Top Fantasy Hockey Picks and Projections for 2025-26
The 2025-26 NHL season is well underway, and fantasy managers are looking for every edge to outmaneuver their league rivals. Whether you’re tracking breakout candidates, monitoring injury returns, or seeking the next waiver-wire gem, understanding the latest player roles, usage trends, and statistical projections is crucial. This guide distills the most relevant developments from the current campaign, focusing on rest-of-season fantasy impact, with a special eye on points-only, bangers/cats, and dynasty leagues.
What’s New & Why It Matters
Several notable shifts have occurred across the NHL landscape, directly affecting fantasy value:
- Andre Burakovsky has found a home on the Chicago Blackhawks' top line alongside Connor Bedard. This deployment maximizes his offensive ceiling and exposes him to heavy minutes and power-play opportunities.
- Vincent Trocheck returned from injury for the New York Rangers and immediately slotted into a prominent role, both at even strength and on special teams. His matchup history, especially against teams like Tampa Bay, further enhances his streaming appeal.
- Youngsters such as Matvei Michkov are beginning to draw more attention, with increased ice time and favorable matchups on the horizon. These situations are ripe for breakout performances, especially against weaker defensive opponents.
- Awards races are heating up: Nathan MacKinnon and Connor McDavid remain in the thick of the Hart and Rocket Richard Trophy conversations, while Cale Makar and Igor Shesterkin are living up to Norris and Vezina expectations, respectively.
- Usage rates, power-play assignments, and line stability are proving to be the main drivers of fantasy value this season—managers should keep a close eye on depth chart changes and injury news for streaming and trade opportunities.
Fantasy Implications
Points-Only
In pure scoring formats, deployment is king. Andre Burakovsky's top-line usage with Bedard instantly makes him a must-add or at least a high-priority streamer in most leagues. Similarly, Nathan MacKinnon continues to be a cornerstone for any points-focused roster, with his consistent production and heavy involvement in all offensive situations. Cale Makar remains the gold standard on defense, quarterbacking a lethal Colorado power play. If you’re looking for a trade target, MacKinnon’s stability and upside make him a premier option—use the NHL Trade Analyzer to gauge value swaps.
Categories / Bangers
For leagues that count hits, blocks, and PIMs, role changes can quickly shift a player’s value. Tyler Bertuzzi is a prime streaming candidate, as his combination of physicality and top-six deployment creates a rare floor/ceiling blend. Vincent Trocheck offers a unique mix of faceoff wins, shots, and secondary scoring, making him a strong start, especially in favorable matchups. Don’t overlook defensemen who log heavy minutes on both the penalty kill and power play, as they rack up peripherals even on off nights.
Dynasty / Keeper
Long-term managers should be closely monitoring the progress of prospects like Matvei Michkov. His increasing ice time and offensive flashes suggest a breakout could be imminent, especially in the second half of the season or into next year. Consider stashing or acquiring him before the hype fully arrives. On the blue line, Cale Makar remains a dynasty anchor, while Igor Shesterkin continues to justify his elite status among goaltenders. Keep an eye on younger skaters earning power-play time—refer to our guide on how to value PP1 time for more insight.
Who to Add / Stream / Watch
- Andre Burakovsky (CHI): Top-line role with Bedard; immediate points boost for scoring leagues.
- Vincent Trocheck (NYR): Healthy and producing; strong matchup streamer in categories formats.
- Tyler Bertuzzi (TOR): Physical play and top-six minutes; ideal for bangers leagues and short-term streams.
- Matvei Michkov (PHI): Trending upward in usage; stash in dynasty or watch for second-half breakout.
- Cale Makar (COL): Set-and-forget defenseman; elite power-play production and Norris upside.
- Igor Shesterkin (NYR): Reliable Vezina-level goaltending; start in all formats.
- Nathan MacKinnon (COL): Trade target for points-only leagues; centerpiece of any championship push.
Fantasy Takeaways
- Prioritize players seeing increased usage, especially on the top line or first power-play unit.
- Monitor injury returns closely; reintegrated players like Trocheck can swing matchups.
- In bangers/cats leagues, blend scoring upside with peripherals—Bertuzzi and Trocheck are strong multi-cat contributors.
- Dynasty managers should act early on emerging talents before breakout performances drive up acquisition costs.
- Use schedule advantages and matchup history to maximize streaming efficiency, especially during heavy slates.
Source: NHL.com. See the original for full details.