Today's NHL Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies: Fantasy Start/Sit Leans & Key Updates

With a fresh slate of NHL games on tap, fantasy hockey managers face a crucial window for optimizing their lineups. Today's projected lines and starting goalie confirmations offer a decisive edge for those willing to act on late-breaking news. From star forwards returning to top units to surprise goalie starts and injury fallout, here's what you need to know to make the most of tonight's action.

What’s New & Why It Matters

Several high-impact lineup developments headline today's NHL schedule. Alex Ovechkin retains his spot atop the Capitals' forward group, reaffirming his role as a must-start. The Sharks roll out Yaroslav Askarov in goal, a notable audition for the young netminder. Injury news is front and center for the Maple Leafs, who will be without Morgan Rielly, impacting both their power-play and defensive stability. Meanwhile, the Devils are missing Cody Glass, opening up new opportunities down the middle. In net, Jake Allen starts for the Devils and Dustin Wolf gets the nod for the Flames, both offering streaming intrigue depending on your league format. These updates shape not just today’s results, but also the near-term fantasy landscape.

Fantasy Implications

Points-Only

Ovechkin’s continued presence on the top line cements his status as a premier option in points-only formats, especially with the Capitals facing a Blue Jackets squad that’s struggled defensively. Dustin Wolf’s start against the Jets is a sneaky play—Winnipeg’s offense has been inconsistent, giving Wolf a shot at a quality start and possibly a win. Askarov’s audition for the Sharks is more of a watch-list situation for today, but his long-term upside is worth monitoring in deeper leagues.

Categories / Bangers

The absence of Morgan Rielly for the Leafs removes a reliable source of shots, blocks, and power-play assists. Consider dropping or benching him if you’re tight on roster space. Jake Allen is a viable short-term add in leagues counting saves and wins, given his recent form and the Devils’ defensive structure. Keep an eye on who fills in for Rielly on the Leafs’ top power-play unit—there may be an under-the-radar banger opportunity if a physical defenseman steps up.

Dynasty / Keeper

Yaroslav Askarov’s start is the headline for dynasty managers. If he impresses, he could force his way into more regular NHL action, making him a stash candidate for teams looking ahead. Cody Glass’s injury opens up a short-term audition for younger Devils centers, though none profile as immediate dynasty assets. Monitor the ripple effect for potential breakout candidates if the injury lingers.

Who to Add / Stream / Watch

Jake Allen (Devils): Reliable spot start with a favorable matchup and recent hot streak.
Dustin Wolf (Flames): Stream for upside against a sputtering Jets offense.
Yaroslav Askarov (Sharks): Watch-list for dynasty; today’s start could signal more NHL time ahead.
Maple Leafs PP1 replacement: Whoever steps up for Morgan Rielly could see a big usage spike—watch pregame line rushes.
Devils C2/C3: With Cody Glass out, look for a young pivot getting a top-nine audition for deep-league value.
Capitals secondary wingers: If the Ovechkin line dominates, his linemates could be sneaky one-day adds in daily formats.

Fantasy Takeaways

Start Alex Ovechkin with confidence as he remains the offensive centerpiece for Washington.
Stream Jake Allen or Dustin Wolf if you need a goalie start—both have matchup and recent form in their favor.
Monitor the Maple Leafs’ blue line for a potential power-play sleeper while Rielly is out.
Keep Askarov on your dynasty radar; today’s start could foreshadow a larger role.
Be aggressive with short-term adds in daily formats, especially with late-breaking injury news and goalie confirmations.

Source: NHL.com (2025-10-24). See the original for full details.