Selecting elite players like Leon Draisaitl over Auston Matthews or Zach Werenski over Rasmus Dahlin won`t solely determine your fantasy hockey league`s victor. Similarly, choosing Sergei Bobrovsky over Igor Shesterkin isn`t the magic bullet for a championship.
Fantasy hockey championships are often decided by marginal gains. While early-round picks secure top talent, the true distinction between a mediocre finish and a trophy lies in adeptly utilizing late-round selections, alongside strategic waiver wire management and trades.
Average Draft Position (ADP) in a typical 10-team fantasy hockey league extends to about 230 players. Players with an ADP below 200 are generally selected in most drafts. Those in the 200-210 range are toss-ups, while players between 210-220 have roughly a one-in-four chance of being drafted. Picks beyond 220 ADP are rarely chosen.
The crucial question then becomes: which players in the 200+ ADP range warrant consideration? Who should occupy those final bench spots in rounds 19 through 23?
In this range, contextual factors often outweigh pure star power. Hidden upside can be found in details such as a role on a second power-play unit, changes in a team`s depth chart, being next in line due to potential injuries to star players, or joining a significantly improved team. Beyond raw skill, late-round picks are about identifying individuals with a clear path to significant ice time and production.
These are the individuals who can provide a crucial competitive edge. While your own insights may lead you to different choices, here are 12 players beyond pick 200 that I am targeting, along with the specific reasons that make them worthwhile gambles.
Late Forwards
With Anze Kopitar nearing retirement, Byfield is positioned as his successor. His performance suggests a potential breakthrough this season, and he could contend for the Kings` leading scorer among forwards.
Despite four seasons of somewhat underwhelming results, the 22-year-old Beniers faces a pivotal year. He is expected to step into a genuine top-line center role, playing 20 minutes per game alongside skilled wingers. This season will likely determine if he achieves a breakout or settles into a secondary role.
Following Nikolaj Ehlers` departure, Perfetti is set to absorb increased top-six minutes and power-play opportunities. Having already seen significant ice time last season, he is now poised to climb further up the depth chart. Regular power-play exposure suggests a reliable 60-point baseline.
While not in his prime, Skinner remains a valuable asset. His acquisition by the rebuilding Sharks indicates a desire for veteran offensive contributions. He is anticipated to receive more ice time than he did in Edmonton and consistently directs shots on goal.
With Mikko Rantanen`s absence, the Avalanche will rely heavily on Nichushkin to play alongside Nathan MacKinnon and Gabriel Landeskog. When performing optimally, he offers significant fantasy value obtainable beyond pick 200.
The St. Louis Blues appear poised for a breakout season, following their strong finish under coach Jim Montgomery. Snuggerud, having played a few NHL games and looking ready for the big league, is expected to compete for a top-six forward position.
Late Defensemen
Drysdale has a clear route to lead the Flyers` primary power-play unit, a key factor for fantasy impact. While injury concerns persist, his talent and opportunity align favorably.
Fowler, another defenseman on the promising Blues roster, is a strong candidate for top power-play responsibilities. Should he fully assume quarterback duties from Justin Faulk, he could achieve a personal best of 40 assists.
While not a high-scorer, Romanov is a valuable multi-category asset, consistently accumulating hits and blocks with strong durability. Despite just 20 points, his 2.1 fantasy points per game last season ranked 17th among defensemen, matching elite players like Adam Fox and Evan Bouchard, highlighting the importance of peripheral stats.
Late Goalies
Having left Anaheim, Gibson now has the opportunity to stabilize his performance behind a Detroit team eyeing the playoffs. Even an average season from him could make him a valuable bench goalie with significant upside.
With the Utah Mammoth on the rise, Vejmelka faces no significant competition for the starting goaltender role. Consistent volume is crucial for fantasy goalies, and he is positioned to receive it.
Swayman capably managed the full-time starting role last season, demonstrating his ability to handle a heavy workload despite the Bruins` difficulties. While the team`s stability remains a question, he possesses the potential to exceed his late-round ADP and deliver reliable, starter-tier statistics.
Late-round selections are inherently risky, but the goal is to identify players with tangible reasons for a breakout, such as power-play opportunities, a new team, or an elevated role. These are not speculative stashes; they represent calculated wagers with defined upside.
