Nick Robertson – McKeen's Hockey

NHL: CULLEN – 20 FANTASY POINTS – Michkov flying high, Jenner returns, Byfield is creating, Guenther is sniping, and much more!

Scott Cullen — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 21:01:13 +0000

NEWARK, NJ - JANUARY 18: Philadelphia Flyers right wing Matvei Michkov (39) celebrates after scoring a goal during a NHL game between the Philadelphia Flyers and New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on January 18, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Andrew Mordzynski/Icon Sportswire)

Each week, I dig into the stats to find information that can help you make better fantasy hockey decisions. This week, Matvei Michkov is flying high, Boone Jenner returns, Quinton Byfield is creating, Dylan Guenther is sniping, and much more!

#1 Philadelphia Flyers rookie Matvei Michkov went through a midseason slump that likely will prevent him from Calder Trophy consideration. It appears to be a close race between San Jose Sharks center Macklin Celebrini and Montreal Canadiens defenceman Lane Hutson. Nevertheless, Michkov is heating up again and has piled up 10 points (5 G, 5 A) and 24 shots on goal in his past five games. Skating on a line with Sean Couturier and Owen Tippett is working for the 20-year-old first year winger.

#2 Shoulder surgery kept Columbus Blue Jackets captain Boone Jenner on the shelf until last Saturday, but he has hit the ice with authority, recording five assists and eight shots on goal in his first three games. Jenner also has six hits and that has been a consistently valuable factor in his fantasy appeal over the years. He has been skating at left wing with Cole Sillinger and Kent Johnson, though Sillinger was injured Thursday at Detroit, so Jenner ended up taking 15 draws against the Red Wings, winning eight.

#3 Los Angeles Kings centre Quinton Byfield has gone nine games without a goal, but he also has 11 assists in his past seven contests. He has averaged 20:30 of ice time in that stretch and the 6-foot-5 pivot is establishing that he is a quality second-line centre, anchoring a line with Kevin Fiala and Alex Laferriere on his wings. Byfield has had these moments both last season and earlier in this season, too, but the challenge for him is maintaining consistency. He doesn’t need to score 11 points every seven games, though it would be nice, but he also can’t have stretches where he has two points in 12 games, either.

#4 It might seem obvious that Dallas Stars left winger Jason Robertson would score, but he struggled early in the season and had just 15 points (5 G, 10 A) with 60 shots on goal in his first 26 games. That tide has turned, however, and in 32 games since, he has delivered 41 points (19 G, 22 A) with 102 shots on goal. Robertson is naturally skating on Dallas’ top line with Roope Hintz and they have rookie Mavrik Bourque on the right wing. It’s obviously a great situation for Bourque, who is riding a six-game point streak, but he also has just three shots on goal in those six games – scoring on all three of them! – so it’s not the most sustainable situation, but worth keeping an eye on.

#5 Utah Hockey Club right winger Dylan Guenther missed a dozen games with a lower-body injury but upon returning to the lineup, he turned sizzling hot. In his past eight games, Guenther has 10 points (6 G, 4 A) and 33 shots on goal. Averaging more than four shots on goal per game, for a player with a shot like Guenther’s, is a great way to ensure that production will continue. He is skating on a line with Barrett Hayton and Michael Carcone at even strength as well as holding a spot on Utah’s top power play unit.

#6 Since joining the Dallas Stars, veteran forward Mikael Granlund has been reunited with Matt Duchene, with whom he had played previously in Nashville. Playing for a stronger team, Granlund is playing less in Dallas – his ice time down more than three minutes per game – and yet he has recorded six assists in seven games for the Stars. He may be deferring a little too much, though, as Granlund has just nine shots on goal in seven games for Dallas. He has never been a huge shot generator but was averaging 2.42 shots on goal per game with San Jose before the trade.

#7 The Detroit Red Wings are surging up the Eastern Conference standings and part of the reason is that winger Alex DeBrincat is finding the net. DeBrincat scored in Thursday night’s loss to Columbus, extending his point streak to eight games and he has 12 points (6 G, 6 A) and 27 shots on goal during that streak. DeBrincat has been doing his damage at even strength lately, where he is now skating with J.T. Compher and Patrick Kane, but DeBrincat is also a consistent producer on the power play. He has 46 power play goals in the past four seasons, which is tied with Connor McDavid for 13th.

#8 New York Rangers defenceman Adam Fox has been sidelined by an upper-body injury and that leaves the Blueshirts thin on the blueline, especially because K’Andre Miller left Tuesday’s game against the Islanders with an apparent lower-body injury. Miller may not miss time, but the Rangers are prepared to run a five-forward power play in Fox’s absence, with Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, Vincent Trocheck, Chris Kreider, and Alexis Lafreniere on the first unit. If he is healthy, Miller might have some sleeper value because he has just 14 points (4 G, 10 A) in 52 games this season, but put up 43 points in 2022-2023, with 38 of those points coming at even strength.

#9 His name is popping up in trade rumours, yet St. Louis Blues captain Brayden Schenn is producing at a high level, which is not hurting his value. He is not generating enough shots, but Schenn does have seven points (1 G, 6 A) and eight shots on goal in his past seven games. He has solid wingers with Dylan Holloway and Jordan Kyrou on his flanks and Schenn adds fantasy appeal with his physical play as he has 150 hits in 60 games, which is tied for 26th.

#10 Although he does not have a consistent role on the Columbus power play, Blue Jackets defenceman Ivan Provorov does have six points (4 G, 2 A) and 15 shots on goal in his past seven games. He was logging huge minutes in the games leading up to the 4 Nations Face-Off break, averaging 28:55 time on ice in the previous four games and while it’s down to the 22-23 minutes per game range since the break, there is value in logging big minutes for a team that tends to play higher scoring games and the Blue Jackets rank third with 2.86 goals per 60 minutes during five-on-five play.

#11 Ottawa Senators defenceman Thomas Chabot has quietly been having an excellent season and his production is getting noisier. In his past eight games, he has seven points (2 G, 5 A) with 31 shots on goal. That shot rate is elite, and with Chabot delivering strong puck possession numbers (54.3 percent Corsi), it’s reasonable to expect that he can continue to generate offense. Maybe not at seven points in eight games pace, but enough to hold fantasy appeal.

#12 Injuries continue to wreak havoc on the Minnesota Wild and now centre Joel Eriksson Ek will be out of the lineup for weeks with a lower-body injury. Virtually by default, Frederick Gaudreau moves into the second-line centre spot and second-unit power play time virtually by default. In his past 11 games, Gaudreau has eight points (5 G, 3 A) with 19 shots on goal and in his past five games he is averaging 17:32 of ice time per game, so he is getting a chance to contribute more offensively.

#13 A slumping Michael Bunting will be out of the Pittsburgh Penguins lineup for weeks following appendix surgery. Bunting had no goals and two assists, with 20 shots on goal in his last 10 games before he was sidelined. With Bunting out, the Penguins have Anthony Beauvillier and Cody Glass skating on Evgeni Malkin’s wings. Beauvillier has four points (1 G, 3 A) and 21 shots on goal in his past seven games, which is more appealing than Glass, who has two assists and 21 shots on goal in his past 12 games.

#14 While the spotlight in Washington naturally shines on Alex Ovechkin’s pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal-scoring record, the Capitals are getting quality production from their supporting cast, too. In his past 14 games, for example, Pierre-Luc Dubois has contributed 15 points (7 G, 8 A) with 26 shots on goal. He could still stand to shoot the puck more, but this scoring surge gives him 49 points (14 G, 35 A) in 59 games, a massive improvement on the 40 points that he produced in 82 games for the Kings last season. There has never been a question about his talent, but it is refreshing to see what kind of production follows when he is engaged in the right situation.

#15 Skating on Dubois’ wings, Taylor Raddysh and Connor McMichael have had different paths this season. McMichael burst out of the gate at the start of the season, scoring 12 goals in his first 16 games, but then went through some lean times in the middle of the season. He is heating up again, though, with nine points (4 G, 5 A) and 18 shots on goal in his past nine games. With Tom Wilson dealing with an illness, Raddysh received more opportunity, and he has five assists in his past six games. The challenge for Raddysh is securing regular playing time because he has played under 13 minutes in 34 of 59 games this season.

#16 Buffalo Sabres centre Dylan Cozens has landed in trade rumours quite a bit this season, in part over frustration as the young forward has not produced as much offense as expected. His 68-point season in 2022-2023 seems to have set a bar that is now difficult for him to approach again, as Cozens finished with 47 points (18 G, 29 A) in 79 games last season and now has 30 points (11 G, 19 A) in 57 games this season. More recently, Cozens does have seven points (1 G, 6 A) and 19 shots on goal in his past nine games, but it will be interesting to see if the Sabres are moved to include him in any deadline deals.

#17 The Toronto Maple Leafs are getting some contributions from unusual places lately. Nick Robertson was an efficient scorer last season but had done little this season until he contributed four points (3 G, 1 A) in his past two games. Robertson’s emergence helps provide depth scoring, as he skates on a line with Max Domi and Matthew Knies. Pontus Holmberg is another Maple Leafs player providing surprising offense, as he works on the left side with John Tavares and William Nylander. Holmberg has mostly been a depth player in his career, but does have five points (4 G, 1 A) in his past three games. With Max Pacioretty potentially returning to the lineup, there could be some shuffling that makes Holmberg less appealing, but Robertson and Holmberg are at least worth keeping tabs on in the short term.

#18 Second-year New York Rangers left winger Will Cuylle can go through some scoring droughts, but he does have three points (2 G, 1 A) in his past four games and that complements his physical game. He is a reliable hitter, ranking fourth in the league with 217 hits, and Cuylle is the only player in the NHL with at least 30 points and 200 hits this season. In banger leagues, that makes him more valuable than his mere scoring numbers would suggest.

#19 With William Karlsson injured, Vegas Golden Knights centre Brett Howden is looking at a better opportunity, centering a line with veterans Brandon Saad and Mark Stone on his wings. Howden has recorded seven assists along with 13 shots on goal during a four-game point streak and while it hinders his Cy Young case – he had 16 goals and 6 assists previously – Howden now has career highs with 16 goals and 29 points in 58 games.

#20 The season looks like it could be getting away from the Boston Bruins and they could be sellers at the trade deadline, but don’t ignore Elias Lindholm. The veteran centre has seven points (3 G, 4 A) in his past nine games and, in his past four games, has 18 shots on goal while averaging more than 21 minutes of ice time per game. He’s centering Brad Marchand and Charlie Coyle, and that line might not make it through the deadline, but Lindholm is getting ample opportunity, including first-unit power play time, so he could offer some late-season value.

*Advanced stats via Natural Stat Trick

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS – Team Preview

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 20:00:03 +0000

_{TORONTO, ON - MARCH 28: Toronto Maple Leafs Center Auston Matthews (34) skates during the NHL regular season game between the Washington Capitals and the Toronto Maple Leafs on March 28, 2024, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, ON, Canada. (Photo by Julian Avram/Icon Sportswire)}

Even after their third straight 100-point season, picking up 102 points (46-26-10), the Toronto Maple Leafs headed into the summer feeling disappointed after losing yet another seven-game first-round series to the Boston Bruins. With a 51.6% Corsi and 51.9% of the expected goals during five-on-five play, the Maple Leafs ranked 11th in both of those possession metrics. That is above average, but not by a lot, and potentially leaves a team a little vulnerable. The team scored 9.01 goals per 60 minutes on the power play, ranking seventh. On the other side of the coin, they ranked 23rd after allowing 8.40 goals against per 60 minutes while shorthanded. Combined, that’s a mediocre special teams performance and when the goaltending also ranked 23rd with a .893 save percentage, the high-powered Maple Leafs attack could not necessarily overcome those issues.

WHAT’S CHANGED? After falling short again in the playoffs, the Maple Leafs parted ways with head coach Sheldon Keefe, who was quickly scooped up by the New Jersey Devils. He was replaced by Craig Berube, who had skated for the Maple Leafs at one point in his lengthy playing career and won the Stanley Cup as head coach with the 2019 St. Louis Blues. Toronto focused on upgrading its defence, added Chris Tanev from Dallas and Oliver Ekman-Larsson from Florida in free agency. The Maple Leafs also added goaltender Anthony Stolarz from Florida, so the main personnel adjustments were on the defensive side of the puck. Left winger Tyler Bertuzzi and defenceman T.J. Brodie both signed in Chicago and goaltender Ilay Samsonov signed in Vegas as free agents. The Maple Leafs also named Auston Matthews as team captain, replacing John Tavares in the role.

WHAT WOULD SUCCESS LOOK LIKE? At this point, the Maple Leafs must win playoff rounds for there to be any kind of satisfaction. They have made the playoffs in eight consecutive seasons and have managed to win only one series. In an environment where underdogs can win a series with a hot goalie or a couple of streaky scorers, the Maple Leafs continually fall short. Therefore, winning in the regular season will not resonate with the fan base. Winning in the playoffs is really the only way to achieve success at this point. A Stanley Cup would be wonderful, but for a team that hasn’t won it all since 1967, some of the steps along the way would be nice to achieve, too.

WHAT COULD GO WRONG? Missing the playoffs would be a disastrous result for this team. There is more than enough talent here that the Maple Leafs should reach the playoffs, but if injuries become a factor and one or two of the top forwards have down years, suddenly Toronto could be in trouble. While it is popular for Maple Leafs critics, and sometimes fans, to berate their recent playoff performances, it should not be forgotten that, before this stretch of eight straight playoff berths, Toronto made the playoffs only once in the previous 11 seasons, so reaching the playoffs should not be taken for granted.

TOP BREAKOUT CANDIDATE: While winger Matthew Knies is a possibility, the player with the best chance for a breakout season is goaltender Joseph Woll. The 26-year-old netminder has played well, posting a .912 save percentage in 36 career games. He was having a sensational game in Ottawa last December when he suffered a lower-body injury that kept him out until the end of February, and he wasn’t quite the same after returning, posting a .918 save percentage before his injury compared to a .890 save percentage after. He delivered strong performances to win Games 5 and 6 against Boston in the playoffs but was injured again and missed Game 7. A healthy Woll has a legitimate chance to earn at least a share of the crease with Stolarz, and if Woll plays well, he could earn the starting job outright.

Forwards

Auston Matthews

Predicted Stats
GP	G	A	PTS	PPG
80	68	50	118	1.48

Following the most productive season of his career, Auston Matthews was named the 26th captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs. It’s a natural progression for one of the game's superstars and face of the Leafs franchise. Since Matthews entered the NHL in 2016, he leads the league with 368 goals (in 562 games). He’s up 40 goals on the second-best goal scorer in that time, Alex Ovechkin, and more impressively, has played less games than Ovechkin and the next five highest goal scorers in that time. Going into last season he was clearly the best goal scorer in the league, then he had 69 goals, becoming the ninth player in league history to have multiple 60+ goal seasons. The 69 goals were also the most goals in an NHL season since Mario Lemieux had 69 in 1995-96. While he was excellent all season, he was particularly impressive from December to February, scoring a monster 39 goals in 37 games. Down the stretch, he also had nine goals in nine games as he pushed for 70 goals. What stands out about that final run of goals is that he did it with Tyler Bertuzzi and Max Domi as his linemates. That is also who he started the playoffs with before injuries impacted the lineup. For years, Matthews and Marner have been attached at the hip. Matthews, and even Marner, maintaining their production while apart opens up all sorts of line combinations and deployment possibilities. With a new coach behind the bench, it will be interesting to see how Berube approaches handling the Leafs top players but regardless of what he does, it’s safe to say that as long as Matthews is healthy, he will be productive.

