Fantasy Hockey Team Previews: Outlooks and Player Picks for Every Team

Anaheim Ducks

Lukas Dostal is now expected to be Anaheim`s primary goaltender. If the Ducks progress as anticipated, the 25-year-old could establish himself as a top-15 fantasy goalie. Center Leo Carlsson, playing alongside new winger Chris Kreider, is poised for a significant offensive leap, with 60+ points appearing very achievable. On the blueline, Jackson LaCombe is projected to surpass 55 points, serving as the full-time quarterback for Anaheim`s top power play unit.

Boston Bruins

With subdued expectations, the Bruins might offer surprising fantasy value. While David Pastrnak is undeniably a first-round talent, don`t overlook Jeremy Swayman`s anticipated heavy workload, Charlie McAvoy`s consistent defensive production, and Elias Lindholm`s renewed opportunity as the top-line center. These players could be valuable undervalued targets.

Buffalo Sabres

The Sabres roster features numerous high-risk, high-reward fantasy options. Rasmus Dahlin and Tage Thompson are generally reliable picks. However, the fantasy output of players like Josh Norris, Alex Tuch, and Jiri Kulich remains uncertain, and it`s unlikely all will reach their full potential. With Dahlin anchoring the defense, the fantasy relevance of Bowen Byram or Owen Power might be limited.

Calgary Flames

After completing their first full NHL seasons, goaltender Dustin Wolf and forward Matt Coronato are unlikely to be overlooked. However, rookie Zayne Parekh could be a dark horse in 2025-26, especially if he secures a spot on the secondary power play, particularly if Rasmus Andersson is traded. Furthermore, remember that Nazem Kadri often outperforms fantasy managers` perceptions of his value.

Carolina Hurricanes

Nikolaj Ehlers has consistently performed as a top-tier fantasy forward on a per-minute basis and could see an expanded role this season. Defensemen K`Andre Miller and Alexander Nikishin both possess the upside to become fantasy mainstays if they receive optimal deployment. However, Shayne Gostisbehere`s presence could still dilute their power-play opportunities.

Chicago Blackhawks

A projected bounce-back season for Connor Bedard should see him approach or achieve a point-per-game pace for the first time. Sophomore Frank Nazar offers sleeper potential as Chicago`s second-line center and a key contributor on the power play alongside Bedard. Rookie defenseman Sam Rinzel is a player to watch in deeper scoring leagues, potentially quarterbacking the Blackhawks` top power play unit.

Colorado Avalanche

While Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar are top-ranked players at their positions, the Avalanche`s second scoring line presents intriguing fantasy possibilities. If Gabriel Landeskog returns close to his previous form, Valeri Nichushkin maintains his health, and center Brock Nelson integrates well with them, this line could deliver significant late-round value for fortunate fantasy managers.

Columbus Blue Jackets

Could this be the breakout year for several young Blue Jackets in fantasy hockey? Adam Fantilli and Kent Johnson appear on the cusp of increased production, following Kirill Marchenko`s strong 2024-25 season. If the team`s overall performance improves, goaltenders Elvis Merzlikins, or even sleeper Jet Greaves, could offer surprising value between the pipes.

Dallas Stars

Although Mikko Rantanen might not reach 100 points without Nathan MacKinnon, a projection of around 90 points alongside Wyatt Johnston and Roope Hintz seems very reasonable. If Mavrik Bourque establishes himself within the Stars` top-six forward group, he will be a worthy addition in deeper fantasy leagues.

Detroit Red Wings

Marco Kasper continues to solidify his status as a reliable fantasy option, while a healthy Patrick Kane could be an overlooked gem in drafts. Simon Edvinsson has the potential to be a strong contributor in categories like hits and blocks, given sufficient ice time. There`s also a risk that consistent performers like Dylan Larkin, Lucas Raymond, and Alex DeBrincat might be undervalued simply due to their steady, rather than spectacular, production.

Edmonton Oilers

Beyond Edmonton`s elite offensive duo, Evan Bouchard and Jake Walman are projected as top-10 and top-20 fantasy defensemen, respectively. Forward Trent Frederic, if he earns playing time with Connor McDavid, offers sleeper potential in leagues that reward physical play (hits and blocks). Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is also a strong candidate for a bounce-back season.

