NHL Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies for October 28, 2025
Fantasy hockey managers know that success on a nightly basis comes down to the smallest details: starting goalie choices, last-minute injury news, and power-play auditions can make or break your matchup. With a packed NHL slate on October 28, 2025, let’s break down the most impactful lineup and goalie projections so you can set your roster with confidence.
What’s New & Why It Matters
Today’s lineup projections highlight several notable shifts that fantasy managers need to monitor closely. William Nylander is a game-time decision for the Maple Leafs, which could have ripple effects across Toronto’s top six and power-play units. The Penguins are handing the crease to Arturs Silovs in a favorable matchup against a goal-starved Flyers squad, while the Golden Knights turn to Akira Schmid against the high-event Hurricanes. On the injury front, Rasmus Ristolainen’s absence leaves a hole on the Flyers’ blue line, impacting both their defense and power-play structure. Meanwhile, Matt Coronato’s return to the Flames lineup could inject some scoring punch into Calgary’s attack.
Fantasy Implications
Points-Only
Managers in points-only formats should prioritize confirmed starters and top-line forwards, especially those with power-play one (PP1) exposure. Silovs is a strong play for the Penguins, given the Flyers’ offensive struggles. Nylander’s status is pivotal: if he sits, secondary Leafs like Max Domi or Calle Jarnkrok could see temporary value boosts. Coronato’s return is noteworthy—he’s flashed scoring upside and could see PP2 or even PP1 time if the Flames shuffle their units.
Categories / Bangers
For those in multi-category or "bangers" leagues, starting goalies like Akira Schmid offer one-day boosts in saves and win potential, even if Vegas is up against a tough Carolina squad. Ristolainen’s injury opens up more minutes—and possibly hits and blocks—for Flyers defenders like Travis Sanheim. Coronato is also a sneaky source for shots on goal, while Nylander’s absence would create short-term streaming opportunities for Leafs depth wingers who can contribute in hits and shots.
Dynasty / Keeper
Dynasty managers should be ruthless with long-term injuries. Ristolainen’s extended absence makes him a drop candidate if you’re pressed for roster space, especially with no clear return timeline. Coronato’s return is a reminder of his long-term upside in Calgary’s rebuild, while Schmid’s start for Vegas is a chance to evaluate his progress in a new crease. Keep tabs on how teams deploy prospects and fill injury gaps—these situations often reveal next season’s breakout candidates.
Who to Add / Stream / Watch
- Arturs Silovs (Penguins): Stream for a quality start against a weak Flyers offense.
- Matt Coronato (Flames): Add if you need scoring depth or want to speculate on PP1 usage.
- Akira Schmid (Golden Knights): One-day streaming option for saves and possible win.
- Max Domi (Maple Leafs): Monitor for a bump in deployment if Nylander sits.
- Travis Sanheim (Flyers): Increased role and peripherals with Ristolainen out.
- Calle Jarnkrok (Maple Leafs): Deep-league streamer if he moves up the lineup due to injuries.
- Jet Greaves (Blue Jackets): Deep-league goalie stream if you’re chasing starts.
- William Nylander (Maple Leafs): Monitor his status right up to puck drop; his availability shapes Toronto’s top-six value.
Fantasy Takeaways
Daily fantasy hockey success is about reacting to the latest news and optimizing your roster accordingly. Today, starting Silovs is a strong play thanks to the Flyers’ offensive woes, while Schmid is a high-upside streaming option for those in need of goalie stats. Keep a close eye on Nylander’s status for the Leafs—his presence or absence will have a domino effect on Toronto’s scoring lines. Coronato is a speculative add with upside, and managers in deeper leagues should look to capitalize on new opportunities created by injuries, such as Sanheim’s expanded role in Philadelphia. Above all, monitor power-play auditions and late scratches to maximize your edge.
Source: NHL.com (2025-10-28). See the original for full details.