Mitch Marner

Predicted Stats
GP	G	A	PTS	PPG
80	35	38	103	1.29

Production wise, Marner had a nearly identical season to the previous one. He had the exact same 0.38 goals per game and 0.86 assists per game rates, while his overall points per game clip was 1.23 (it was 1.24 the previous season), as he played in 11 less games. His injury came at a particularly poor time as Marner was coming off a stretch where he scored 20 points in 11 games in the month of February, and if you expand that to include his previous three months, he was on a run of 65 points in just 49 games (1.32 points per game). Unfortunately for Marner, the nature of the reported high ankle sprain he suffered that caused him to miss a month of hockey is a difficult injury to return from. He was productive after coming back with nine points in seven games but scored just once in that time and added just one other goal in the playoffs, ending the season with only two goals and 12 points in 14 games, which is far below what he’s capable of. Beyond the injury, some of that was also due to the Leafs leaning on Marner in a head-to-head checking role. Marner’s difficult playoffs is overshadowing what was another productive season, from a player who is eighth overall in league scoring since entering the NHL. He’s clearly a top 10 producer in the league and heading into a contract year. The expectation is that he has another monster season ahead of him while smack in the middle of his prime.

William Nylander

Predicted Stats
GP	G	A	PTS	PPG
82	42	60	102	1.24

William Nylander followed up a career season with… another career season. After a 40 goal, 87-point campaign, Nylander upped his overall totals by repeating the 40 goals but putting up 98 points in a contract year. That increase in production coincided with playing 1:22 more per game than last season. Some of that bump was due to an expanded role as a penalty killer. His first half of the season was particularly productive as he put up 61 points in just 47 games. Nylander was rewarded with a huge contract extension mid-season and will be one of the highest paid players in the league this season as a result. In the second half of the season, he cooled down some, scoring 37 points in 35 games after the all-star break, including a three assist in nine game April ahead of the playoffs. When the playoffs began, he was unexpectedly out of the lineup with what was later revealed to be migraine issues. While he did return in the playoffs and ended up playing in four games, it took him two games to get going before scoring two big goals in Game Six to extend the Leafs season and scoring their only goal in Game Seven. Nylander has shown he can be a consistent 40 goal scorer (with no big shooting percentage bump to get there), and he’s capable of scoring big playoff goals. That’s why the Leafs paid him and what they expect from him for years to come.

John Tavares

Predicted Stats
GP	G	A	PTS	PPG
79	28	40	68	0.86

As John Tavares begins the final year of his seven-year, $77 million contract, he remains a very productive though no longer elite producer. He is also no longer the captain of the Leafs, as the organization made a decision to pass the captaincy to Matthews. For Tavares, that will mean less attention on him, which could be a good thing for his game at this point of his career. Last season, he managed to produce 29 goals and 65 points in 80 games. His 29 goals were tied for 29th among all centers according to NHL.com, while his 65 total points was tied for 38th. Contributing to those numbers was the fact that Tavares had the lowest shooting percentage of his career, including a career long nine game goalless drought in the middle of the season. Considering he was still able to create chances as he regularly has and still produced at a very solid clip overall, you can argue he is actually in line to regress and produce more, rather than steadily decline. Tavares was also arguably the top faceoff man in the league last season, winning 59.3 percent, the highest percentage of any player that took over 850 faceoffs last season. The playoffs, though, were a different story. Tavares had just two points in seven games and struggled to create or be an impact player, which was compounded by the absences of Matthews and Nylander through the series. His lack of footspeed inhibits him from driving play regularly now. While he won’t be able to live up to his salary this season, Tavares should remain a very productive center.

Matthew Knies

Predicted Stats
GP	G	A	PTS	PPG
82	21	20	41	0.50

Following a promising playoff right out of college, expectations were high for Matthew Knies in his first full rookie season. There were growing pains, but it was ultimately a promising campaign. The overall numbers - 15 goals and 35 points in 80 games - don’t leap off of the page but he did well enough to earn a promotion in the Leafs lineup. As a rookie he skated alongside Matthews and Marner in difficult matchups against their opponents’ best players night in and night. Knies also averaged just 38 seconds per game on the power play, limiting his overall ability to produce offense. In the playoffs, he played with John Tavares and William Nylander, and made a big impact, scoring an overtime winner, putting up three points in seven games overall. His size and physicality are welcome additions to a Leafs forward group that are short on those attributes. Knies is also skilled enough to play alongside the Leafs top players and make plays with them. Like all young players, he will look to build on his production and consistency. He was just below water in shot attempts and expected goals and will want to get the puck more in the offensive zone next season. Knies will also look to carve out a full-time power play role, likely on the second unit, to help push his production up and take a leap in his sophomore campaign.

Max Domi

Predicted Stats
GP	G	A	PTS	PPG
81	12	41	53	0.65

After bouncing around between six teams in the last four seasons, Max Domi signed with his hometown Leafs, had a productive season, and was locked up with a four-year extension. But it wasn’t always smooth sailing for Domi, as it took him and the team time to sort out what his role and who his linemates would be. He started the season on the left wing and spent time with David Kampf as his center early on. Then he moved to center in a sheltered scoring role between Nick Robertson and Calle Jarnkrok, playing limited minutes. Overall, he had just 25 points in his first 52 games, playing 13:01 per night. Injuries forced him up the lineup, and his play responded accordingly as he eventually found his way onto the top line with Matthews and produced 22 points in 28 games down the stretch playing 15:13 per night. Then in the playoffs, he had a monster Game 2 with a goal and game winning assist, before injuries broke up his line. He ended the playoffs with a solid four points in seven games. Now 29, Domi has proven to be a productive NHLer, albeit one that struggles defensively. He doesn’t have a defined role as a center or winger, but he has shown he can play all three forward positions in a pinch and be productive - he has a career 0.63 points per game.

Bobby McMann

Predicted Stats
GP	G	A	PTS	PPG
72	21	18	39	0.54

Bobby McMann turned out to be one of the most pleasant surprises of the Leafs season. In training camp, he was injured, put on waivers, and sent to the American League as a result. After just six games he was called up and put on the Leafs fourth line where he immediately contributed with two assists. A month later, he scored his first NHL goal. But McMann was starting to fade into the background and potential waiver territory until injuries and a flu bug forced him into the lineup for a game against the St. Louis Blues in February where he had a hat trick. That kick started a run of seven goals and 10 points in six games. The following month, he averaged 14:51 as he moved up the lineup and received regular top six ice time. His overall production settled down as he had just six points in 14 games, but five of those points were goals. As a result, McMann, a pending UFA, was rewarded with a two-year extension. Unfortunately, in April, McMann suffered an MCL knee sprain in the third last game of the season and wasn’t able to return for the playoffs. He has had some trouble staying healthy in his professional career so far and remains a question mark until established otherwise. If he can stay out of the infirmary, he has the size, speed and shot to produce, which he demonstrated last season when he given the opportunity.

Calle Jarnkrok

Predicted Stats
GP	G	A	PTS	PPG
55	6	11	17	0.31

Coming off of a career high 20-goal season, shooting a career high 18.9 percent in 2022-23, Calle Jarnkrok was bound to regress. In 2023-24 his goals per game dropped from 0.27 to 0.19, returning to his career average, but he still managed to be a solid contributor. The biggest issue with Jarnkrok’s season is that it was interrupted by injury and he ended up playing in just 52 games. When he did play, he was a dependable defensive forward for a Leafs team that was devoid of them. He was largely tasked with playing on the third line with two limited defensive players - Domi and Robertson - so that he could cover for them. Jarnkrok won his minutes in shot attempts, expected goals, and actual goals by 11. He was deployed as a Swiss army knife on the penalty kill, in 6v5 situations when the Leafs needed a goal, and up the lineup when other players struggled. But a broken knuckle, followed by a separate hand injury hampered his season. Jarnkrok didn’t play a regular season game after March 14, then stepped right into the playoffs on April 20th and predictably struggled, going scoreless in the series despite seeing regular power play time. Jarnkrok has proven to be a dependable two-way forward that’s capable of playing up and down the lineup. That ability makes him a useful player but it limits his ability to produce because of how much he is leaned on to help defensively.

Nick Robertson

Predicted Stats
GP	G	A	PTS	PPG
45	8	11	19	0.42

After a few seasons knocking on the door and producing in the AHL, Nick Robertson finally earned an extended opportunity in the NHL and showed that he can produce in the league. While he wasn’t a full-time, every single day player, he did play in a notable 56 games, producing14 goals and 27 points in the process despite playing just 11:23 per night. Robertson was deployed in a sheltered scoring role, but his elite release doesn’t need much time or opportunity for him to find the score sheet. Producing in limited minutes has led to frustration as it seemed no matter what he did his ice time wouldn’t go up. He scored four out of five times after being a healthy scratch as well. The concerns were on the defensive end and with his struggles on the breakout. None of which was helped by switching him over to play right wing as a left-hand shot, or by his slight frame when he needed to battle on the wall against bigger defensemen to get the puck out (he is listed at 5-foot-9 and 178 pounds). Improving on that side of things should help him get more ice time, which is the next step for Robertson as he seeks to not just stick on the roster but play a full 82 game season with top nine minutes. If he makes that transition his modestly impressive offensive numbers to date could blossom.

DEFENCE

Morgan Rielly

Predicted Stats
GP	G	A	PTS	PPG
75	7	48	55	0.73

Last season was a tale of two campaigns for Morgan Rielly, book ending a five-game suspension for cross checking Ridley Greig. Prior to that suspension, Rielly was having an excellent season, playing 24:21 per night and producing seven goals and 43 points in 50 games. After he returned, he was never quite the same and that was evident in his ice time dropping a full two-minutes per night to 22:21 the rest of the season. He also failed to score a goal after returning, though he did deliver 15 assists in 22 games. If you expand his season to the Leafs seven playoff games to his last goal in mid-January against the Oilers, he actually ended the season on a 37-game goalless drought. It also marked only the second time in eight playoff appearances where Rielly failed to score at least one goal. In fairness to Rielly, he hasn’t exactly been supported. His most common partner was an decling TJ Brodie who got pushed off the Leafs playoff lineup, and down the stretch it was Ilya Lyubushkin, who profiles more as a third pairing defenseman. No other top pairing defenseman in the playoffs has partners like that. With the addition of Chris Tanev, Rielly is slated to have the best partner of his career next season and expectations are high for a strong season, not just in terms of production, but for controlling play and winning his minutes.

Chris Tanev

Predicted Stats
GP	G	A	PTS	PPG
75	2	18	20	0.27

A model of consistency, Tanev put together another excellent season. Despite starting the season on a poor Calgary team that was embarking on a fire sale and would end the year with a -14-goal differential, Tanev impressively won his minutes and was positive in shot attempts, expected goals and actual goals (+7). When he was traded to Dallas at the deadline and was on a contender, his play found another level. He handily won his share of shot attempts (55.76) and expected goals (62.12), despite an offensive zone faceoff percentage of just 36.92 percent. But he saved his best for the playoffs. In round one, he played 46:34 directly against Jack Eichel at five-on-five and the Stars won those minutes 3-0 on goals. In round two, he played a whopping 68:43 against Nathan MacKinnon at five-on-five and the Stars won those minutes 3-1 on goals. In round three against Connor McDavid, he did lose those minutes 3-4 but considering the historic playoff McDavid had, that is more than respectable. Tanev is an excellent shutdown defenseman that is a fearless shot blocker capable of making a great first pass and leading breakouts. That’s why he wins his minutes on the ice. While he’s about to turn 35, to this point, he has continued to play excellent hockey. For a Leafs team whose two best defensemen are left-handed, and who struggle overall defensively, the right-handed Tanev is an obvious fit and a much-needed top four defenseman.

Jake McCabe

Predicted Stats
GP	G	A	PTS	PPG
77	6	23	29	0.38

In his first full season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Jake McCabe responded by having a career season in production with eight goals and 28 points, while driving a strong second pairing alongside Simon Benoit, while playing right defense as a left-handed shot. He also threw a collection of big open ice hits, cementing himself as one of the bigger hitters in the league. It was an all-around banner season for McCabe, who took time to adjust to Toronto the previous season after being a trade deadline acquisition. It was the first time that McCabe played on a playoff team after starting his career in Buffalo before moving to Chicago. McCabe’s 20:39 per game was the second highest time on ice of his career and in the 31 games after the all-star break, he averaged 21:06. Even with the acquisitions of Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson, McCabe has solidified himself as a critical piece of the Leafs defense and will be in line for a big role again ahead of being an unrestricted free agent next summer. It is fair to question, though, if McCabe will be able to match his production from last season as he shot a sky high (for defensemen) 11 percent, and he likely won’t be leaned on too heavily for offensive contributions given the Leafs have three options ahead of him when you include Timothy Liljegren in that mix as well.

Timothy Liljegren

Predicted Stats
GP	G	A	PTS	PPG
70	5	20	25	0.36

Liljegren was drafted in the first round with pick 17 in 2017 and Leafs fans have been patiently waiting for him to realize his potential since that time. While it wasn’t an astronomical leap, Liljegren did take on extra responsibility last season and had a modest increase in production. His 19:40 per game was a career high, well above his previous high of 17:55. Similarly, his 0.42 points per game rate was also a career high, though he only played in 55 games due to a high ankle sprain. That injury sidelined him for a month and a half but when he did return in December, he was able to ramp up. When Morgan Rielly was suspended in February, he stepped up with seven points in eight games playing on the top power play unit. Even after Rielly returned, he remained on the top unit and went on a stretch of scoring 14 points in 17 games, averaging over 21 minutes per night. But then he got hurt again, missed nearly three weeks, and never truly returned to form again. Despite that, for the first time, Liljegren dressed in nearly all of the Leafs playoff games, getting into six of their seven games, but logging just 17:52, notching one assist, and failing to log a shot on net. Signed to a two-year prove it deal, there are signs of progress and flashes of his potential. To take the next step Liljegren is going to need to stay healthy and sustain his success, but he will be in tough because he has competition for power play time with the signing of Ekman-Larsson.

GOAL

Matt Murray

Joseph Woll

Predicted Stats
GP	W	L	OT	SO	SV%	GAA
44	25	14	5	2	0.907	2.78

The Toronto Maple Leafs didn't see goaltender Matt Murray take a single practice with the team last season until March - but despite what's been a lackluster tenure with the franchise thus far, the former Pittsburgh standout is back for at least one more year to prove himself. Toronto brought Murray back this July, inking the two-time Stanley Cup champion to a middling deal to shore up a bizarre three-goaltender system for the upcoming season. Murray will be joined by journeyman backup Anthony Stolarz, who offers far less pedigree and NHL experience than Murray but vastly more consistency over the last few years. The pair then get to battle things out with up-and-comer Joseph Woll - who seemed to have proven himself in spades last season but will seemingly have to earn the starting gig over Murray and Stolarz if he wants to lead the charge this year.

The biggest concern for Toronto will be just how extensive Murray's injury history is, coupled with a handful of injuries already for the younger Woll. Stolarz, on the other hand, put up some of the league's best raw numbers last year as a backup for the Stanley Cup champions in Florida - but has never hit the 30-game threshold at the NHL level, and fared far less consistently when behind a less structured defensive corps with the Anaheim Ducks in the years prior. He's a step up from the addition of Martin Jones that Toronto made the year prior, but still looks like almost as much of a question mark as the rest of the Leafs goaltending depth chart. The crease is likely Woll's to take in the years to come, but this year in particular still appears to be a roll of the dice.