Florida Panthers

Don`t be afraid to draft Matthew Tkachuk even if he slides; his early absence can be managed using an Injured Reserve (IR) spot. Seth Jones could see a boost in fantasy value as the team`s power-play anchor. The highly effective playoff line of Anton Lundell, Eetu Luostarinen, and Brad Marchand is worth monitoring to see if their chemistry continues into the regular season.

Los Angeles Kings

With Anze Kopitar retiring, rising star Quinton Byfield is expected to take a significant leap forward this season, projecting for at least 65 points. Andrei Kuzmenko, now with his sixth team in four years and playing for a new contract on the Kings` top line and power play, could rediscover his scoring touch. Despite his stellar performance last season in ESPN standard leagues, goaltender Darcy Kuemper should still remain a top-10 fantasy netminder.

Minnesota Wild

When healthy, Kirill Kaprizov is a premier fantasy forward, making him a worthwhile gamble for managers hoping he plays 75+ games this season. Veteran Vladimir Tarasenko, joining his sixth team in four years, could be a valuable asset in extra-deep leagues, especially if he secures a spot on the top power play. Rookie defenseman Zeev Buium is a mandatory draft pick in keeper and dynasty leagues.

Montreal Canadiens

Montreal boasts numerous potential sleepers, though not all will live up to expectations. Rookie Ivan Demidov showcases immense talent, Zack Bolduc finished strong last season, and Kirby Dach could potentially center them both. The defensive corps, featuring Lane Hutson, Mike Matheson, and David Savard, is a bit of a mixed bag, and goaltender Sam Montembeault needs to find consistency. However, Juraj Slafkovsky appears poised to ascend to an elite fantasy tier.

Nashville Predators

Filip Forsberg remains a top-12 fantasy forward, regardless of the Predators` overall team success. If Nashville significantly improves after last year`s struggles, both Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault are poised for strong rebound seasons. Similarly, goaltender Juuse Saros deserves a much higher fantasy ranking. A healthy Roman Josi continues to be among the league`s elite fantasy defensemen.

New Jersey Devils

Beyond their reliable early-round fantasy producers, the Devils offer several high-upside late-round draft considerations. Luke Hughes is ready to challenge the injury-prone Dougie Hamilton for significant power-play time. Evgenii Dadonov or KHL import Arseny Gritsyuk could provide intriguing value if they secure roles in the top six.

New York Islanders

Last season, Bo Horvat ranked tied for 100th in fantasy points, highlighting the Islanders` struggle to produce top fantasy talent. “The Matts”—Barzal and Schaefer—have the potential to change this narrative. Ilya Sorokin desperately needs a strong season to regain fantasy managers` trust, with positive signs from his fourth-place goalie ranking after January 1st last season.

New York Rangers

After winning the Presidents` Trophy only to miss the playoffs, the fantasy production of most Rangers players mirrored their team`s downturn. Artemi Panarin and Adam Fox could bounce back if the power play regains its effectiveness. Alexis Lafreniere has an excellent opportunity for a breakout season. While Will Cuylle was a pleasant surprise, maintaining his pace from last year remains uncertain.

Ottawa Senators

Dylan Cozens possesses high fantasy upside if he can secure consistent top power-play minutes in his first full season with the Senators. Fabian Zetterlund also shows similar potential, though securing a prime role might be more challenging. Linus Ullmark, despite injuries and a lack of team wins, was an elite performer and is poised for a strong 2025-26 campaign.

Philadelphia Flyers

The arrival of new coach Rick Tocchet and top-six acquisition Trevor Zegras significantly enhances the Flyers` fantasy outlook. Zegras, Tyson Foerster, and Jamie Drysdale are all low-investment targets if they maintain their projected roles. Don`t overlook physical defensemen like Travis Sanheim and Nick Seeler, who were valuable roster additions in standard leagues last year due to their contributions in hits and blocks.

Pittsburgh Penguins

Despite ongoing trade rumors surrounding Sidney Crosby, both he and Erik Karlsson will consistently deliver strong fantasy value, regardless of their team affiliation. Rickard Rakell and Bryan Rust offer reliable stability if they remain with the Penguins, but they are also among the most likely candidates to be traded if the team continues its rebuild.

