Hidden Gems for Fantasy Hockey Drafts
As fantasy hockey drafts approach, players face the exhilarating yet nerve-wracking moment of selecting hidden gems that could propel their teams to success. While many managers gravitate towards well-known stars, some savvy drafters whisper “please don’t draft my guy” about under-the-radar picks expected to shine in the 2025-26 NHL season. Here, we will examine ten players worth drafting, blending established talent with exciting prospects that might fly under the radar.
Top Picks for the Season
Among the top-tier players globally, names like Nathan MacKinnon, Connor McDavid, and Auston Matthews often dominate discussions, but Nikita Kucherov remains my choice for standout value this season. The Tampa Bay Lightning winger has consistently drawn attention, leading the league in assists for two consecutive seasons while maintaining exceptional goal-scoring prowess—44 goals in the 2023-24 season and 37 last year. His line, which includes stars such as Brayden Point and Jake Guentzel, has proven to be potent, averaging over four goals every 60 minutes of play. Additionally, Kucherov’s remarkable durability—missing only five games in three seasons—is a coveted trait that aligns with his contract nearing its end, encouraging him to put forth an exceptional effort.
Emerging Talents
Shifting gears, the acquisition of superstar Mitch Marner by the Vegas Golden Knights this offseason raises questions about his integration into the roster and the potential impact on others around him. His pairing with top-line center Jack Eichel hinges on developing chemistry, as both like to create plays and could potentially lead their own lines if a strong link occurs. The 24-year-old winger Pavel Dorofeyev emerged last season with an impressive 35 goals and 52 points and may benefit significantly from Marner’s arrival, offering a promising finishing ability that could secure him ice time alongside Marner or Eichel.
A constant surprise in the evolving narrative of hockey talent is Nick Suzuki. Over the past three seasons, Suzuki’s point totals have soared, peaking at 89 last season while consistently hitting the 30-goal mark. Suzuki’s established partnership with sharpshooters Cole Caufield and Juraj Slafkovsky suggests substantial offensive output. Anything below 30 goals and 80 points would seem like a disappointment for the young center, particularly as he eyes selection for Team Canada in the upcoming Olympics, providing an additional incentive to excel this season.
All-Around Contributors
When it comes to players who can contribute multifaceted value, look no further than Alex Tuch. The Buffalo Sabres forward not only made his mark on the scoreboard with 36 goals last season but also blocked a league-high 113 shots, showcasing his all-around game. His full 82-game season proved beneficial, and there is potential for improvement as he shares the ice with elite talents like Tage Thompson. Tuch embodies the ideal fantasy player who can score and contribute defensively, making him a desired draft choice.
There’s even room to highlight emerging talent, like Brennan Cuylle of the New York Rangers. After a solid second season in which he recorded 20 goals and 25 assists, Cuylle’s chances for a power-play role look positive, especially after the departure of Chris Kreider, which may create opportunities for increased scoring on special teams. Meanwhile, Evan Bouchard presents a unique case—while not the most polished defenseman by NHL standards, his fantasy production has been impressive, making him an asset when playing alongside stars like McDavid and Draisaitl.
Defensive Prospects and Goaltenders
On the defensive front, the Ducks’ Henry LaCombe showcased promise in his second full NHL season, improving across the board with 43 points while earning an invitation to Team USA’s Olympic camp. With his increased shot volume and potential for power-play time, he may emerge as a sleeper pick in upcoming drafts.
Another name worth mentioning as a bold choice is rookie Sam Rinzel, who despite limited experience, is rapidly gaining excitement surrounding his potential for significant contributions this season after being drafted 25th overall in 2022. Speculation has it that he could evolve into a top defenseman for the Blackhawks, making him an intriguing late-round draft option.
Additionally, the Utah Grizzlies have set the stage for playoff aspirations this season, thanks in part to the solid performance of their goaltender Karel Vejmelka, who recently secured a five-year extension, highlighting his importance to the team. Vejmelka’s ability to deliver wins could be vital if the team improves their standings.
Similarly, Mackenzie Blackwood of the Colorado Avalanche is positioned to build on his strong finish last season, though his injury history raises some concerns. If he can stay healthy, he could be a reliable netminder for a Stanley Cup contender.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this list covers a mix of proven point producers, potential breakout stars, and solid contributors to watch closely as the fantasy hockey season unfolds. As the drafting process approaches, keep an eye on these players to enhance your team’s chances of clinching the top spot.