NHL: DADOUN – THE FANTASY WEEK AHEAD (March 18th to 24th) – Detroit in late season collapse, need to turn it around fast – Favourable schedules and players to target

Ryan Dadoun — Sat, 16 Mar 2024 17:18:48 +0000

LOS ANGELES, CA - JANUARY 04: Detroit Red Wings right wing Patrick Kane (88) skates with the puck during an NHL hockey game against the Los Angeles Kings on January 4, 2024 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Icon Sportswire)

For much of the season, it looked like Detroit was going to make the playoffs. As recently as Feb. 27, the Red Wings were 33-20-6 with an eight-point cushion in the fight for a wild-card spot. After dropping seven straight games, though, Detroit finds itself tied with the Islanders for the second wild-card seed, and the Red Wings’ situation is even worse because they’ve played one game more than New York. Meanwhile, Washington is just one point behind the Islanders and Red Wings, putting further pressure on Detroit.

Goaltending has played a big part in Detroit’s collapse. Alex Lyon was having a strong season, posting a 17-8-2 record, 2.68 GAA and .916 save percentage across 27 contests through Feb. 24. However, Lyon has allowed at least three goals in each of his last seven appearances, resulting in an ugly .856 save percentage in that span. However, Ville Husso (lower body) is still unavailable, and James Reimer has a 6-7-2 record, 3.09 GAA and .903 save percentage in 19 contests this campaign, so the Red Wings don’t have a good alternative to pivot to during Lyon’s struggles.

To be fair, it’s not just Lyon. Detroit has managed just 1.71 goals per game during its losing streak. Patrick Kane and Lucas Raymond have each managed just three points over that seven-game span. Alex DeBrincat has no goals and one assist in the same stretch. Those are key forwards for Detroit, so for them all to go cold at the same time is disastrous.

The Red Wings could still rebound and make the postseason, but they need to do it soon. Otherwise, this season will go down as one of the most painful late season collapses for a team in recent memory.

Carolina Hurricanes – TUE @ NYI, THU VS PHI, FRI @ WAS (BTB), SUN VS TOR

The Hurricanes’ playoff spot is all but guaranteed, but Carolina is still chasing the Rangers in the battle for the Metropolitan Division title. They’ll continue that pursuit next week starting with a road game against the Islanders on Tuesday. After that, Carolina will host the Flyers on Thursday, play in Washington on Friday and conclude with a home contest versus the Maple Leafs on Sunday.

The Hurricanes are pretty healthy right now and even have Frederik Andersen back after missing roughly four months due to a blood clotting issue. He’s been fantastic since returning, posting a 3-0-0 record, 1.01 GAA and .955 save percentage across three starts. Carolina has been rotating between him and Pyotr Kochetkov, who has saved 46 of 49 shots (.939 save percentage) over his last two contests, bringing him to 17-12-3 with a 2.35 GAA and a .911 save percentage through 34 appearances this season.

Andersen and Kochetkov are likely to split the workload for the remainder of the season, which doesn’t leave much of a role for Spencer Martin. It wouldn’t be surprising if Martin accepts a brief AHL conditioning stint in a week or two for the sake of staying fresh ahead of the playoffs. Although he’s certainly far from Carolina’s first choice going forward, it’s still helpful to have him as a fallback plan should the Hurricanes run into injury troubles.

Jake Guentzel (upper body) and Evgeny Kuznetsov (personal) have also returned and made their Hurricanes debuts after being acquired from Pittsburgh and Washington, respectively. The duo appears set to play together on the second line, providing the Hurricanes with scoring threats outside of the Andrei Svechnikov-Sebastian Aho-Teuvo Teravainen trio.

Kuznetsov has just seven goals and 18 points in 47 contests this season, but there’s potential here for him to mesh nicely with Guentzel, especially as the two settle into their new roles. If Kuznetsov is available in your fantasy league, he’s not a bad forward to take a chance on.

Colorado Avalanche – TUE @ STL, FRI VS CBJ, SUN VS PIT

The battle for the Central Division title could come down to the wire with Colorado, Dallas and Winnipeg all legitimate contenders for the top spot. The Avalanche can make things easier for themselves in that race by sweeping their relatively light competition next week. They’ll play in St. Louis on Tuesday before hosting the Blue Jackets on Friday and the Penguins on Sunday. None of those adversaries are in a playoff position, though St. Louis and Pittsburgh still have outside shots of squeaking into a wild-card slot.

There has been news recently when it comes to Gabriel Landeskog’s recovery from cartilage transplant surgery on his right knee. As Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic reports, the 31-year-old might return during the 2024 playoffs, but it’s far from guaranteed. Keep in mind that he’ll be just 10 months into his 12-16 month timetable come May and while the Avalanche aren’t ruling anything out, they also don’t want to rush him back and risk making things worse.

He will surely be on the back of fantasy managers’ minds going into playoff league drafts. When healthy, Landeskog is a top-tier forward and the Avalanche are legitimate Cup contenders, so under normal circumstances, he’d be highly sought after. You should heavily temper your expectations, though. At most, you could take him toward the end of the draft, and even then, only if you’re comfortable with the very real possibility that he ends up not contributing anything.

In the meantime, Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen are continuing to dominate with 14 and 12 points, respectively, over the Avalanche’s last five games alone. MacKinnon is up to 42 goals and 115 points through 67 games as he pursues both the Art Ross and Hart Trophies.

Casey Mittelstadt has settled into a second-line role and has provided a goal and an assist in three games since being acquired by Buffalo. Obviously, he’s not playing with MacKinnon and Rantanen at even strength, but Mittelstadt doesn’t seem to be with the superstar duo on the power play either, instead going out with the second unit. That meaningfully hinders Mittelstadt’s value going forward.

Dallas Stars – WED VS ARI, FRI VS PIT, SUN @ ARI

As noted above, Dallas is in the battle for the Central Division title. Like the Avalanche, Dallas’ upcoming competition is fairly easy. Dallas will start with home games against the Coyotes and the Penguins on Wednesday and Friday, respectively, before traveling to Arizona for a contest Sunday.

Unlike Colorado, which made a big splash in the Mittelstadt for Bowen Byram trade, Dallas had a relatively quiet trade deadline, though the Stars were able to get some business done before it, acquiring defenseman Chris Tanev from Calgary on Feb. 28. Dallas is also looking to get some reinforcements back soon in Tyler Seguin (lower body) and Evgenii Dadonov (lower body), both of which might return next week.

When Seguin returns, Sam Steel will likely find himself moving out of a top-nine role, but what’s harder to gauge is where Dadonov fits in. After scoring 24 goals and 57 points in 47 AHL contests, Logan Stankoven made his NHL debut Feb. 24 and has gone on to record five goals and eight points in 10 outings. If the 21-year-old can continue to produce, then removing him from his third-line spot would seem counterproductive. However, there is no other obvious candidate outside of Steel (who would get bumped for Seguin’s return) to remove from the top nine, so when everyone is healthy, Dadonov might find himself on the fourth unit.

A fourth line of Dadonov, Steel and Radek Faksa is a level of luxury most teams could only dream of, but that trio likely won’t get enough playing time to have any fantasy value. It does put pressure on Stankoven, though -- if he has a prolonged cold stretch, he could find his minutes drop dramatically given the intense competition in Dallas.

Edmonton Oilers – TUE VS MTL, THU VS BUF, SAT @ TOR, SUN @ OTT (BTB)

Edmonton has had some incredible highs and lows this campaign, but when all is done, it now looks like the Oilers will finish with the second seed in the Pacific Division. However, that’s not guaranteed, so Edmonton needs to continue to get results in the upcoming week. Fortunately for the Oilers, their upcoming competition isn’t the strongest. They’ll host Montreal on Tuesday and Buffalo on Thursday before hitting the road to play in Toronto on Saturday and Ottawa on Sunday. The Maple Leafs are set to make the playoffs, but their other three adversaries have an eye toward the draft lottery.

Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are unsurprisingly continuing to headline the Oilers’ offense. McDavid has an incredible 25 points (four goals) in his past 13 games while Draisaitl has four tallies and 13 points in his last seven appearances.

Edmonton did try to diversify its offense with the addition of Adam Henrique, but the former Ducks forward has just one assist in four contests with the Oilers. He’s serving primarily on the third line and second power-play unit, so he’s not sharing the ice with Edmonton’s superstars. Unless that changes, Henrique’s fantasy value with the Oilers is likely to be somewhat limited.

This might be a good week for goaltender Calvin Pickard, though. The backup netminder has been rotating with starter Stuart Skinner recently and the results have been positive with Pickard saving 93 of 97 shots (.959 save percentage) over his last three starts. It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Oilers continue to give Pickard a decent share of the workload in the short term. It’ll help keep Skinner fresh for the playoffs, and Pickard has earned the increased responsibilities with his 9-4-0 record, 2.27 GAA and .919 save percentage across 14 outings in 2023-24.

New Jersey Devils – TUE VS PIT, THU VS WPG, SAT VS OTT, SUN @ NYI (BTB)

The Devils’ playoff hopes aren’t completely gone, but they’re running out of time to close the gap. New Jersey will spend most of the upcoming week at home, playing against the Penguins on Tuesday, the Jets on Thursday and the Senators on Saturday. They’ll finish the week with a road contest against the Islanders.

Timo Meier has done the most lately to keep New Jersey’s postseason dream alive. Although his 19 goals and 36 points through 53 games this season represent a substantial decline from his 40 tallies and 66 points in 78 contests in 2022-23, he’s excelled recently. Meier’s contributed nine goals and 14 points over his past 10 appearances and has found the back of the net in six of his last seven outings.

Of course, the Devils’ main problem this campaign has been defensive, not its scoring. To that end, New Jersey did add goaltenders Jake Allen and Kaapo Kahkonen at the deadline. Kahkonen made his Devils debut Monday, saving 23 of 25 shots against a tough opponent in the Rangers, though New Jersey didn’t provide him with enough support and lost 3-1 anyway. Allen then made his first Devils start Thursday, turning aside 35 of 37 shots en route to a 6-2 victory over Dallas.

That duo is likely to split the workload the rest of the way. It’s worth warning, though, that to say the Devils had poor goaltending would be to tell only half the tale. The defense in front of those netminders hasn’t done its job either. New Jersey has an xGA/60 of 3.22, which is tied for 23rd in the league, so don’t expect Allen or Kahkonen to put up great numbers in the long run.

Tampa Bay Lightning – TUE @ VGK, THU @ SJS, SAT @ LAK, SUN @ ANA (BTB)

Tampa Bay is unlikely to climb into the top three of the Atlantic Division race, but the Lightning are in a strong position to make the playoffs in a wild-card spot. They’ll continue that fight next week while visiting Vegas on Tuesday, San Jose on Thursday, Los Angeles on Saturday and Anaheim on Sunday. The Kings and the Golden Knights are tough opponents, but the Sharks and the Ducks sit in the league’s basement.

Nikita Kucherov has continued his season-long battle with Nathan MacKinnon for the Art Ross and Hart Trophies. Kucherov is behind the Avalanche star in that race, but just barely with 39 goals and 112 points to MacKinnon’s 42 markers and 115 points. Kucherov is riding a nine-game scoring streak in which he’s supplied three goals and 18 points, so he certainly hasn’t let up.

While MacKinnon has Mikko Rantanen as his complementary forward in the battle, Kucherov has Brayden Point. The 28-year-old Lightning forward was especially effective Thursday, providing a hat trick and six points, bringing Point up to 36 tallies and 73 points in 66 appearances in 2023-24.

Victor Hedman has shined recently too with two goals and six points over his last three games. He’s up to 12 goals and 66 points in 64 contests, which is good for third in the defensemen scoring race behind Cale Makar (73 points) and Quinn Hughes (76).

Of course, those are all headline players with Tampa Bay. One contributor who doesn’t get that level of attention is Anthony Duclair. The Lightning acquired him from San Jose on March 7 and the 28-year-old has gotten off to a good start, providing two goals and three points in two contests with the Lightning. That brings him up to 18 goals and 30 points in 58 appearances this year. Tampa Bay has deployed him at times with Steven Stamkos as well as the Point-Kucherov duo, so Duclair could be in line for a strong finish to the campaign.

Toronto Maple Leafs – TUE @ PHI, WED @ WAS, SAT VS EDM, SUN @ CAR

Toronto is pretty much set at this point. They do have an outside shot of competing for the first or second seeds in the Atlantic Division but barring a complete collapse or a stunning hot streak, Toronto will almost certainly finish the campaign in the division’s third position. Still, the Leafs will look to stay sharp next week. They’ll play in Philadelphia on Tuesday and Washington on Wednesday before hosting the Oilers on Saturday. Toronto will then conclude the week with a road game versus the Hurricanes on Sunday.

The big question mark regarding the Maple Leafs is the health of Mitchell Marner. He’s dealing with a high-ankle sprain, which is concerning, but Toronto considers it to be a mild variant. Still, he’s set to miss his third straight game Saturday. Given Toronto doesn’t have a lot left to fight for until the playoffs, there isn’t any compelling reason to have him play at anything under 100 percent, so it wouldn’t surprise me if Toronto exercises an abundance of caution when determining his availability going forward.

As long as Marner is unavailable, who plays alongside Auston Matthews remains somewhat in flux. Calle Jarnkrok and Tyler Bertuzzi were his linemates initially Thursday, but Jarnkrok suffered a hand injury and is considered week-to-week. That creates a potential opening for Pontus Holmberg to play on the first unit, which would give him some short-term fantasy value.

It’s also worth keeping an eye on how Nick Robertson is used. He’s been limited to eight goals and 19 points in 41 contests this season but has averaged just 11:22 of ice time and hasn’t even dressed for Toronto since Feb. 29. However, Robertson does have some offensive upside, and the Leafs’ recent injuries might create a new opportunity for him.

Winnipeg Jets – TUE @ NYR, THU @ NJD, SAT @ NYI, SUN @ WAS (BTB)

As noted above, the Jets are competing with Colorado and Dallas for the top seed in the Central Division. The Jets will continue that pursuit next week while playing on the road against the Rangers on Tuesday, New Jersey on Thursday, the Islanders on Saturday and Washington on Sunday.

Gabriel Vilardi has unfortunately been diagnosed with an enlarged spleen. There’s no timetable for his recovery, and we just have to hope that his recovery will go smoothly for him, and after this, he’ll be able to put it behind him.

When he’s healthy, there’s a fair chance Vilardi will play alongside Kyle Connor and Mark Scheifele on the first line. As long as he’s unavailable, though, that spot will likely be occupied by Alex Iafallo, who has done well recently, providing two goals and three points in his past four games, which brings him up to 10 goals and 23 points in 65 contests in 2023-24. Iafallo might be worth taking a chance on while he’s playing on the first unit, but even in that role, you shouldn’t expect too much from him.

In the long run, the Jets will probably get more offensive production out of Tyler Toffoli, who is serving on the second line after being acquired from New Jersey on March 8. He has 26 goals and 44 points in 63 outings this season. Toffoli was held off the scoresheet in his first two games with Winnipeg, but it shouldn’t be too long before he starts to find his way with his new team, especially because he’s seeing time on the first power-play unit.

NHL: DADOUN – THE FANTASY WEEK AHEAD – Trade season gets underway with some big names moving – Some teams and players to target in an uneven week

Ryan Dadoun — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 16:20:24 +0000

PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 11: Vancouver Canucks right wing Andrei Kuzmenko (96) skates during the third period in the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Vancouver Canucks on January 11, 2024, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire)

Although the Vancouver Canucks acquiring Elias Lindholm from the Calgary Flames on Wednesday in exchange for Andrei Kuzmenko, two prospects (Hunter Brzustewicz and Joni Jurmo) and two 2024 picks (a first rounder and a conditional fourth-round selection) wasn’t the first trade of the 2023-24 campaign, you could make the argument that the blockbuster marks the real beginning of what could be a very busy month and change of trades.