San Jose Sharks

The burgeoning Sharks roster is rich with future fantasy stars. Beyond the highly anticipated Macklin Celebrini, sophomore Will Smith displays point-per-game potential. Michael Misa, the second overall pick, is vying for a spot out of camp and represents a dynasty league dream with incredible offensive upside. If San Jose develops into a competitive team, 23-year-old goaltender Yaroslav Askarov could emerge as the season`s top goalie sleeper.

Seattle Kraken

Forward Eeli Tolvanen is a strong fantasy consideration in leagues that emphasize hits, as he also provides decent scoring. Goaltender Joey Daccord is expected to start enough games to be relevant in deeper leagues, and could even exceed expectations if the Kraken manage to secure more wins. Otherwise, the Seattle squad doesn`t offer a wealth of fantasy potential.

St. Louis Blues

St. Louis is brimming with undervalued fantasy talent, including top center Robert Thomas, who averaged 1.10 points per game over the last two seasons. Power-play anchor Cam Fowler, who tallied 36 points in 51 games after joining the Blues from Anaheim last year, is another. Additionally, prospect Jimmy Snuggeruud is flying under the radar compared to other rookies, despite being positioned for a significant opportunity on the club`s top line and power play.

Tampa Bay Lightning

The Lightning`s fantasy appeal continues to be driven by its star players, but secondary roles will be crucial. Anthony Cirelli proved his relevance as a second-line center last season, creating an opportunity for wingers like Oliver Bjorkstrand or Conor Geekie to step up. Determining which players secure consistent middle-six roles will be key to identifying sleeper values here.

Toronto Maple Leafs

Even without Marner, the Maple Leafs still possess significant top-end fantasy talent. However, the deployment of depth players will define secondary options. Matias Maccelli and Max Domi could potentially earn top-line assignments. If either Anthony Stolarz or Joseph Woll can reach 55 starts, they have the potential to become top-five fantasy goaltenders.

Utah Mammoth

Clayton Keller, on track for nearly 100 points for the first time in his career, remains significantly undervalued across fantasy hockey. A healthy Dylan Guenther could net over 35 goals, while former Sabre JJ Peterka is projected for 70 points in his new environment. If these pieces align and the newly named Mammoth contend for a playoff spot, goaltender Karel Vejmelka could become a highly rewarding sleeper pick for many managers.

Vancouver Canucks

Assuming he hasn`t completely lost his touch (and the player himself insists he hasn`t), top center Elias Pettersson has nowhere to go but up. Whether he reaches 70 points or closer to his past 100-point seasons is uncertain. Perhaps a freshly signed Brock Boeser can return to his 70+ point form, or new Canuck Evander Kane can stay healthy for a nearly 30-goal campaign. While Vancouver has many fantasy “maybes,” Quinn Hughes stands out as the only undisputed top-tier certainty.

Vegas Golden Knights

Playing top-line minutes with Jack Eichel and Mitch Marner, along with secondary power-play duties, should see Ivan Barbashev achieve 30 goals and 35 assists in 2025-26. Unlike his linemates, he`ll likely be available in later draft rounds. With Akira Schmid promoted to backup, the starting role for a strong Vegas team is Adin Hill`s to lose. Defender Shea Theodore remains the anchor on a top power play that could be even more potent with Marner`s addition.

Washington Capitals

The Capitals surprisingly featured five players with 25 or more goals last season, one of only five teams to do so. Aliaksei Protas and Connor McMichael aim to build on their breakout campaigns, while Ryan Leonard and playoff standout Anthony Beauvillier compete for roster spots. On defense, John Carlson and Jakob Chychrun provide a strong complementary pairing. Logan Thompson is a goaltender worth stashing early.

Winnipeg Jets

The Jets are rich in fantasy talent, particularly in net and up front. Forward Cole Perfetti is set to join their strong core as Nikolaj Ehlers` replacement on the top power play. After regaining his stride, new second-line center Jonathan Toews possesses dark-horse potential in extra-deep fantasy leagues. Winger Kyle Connor is capable of a 50-goal season, perhaps in 2025-26 while playing on an expiring contract.