Key Fantasy Hockey Players to Watch with EDGE Stats Insights

As the 2025-26 fantasy hockey season approaches, managers are searching for every possible edge to gain an advantage in their leagues. NHL.com's latest analysis draws on advanced EDGE stats to spotlight a handful of players poised to outperform expectations. Whether you're building a points-only juggernaut or seeking multi-cat contributors, these names demand your attention.

What’s New & Why It Matters

This year’s projections go beyond the box score, leveraging EDGE stats like shot attempts, power-play usage, and deployment trends. The focus is on players whose current roles—whether locked into a top line, quarterbacking a power play, or surging in shot volume—signal sustainable value. Recent line changes, offseason moves, and health updates have shifted several players into fantasy relevance, making it crucial to react quickly to maximize your roster’s potential.

Fantasy Implications

Points-Only

Brandon Hagel stands out as a prime target for pure scoring leagues. His spot on the Tampa Bay Lightning's top line and first power-play unit has translated into a steady stream of points. Hagel’s chemistry with elite talent and his knack for finishing high-danger chances make him a reliable mid-round pick or waiver gem, especially with the Lightning’s favorable early schedule.

Nikolaj Ehlers is another name to circle. Now with the Carolina Hurricanes, Ehlers has seen a resurgence in form, leading his team in shot attempts and quickly meshing with his new linemates. If his usage holds, Ehlers could easily outperform his preseason ADP, especially as Carolina leans on him for offense.

Categories / Bangers

Multi-category leagues reward not just points, but also shots, hits, blocks, and special teams production. Jake Sanderson of the Ottawa Senators is emerging as a must-roster defenseman. He’s not only producing points but also racking up power-play contributions and chipping in with secondary stats. Sanderson’s high ice time and increasing role on Ottawa’s PP1 make him a valuable asset, especially in leagues counting blocks and shots.

Ehlers’ shot volume makes him a sneaky asset in leagues that count SOG, while Hagel’s blend of offensive output and occasional physical play (hits, takeaways) boosts his floor in bangers formats. Keep an eye on deployment, as even a minor shift off the top line or power play can impact these players’ category coverage.

Dynasty / Keeper

Long-term managers should take a hard look at Luke Evangelista of the Nashville Predators. Evangelista is showing all the hallmarks of a breakout campaign: increased ice time, top-six deployment, and a growing presence on the man advantage. His underlying numbers suggest this leap is sustainable, making him a savvy dynasty add or trade target before his price climbs.

Sanderson, still early in his career, is another foundational piece for dynasty builds. His all-around game and role as a power-play anchor in Ottawa set him up for multi-year production.

Who to Add / Stream / Watch

Brandon Hagel (TBL): Top line and PP1 deployment; steady scoring with upside if Lightning offense clicks.
Nikolaj Ehlers (CAR): Surging shot volume; prime candidate for a midseason breakout if usage holds.
Luke Evangelista (NSH): Top-six minutes and PP chances; ideal for dynasty or as a deep-league streamer.
Jake Sanderson (OTT): High-value blueliner for points, power-play, and banger stats.
Anthony Cirelli (TBL): Quietly producing in a top-six role; stream if you need short-term scoring depth.
Jesperi Kotkaniemi (CAR): Trending up with increased responsibility; worth a watch in deeper formats.
Ryan McDonagh (NSH): Reliable for hits and blocks; useful streamer in bangers leagues.

Fantasy Takeaways

Prioritize players with stable top-line and power-play roles—deployment is often as important as skill.
Advanced stats like shot attempts and PP usage can reveal breakout candidates before the mainstream catches on.
Don’t overlook young talent like Evangelista in dynasty formats; early adoption pays off long-term.
Monitor line changes and injury news—opportunity can shift quickly, creating new streaming options.

Source: NHL.com. See the original for full details.