The Flames have to be really happy with the return they got for a player who might have left as an unrestricted free agent this summer anyway. Although Kuzmenko hasn’t fit in with Vancouver this season, recording just eight goals and 21 points after finishing 2022-23 with 39 goals and 74 points in 81 outings, he’ll be given a fresh start in Calgary. Kuzmenko shouldn’t be expected to bounce back to his level of production from last season, but he might prove to be a decent top-six forward and replace at least some of the offense lost from Lindholm.

In the long run, Brzustewicz has been looking fantastic in OHL Kitchener this campaign, posting eight goals, 69 points and a plus-30 rating through 47 contests. Jurmo, who is currently playing for KooKoo of the Finnish hockey league, also has the potential to eventually benefit the Flames’ defensive corps. Then, of course, there is the first-round pick, which gives Calgary an opportunity to further boost its prospect pool. Ultimately, it will be a long time before we’ll know definitively if this trade worked out for the Flames, but what we can say today is that Calgary set a high standard for this year’s rental market.

On the Canucks’ end, Lindholm should be a good fit. Although his scoring is a bit down this year at 32 points (nine goals) through 49 contests compared to 64 points (22 goals) and 82 points (42) in 2022-23 and 2021-22, respectively, Lindholm hasn’t had ideal linemates in Calgary this year and should have better forwards to play off in Vancouver, so his offensive production might increase thanks to this trade. It also helps that the 29-year-old is versatile and capable of playing a two-way game while serving either as a center or a right winger. Due in part to that versatility, there’s an argument to be made that he was the top candidate on this year’s rental market, so the Canucks scooping him up well before the deadline is a nice win on their part.

Vancouver already had the second-best offense in the league (3.80 goals per game), but an argument could be made that the forward corps was somewhat top-heavy with a huge drop after JT Miller, Elias Pettersson and Brock Boeser, who have 67, 64 and 52 points, respectively, and the Canucks’ next best forward in Conor Garland, who has just 24 points. It’s dangerous for a team to be that top heavy come playoff time, and Lindholm helps address that.

With there being no guarantee that Lindholm will stay with Vancouver after his six-year, $29.1 million contract expires this summer, it’s clear that the Canucks are betting heavily on the 2024 playoffs, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see them make further additions before the deadline, and now that the Canucks have started the arms race with a bang, other contenders might feel eager to make splashes of their own. In fact, the acquisition of Lindholm might have been what influenced Winnipeg to pull the trigger on trading a 2024 first-round pick and 2027 conditional third-round selection to Montreal in exchange for Sean Monahan on Friday.

This should be the start of a fun trade season.

Boston Bruins – TUE VS CGY, THU VS VAN, SAT VS WAS

The Bruins will kick off their post-All-Star break schedule with a home stretch involving the Flames on Tuesday, the Canucks on Thursday and the Capitals on Saturday. The Canucks will be a tough adversary, but Calgary and Washington have been slipping out of the playoff picture.

Charlie Coyle will look to continue his fantastic run after contributing eight goals and 21 points over his past 17 contests, including 12 points (four goals) during his active eight-game scoring streak. After recording 44 and 45 points over the 2021-22 and 2022-23 campaigns, respectively, Coyle has taken a huge leap forward with 42 points through 49 appearances this year, but that jump makes some sense given his increased responsibilities. He’s averaging a career-high 18:02 of ice time and is likely to remain in that top-center role.

Trent Frederic has taken a step forward this season as well. After setting career highs in 2022-23 with 17 goals and 31 points in 79 contests, he’s already collected 14 goals and 29 points across 49 outings this campaign. Frederic has been inconsistent but is enjoying a five-game scoring streak in which he’s supplied a goal and six points.

Speaking of inconsistent forwards, James van Riemsdyk has been a weird one. The 34-year-old has enjoyed some good stretches along with prolonged cold streaks, but he’s also had big nights that don’t seem to lead anywhere. Over his past 12 contests, he has a solid two goals and 10 points, but that production has come entirely due to four multi-point efforts sprinkled in amongst eight scoreless showings. It makes him a somewhat frustrating option, especially in daily leagues, but in standard season-long leagues, van Riemsdyk still has a bit of value as long as you’re willing to tolerate his day-to-day unpredictability.

Colorado Avalanche – MON @ NYR, TUE @ NJD (BTB), THU @ CAR, SAT @ FLA

The Avalanche are one of the few teams slated to play four games next week, although all their games will be on the road. They’ll face the Rangers on Monday, the Devils on Tuesday, the Hurricanes on Thursday and the Panthers on Saturday.

With three road games in the span of four nights, it seems reasonable to believe Ivan Prosvetov will soon get his first start since Jan. 6. However, Prosvetov has struggled this campaign with a 4-3-1 record, 3.16 GAA and .895 save percentage across 11 outings and all his potential adversaries (the Rangers, New Jersey and Carolina) are strong offensively, so don’t pick up the 24-year-old unless you’re desperate for starts.

If you’re looking for someone on the Avalanche to grab, you might want to consider Ross Colton instead. He’s done well recently, providing six assists over his last three contests while averaging 16:08 of ice time, which is up from his season average of 13:50. He’s been respectable in 2023-24 with 10 goals, 26 points, 45 PIM and 64 points, and the 27-year-old could see his production increase in the second half if he can hold onto his current top-six role.

Of course, Nathan MacKinnon will continue to be the Avalanche’s standout forward. He’s on a 13-game scoring streak in which he’s provided an incredible 12 goals and 28 points, bringing him up to 31 markers and 84 points through 49 appearances this season. Although it would be an oversimplification to suggest that the Hart Trophy race involves only MacKinnon and Nikita Kucherov (85 points), they have certainly pushed themselves a step above the rest of the pack at this point.

Dallas Stars – TUE @ BUF, WED @ TOR (BTB), SAT @ MTL

The Stars will play in Buffalo on Tuesday, Toronto on Wednesday and Montreal on Saturday. A three-game all-road schedule might not be worthy of highlighting if this was a busier week, but part of the appeal of this stretch is that the Stars are facing two teams significantly outside of the playoff picture in the Sabres and the Canadiens.

Thomas Harley is worthy of selection if he’s still available in your league. The 22-year-old is having a breakout campaign with 12 goals and 29 points in 49 games this season and has been incredibly lately, providing three goals and eight points across his last five outings. The one downside is he doesn’t have much of a power-play role. When Miro Heiskanen missed 10 straight games from Jan. 6-23 because of a lower-body injury, Harley’s ice time with the man advantage jumped to an average of 2:15 compared to his 0:52 per contest overall this season. However, now that Heiskanen’s back, Harley’s work with the man advantage has dropped.

Speaking of Heiskanen, he’s hit the ground running since returning, supplying a goal and three points (one on the power play) over his past two games. The 24-year-old won’t replicate his 73-point 2022-23 campaign, but Heiskanen’s five goals and 30 points across 39 outings this season is still nothing to sneeze at. As long as he stays healthy, he should be among the most productive offensive defensemen in the second half.

Dallas’ defense has done great in its own end too, ranking sixth this season with a 2.82 xGA/60, but Jake Oettinger hasn’t fulfilled his side of the deal. The 25-year-old had an earned reputation as one of the league’s top goaltenders going into this season, but he’s floundered in 2023-24 with a 16-9-2 record, 3.04 GAA and .900 save percentage through 28 contests. His struggles have continued too with him allowing 16 goals on 126 shots (.873 save percentage) over his past four appearances.

At least Dallas’ strong offense allows Oettinger to often win regardless, but Dallas certainly needs more from the netminder. Given the strength of the team in front of him, there is an argument to be made that he’s a solid buy-low candidate in the hope that he’ll rebound in the second half, but you would be taking a risk.

Florida Panthers – TUE VS PHI, THU VS WAS, SAT VS COL

The Panthers will play at home versus the Flyers on Tuesday, the Capitals on Thursday and the Avalanche on Saturday. It’s a fairly tough series of games, though at least the Panthers will have the benefit of playing them in Amerant Bank Arena.

Sam Reinhart will be looking to extend his scoring streak beyond its current 13 games. During that stretch, he’s scored an incredible 14 goals, and he also has 20 markers over his past 19 outings. It’s hard to know what’s crazier, that the 28-year-old is on a roughly 62-goal pace (37 tallies through 49 contests) or the fact that’s good enough for only second place in the goal-scoring race.

Regardless, Reinhart will be one to watch once play resumes, as will his similarly hot teammate Matthew Tkachuk, who has contributed 11 goals and 27 points over his past 15 appearances. Tkachuk had a terrible stretch from Nov. 16-Dec. 14 in which he recorded two goals and three points across 14 outings, but slumps of that extent are rare for the 26-year-old, so it’s fair to expect that to be the only extreme drought he deals with this year.

Of course, Reinhart and Tkachuk are already taken in virtually every fantasy league. If you’re looking for a pickup from Florida because the team is somewhat top heavy offensively, but Sam Bennett is the exception. He’s not having an amazing campaign overall with 11 goals and 23 points through 37 contests, but he’s been great recently, providing six goals and 13 points over his last 14 appearances.

Toronto Maple Leafs – MON VS NYI, WED VS DAL, SAT @ OTT

Toronto has three reasonably spread-out games next week. The Maple Leafs will host the Islanders on Monday and the Stars on Wednesday before visiting Ottawa on Saturday.

It’s believed Joseph Woll (ankle) is close to practicing, but he likely won’t factor into any of those three games. Instead, Ilya Samsonov might get all the work for the coming week. Earlier this campaign, that would he been something for the Maple Leafs to fear, but Samsonov appears to have turned a corner, winning his last three games while saving 72 of 75 shots (.960 save percentage). It will be interesting to see if Samsonov can keep this up. If he does, then he might even be able to maintain the starting gig after Woll returns, which is something that appeared near impossible just a few weeks ago.

Up front, Toronto’s biggest story is, who else, Auston Matthews. He’s scored seven goals over his last six outings, bringing him up to 40 markers through 46 appearances in 2023-24. Earlier this year, I brought up the possibility of him reaching 50-in-50. The 26-year-old is almost certain to fall short of that mark, but his play in the first half is still nothing short of incredible. At this rate, he’ll become the first player of the salary cap era to reach the 60-goal milestone in two separate seasons.

Toronto’s scoring depth could use work, though, and it was hurt a little further by the loss of Calle Jarnkrok, who suffered a broken knuckle during practice last Friday and is consequently week-to-week. Nick Robertson is likely to play more consistently in Jarnkrok’s absence and might take advantage of the additional work. Robertson has seven goals and 14 points in 29 contests with the Maple Leafs this season as well as five goals and 11 points in nine outings with the AHL’s Marlies.

Vancouver Canucks – TUE @ CAR, THU @ BOS, SAT @ DET, SUN @ WAS

The Canucks are on the road next week and their overall competition is fierce, but at least they’ll be playing four games, so those with Vancouver players on their fantasy team will get plenty of opportunities to use them. The Canucks will travel for games in Carolina on Tuesday, Boston on Thursday, Detroit on Saturday and Washington on Sunday.

The big question is how Vancouver will deploy Lindholm. As mentioned up top, Lindholm is a versatile forward, who can play either center of the wing as well as up and down the lineup, so there are a lot of potential combinations the Canucks could go with.

One possibility is that Lindholm might skate alongside Elias Pettersson and Ilya Mikheyev. That’s a role Kuzmenko sometimes held before his departure, so it wouldn’t disrupt the Canucks’ lines too much. Alternatively, the Canucks might opt to load the top line with Miller, Pettersson and Boeser while having Lindholm headline the second unit as its center. Lindholm’s linemates in that scenario would likely be Pius Suter and Mikheyev, which would hurt Lindholm’s fantasy value compared to the opportunity to play alongside Miller or Pettersson. Still, any combination will likely involve Lindholm getting minutes on the top power-play unit, so he’ll at least get some time with Vancouver’s best forwards regardless.

Keep an eye on that situation during Vancouver’s practices immediately following the break to get some insight into how things might shake out.

One player who should benefit regardless is Thatcher Demko. He was already having a fantastic campaign with a 26-8-1 record, 2.44 GAA and .920 save percentage in 35 contests this season, and the team in front of him just got better offensively and defensively, so his job has been made proportionally easier. Naturally backup goaltender Casey DeSmith will get the same benefit when he’s between the pipes. DeSmith’s next opportunity to start will likely come over the weekend against either the Red Wings or the Capitals. If it’s against Washington, which ranks 30th offensively with 2.38 goals per game, then DeSmith will be a great pickup option for a situational start.

Washington Capitals – TUE VS MTL, THU @ FLA, SAT @ BOS, SUN VS VAN

Speaking of the Capitals, they also have a busy week ahead of them. They’ll host the Canadiens on Tuesday, then play in Florida on Thursday and Boston on Saturday before returning home for Sunday’s contest versus the Canucks. It’s not an easy schedule and worthy of note only because Washington is one of the few teams set to play four games.

Max Pacioretty left last Saturday’s contest because of a lower-body injury, but fortunately, it’s not related to his previous Achilles problems, per Tarik El-Bashir of Monumental Sports Network. Perhaps he’ll even be available for Tuesday’s game, though that’s far from a certainty. Pacioretty had been doing decently with a goal and seven points through 12 outings, and Washington is hurting for offense, so the Capitals could certainly use him back as soon as possible.

The silver lining is Dylan Strome is hot going into the second half. He’s provided three goals over his last two games, bringing him up to 19 markers and 31 points across 47 appearances in 2023-24. T.J. Oshie is also enjoying a good run. The 37-year-old had just two goals and four points over his first 22 outings this year, but dating back to Jan. 13, he’s collected six goals and eight points in eight games.

Then there’s Alex Ovechkin, who the Capitals have to hope picks up the pace after the break. He’s disappointed this campaign with nine goals and 31 points through 44 appearances. Ovechkin seems to be heating up, though, with three goals and 11 points over his last 11 games, so maybe the worst is behind him.

FANTASY: CULLEN – 20 FANTASY POINTS – Farabee stepping up for Flyers – Injuries open door to opportunity – Goalies bouncing back – Early-season underachievers that might offer potential buy-low value + much more

Scott Cullen — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 19:43:45 +0000

ANAHEIM, CA - NOVEMBER 10: Philadelphia Flyers left wing Joel Farabee (86) with the puck during an NHL hockey game against the Anaheim Ducks played on November 10, 2023 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA. (Photo by John Cordes/Icon Sportswire)

Each week, I dive into the numbers to help make decisions when it comes time to make fantasy hockey decisions.

This week, Joel Farabee is stepping up for the Flyers, injuries open the door for opportunities, goalies bouncing back, and early-season underachievers that might offer potential buy-low value.

#1 Although Philadelphia Flyers winger Joel Farabee hit a career high with 39 points (15 G, 24 A) last season, it was widely regarded as a disappointing campaign. He was recovering from disc replacement surgery in his neck and both his shot rate and shooting percentage declined. This season, however, Farabee is a vital part of the Flyers’ ability to exceed expectations. He has 12 points (6 G, 6 A) in 16 games and all 12 points have come during five-on-five play; his 3.52 points per 60 ranks ninth in the league and while his lack of power play production does put a ceiling on Farabee’s potential production, he has already taken steps forward from last season.

#2 Buffalo Sabres star centre Tage Thompson has been lost for “less than a couple of months” with a wrist injury. His absence will require Dylan Cozens and Casey Mittelstadt to anchor the top two centre spots on the Sabres depth chart. Cozens has one assist in his past six games and is averaging less ice time per game than he did last season, so this will provide ample opportunity for him to get back on track. Mittelstadt has 13 points (3 G, 10 A) in 16 games, though with just 21 shots, he does have room to increase his offensive impact.

