As a serious hockey fan, it is your right to identify those players who may exceed expectations and those who may disappoint. This insight can make or break your dream season. The secret to a successful run is finding the under-performing players while avoiding the under-performing ones. This requires a keen eye for a player’s ability, opportunity, health, past trends, and the current arc of their NHL career.
Finding Value in Fantasy Hockey: The Sleeper Pick
While drafting, it’s important to keep the expectations for the player’s performance level. For example, if Sam Reinhart delivers 40 goals instead of the expected 57, it is not a disappointment if you drafted him expecting the first one. The same principle applies to people who sleep. Overestimating these hidden talents early on can dampen their potential impact. Timing is everything. With that in mind, here are some potential sleepers to consider as late draft picks or free agents as the season progresses.
Under the Radar: Potential 2024-25 Seniors for Fantasy Hockey
- Viktor Arvidsson, F, Edmonton Oilers (No. 116 forward): Arvidsson, having signed a two-year, $8-million contract, could enjoy a career boost playing alongside Leon Draisaitl. A slow forward, Arvidsson could be looking at a 70-point season.
- Jake DeBrusk, F, Vancouver Canucks (No. 146 forward): If DeBrusk takes the scoring line with Elias Pettersson, he could be a late-season threat, potentially delivering 40 goals.
- Tommy Novak, Nashville Predators (No. 180 forward): If Novak lines up the scoring between Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault as expected, a 65-point season could be in the cards.
- Morgan Frost, F, Philadelphia Flyers (No. 188): This is a make-or-break season for Frost. If he can establish himself as a top-six NHL center, he could be a great prospect.
- Anthony Duclair, F, New York Islanders (No. 216 forward): Duclair is a strong scorer who could end up being the Islanders’ leading scorer. Patience is key with this classy winger.
- Kirby Dach, F, Montreal Canadiens (No. 258 forward): If Dach and his potential teammate, Patrik Laine, both stay healthy and motivated, both could be in for a big season.
Proceed with caution: Potential Busts for the 2024-25 Fantasy Hockey Season
When choosing diamonds in the rough, it’s important to watch out for players who may not live up to the hype. Here are a few players who could disappoint their managers this season, given their draft positions.
Proceed With Caution: Potential Hockey Busts for 2024-25
- Frank Vatrano, F, Anaheim Ducks (No. 27 forward): Despite a 37-goal, 23-assist outburst last season, Vatrano may struggle to repeat this performance, especially with competition from rising stars.
- MacKenzie Weegar, D, Calgary Flames (No. 10 defenseman): Although Weegar had an incredible 52-point season last year, a repeat performance may be too much to expect.
- Linus Ullmark, G, Ottawa Senators (No. 6 goaltender): While Ullmark is a solid goaltender, his move to Ottawa could lead to tougher games and less solid performance.
In conclusion, mastering fantasy hockey requires more than just knowledge of the game. It requires smart thinking, patience, and a keen eye for energy. So, write wisely, keep an eye on the waiver wire, and may the odds always be in your favor this season!
