Top 100 Forward Rankings for Fantasy Hockey 2025-26

The NHL fantasy landscape is always shifting, and with the release of the 2025-26 Top 100 Forward Rankings, managers have a crucial tool to shape their draft strategy, trade targets, and waiver wire priorities. This year’s list, headlined by perennial superstars and emerging young talent, reflects not just last season’s numbers but also line stability, power-play deployment, and health outlooks. Let’s break down what’s new, why it matters, and how you can use these insights to get ahead in your league.

What’s New & Why It Matters

At the top of the rankings, familiar names like Nathan MacKinnon and Connor McDavid maintain their grip on elite status, but the 2025-26 list also spotlights a new wave of talent. Macklin Celebrini cracks the upper echelon, marking him as a top dynasty asset and a potential breakout in redraft formats. The list factors in key variables beyond raw scoring—such as projected usage rates, power-play unit assignments, and injury status—which means managers must look beyond last year’s box scores.

Injuries have already shaken up the forward pool: Anthony Cirelli’s health concerns have pushed him down the list, while the likes of Connor Bedard are climbing as their roles expand. The rankings also reward players who have secured top-line and PP1 roles, which often translates into more consistent fantasy production.

Fantasy Implications

Points-Only

In pure points leagues, MacKinnon’s spot atop the list is no surprise. His combination of durability, offensive zone starts, and elite linemates makes him a foundational piece. Players like Mikko Rantanen and Macklin Celebrini—who are projected for heavy top-six minutes and first-unit power-play time—should be prioritized. Regression candidates are few at the top, but keep an eye on rookies or breakout stars whose shooting percentages may not be sustainable year over year.

Categories / Bangers

For those in multi-cat leagues, the rankings reward forwards who contribute beyond goals and assists. Rantanen, for instance, brings shot volume and hits, making him a valuable streamer during dense schedule weeks. Conversely, players like Cirelli, once prized for their all-around stat lines, may be droppable if injuries linger. Bedard’s development is worth monitoring—if he can add peripherals like shots and power-play points, his value in bangers leagues will soar.

Dynasty / Keeper

Youngsters like Celebrini and Bedard are the big movers in dynasty formats. Celebrini’s rapid rise on the rankings signals both immediate opportunity and long-term upside, especially if he locks down a PP1 spot. Bedard’s rookie status means some volatility, but his trajectory and skillset make him a must-roster in any keeper setup. Veterans with declining usage or injury histories may be worth shopping before their value dips further.

Who to Add / Stream / Watch

Macklin Celebrini (SJS) – Emerging as a top-six center with PP1 upside; must-add in dynasty and a high-upside stash in redraft.
Connor Bedard (CHI) – Rookie with high ceiling; monitor for a potential breakout as his role solidifies.
Mikko Rantanen (DAL) – Elite scorer; stream for favorable matchups, especially in weeks with a heavy Dallas schedule.
Anthony Cirelli (TBL) – Injury risk; consider dropping if you need immediate production in categories leagues.
Nathan MacKinnon (COL) – Top trade target for points-only leagues; his consistency is unmatched.
Tim Stützle (OTT) – Trending upward with increased usage and PP1 time; strong add in all formats.
Matty Beniers (SEA) – Young center with expanding role; watch for a second-half surge.
Cole Caufield (MTL) – Goal-scoring upside; stream during favorable stretches if you need a scoring boost.

Fantasy Takeaways

Superstars like MacKinnon remain elite assets—target them in trades if possible.
Rising stars such as Celebrini and Bedard are must-adds in dynasty and keeper leagues, with room to grow in redraft formats.
Monitor injury news closely; Cirelli’s status could warrant a drop if he misses significant time.
Streaming high-volume shooters and power-play contributors like Rantanen can provide a weekly edge in categories leagues.
Usage rates, especially power-play deployment, are key to unlocking hidden fantasy value—always check for line and unit shifts.

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