#3 The Anaheim Ducks placed centre Trevor Zegras on the injured list with a groin injury and he had just two points (1 G, 1 A) in 12 games when they decided that he needed a break. That theoretically could open the door for more ice time for rookie centre Leo Carlsson, who has eight points (6 G, 2 A) in 11 games, but he’s already averaging 18:18 of ice time per game when he plays, so it is difficult to expect and 18-year-old to get much more ice time. Maybe it’s more reasonable to expect Mason McTavish to take on a little more, as the 20-year-old has 16 points (7 G, 9 A) in 16 games while logging 17:32 of ice time per game.

#4 A neck injury has put Avalanche left winger Artturi Lehkonen on the shelf, creating an opportunity for Valeri Nichushkin to skate with Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen on Colorado’s top line. MacKinnon has been Nichushkin’s most common linemate this season already, but adding Rantanen does spice things up a bit. Nichushkin has produced five points (4 G, 1 A) and 18 shots on goal in the past five games.

#5 Florida Panthers defencemen Brandon Montour and Aaron Ekblad are both nearing returns to action, on the precipice of making their seasons debuts for last season’s Stanley Cup finalists. The most intriguing effect will likely fall on Oliver Ekman-Larsson, the 32-year-old defender whose play has been in decline for several seasons. Given a new lease on life in Florida, he has 10 points (4 G, 6 A) in 16 games, but half of those points have come on the power play and Montour’s return could take away Ekman-Larsson’s top unit power play role.

#6 An upper-body injury has landed Nashville Predators centre Tommy Novak on injured reserve for the next four-to-six weeks. With 12 points (6 G, 6 A) in 14 games, he is ranked third in scoring on the Predators and half of those points have come on the power play. Cody Glass gets first crack at Novak’s ice time, but he had better pick up the pace as he has yet to record a point in seven games this season.

#7 New Jersey Devils centre Jack Hughes appears to be on the verge of returning from his upper-body injury. The Devils’ playmaking centre has 20 points (5 G, 15 A) in 10 games, outrageous production and, given the landscape among the league’s top scorers, Hughes has a legitimate case to at least be in the race for the Art Ross Trophy. Michael McLeod, who has three points (1 G, 2 A) in the past five games, is likely to slide back down the depth chart when Hughes is ready to return.

#8 It seems that nearly every week there is some example of how unpredictable goaltending can be from one season to the next, never mind smaller samples like one week to the next or one game to the next. Consider the case of St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington, who had a .897 save percentage in 98 games over the previous two seasons. This season, his save percentage is up to XXXX and, at least before the Blues were blown out by the San Jose Sharks Thursday night (in a game started by Joel Hofer), goaltending had been helping the Blues get back to a more competitive level.

#9 Anaheim Ducks netminder John Gibson was an elite performer early in his career, posting a .921 save percentage from 2013-2014 through 2018-2019, but then the burden of playing behind a suspect Ducks defence started to catch up to him and from 2019-2020 through 2022-2023, his save percentage had fallen to .902. This season, however, Gibson has a .927 save percentage in nine starts. With the Ducks more competitive than expected, Gibson is once again a valuable commodity for fantasy managers.

#10 In the previous two seasons, with the Maple Leafs and Blackhawks, Petr Mrazek had a .893 save percentage. In eight games this season, he is rocking a .921 save percentage. The wins don’t come easily in the Windy City, but if Mrazek is going to play at this above-average level, he is going to be fantasy relevant, which was not a widely held expectation for him at the start of the season.

#11 Edmonton Oilers left winger Evander Kane erupted for a hat trick in Wednesday’s 4-3 overtime win against Seattle. Following a slow start, Kane has produced 14 points (7 G, 7 A) and 34 shots on goal in the past 10 games, which puts him up among the top wingers because when the scoring is there, he also generates shots and provides a physical presence (56 hits in 15 games).

#12 Matt Duchene did not record a point in his first four games for the Dallas Stars, which saw him get waived in many fantasy hockey leagues, but the trend has reversed in a hurry. In 10 games since, Duchene has produced 13 points (6 G, 7 A) and 25 shots on goal, thriving on a line with Tyler Seguin and Mason Marchment.

#13 Part of Winnipeg’s return in the Pierre-Luc Dubois trade, Alex Iafallo has been a quality supporting winger for the Jets. He could stand to shoot the puck more, but Iafallo has nine points (1 G, 8 A) in his past six games, and he is riding shotgun with Kyle Connor and Mark Scheifele on the Jets’ top line as well as holding down a spot on Winnipeg’s top power play unit.

#14 After a brilliant performance at the World Championships, 21-year-old Buffalo Sabres winger J.J. Peterka entered this season with some expectations. He started slowly, but has now delivered nine points (4 G, 5 A) in the past nine games, a sign that he could be ready to make a leap in only his second NHL campaign.

#15 A couple of early AHL call-ups have made an instant impact in the NHL. Calgary’s Connor Zary, a first-round pick in 2020, has six points (3 G, 3 A) in seven games, though he has just one shot on goal in the past three, leaving him with 11 shots on goal in those seven games. That needs to bounce back up for his production to have a higher likelihood of sustainability. Zary and fellow rookie Martin Pospisil have been flanking Nazem Kadri on the Flames’ second line. Toronto’s Nick Robertson is no longer Calder Trophy eligible after various stints with the Maple Leafs in the past three seasons, but the 22-year-old does have four points (2 G, 2 A) in four games since getting promoted from the AHL, where he had 11 points (5 G, 6 A) in nine games. Robertson is skating with Max Domi and Calle Jarnkrok in a third line that suddenly has some offensive pop to it.

#16 The leader in expected goals per 60 minutes (minimum 50 minutes of ice time) during the month of November is Bruins left winger Brad Marchand (2.09), ahead of Alex Tuch (2.06), Timo Meier (2.04), Connor McMichael (2.02), and Kevin Fiala (2.00). McMichael stands out of that group as he is not nearly as established as an offensive force. With Nicklas Backstrom stepping away from the Capitals, McMichael is looking at a bigger role and has four points (2 G, 2 A) with 12 shots on goal in the past four games and could be a buy-low option in deep leagues. At the other end of the spectrum, there are some forwards who have not been generating chances and it is no surprise if fourth liners have a low rate of expected goals, but Alex Newhook (0.19), Kaapo Kakko (0.21), Matthew Poitras (0.33), and Pavel Zacha (0.36) – all of whom have some expectation of offensive production - are among the forwards in the bottom 20 when it comes to individual expected goals in November.

#17 Looking specifically at five-on-four power play situations, which players are being put in position to score with the man advantage? The leader in individual expected goals per 60 minutes (minimum 40 five-on-four minutes this season) is Florida’s Sam Reinhart (4.05), ahead of Joe Pavelski (3.67), Sidney Crosby (3.53), Drake Batherson (3.35), Vincent Trocheck (3.31), and Tommy Novak (3.28).

#18 While there are some players scoring on a ridiculously high percentage of shots, that likely won’t be sustainable – looking at you, Alexis Lafreniere (29.2%) and Brock Boeser (27.1%) – there are players at the other end who are generating shots on goal and not finding the net. Pittsburgh’s Rickard Rakell has zero goals on 40 shots. He has had some seasons in which his shooting percentages are terrible, but zero for forty is a real struggle, especially for a player who is skating on a line with Reilly Smith and Evgeni Malkin, two skilled linemates. Others that might be buy-low considerations with zero goals: Josh Anderson (38 shots) and T.J. Oshie (28 shots).

#19 Spinning this to the players that have underachieved the most relative to their expected goals thus far, Oshie (-5.54) and Anderson (-5.31) have fallen shortest of their expected goals totals, followed by Matthew Tkachuk (-5.00), Anders Lee (-4.64), and Rakell (-4.31). These guys are getting chances but can’t finish. On the other hand, the players exceeding their expected goals by the widest margin thus far are: Kyle Connor (6.29), Alex DeBrincat (6.07), Frank Vatrano (5.96), Teuvo Teravainen (5.48), and Chris Kreider (5.08). These are players off to great starts, but sustainability could be a challenge.

#20 One of the bigger tests of any buy-low theory is Columbus Blue Jackets left winger Johnny Gaudreau. He and Patrick Laine were benched in Thursday’s 3-2 loss to Arizona, and Gaudreau has a paltry six points (1 G, 5 A) and 40 shots on goal through 17 games. Gaudreau’s shot rate is down to 2.35 per game and if he can’t make it work with a shooter like Laine, then the Blue Jackets need to make some changes because it makes no sense to invest so much in Gaudreau, only to let him wither on the vine with a line that isn’t working. Gaudreau and Laine have controlled the flow of play to some degree at five-on-five, with 57.3% Corsi, but they are pulling just 40.9% of expected goals and that isn’t going to cut it. It’s notable that Gaudreau has had more success with his most common linemate, Boone Jenner, with a 58.5% Corsi and 58.0% of expected goals. Somehow, some way, the Blue Jackets need to find the right fit for Gaudreau and fantasy managers can lurk and wait for the answer because Gaudreau’s value right now is about as low as it could get.

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #24

Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt and Josh Bell — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 19:04:34 +0000

Top 20 Toronto Maple Leaf Prospects

1. Matthew Knies

The Maple Leafs used the 57th selection in 2021 on Knies after he spent two seasons with the USHL’s Tri-City Storm. He then jumped up to the NCAA with the University of Minnesota and quickly became one of the biggest topics of conversation in the prospect world as he contributed a point-per-game as a freshman. His efforts were rewarded by USA Hockey, as the teenager was added to the American rosters for both the Olympics and the World Juniors, and Knies performed admirably in both tournaments. He looked even better last season, being named the Big Ten Player of the Year and a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award. The Maple Leafs rewarded him with an entry-level contract and a call-up to the big club just in time to make a mark on the NHL postseason. He is on his way to becoming a reliable, two-way, second-line winger thanks to his size, strength, ability to steal pucks, break up passes, and find or create open space in the offensive zone.

2. Nick Robertson

Ever since Robertson was drafted in the second round in 2019, he has seemed on the edge of breaking into the NHL lineup full-time. In his DY+1, he had 55 goals in just 46 games with the Peterborough Petes, leading the OHL in goals and being named CHL Sportsman of the Year. The Maple Leafs called him up for the playoffs, to end the year, and he looked poised to stick. Unfortunately, myriad injuries have plagued him and he has three-straight injury-plagued seasons spent bouncing between the AHL and NHL. He’s too good for the AHL but can’t seem to stick in the NHL just yet. When healthy, Robertson is a highly energetic forward with an excellent shot. He’s extremely hard on pucks and seems to always be in the mix. He has the potential to join Knies in the Maple Leafs' top six as a focus of the team’s offense, if he can only stay healthy.

3. Topi Niemela

Drafted 64th overall in 2020, Niemela was coming off his rookie season in the Liiga, showing off his skill in Finland’s best league. His follow-up campaign was stunted due to Covid, but he managed to shine at the 2021 World Juniors, leading all defenders in goals (two), assists (six), and points (eight) en route to a bronze medal, earning the honor of Best Defenseman in the tournament. Niemela was back with Karpat in 2021-22, taking a big step forward while once again posting a stand-out World Juniors. Last season, under contract with the Leafs, but loaned back to Karpat, he seemed to stall a bit offensively in the Liiga, although he was still impacting the game in nearly every other way. That was enough for the Maple Leafs, who brought him overseas to the AHL to finish his season. An intelligent, calm, mobile defender who moves the puck very well and rarely makes a mistake, he’s well on his way to becoming a middle-paring defender at the highest level.

4. Easton Cowan

One of the top players in last year’s OHL playoffs, Cowan, known as “Cowboy” to his teammates, shot up draft lists late in the year and ended up being one of the surprises of the first round. His late season transformation from complementary piece to primary play driver had many in the industry re-evaluating his upside, including Mckeens. A very well-rounded player, he competes hard physically. He is lightning quick and can play in all situations. He sees the ice well and has great offensive instincts. He has a quick release that gives him scoring potential. Best of all, his puck skill and puck protection ability showed significant growth over the year suggesting that he might just be hitting the tip of the iceberg regarding his potential. There’s a safe floor here because of his excellent work rate and skating ability. However, under the watchful eyes of the Hunters with the London Knights, Cowan may possess more offensive upside than originally thought, giving him an intriguing ceiling. Next year, London will enter the year as one of the favourites to repeat as Western Conference champions and Cowan will resume his role on the first line.

5. Ty Voit

Despite losing his entire draft year to the pandemic and the OHL-cancelled season, the Maple Leafs bet on what they had already seen in Voit’s rookie season, drafting him in the fifth round in 2021. He responded with 80 and 105-point seasons, respectively including leading the league in assists (81) in the final season, likely his last in the OHL. Voit is an excellent playmaker with great vision and is very light on the ice. There is some worry about his 5- 9”, 150-pound frame and how that will translate to the NHL, but he’ll have plenty of time in the AHL to get comfortable in a more physical league. There’s also some worry about his defensive effort that the AHL coaching staff will need to work on. He has the skill to be a top-six forward, but his shortcomings bring some questions as to whether or not he’ll reach that, especially as his size is not very conducive to bottom six play.

6. Fraser Minten

A recent addition to the Maple Leafs’ system, Minten was drafted 38th overall in 2022 after taking a big step forward in his development with the WHL Kamloops Blazers. He was even better last season as the team’s alternate captain, producing over a point per game. He’s a two-way presence and plays a very smart game. Combined with underrated skill, he’s an exciting asset. Minten is well-rounded and likely won’t be an overly offensive player at the next level, but will be a reliable, dependable piece who could be trusted in big moments with the game on the like. His game is already close to being pro-ready and he likely could make the jump if the Maple Leafs decide he’s ready, although a final WHL campaign is in the cards first. At this point, he’s on his way to becoming an excellent 3C who could move up and see time on the penalty kill.

7. Roni Hirvonen

The Maple Leafs selected Hirvonen out of the Liiga in 2020 second round. He was coming off his rookie season with Assat, and adjusting well from the junior ranks. He has since spent every season in the Liiga, moving to HIFK for the past two seasons, as a productive two-way presence. He also helped Team Finland bronze and silver medals, in the 2021 and 22 WJCs, respectively, serving as the captain in the latter edition. He is a hard-working centreman who grinds to ensure that his team has the puck, consistently jumping into the dirty areas, and often winning puck battles. He is reliable defensively and has a nice level of skill to complement the rest of his game. This skill is especially evident in his quick hands and light feet. Hirvonen’s game looks like it will translate quite seamlessly into a bottom-six role.

8. Nick Abruzzese

After a 2018-19 season leading the USHL in assists (51) and points (80), the Maple Leafs drafted Abruzzese 124th overall. His next step was joining NCAA Harvard, where he was a star as a freshman, being named Ivy-League Rookie of the Year among other accolades. After losing his 2020-21 season to the pandemic, he returned for one final year as the captain, averaging over one point per game, albeit without producing the same level of offense as he had as a freshman. with the season included an appearance for Team USA at the Olympics and an NHL contract, playing nine games with the Maple Leafs. He spent last season with the Toronto Marlies, as one of the team’s most productive players. He’s well on his way to becoming an intelligent, productive bottom nine forward.

9. Nikita Greybonkin

Grebyonkin was selected 135th overall in 2022. He was the alternate captain for MHL Stalnye Lisy Magnitogorsk, where he had a strong sophomore season. Last season, he took a big step in in his development, making the jump to the KHL on loan to Amur Khabarovsk. He led all rookies in points with 26 in 45 games. The winger is a strong playmaker with the ability to finish as well, although that may be dampened in the NHL. He protects the puck well and has strong awareness in the offensive zone. His defensive efforts are not consistent and his skating has been a concern, although the latter issue should be addressable through good coaching. Grebyonkin is a bit of a project and will take some time to reach his ceiling, but he could become an intriguing depth option.

