Embracing the Fantasy Hockey Comeback
The 4 Nations Face-Off tournament may have exceeded expectations, but for fantasy hockey managers, the real excitement lies in the return of the NHL. The league resumes play on Saturday with 14 games and another 10 on Sunday, offering a perfect opportunity to reassess and bolster your rosters. Whether you’re pushing for playoff glory or planning for next season, there are several waiver options that can help you get back in the game.
Forwards to Watch
Connor McMichael, WAS (Yahoo: 49%)
It’s always wise to add players who are on a scoring streak, and Connor McMichael is a prime example. The Washington Capitals’ forward has been on fire, racking up nine points in his last 10 games along with 15 shots. Despite his inconsistency in other categories, McMichael’s current position in the top-six and his role on the second power play unit make him a valuable addition to your team. The Capitals boast one of the league’s best attacks, and McMichael’s recent performance suggests he’s ready to contribute significantly to your fantasy points.
Cole Perfetti, WPG (Yahoo: 29%)
Cole Perfetti’s NHL career has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. He went through a dry spell between December and January, scoring just once in 14 games. However, he’s bounced back impressively with four goals and five assists in his last seven games, four of which came on the power play. WPG’s position as the league’s highest-scoring team bodes well for Perfetti’s continued success. With his new linemates, including Joel Farabee and Morgan Frost, Perfetti could see a steady rise in his fantasy value, making him a worthwhile pickup.
Jeff Skinner, EDM (Yahoo: 27%)
Jeff Skinner, brought to the Edmonton Oilers in the offseason as a veteran presence, started the year strong with points in four of his first five games. However, his performance quickly dipped and remained uneven for most of the season. Recently, however, there’s a glimmer of hope. Skinner has found success with Leon Draisaitl as his center, contributing a goal, two assists, and four shots in their last two games. If he continues to skate in this favorable position, Skinner could see a resurgence in his fantasy output. Just keep an eye on the Oilers’ depth chart changes, which could impact his role.
Chandler Stephenson, SEA (Yahoo: 14%)
Chandler Stephenson, at 31, is on track to achieve a personal best in scoring this season. While the numbers (40 points in 56 games compared to his peak of 65 in 81 games) might not fully reflect his current form, his primary stats are encouraging. With 17 power-play points and a career-high average of 19:38 ice time, Stephenson’s fantasy floor is strong. Despite Seattle’s tendency to shuffle lines and man-advantage groups, Stephenson’s role provides a consistent source of fantasy points.
Yegor Sharangovich, CGY (Yahoo: 14%)
Yegor Sharangovich has experienced significant ups and downs throughout his career, but he’s currently trending in the right direction. Over his last 14 games, Sharangovich has tallied five goals, six assists, and 21 shots. His role on Calgary’s top power play, where he logs over two minutes per game, gives him an additional boost. Sharangovich’s new linemates, Joel Farabee and Morgan Frost, could further enhance his scoring potential. If this unit gels, all three players could become valuable additions to your roster.
Filip Chytil, VAN (Yahoo: 10%)
Filip Chytil’s transition to the Vancouver Canucks after the trade involving J.T. Miller has been seamless. He’s quickly adapted to his new role, logging over 20 minutes of ice time in his first two games and even notching a power-play assist. Chytil now centers Brock Boeser during all scoring situations, a responsibility that mirrors Miller’s previous role. If he continues to receive similar opportunities, Chytil could finally break out and provide the fantasy production that has long been anticipated.
Defensemen to Consider
Brady Skjei, NSH (Yahoo: 41%)
Brady Skjei may not be the top scorer among Nashville’s defensemen, but he’s steadily contributing to the team’s overall performance. With 30 points in his career, Skjei is on pace to hit that mark again this season. His recent stretch has been particularly strong, with eight points in his last 10 games, including 20 shots, 10 blocks, and eight hits. Skjei’s involvement in both special teams units and his five power-play points make him a reliable choice for middle-of-the-roster fantasy blueliners.
Sean Durzi, UTA (Yahoo: 20%)
Sean Durzi’s 2023-24 season was stellar, and he began the current campaign on a high note, recording an assist in each of his first two games and playing 29:12 in his third before a shoulder injury sidelined him. Initially projected to return in April, Durzi is now expected back on Saturday. Whether he reclaims his power-play role remains to be seen, but his major minutes and scoring potential make him a valuable asset. Even without a prominent power-play role, Durzi can be counted on for significant contributions.
