Updated Fantasy Hockey Forward Rankings
The 2025-26 NHL season is underway, and fantasy hockey managers are already seeking every edge to climb the standings. With forward depth as critical as ever, updated rankings are essential for making informed roster decisions. Here’s a breakdown of the latest top forwards, what’s changed, and how it all impacts your fantasy hockey strategy.
What’s New & Why It Matters
This season’s forward rankings reflect a mix of established superstars and rising talents, shaped by early-season line combinations, power-play assignments, and evolving injury situations. Nathan MacKinnon has surged to the top spot, while rookies like Macklin Celebrini are drawing attention for their immediate and long-term upside. Injuries, such as Patrick Kane’s absence, are already forcing managers to adapt. The rankings also account for trends in team usage, with certain squads like the Dallas Stars offering favorable streaming opportunities due to schedule density and high-scoring environments.
Fantasy Implications
Points-Only
In pure scoring formats, the elite tier remains led by the likes of MacKinnon, Connor McDavid, and Leon Draisaitl. These players are locked into heavy minutes, top-line roles, and first-unit power-play duties, making them set-and-forget options. Mikko Rantanen’s presence among the top 10 signals his value as a high-ceiling streamer during favorable stretches, especially when the Colorado Avalanche have a condensed schedule. Rookies like Celebrini may not reach superstar production immediately, but their offensive deployment warrants a bench spot or at least a watchlist add in deeper leagues.
Categories / Bangers
Managers in multi-cat leagues should look beyond pure scoring. Jesper Bratt’s ascent in the rankings highlights his ability to contribute not just points, but also shots, power-play production, and even a handful of hits. The absence of Patrick Kane due to injury is a reminder to monitor IR spots closely, as his value in categories leagues is currently minimal. Streaming options should prioritize players seeing top-six minutes and power-play exposure, especially during heavy schedule weeks.
Dynasty / Keeper
For long-term formats, the emergence of young talents like Macklin Celebrini is crucial. Early deployment on the San Jose Sharks’ top line and first power-play unit hints at a foundational role for years to come. Savvy dynasty managers should be aggressive in adding or stashing such players, as their value could spike with every strong outing. Established stars remain anchors, but identifying the next breakout—before the rest of your league—can define a dynasty roster for seasons to come.
Who to Add / Stream / Watch
- Nathan MacKinnon (COL): Elite usage and production; a must-start every week.
- Macklin Celebrini (SJS): Rookie seeing prime opportunities; stash in keeper and deep redraft leagues.
- Jesper Bratt (NJD): Consistently producing across categories; valuable in all formats.
- Mikko Rantanen (COL): Top-10 forward; stream during Avalanche schedule clusters for point surges.
- Joe Pavelski (DAL): Veteran with stable top-six and PP1 role; stream Dallas Stars this week for schedule edge.
- Lucas Raymond (DET): Trending upward with increased ice time and power-play looks.
- Patrick Kane (DET): Injured; consider dropping or moving to IR in shallow leagues.
- Matty Beniers (SEA): Watch for line promotion and deployment in scoring roles.
Fantasy Takeaways
- Start Nathan MacKinnon with confidence in all formats—he’s the consensus top forward.
- Monitor rookies like Macklin Celebrini for breakout potential, especially in dynasty leagues.
- Add Jesper Bratt where available for well-rounded category coverage.
- Don’t hesitate to drop or IR Patrick Kane until he’s healthy and back in a scoring role.
- Take advantage of hot stretches and favorable schedules by streaming high-ranked forwards like Mikko Rantanen.
Source: NHL.com (2025-10-23). See the original for full details.