10. Joseph Woll

As with many netminders, it’s been a long road for Woll - but it looks like it’s paid off. Drafted back out of the USNTDP 62nd overall back in 2016, the team has been patient with him. Woll was a fixture on the Team USA junior team, playing in the Under 17s, Under 18s, and twice at the World Juniors - winning medals in every event. He had a strong collegiate career for Boston College, maintaining great numbers throughout. He jumped to the AHL in 2019-20, and while he struggled out of the gate including a few injury struggles, his 2022-23 season was a coming-out party, dominating in the AHL and receiving regular call-ups to the NHL, including a star turn in the playoffs. He’s a calm, intelligent goaltender and plays an excellent technical game. He looks ready to stick in the NHL.

11. Nick Moldenhauer

Moldenhauer had a strong year in the USHL with Chicago after he deferred his arrival to the University of Michigan until this upcoming year. He has a motor that never stops in the offensive end and he navigates and handles traffic well despite his lack of size.

12. Dennis Hildeby

A massive Swedish netminder, Hildeby had a very good 2022-23 season in the SHL with Farjestad.. This year he will play in the AHL with the Marlies, where he will compete for playing time with the other goalies in the system making their pro debuts.

13. Ryan Tverberg

Through the last two seasons, Tverberg has been a standout at UConn because of his ability to push pace and create offense through his tenacity. He has now turned pro and will play with the Marlies this year. He has a chance to be a quality bottom six option in the future.

14. Alex Steeves

Depending on the health of Nick Robertson, the 12th forward spot in the Leafs’ lineup is probably up for grabs at training camp and Steeves will have a great shot at it after two terrific years with the Marlies. He’s worked hard to improve his skating and can excel in a variety of roles.

15. Artur Akhtiamov

The best goaltender in the VHL last year (Russia’s second league), there is a lot of optimism surrounding Akhtiamov heading into his first pro season in North America. Lightning quick in the crease, he has NHL potential.

16. Mikko Kokkonen

Without question, Kokkonen’s first full pro season in North America was a disappointment as his poor play with the Marlies resulted in a demotion to the ECHL. The former highly touted third round pick will look to get things back on track this year.

17. William Villeneuve

Villeneuve was excellent for the Marlies last year in his first pro season out of the QMJHL. There was some concern that his skating would hinder him as a pro, but that was not evident last year. A competent puck mover, his mobility will need to continue to improve for him to be an NHL’er.

18. Vyacheslav Peksa

With so many netminders signed, the Leafs are expected to loan Peksa back to Europe this season. Peksa still has to refine his athleticism in the crease, working to improve the technical components of his game.

19. Mike Koster

Koster showed considerable improvement in his junior season with Minnesota, emerging as a go-to defender for the Gophers. Returning for a senior year, he should take over as the primary powerplay quarterback on a talented team and his offensive production could jump yet again.

20. Brandon Lisowsky

A lethal shooter who can really fire the puck. Has the ability to score in multiple ways and brings high energy to the offensive zone. Size is the big deterrent currently but he’s working to get stronger on the puck and improve his playmaking ability. He should have a huge draft +2 season for Saskatoon this year.

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK: FANTASY PROSPECT RANKINGS – Top 30 Forwards – Top 20 Defense – top 10 Goalies

Peter Harling — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 19:10:17 +0000

When preparing for a fantasy draft or evaluating prospects for a trade in your fantasy league you need to understand the difference between rankings, and fantasy rankings. The difference can be subtle, or significant depending on your leagues scoring and format. Generally speaking, fantasy rankings are based on projected point production. I have found that the vast majority of readers that read and follow my work are in dynasty keeper leagues with peripheral stats, or bangers leagues. The following rankings are based on projected point production and include added value to players that can contribute other stats, such as hits, blocks, PIMs, and faceoff wins. In fantasy hockey, we have a limited number of prospect roster spots and as such I put higher value on prospects that have a quicker ETA to the NHL or have superstar upside. This will help you identify the top 30 forwards, 20 defencemen and ten goalies to target in your fantasy leagues. To be considered a prospect, skaters must be under 26-years-old, and have played in under 60 career games, or less than 35 in a single season. For goalies, less than 30 games played, or 15 in a single season.

Forwards

Connor Bedard, C – Chicago Blackhawks

Not much debate to be had here. If you put Bedard in any other draft class from the past ten years, the only time he does not go first overall is the Connor McDavid Draft. Bedard is simply a generational talent that will kick down the front door of the NHL and take the league by storm. To expect him to be a point per game player as a rookie is not out of the question, he could even push for a 90-point year. The sky is the limit.

Logan Cooley, C – Arizona Coyotes

It was looking like Cooley was returning to the NCAA for his sophomore season, but after scoring 60 points as a freshman (second overall in scoring) and little left to gain from a second season, the Coyotes signed him to his ELC. Now that he is show bound, he locks up second forward rank position as the future of the Coyotes. Cooley is a dynamic offensive and highly skilled player that should flirt with 60 points as a rookie and has the upside to be a 90-point player when he hits his prime.

Adam Fantilli, C – Columbus Blue Jackets

Fantilli lead the NCAA in scoring as a freshman which puts him in a class with Jack Eichel and Paul Kariya. He will have the opportunity to center dynamic offensive wingers like Patrik Laine or Johnny Gaudreau or both in Columbus. Fantilli brings the whole package, size, skating, skill, smarts and will deliver in fantasy leagues with points and peripheral stats as well. He could easily have landed second overall on this list.

Matvei Michkov, RW – Philadelphia Flyers

In five years when we revisit this I would not be surprised if Michkov is the second overall player ranked, but the reasons why he is only fourth have more to do with term. Signed in the KHL for three more seasons we will have to wait on Michkov, but when he comes over as a matured 21-year-old on a three-year ELC he will be the best bang for his buck in dynasty capped leagues.

BOSTON, MA - JANUARY 06: Minnesota Wild center Marco Rossi (23) skates with the puck during the NHL game between Minnesota Wild and Boston Bruins on January 6, 2022, at TD Garden in Boston, MA. (Photo by M. Anthony Nesmith/Icon Sportswire)

Marco Rossi, C – Minnesota Wild

Rossi suffered a major setback in his development with a life-threatening bout with COVID. But he now has had two seasons of development in the AHL and after 116 games he has posted 104 points. His NHL production has not materialized through 21 games to date but count on that changing in a big way this year. Rossi is expected to take over the number one spot in Minnesota and if he develops some Chemistry between Kirill Kaprizov and Matt Boldy, look out!

Leo Carlsson, C – Anaheim Ducks

The Ducks surprised a lot of people when they selected Carlsson over Fantilli at the second overall selection at the 2023 Draft. The fact of the matter is that Carlsson is a highly skilled and projectable player. The Ducks can be patient with his development, and he could play another year in the SHL before coming to California. With Mason McTavish and Leo Carlsson as a one-two punch down the middle, the Ducks have elite center depth for a long time.

Lukas Reichel, LW/RW – Chicago Blackhawks

After two seasons of development in the AHL, Reichel is ready for prime time, and his timing couldn’t be better. While expectations are Taylor Hall will get the first crack at shot gun with Bedard, Reichel could easily win one of the wing roles on the top line and flirt with a 50–60-point season.

Matthew Knies, LW – Toronto Maple Leafs

Leaf Nation had some lofty expectations for Knies, and he did not disappoint. He quickly became a key member of the Leafs top six and offense in a playoff series with Tampa. With a cap friendly ELC contract, he is an ideal fit on a top six line in Toronto with their prolific offense. Knies brings some size and physicality in addition to his soft hands and dangerous shot. Knies will be a stud in multi-cat leagues.

Shane Wright, C – Seattle Kraken

While it was a struggle in his D+1 year with highs and lows ranging from a regular healthy scratch, to captaining Canada to WJC Gold, and returning to the OHL. When the dust settled, he gained valuable development in the NHL, AHL, OHL and internationally and now Seattle has the option to play Wright full time in the AHL. In time Wright and Beniers will be a formidable one-two punch down the middle for Seattle, but Wright likely needs one more year before he wins a top six role with the Kraken.

Dylan Guenther, LW/RW – Arizona Coyotes

Playing in only 33 NHL games last year barely allows Guenther to remain eligible for this list. His 15 points last year was good, but not enough to stay in the show. He was loaned to Canada for the WJC and posted 10 points before returning to the WHL to help Seattle to a WHL Championship. With Cooley signing it gives an additional boost to Guenther’s value.

SAINT PAUL, MN - OCTOBER 08: Dallas Stars Center Logan Stankoven (57) looks on during the NHL game between the Dallas Stars and Minnesota Wild, on October 8th, 2022, at Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, MN. (Photo by Bailey Hillesheim/Icon Sportswire)

Logan Stankoven, C – Dallas Stars

Stankoven has dominated in the WHL and the international stage alike. He kept pace with Connor Bedard at the WJC showing he can play with elite players and pace. Stankoven will be turning pro this year and could likely skip the AHL on a lot of NHL teams, but Dallas has some depth and can be patient with this stud.

Jakob Pelletier, LW – Calgary Flames

It’s has been a long time coming for the 2019 first round pick of the Flames, but after scoring 99 points in 101 career AHL games, the time is now for Pelletier to get a real look at the NHL. The coaching change in Calgary should be another green light for Pelletier to not only make the team but crack the Flames top six.

Ryan Leonard, C/LW – Washington Capitals

The Boston College commit will likely be a one-and-done player before he signs his ELC. Drawing comparisons to the Tkachuk brothers as he plays a rambunctious game but has high end skill and hockey sense. The Capitals can be patient with their top prospect and slow cook him, but he is more instant noodle than slow cooker and can be an impact player for them next year.

William Eklund, LW – San Jose Sharks

Eklund nearly cracked the Sharks roster in his D+1 season with a strong nine game showing before he was loaned back to the SHL. Last year he made the move to North America and played mainly in the AHL posting 41 points through 54 games. He could be ready to not only win a roster spot with the Sharks to start the season but will compete for a top six role.

Frank Nazar, C/RW – Chicago Blackhawks

Nazar missed all but 13 games in his freshman year at Michigan due to injury. He had a strong showing at the World Junior Summer Showcase and is a lock for Team USA. He will return to Michigan and be a star player for the Wolverine and could even finish the year in Chicago if he signs his ELC. His fantasy stock is about to get a massive boost.

Jimmy Snuggerud, C – St. Louis Blues

It is too early to do a redraft of the 2022 draft, but if we do, Jimmy Snuggerud would likely be inside the top ten, well above where the Blues selected him 23^rd overall. A massive freshman season with the University of Minnesota where he scored 50 points in 40 games on arguably the top line in the NCAA with Logan Cooley and Matthew Knies. Cooley and Knies are now gone, can Snuggerud produce the same or better without those two?

Zach Benson, RW – Buffalo Sabres

Speaking of redrafting too soon, Benson fell to Buffalo at pick 13 because he is undersized. I think when we redraft the 2023 class, he will be inside the top ten, closer to top five. He has hands, vision and deception in his game that scream NHL ready. He plays a two-way game and is highly competitive. He is a few years away, but the upside is top six.

Cutter Gauthier, C/LW – Philadelphia Flyers

The big winger had an impressive freshman year at Boston College scoring 37 points in 32 games and ten more points at the WJ and then nine points at the World Championship. He will return to B.C. where the Eagles will add the NTDP trio of Will Smith, Ryan Leonard, and Gabe Perreault to the fold. Big things are coming with Gauthier.

Matt Coronato, RW/LW – Calgary Flames

After posting back-to-back 36-point seasons in the NCAA at Harvard Coronato signed and made his NHL debut last year. He may be short at 5-10, but he is not a small player. He is strong and can play physically but his game is all about scoring goals.

Alexander Holtz, LW – New Jersey Devils

The seventh overall pick from the 2020 draft is now starting to trend in the wrong direction. Holtz is a sniper and has had two full seasons of development in North America. It looked like last year was when he would breakout, but he only managed four points in 19 games with the Devils. Still only 21 years old he has time but really needs to address the skating and pace to reach an NHL top six role.

Mavrik Bourque, C – Dallas Stars

Bourque had a good AHL rookie season with 20 goals and 47 points. He has some work to do however before he can compete to crack the Stars roster with their depth.

Brennan Othmann, LW – New York Rangers

Othmann finished his junior career in the OHL on a playoff run with the Petes that ended with a Championship and a Memorial Cup run. He has size and speed and skill, and scores clutch goals. A year in the AHL is in the cards for Othmann but he has top six upside in a year or two.

Will Smith, C – San Jose Sharks

The slick and skilled center had 127 points in 60 games with the NTDP in his draft year. That was not a typo. Headed to Boston College with the entire NTDP record breaking line with Perreault and Leonard, the trio could have a ridiculous freshman year. Smith has some work to do on his defensive game but should develop into the Sharks number one center with Eklund on his wing.

Jiri Kulich, C – Buffalo Sabres

Kulich scored 24 goals and 46 points as a rookie in the AHL and had nine points for Czechia at the WJC. His game got better as the season went on and in the AHL playoffs he scored 11 points in 12 games. He will have to play another year in the AHL and wait for some contracts to expire on the Sabres roster, but he is very close.

Tyson Foerster, RW – Philadelphia Flyers

His AHL rookie season was a smashing success as he scored 20 goals and 48 points in 66 games. But what was far more impressive was his late season NHL recall where he played eight games with the Flyers and scored seven points. He is NHL ready now.

BOSTON, MA - MARCH 28: Nashville Predators right wing Luke Evangelista (77) skates with the puck during a game between the Boston Bruins and the Nashville Predators on March 28, 2023, at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire)

Luke Evangelista, RW – Nashville Predators

Perhaps one of the players with the biggest rise in stock this year was Evangelista. Sure, he scored 111 points in his final 62 career OHL games, but 41 points in 49 AHL games as a rookie was very impressive. Even more spectacular was he earned an NHL recall and scored there too, 15 points in 24 games. He has arrived.

Ridly Greig, C/LW – Ottawa Senators

His breakout performance at the WJC was cut short due to injury, but he picked up where he left off as a rookie in the AHL scoring 29 points in 39 games in Belleville. His play earned him an NHL recall and he did not look out of place posting nine points in 20 NHL games. He is ready.

Matthew Savoie, C – Buffalo Sabres

Savoie is a prolific scorer as he has back-to-back 90-point seasons in the WHL with Winnipeg and went on a tear in the playoffs last year scoring 11 goals and 29 points in 19 games. He is undersized but he can play.

Nick Robertson, LW – Toronto Maple Leafs

Injuries have plagued Robertson, who otherwise may have been playing out his ELC inside the Leafs top six. At 21-years-old he has missed a lot of development playing 82 games over the past three seasons. He needs to have a full, healthy year.

Brendan Brisson, LW/RW – Vegas Golden Knights

The Michigan alumni had a good AHL rookie season scoring 37 points in 58 games for the Silver Knights. He will be back in the AHL and should see marked improvement in his production. He is coming.

Defense

Luke Hughes, LD – New Jersey Devils

The youngest of the Huges brothers but the biggest at 6’ 2”, 183 pounds may have the highest upside. He produced at the NCAA, World Junior, and World Championship. He has two points in his two-game debut to end the year in the NHL and will play his rookie season in the NHL in the coming season. The only thing in his way from being the top offensive player right away is Dougie Hamilton.

Brandt Clarke, RD – Los Angeles Kings

Clark started the year in the NHL and after nine games with the Kings and five in the AHL he was loaned to Canada where he dominated the World Junior. Then he was returned to the OHL, and it was ridiculous as he scored 23 points in 12 playoff games. He is ready for the NHL.

