It’s time to take a pause and make sure to add Jackson Blake to your lineup. Ignore the critics and steer clear of most St. Louis skaters for now. If you’re aiming to boost your roster, avoid chasing imaginary scams. When playoff hopes start to fade, check out our recommended player picks below.
(As of December 26th, list popularity indicated by Yahoo percentages)
Forwards
Eeli Tolvanen, SEA (Yahoo: 25%): While the Kraken have traditionally struggled with scoring, they’ve surged recently, putting up at least three goals in eight of their last 11 games. Tolvanen has performed well, averaging over 18 minutes on ice and accumulating 11 points, including four power-play points. His steady role and shooting percentage below career average suggest room for growth.
Ryan Hartman, MIN (Yahoo: 22%): The influence of Quinn Hughes is benefiting Hartman, who has scored four goals and two assists in six games. He’s contributing power-play goals and playing alongside top players like Kaprizov and Zuccarello, adding value with shots, hits, and blocks.
Alex Laferriere, LA (Yahoo: 15%): Los Angeles’ offense is struggling, but Laferriere is active and gaining responsibility on top lines and power plays. Despite a recent scoring dry spell, he’s generating shots and physical play, suggesting points are forthcoming.
Anthony Mantha, PIT (Yahoo: 13%): A quiet offseason pickup, Mantha is shining with 11 goals and 12 assists, especially thriving on the Penguins’ top power play unit alongside stars like Crosby and Karlsson. He’s producing solid stats across categories.
Mason Marchment, CBJ (Yahoo: 12%): Since joining Columbus from Seattle, Marchment has scored three goals, taking quality shots and skating with skilled linemates. Monitor his role after the break to ensure his continued fantasy relevance.
Emmit Finney, DET (Yahoo: 12%): Although unlikely to win rookie honors, Finney has made a strong impression with 19 points, heavy shooting, and physical play—showing resilience after a brief slump.
Fabian Zetterlund, OTT (Yahoo: 12%): After a slow start, Zetterlund has been stepping up lately, contributing points, shots, and hits, while playing alongside strong teammates on special teams.
Konishoff, SC (Year: 1%): While bigger names grab attention, Chernyshov’s dominance in junior and minor leagues earned a promotion where he’s scored early goals. As long as key injured players remain out, he’s worth a speculative add.
Defensemen
Noah Hanifin, VGK (Yahoo: 51%): With Shea Theodore sidelined, Hanifin has taken charge as Vegas’ top offensive defenseman, delivering assists, shots, hits, and blocks with big ice time, creating a valuable fantasy opportunity.
Matthias Samuelsson, BUF (Yahoo: 17%): Though potentially unsustainable, Samuelsson has set a career high in points while paired with fellow top defender Dahlin. Keep an eye on him to adjust if his production drops.
Jamie Drysdale, PHI (Yahoo: 6%): After recovering from injury, Drysdale is emerging as a power-play quarterback for Philadelphia, showing offensive upside with recent scoring bursts. He’s an attractive option for fantasy managers seeking offensive defense.
Riker Evans, SEA (Yahoo: 1%): With injuries to top defensemen, Evans has stepped into a leading offensive role for Seattle’s power play, which is effective despite overall team struggles. Look for him to exploit weak opponents in upcoming games.
Goaltenders
Jett Greaves, CBJ (Yahoo: 42%): After initially sharing starts, Greaves has firmly taken over as Columbus’ primary goalie, posting solid stats and outplaying veteran Elvis Merzlikins.
Jacob Fowler, MTL (Yahoo: 28%): With Montreal’s other goaltenders underperforming, Fowler has impressed with a strong record, solid GAA, and save percentage, including a shutout. He should be added promptly as a valuable streaming or stash option.
Players to Watch from Previous Columns: Dylan Cozens, Leo Carlson, Frank Nazar, Will Smith, Carter Verhage, Gabriel Landeskog, Cole Perfetti, Nick Schmaltz, Anze Kopitar, and many others.
Fan Take: This update brings crucial insights for hockey fans and fantasy players by highlighting emerging and under-the-radar talent poised to make significant impacts. Staying informed about these players can deepen engagement with the sport and provide a competitive edge in fantasy hockey leagues, ensuring fans never miss out on the next big breakout star.
