As the NHL season progresses, fantasy hockey managers continuously seek opportunities to improve their rosters through the waiver wire and streaming options. This week, we will examine several players who have flown under the radar but are well-positioned to make a significant impact in the fantasy landscape. By identifying emerging talents and advantageous matchups, managers can bolster their lineups for the forthcoming challenges.
**Logan Stankoven, F, Dallas Stars (29.1% Rostered)**
At just 21 years old, Stankoven has already shown his potential as a budding star in the NHL. His ability to skate with high-profile players like Roope Hintz and Jason Robertson, or alongside Jamie Benn and Wyatt Johnston, demonstrates his versatility and skill. The four assists he accumulated in recent outings suggest that he has become an integral part of the Stars’ offensive strategy, making him a compelling addition for managers looking to enhance their team’s scoring. As analysts project a breakout for Stankoven this season, now is the time to act before his stock rises further.
**Jonathan Huberdeau, F, Calgary Flames (43.6% Rostered)**
While Huberdeau may not replicate his astonishing 115-point season from three years ago, the positive signs from his three-goal and two-assist start to the current campaign suggest an upward trend. Confidence and adaptability are key factors, as Huberdeau navigates through the last few seasons. With a career total of 725 points in 834 games, he has proven his worth and is a solid gamble for deeper fantasy leagues, especially if he continues to trend upwards in production.
**Casey Mittelstadt, F, Colorado Avalanche (20.2% Rostered)**
Mittelstadt has made his presence felt with two goals to start two matches, one of which came during a power play. As the season progresses and more stars in the Avalanche lineup return, Mittelstadt may see diminishing returns. Nonetheless, the incoming reinforcements will likely provide additional opportunities for scoring and assist metrics. Given his spot on the second line, he should be monitored closely for as long as he seems to fit into Colorado’s shifting roster landscape.
**Pavel Zacha, F, Boston Bruins (30.0% Rostered)**
Zacha’s current stint on Boston’s top line with David Pastrnak and Elias Lindholm has opened the door for a potentially prolific season. Last year, he recorded a career-high of 59 points, and if he maintains his spot in the lineup, projections for reaching 65 points become realistic. Being available in over 70% of ESPN Fantasy leagues, Zacha presents a valuable opportunity for managers seeking impactful depth.
**Ivan Barbashev, F, Vegas Golden Knights (61.0% Rostered)**
With three goals and three assists in just three games, Barbashev has proven to be a reliable contributor skating alongside elite talents like Jack Eichel and Mark Stone. His ability to deliver solid offensive production, coupled with significant hits, reinvigorates his appeal for fantasy managers. Nonetheless, expectations should be tempered regarding his power-play contributions unless he secures a spot in a top unit.
**Barrett Hayton, Utah Hockey Club (29.3% Rostered)**
While attention may be paid to Dylan Guenther’s remarkable five-goal performance, it’s worthwhile to recognize Hayton’s strong play. With five points on just 11 shots over three games, Hayton’s role as the top-line center is undeniable. Positioned favorably on a team alongside seasoned playmaker Clayton Keller, he remains an underrated asset, available in a large percentage of leagues.
**Shayne Gostisbehere, D, Carolina Hurricanes (32.3% Rostered)**
Entrusted with anchoring Carolina’s top power play, Gostisbehere showed his prowess as a point producer last season with a commendable 56 points. With a strategic role in a proficient offense, he becomes an enticing component for teams seeking blueliners who contribute to man-advantage opportunities.
**Brandt Clarke, D, Los Angeles Kings (7.6% Rostered)**
With the injury sidelining Drew Doughty for an extended period, Clarke’s insertion into the Kings’ top power-play unit presents a significant opportunity for him to produce. Given his impressive performance in the AHL, where he made strides towards a point-per-game pace, Clarke has the potential to make an immediate impact should he translate that success to the NHL level.
**Anthony Stolarz, G, Toronto Maple Leafs (23.1% Rostered)**
With Joseph Woll out due to a lower-body injury, Stolarz steps up as the Maple Leafs’ go-to goalie. His impressive start with a .940 save percentage and a 1.54 goals-against average bodes well for his current trajectory. Keep an eye on Stolarz as managers look for reliable goaltending options.
**Sam Montembeault, G, Montreal Canadiens (45.9% Rostered)**
Montembeault has already carved a niche for himself by delivering solid performances, including a shutout against the Maple Leafs and a respectable follow-up against the Senators. If the Canadiens maintain competitive performances, Montembeault’s value could soar, making him an appealing option in many fantasy contexts.
As fantasy managers scan the waiver wire and consider streaming options, these players present golden opportunities for enhancing rosters. Whether betting on emerging talents or established names, being proactive is essential for thriving in the competitive fantasy landscape.
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