Lane Hutson, LD – Montreal Canadiens

His 48-point freshman season was comparable to Cale Makar’s Hobey Baker winning sophomore year. Hutson also played key roles for the USA at the WJC and World Championships. He will return to Boston University to play with his brother and should sign following his sophomore year. Hutson has elite upside.

David Jiricek, RD – Columbus Blue Jackets

Jiricek had a tremendous D+1 season as an 18-year-old AHL rookie playing key minutes for the Monsters and scoring 38 points. His play at the WJC helped lead Czechia to a Silver Medal and he looks ready for the NHL now. His point upside may not be as elite, but he is 6’ 3”, mobile and great defensively. He is a franchise defenseman.

ELMONT, NY - OCTOBER 06: New Jersey Devils Defenseman Simon Nemec (5) during the first period of the National Hockey League game between the New Jersey Devils and New York Islanders on October 6, 2022, at UBS Arena in Elmont, NY. (Photo by Gregory Fisher/Icon Sportswire)

Simon Nemec, RD – New Jersey Devils

Nemec is every bit as good as Jiricek, he had a superb D+1 year as an AHL rookie scoring 34 points and was a point per game player at the WJC. His path to a number one NHL defender is harder in New Jersey with Hughes and Hamilton blocking him.

Olen Zellweger, LD – Anaheim Ducks

Zellweger has dominated the WHL to the tune of 183 career points in 180 games and was named the CHL Defenseman of the Year. He has dominated the World Junior with two Gold Medals with 17 points in 14 games. He will take his game to the AHL, and chances are he will dominate there as a rookie. He is still a year or two away from being an impact defenseman in the NHL and the Ducks number one on the blueline.

Simon Edvinsson, LD – Detroit Red Wings

After a great AHL rookie campaign Edvinsson moved up to the NHL for a nine-game audition. He was poised to make the Wings roster out of camp to start the season, but an injury will delay that arrival. He may need a short tour in the AHL to get up to speed, but he will compete with Seider for top minutes in Detroit by years end.

Scott Perunovich, LD – St. Louis Blues

By all accounts the 24-year-old should have graduated from this list by now, but three injury plagued seasons and he has been limited to 19 NHL games. His 42 points in 39 career AHL games demands he gets an opportunity to play meaningful minutes in the NHL, he just needs to stay healthy.

Pavel Mintyukov, LD – Anaheim Ducks

The Russian offensive defender saw his production dip slightly after a mid-season trade to the Ottawa 67’s, but his offensive play should translate to the AHL where he will play his rookie season with the Gulls. He has Drysdale and Zellweger ahead of him for now, but his upside is tremendous.

Denton Mateychuk, LD – Columbus Blue Jackets

Mateychuk has similar offensive upside to Mintyukov, but is a little smaller, and has one more year of junior hockey before he turns pro. The 19-year-old should shootout the lights in the WHL and be a key player for Canada at the World Junior.

Kevin Korchinski, LD – Chicago Blackhawks

His stock got a big boost when the Hawks won the Draft lottery and added Connor Bedard. Korchinski is penciled in to be the Hawks powerplay quarterback in three years or so and it is lining up to be elite. The 6’ 3” defender can skate and play a physical game as well.

Alexander Nikishin, LD – Carolina Hurricanes

Perhaps no defense prospect saw their stock rise more last year than Nikishin. His 55-point breakout in 65 games in the KHL commanded the attention of fantasy owners. He has two more years remaining on his contract so we will have to wait a while for the 21-year-old, 6’ 4” Russian stud to come to North America.

Jordan Spence, RD – Los Angeles Kings

The Kings top defensive prospect is Brandt Clarke, but the gap between him and Spence is getting smaller. Spence was a force in the AHL as a rookie posting 42 points in 46 games and played in 24 NHL games. Last year he spent more time developing in the AHL and is looking ready to secure an NHL job out of training camp.

MONTREAL, QC - MARCH 17: Thomas Harley (55) of the Dallas Stars skates during the second period of the NHL game between the Dallas Stars and the Montreal Canadiens on March 17, 2022, at the Bell Centre in Montreal, QC(Photo by Vincent Ethier/Icon Sportswire)

Thomas Harley, LD – Dallas Stars

The OHL shutdown gave Harley early access to the AHL, and the 21-year-old now has three seasons of professional hockey development under his belt, including 40 NHL career games played. He has NHL ready size, mobility, and offensive acumen. He should be a full-time player in Dallas this year and his role with the team will continue to grow.

Ville Heinola, LD – Winnipeg Jets

The 20^th overall pick from the 2019 draft nearly made the NHL in his D+1 year playing the first eight regular season games with the Jets. Ultimately, he was loaned back to his Liiga club team and since then has split time between the Liiga, AHL, NHL and some international tournaments. His play in the AHL has slowly been improving, but Heinola still has one more year of waiver exemption that likely dictates more AHL time.

Lukas Cormier, LD – Vegas Golden Knights

Cormier was a prolific offensive defenseman in junior and his rookie year in the AHL saw his offensive skill translate to the professional level as he scored 10 goals and 35 points in 62 games for the Silver Knights. Cormier has a rocket of a shot, is a crafty and creative offensive driver but is looking at another year or two in the AHL before he is ready to push for a top pairing role in Vegas.

Henry Thrun, LD – San Jose Sharks

The Ducks 2019 fourth round pick was looking for more opportunity and is assumed was not going to sign in Anaheim as they are loaded with star prospects on defense. He was traded to the Sharks who signed him within a month. The departure of Erik Karlsson has created a massive void on the Sharks roster and Thrun will try to win the job out of training camp as the team’s powerplay quarterback.

Emil Andrae, LD – Philadelphia Flyers

The 5’ 9” defender has been flushing out his resume nicely since his draft leading the J20 in defenseman points and goals, a HockeyAllsvenskan Championship, being named best junior, most goals by a defenseman in the WJC and a Bronze Medal. Last year he had a breakout season in the SHL with 26 points and finished the year in the AHL with a strong showing of six points in 10 games with the Phantoms. He will play a full season in the AHL but is a player on the rise.

Ryker Evans, LD – Seattle Kraken

The Krakens 2021 second round pick had a strong junior career with the Regina Pats, but his stock improved significantly in his rookie AHL season as his role continued to grow all season long. His 44 points in 71 regular season games was great, and it got even better in the playoffs as he produced 26 points in 26 games to help lead Coachella to the finals in their inaugural season. Evans is a prospect on the rise and on the fast track to the NHL.

Axel Sandin-Pellikka, RD – Detroit Red Wings

ASP is a play-driving offensive defenseman with a high hockey sense that allows him to see plays two steps ahead. He is a strong skater, perhaps not a burner, but his edge work makes him very elusive. He has the ability to be a power play QB but with Seider and Edvinsson ahead of him on the depth chart, power play minutes may be hard to come by.

Goalies.

Devon Levi, Buffalo Sabres

The rise of Devon Levi has been spectacular. The seventh-round selection by the Florida Panthers has rocketed up the rankings by cracking the Canadian WJC roster, then winning the starting role. He dominated the NCAA winning the Mike Richter Award as Best Goalie in the NCAA twice. He made his NHL debut after his junior season and posted a 5-2-0 record with a 2.94 GAA and .905 SV%. Eric Comrie and Ukka-Pekka-Luukkonen are both under contract which should force Levi to the AHL as he is waiver exempt, but Levi could outplay them both and win the starting role out of camp. Buffalo is a team on the rise and Levi is on the cusp of becoming an elite goalie.

Jesper Wallstedt, Minnesota Wild

His first season in the AHL showed plenty of promise as he made the adjustment to North America. After a strong rookie season in Iowa with a 18-15-5 record, he closed the year at the World Championship with Sweden winning all three games with a 0.67 GAA against some of the lesser teams. With one more year remaining on M-A Fleury’s contract, Wallstedt likely has another year of AHL time before he is a full-time NHL goalie.

VANCOUVER, BC - SEPTEMBER 25: Calgary Flames goaltender Dustin Wolf (32) in net during their preseason NHL game against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena on September 25, 2022 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Photo by Derek Cain/Icon Sportswire)

Dustin Wolf, Calgary Flames

You could easily make the argument that Wolf is the number one on this list. The two-time AHL Goalie of the Year winner has been outstanding as a pro goalie. He lacks some international experience and has both Jacob Markstrom and Dan Vladar signed for two years ahead of him in Calgary, but his performance speaks for itself. The Flames can be patient with the 22-year-old future franchise goalie as he could be one of the teams’ all-time greats.

Yaroslav Askarov, Nashville Predators

Askarov has been an elite prospect for years now, but my concern with him has been the low volume of games he was playing in Russia. Last year he came to North America and played 48 games for Milwaukee in the AHL and was outstanding as the undisputed starting goalie. His adjustment to North America and a starting goalie workload erased any potential doubt he can and will be an NHL starting goalie. Look for Askarov to get a few more cups of coffee in the NHL this year and be a full time NHL player in 2024-25.

Joel Hofer, St. Louis Blues

Hofer has rather quietly assembled a remarkable resume which includes a WHL Championship, Gold Medals at the World Championship and World Junior where he was the Best Goaltender. In his two seasons of AHL development his record is 49-36-13 with a 2.78 GAA and .912 SV%. Hofer is penciled in to start the year in the NHL as the backup to an aging and declining Jordan Binnington. It is just a matter of time before Hofer usurps him as the starting goalie.

Drew Commesso, Chicago Blackhawks

Commesso showed good development in his three years as the Boston Terriers starting goalie in the NCAA and posted a strong 24-8-0 record in his final year. His path towards an NHL starting role looks promising as he should be the starting goalie as a rookie in the AHL with Rockford and the Hawks goalie depth is very weak outside Commesso and Arvid Soderblom.

Sebastian Cossa, Detroit Red Wings

The wait time on the Wings 2021 first round pick is a little longer. After a dominant career in the WHL, he spent the majority of his rookie season as a pro in the ECHL with Toledo where he got starting minutes. The 6’ 6” netminder will graduate to the AHL and will be mentored by veteran Alex Lyon.

Justus Annunen, Colorado Avalanche

The 6’ 4” Finnish goalie had strong numbers from the Liiga but stumbled in his rookie season in the AHL. He made adjustments in his sophomore season and saw marked improvements across the board. The 23-year-old will play his third season in the AHL and be the first option for an NHL recall if injuries require relief.

Lukas Dostal, Anaheim Ducks

This will be a key year for Dostal to establish himself as an NHL goalie. The Ducks likely go with a three-headed-monster in goal with John Gibson, Alex Stalock, and Dostal to allow Calle Clang to get the starting role in the AHL. Injuries will certainly force Gibson to miss some time and Dostal could seize the starting job in Anaheim sooner than later.

Daniil Tarasov, Columbus Blue Jackets

Tarasov has struggled with injuries since coming to North America but put 28 games on the board last year between the AHL and NHL. Both teams were bottom dwellers in the standings, so his numbers were not overly impressive. Tarasov will share the NHL crease this year with Elvis Merzlikins as his backup but could see a healthy number of starts if he plays well.

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #21 Toronto Maple Leafs

Josh Bell — Sun, 14 May 2023 15:03:49 +0000

Prospect System Ranking – 21^st (23^rd last year)

The Leafs finally made it out of the first round of the playoffs for the first time since 2004. GM Kyle Dubas found the right mix to beat Tampa Bay, only to fall to Florida in five games. A core built around the big four as they are known – John Tavares, Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander - drew criticism for their inability to rise to the occasion once more. Morgan Rielly on defense completes the group that Dubas has invested the hopes of the Leaf faithful since taking the reins in 2018. He dealt considerable draft capital over the years, keeping only two first round picks, Rasmus Sandin and Sean Durzi, now both traded away for veteran help. The team acquired Luke Schenn, Erik Gustafsson, Jake McCabe, Sam Lafferty, Ryan O’Reilly while moving out two firsts (recouping the Bruins first for Sandin), two seconds, and two thirds, and some spare parts. The shelf is bare heading into the draft. Dubas is without a contract and whether he remains in charge is the big offseason decision. Whether to break up the big four is a close second.

Despite the depletion of future assets, the team has seven players ranked within our top 200. Their top two prospects, Matthew Knies and Nick Robertson are on the verge of making the NHL and playing a key role. Topi Niemela should join them at some point in the next few seasons. They were all drafted in the second round in 2019, 2020, and 2021 respectively. Knies looked at home on the top line during the playoffs. Robertson has been on the verge of the NHL for the past two seasons and could join Knies in the top six in the near future. The Leafs have numerous UFA’s this season, and are always skating around the cap. Any addition of young legs on entry level contracts will help.

TORONTO, ON - APRIL 27: Toronto Maple Leafs Winger Matthew Knies (23) skates with the puck during the Round 1 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs Game 5 between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Toronto Maple Leafs on April 27, 2023, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, ON, Canada. (Photo by Julian Avram/Icon Sportswire)

Matthew Knies

After two seasons in the USHL with the Tri-City Storm, the Toronto Maple Leafs used the 57th selection in the 2021 NHL Draft on Matthew Knies. He then jumped up to the NCAA and the University of Minnesota became one of the biggest topics of conversation in the prospect world as he was a point-per-game player as a rookie. Team USA took notice, adding him to the roster for the Olympics and the World Juniors. He looked even better this season, being named the Big Ten Player of the Year and was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award. The Maple Leafs rewarded him with an entry-level contract and a call-up to the big club. He’s on his way to becoming a reliable, two-way, second-line winger thanks to his ability to steal pucks and break up passes or find open space in the offensive zone.

2. Nick Robertson

Ever since Nick Robertson was drafted 53rd overall in 2019, it seems as though he’s right on the edge of breaking into the NHL lineup full-time. In his DY+1, he had 55 goals in just 46 games with the Peterborough Petes, leading the OHL in goals and being named CHL Sportsman of the Year. The Maple Leafs called him up for the playoffs, to end the year, and he looked poised to stick. But ever since, a myriad of injuries has plagued him and he has three-straight seasons of numerous injuries while bouncing between the AHL and NHL. He’s too good for the AHL but can’t seem to stick in the NHL just yet. When he’s healthy, he’s a highly energetic forward with an excellent shot. He’s extremely hard on pucks and seems to always be in the mix. He has the potential to join Knies in the Maple Leafs' top six as a focus of the team’s offense.

3. Topi Niemela

Drafted 64th overall in 2020, Topi Niemela was coming off his rookie season in the Liiga, showing off his skill in the best league in Finland. He returned the following season, the shortened campaign due to the pandemic, but truly shined at the 2021 World Juniors, where he led all defenders in goals (two), assists (six), and points (eight) en route to a bronze medal and being named Best Defenseman in the tournament. He was back with Karpat in 2021-22, taking a big step forward while once again standing out at the World Juniors. This season, he seemed to stall a bit in his offensive output in the Liiga, however, he’s still impacting the game in nearly every other way. That was enough for the Maple Leafs, who brought him overseas to the AHL. An intelligent, calm, mobile defender that moves the puck very well and rarely makes a mistake, he’s well on his way to becoming a middle-paring defender.

4. Ty Voit

Despite losing his entire draft year to the pandemic and the OHL-cancelled season, the Maple Leafs bet on what they had already seen in Ty Voit’s rookie season, drafting him 153rd overall in the 2021 NHL Draft. He responded with an 80-point season and then a 105-point season, including leading the league in assists (81) in what could be the end of his OHL career. He’s an excellent playmaker with great vision and is very light on the ice. There is some worry about his 5-foot-9, 150-pound frame and how that will translate to the NHL, but he’ll have some time in the AHL to get comfortable in a more physical league. There’s also some worry about his defensive effort that the AHL coaching staff will need to work on. He has the skill to be a top six forward, but his shortcomings do bring some questions as to whether or not he’ll reach that.