Jaccob Slavin, CAR (Yahoo: 15%)
Jaccob Slavin, a veteran defenseman for the Carolina Hurricanes, is often overlooked due to his limited power-play work and more offensive linemates. However, his recent performance has been noteworthy, with seven points in his last 12 games, 18 shots, and 26 blocks. Slavin’s consistent play and physical contributions make him a solid choice for fantasy managers, especially given his track record of reaching the 30-point plateau in his career. His strong showing at the 4 Nations Face-Off adds to his appeal.
Lian Bichsel, DAL (Yahoo: 4%)
Lian Bichsel, the giant Swiss defenseman for the Dallas Stars, has benefited from Miro Heiskanen’s absence. While Bichsel isn’t known for his offensive prowess, his physical play and recent contributions have caught attention. He’s recorded 64 hits in his 16 NHL games, and as Heiskanen remains out, Bichsel is likely to stay with the parent club. He can provide a few points, numerous hits, and shots on goal, making him a useful defensive addition to your team.
Goaltenders on the Rise
Mikko Ersson, PHI
Mikko Ersson has put a shaky start and a couple of injuries behind him, posting a 2.26 GAA and .920 save percentage over his last 14 games. His performance against a slightly weakened US team at the 4 Nations Face-Off, where he stopped 32 of 33 shots, further solidifies his reliability. With Ivan Fedotov and Aleksei Kolosov struggling, Ersson is poised to take on the bulk of Philadelphia’s goaltending duties. Fantasy managers should expect consistent and solid play from him as the season progresses.
Marc-Andre Fleury, MIN (Yahoo: 19%)
Marc-Andre Fleury, one of the NHL’s most seasoned goaltenders, remains fantasy-relevant even in his 22nd season. Since the calendar turned to 2025, Fleury has posted a 2.24 GAA and .926 save percentage, including a shutout over the Montreal Canadiens, the team he cheered for as a youngster. His young counterpart, Filip Gustavsson, has struggled with a 3.48 GAA and .896 save percentage, allowing at least three goals in seven of his 11 appearances. Fleury may not immediately return to his usual heavy workload, but he should still see enough playing time to provide solid fantasy value.
Looking Back for More Options
Several players from past columns are still available and worth considering as you rebuild or fortify your roster. Forwards like Macklin Celebrini, Evgeni Malkin, Pavel Buchnevich, and Bryan Rust have shown flashes of brilliance and can be reliable for consistent scoring. Young talents such as Logan Stankoven, Gabriel Vilardi, and Dylan Guenther bring energy and potential for long-term success. Veterans like Rickard Rakell, Juraj Slafkovsky, and Nick Schmaltz have also demonstrated their value in various roles.
Defensemen and Their Impact
On the defensive side, players like Dylan Strome, Jonathan Huberdeau, and Pierre-Luc Dubois offer a mix of offensive and defensive contributions. Consider adding Matthew Knies, JJ Peterka, and Matty Beniers for their offensive potential and increasing ice time. For more seasoned players, names like Patrick Kane, Nazem Kadri, and Jamie Benn bring proven fantasy value. Their consistent performance and leadership can stabilize your roster and provide a steady stream of points.
Goaltenders for Your Consideration
In the goaltending department, options like Cam Fowler, Matt Grzelcyk, and Justin Faulk can add depth and reliability to your defensive lineup. Their playing time and statistical output make them solid choices for both short-term and long-term fantasy success. On the goaltending front, Cam Talbot, Ilya Samsonov, and Mackenzie Blackwood are all capable of stepping up and providing solid save percentages and goals-against averages. Their recent performances and team support make them worth a look as you navigate the upcoming games.
Making the Most of Your Waiver Wire
The NHL’s return means it’s time to get back to the grind and push for those crucial fantasy playoff spots. Whether you’re in a tight race or planning for next season, these waiver options can help you strengthen your team and stay competitive. Keep an eye on recent trades and the evolving dynamics of teams, as they can open up new opportunities for standout performances. By making strategic additions, you can ensure your roster is well-equipped to handle the remainder of the season and any challenges that come your way.
