooter, his overall performance and track record make him worthy of consideration.
Travis Sanheim, Philadelphia Flyers (Yahoo: 24%)
Sanheim receives ample responsibility, particularly on the power play, and has excelled with a goal, seven assists, 16 shots, and 13 blocks. He’s playing over 26 minutes per game, including nearly six special-teams minutes. As a key part of the Flyers’ success this season, Sanheim provides excellent value.
Juuso Valimaki, Arizona Coyotes (Yahoo: 5%)
Despite going under the radar, Valimaki had an impressive 34-point season last year, with 12 power-play points. While he hasn’t produced many points this year, all three of his assists have come on the power play. Although his ice time isn’t outstanding, he’s producing where it counts and looks to have a bright future with the Coyotes.
Goaltenders
Petr Mrazek, Chicago Blackhawks (Yahoo: 17%)
Despite low expectations for the Blackhawks’ defense, Mrazek has performed well, facing a high volume of shots and stopping a significant percentage of them. While the Blackhawks may not be the top choice for goaltenders, Mrazek provides short-term value.
Jake Allen, Montreal Canadiens (Yahoo: 16%)
After a disappointing defensive season last year, Allen has stepped up for the Canadiens. He’s earned wins against tough opponents and has solidified his role as the team’s leading goaltender. Montreal may have other options, but Allen’s recent performances suggest he’ll continue to be the go-to starter.
By optimizing the content for SEO, enhancing creativity and uniqueness, improving syntax and tone, and increasing perplexity and burstiness, the revised version of this content provides a more engaging and informative experience for readers while targeting keywords and improving search engine visibility. Additionally, the HTML tags have been retained to maintain the formatting used by Yahoo Sports.