5. Fraser Minten

A recent addition to the Maple Leafs’ system, Fraser Minten was drafted 38th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft after taking a big step forward in his development with the Kamloops Blazers in the WHL. He was even better this season as the alternate captain, playing over a point per game and catching the eye of scouts. He’s a two-way presence that plays such a smart game. Combined with some underrated skill, he’s an exciting asset in the system. He’s well-rounded and likely won’t be an overly offensive player at the next level, but will be a reliable, dependable piece that would be trusted in big moments with the game on the like. His game is already close to being pro-ready and he likely could make the jump if the Maple Leafs decide he’s ready. At this point, he’s on his way to becoming an excellent 3C who could move up and see time on the penalty kill.

6. Roni Hirvonen

The Maple Leafs selected Roni Hirvonen out of the Liiga in the 2020 NHL Draft, 59th overall. He was coming off of his rookie season with Assat, seeming to adjust well from the junior ranks. He’s spent every season since in the Liiga, moving to HIFK for the past two seasons and being a productive presence. He’s also helped Team Finland to a bronze and a silver medal, serving as the captain in the 2022 edition. He’s a hard-working centreman that fights hard to ensure that his team has the puck, consistently jumping into the dirty areas and often winning puck battles. He’s reliable defensively and has a nice level of skill to complement the rest of his game. This skill is especially evident in his quick hands and light feet. He’s another piece that seems like he will translate very easily into a bottom six role.

7. Nick Abruzzese

After a season where he led the USHL in assists (51) and points (80), the Maple Leafs drafted Nick Abruzzese 124th overall in the 2019 NHL Draft. After his breakout season in the USHL, he took the next step, joining Harvard University in the NCAA. He took another massive step forward here as a rookie, being named Ivy-League Rookie of the Year among a large series of other accolades. After losing his 2020-21 season to the pandemic, he returned for one final year as the captain, not matching his 2019-20 output but still layering over a point per game. He finished the season with an appearance on Team USA at the Olympics and an NHL contract, playing nine games with the Maple Leafs. He’s spent this season with the Toronto Marlies, as one of the team’s most productive players. He’s well on his way to becoming an intelligent, productive bottom nine forward.

8. Nikita Grebenkin

A mid-round pick in the most recent draft, Nikita Grebyonkin was selected 135th overall in 2022. He was the alternate captain for Stalnye Lisy Magnitogorsk in the MHL, where he had a strong sophomore season, taking a noticeable step forward. This season, he took a big step in the right direction, making the jump to the KHL on loan to Amur Khabarovsk. He led all rookies in points with 26 in 45 games. The winger is a strong playmaker who does have the ability to finish as well, although that may be dampened in the NHL. He protects the puck well and has strong awareness in the offensive zone. His skating has been a concern, but nothing that can’t be addressed in development, and his effort in the defensive zone isn’t consistent. He’s a bit of a project and will take some time but could become an intriguing depth option.

9. Joseph Woll

As with many netminders, it’s been a long road for Joseph Woll - but it looks like it’s paid off. The goaltender was drafted back in 2016, 62nd overall by the Maple Leafs and the team has been patient with him. Woll was drafted out of the USNTDP and jumped to the NCAA’s Boston College after. He was a fixture on the Team USA junior team, playing in the Under 17s, Under 18s, and the World Juniors twice - winning medals in every event. He had a strong career in Boston, maintaining great numbers. He jumped to the AHL in 2019-20 and while he struggled out of the gate and suffered through some injuries, his 2022-23 season was a coming-out party, playing dominantly in the AHL and getting regular call-ups to the NHL. He’s a calm, intelligent goaltender who plays an excellent technical game. He looks ready to make the jump and stick in the NHL.

10. Rodion Amirov

There’s a ton of uncertainty around Rodion Amirov, likely their top prospect, who was unfortunately diagnosed with a brain tumour in February 2022. He hasn’t played since but of course, at this point, his health is more important than anything. He was in Toronto continuing to train but ended up going back to Russia to undergo additional treatments. Amirov was drafted 15th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, likely too low for the highly skilled forward. He’s incredibly intelligent, rarely making a mistake on the ice. He moves very well, and his offensive potential is very high. He’s solid in his own end as well though. Amirov has all the makings of a top six winger. He was playing in his second season in the KHL when he was diagnosed, getting more and more comfortable playing against men. Again, his health is the priority here and discussions about his hockey future come second.

CULLEN: 20 FANTASY POINTS – Young Players Making a Mark, Significant Injuries and Impact

Scott Cullen — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 14:29:42 +0000

20 FANTASY POINTS

Each week I dive into the numbers and offer some insights that should help when it comes time to make fantasy hockey decisions.

Although it is still quite early in the NHL season, there have been some developments worth tracking for fantasy managers. Nick Robertson, Cole Caufield, and Gabriel Vilardi are young players making a mark while Aaron Ekblad, Gabriel Landeskog, and Jakub Vrana are all going to miss significant time.

TORONTO, ON - APRIL 26: Toronto Maple Leafs Left Wing Nicholas Robertson (89) in action during the regular season NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs on April 26, 2022 at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, ON.(Photo by Gerry Angus/Icon Sportswire)

#1 At the start of the season, the Toronto Maple Leafs demoted winger Nick Robertson to the American Hockey League, likely a victim of a salary cap crunch. The 2019 second-round pick has had some injuries, but he has also contributed 46 points (22 G, 24 A) in 51 AHL games, a strong indication that he should be able to produce in the NHL. Prior to this season, Robertson had a few stints with the Maple Leafs and had managed just one goal and one assist in 16 games, playing less than 10 minutes per game. That was his background before making his season debut for the Leafs against Dallas on Thursday night. Robertson skated on a line with John Tavares and William Nylander and scored a pair of goals, including the winner in overtime. He has a rocket shot and his speed stands out in the Maple Leafs lineup, so there is a real opportunity for Robertson to stick in a scoring role.

#2 Montreal Canadiens winger Cole Caufield has been a different player since Martin St. Louis took over behind the Habs bench last season. In 42 games since St. Louis was hired, Caufield has scored 40 points (26 G, 14 A), finishing at better than a 50-goal pace over 82 games. One reason to be particularly encouraged about Caufield’s play this season is that he has recorded 20 shots on goal in five games and averaging 4.0 shots per game is a significant jump (in a small sample) from the 3.1 per game that he averaged even with St. Louis as head coach last season.

#3 The Philadelphia Flyers have been an early surprise, thanks in large part to goaltender Carter Hart, who has a .943 save percentage in three starts. Hart entered the league with significant hype and provided better than average results for his first couple of seasons before things went sideways the past couple of years. He may not have great support in front of him this season, but there is still a chance for Hart to fulfill his vast potential.

#4 The Florida Panthers were dealt potentially devastating news when Aaron Ekblad landed on long-term injured reserve with a groin injury. The Panthers insist that it is not a season-ending injury but for a team that traded MacKenzie Weegar to Calgary in the offseason, losing Ekblad for months is going to test Florida’s blueline talent. Gustav Forsling, who has four points (1 G, 3 A) and 15 shots on goal in four games this season, is likely to become the prime offensive threat on the Panthers blueline, followed by Brandon Montour, who is dealing with his own upper-body injury right now.

#5 Detroit Red Wings left winger Jakub Vrana has entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. Any time a player goes into this program, the well-being of the player takes precedence over any potential timeline for return, so his absence must be considered indefinite. Vrana being out does figure to create an opportunity for Filip Zadina, the 22-year-old winger who has already been a healthy scratch early in the season. Zadina has produced 61 points (25 G, 36 A) in 161 career games, underwhelming numbers from the sixth pick in the 2018 Draft.

#6 It was already understood that Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog would not be ready for the start of the season but now word has come that he will be out for three months following knee surgery. That long-term absence is going to test Colorado’s forwards. Valeri Nichushkin is a prime candidate to step up in Landeskog’s absence. Nichushkin had a breakthrough season for the Avs in 2021-2022, scoring 52 points (25 G, 27 A) in 62 games and adding 15 points (9 G, 6 A) in 20 playoff contests. He has carried that into this season, putting up eight points (5 G, 3 A) with 15 shots on goal in the first four games.

#7 The 11^th pick in the 2017 Draft, Los Angeles Kings forward Gabriel Vilardi was supposed to be a playmaking center that would complement Anze Kopitar down the middle of the ice. Injuries sidetracked his career and there were probably some doubts about whether he was going to be a productive NHLer. Vilardi has found early success playing the wing this season, scoring seven points (4 G, 3 A) with 14 shots on goal in six games. He has struggled to generate shots consistently in previous turns with the Kings, so that is a stat worth monitoring to see if his early scoring might continue.

#8 Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin had a breakthrough season in 2021-2022, scoring a career-high 53 points (15 G, 38 A) and that might just be scratching the surface of his vast potential. The first pick in the 2018 Draft, Dahlin has started this season with six points (4 G, 2 A) and 16 shots on goal in four games. He will not continue to score at a goal-per-game pace but generating four shots on goal per game is encouraging for Dahlin’s long-term scoring potential. Some players need to be turned loose to bring out their best and Dahlin appears to be one of those players.

#9 After notching a hat trick against the Edmonton Oilers Thursday, Carolina Hurricanes winger Andrei Svechnikov is now tied for the goal-scoring lead, with six. Svechnikov also has 18 shots on goal in four games and putting up 4.5 shots per game would likely lead to the best goal-scoring output of his career. He scored a career high 30 goals last season when he averaged 3.2 shots on goal per game.

#10 Aside from changing their head coach, the Philadelphia Flyers did little to improve their team in the offseason, which meant that expectations were going to be higher for some players already on the roster. Travis Konecny might have been the poster boy for a skilled player from whom the Flyers needed more production, and he has responded early in this season. Through four games, Konecny is averaging more than 20 minutes of ice time per game and has six points (4 G, 2 A) and 15 shots on goal.

#11 It might be a good time to buy low on San Jose Sharks winger Timo Meier, who has no goals and two assists through six games. Meier also has launched 26 shots on goal, the most among skaters that have yet to record a goal this season. Los Angeles Kings winger Trevor Moore and Columbus Blue Jackets center Boone Jenner, with 20 shots, are next in line among forwards still seeking their first goal of the season.

#12 25-year-old Boston Bruins left winger A.J. Greer has struggled to earn a regular spot in the league since he was a second-round pick of the Colorado Avalanche in 2015. He is getting a chance to play with Boston this season and has five points (3 G, 2 A) and nine shots on goal in five games despite playing 10 minutes per game for the Bruins, ranking ahead of only Trent Frederic among Bruins skaters to appear in more than one game. Greer is not yet fantasy relevant but is worth watching to see if he can turn this into a longer stay in the National Hockey League.

#13 Although this season figures to be a painful one for the Arizona Coyotes, veteran defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere is getting ample opportunity to showcase his offensive skills. In four games, Gostisbehere has five points (2 G, 3 A) and 14 shots on goal. He is already minus-6 in four games, so he could be unplayable in leagues that count plus-minus but otherwise he ought to be a productive defenseman, even on a bad team.

#14 As the Florida Panthers remodeled their lineup in the offseason, it was easy enough to overlook their signing of Colin White, the 25-year-old who had his contract bought out by the Ottawa Senators. White is playing less than 12 minutes per game, almost exclusively with Anton Lundell and Eetu Luostarinen, but has contributed four points (2 G, 2 A) and six shots on goal in four games. Early production could give White a shot at moving up the Florida depth chart.

#15 The early leader in the rookie scoring race is Minnesota Wild defenseman Calen Addison, who has six assists in four games. A second-round pick of the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2018, Addison was acquired in the deal that sent winger Jason Zucker to the Penguins. Addison had 58 points (13 G, 45 A) in 77 AHL games and four points in 18 games with the Wild prior to this season. When the Wild traded veteran Dmitry Kulikov to Anaheim in the offseason, that opened the door for Addison to stick in the NHL.

#16 Injuries tend to hamper Seattle Kraken left winger Jaden Schwartz, but he remains a productive player when heathy. He has three points (2 G, 1 A) and 16 shots on goal through five games this season and is a consistent play-driver. So long as he can stay healthy, Schwartz should have some fantasy appeal.

#17 Coming into the season, the Boston Bruins looked like they would have a strong tandem in goal with Linus Ullmark and Jeremy Swayman. Ullmark has lived up to his end of the deal, posting a .938 save percentage in four games. Swayman has only played two games, but he has stopped just 40 of 49 shots in those two games, which is a .816 save percentage. Given those numbers, Ullmark would appear to have an early edge if the Bruins are going to lean towards the goaltender that is playing at a higher level.

#18 It is very early and even the best goalies can have down seasons, to say nothing of a few bad starts, but there are some goaltenders falling way short of their high expectations in the first few weeks of this season. Marc-Andre Fleury has a .813 save percentage, Thatcher Demko is at .861, Jacob Markstrom at .862, and Jack Campbell at .874. For fantasy managers, there is not much to be done with these goaltenders except to wait for better results because there is no value to be had in selling low at such an early stage of the season, especially on goaltenders that are going to hold No. 1 jobs.

#19 New York Islanders right winger Oliver Wahlstrom is still playing just 12 minutes per game, but the 11^th pick in the 2018 Draft has shown that he can put the puck in the net. In three games this season, he has four points (3 G, 1 A) and nine shots on goal. He is not going to keep scoring on one-third of his shots, but it would not be unreasonable to think that Wahlstrom is going to force his way into more playing time as the season goes along.

#20 Among players that have played at least 50 minutes this season, the leader in all-situations individual expected goals per 60 minutes is New Jersey Devils center Nico Hischier at 2.71, ahead of Matthew Tkachuk (2.39), Mika Zibanejad (2.29), Erik Haula (2.17), and Andrei Kuzmenko (2.17).

*Advanced stats via Natural Stat Trick.

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS – Top 20 Prospects

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 21:42:46 +0000

1 - Nick Robertson LW

Robertson, the 53^rd selection in the 2019 draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs, has landed all over the place on prospect rankings the past couple of seasons. Robertson exploded in his DY-1 season, netting 55 goals and 86 points in 46 OHL games, skyrocketing his value as a prospect. Since then, Robertson has transitioned over to the AHL where he continues to look like a promising prospect when healthy. Unfortunately, he has not been able to stay healthy throughout a full season. In his draft year, he was dealing with wrist and rib injuries, followed by knee injury in the 2020-21 season and lastly the fibula injury he suffered this season. When healthy, Robertson has shown his skill, producing a point per game last season, including 16 goals in 28 games. Robertson is best known for his goal scoring ability, whether at the OHL or AHL level. He has a lethal curl and drag release which he uses to beat goalies. On top of his goal scoring ability, he is tenacious, which is seen in his puck battles and forechecking ability. He has also improved his vision over the past couple of years, opening up his game from only being a one-dimensional scorer to the added threat of being able to set up his linemates. Robertson is coming into training camp this year fighting for a top-nine left wing role for the Maple Leafs and should receive the opportunity if he stays healthy. - ZS

2 - Matthew Knies LW

While it took him until late in the second round of the 2021 NHL draft to hear his name called, Matthew Knies didn’t hesitate in his rise through the Toronto Maple Leafs’ top prospect rankings. Knies had a solid draft year in the USHL but didn’t really garner top prospect consideration until this past season, his freshman year at the University of Minnesota. As a Gopher, he excelled. He quickly became an impact player on a Minnesota team filled with quality prospects, and his strong play earned him looks with USA Hockey’s World Juniors squad and their team for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. Knies’ profile as a prospect is a well-balanced mix of throwback power forward style with modern habits and a modern toolbox. Knies’ ever-active motor means he’s always making his presence felt on the ice. He’s physical, highly aggressive, and never one to back down from the dirty areas of the ice. Knies has a great feel for the offensive side of the game and his hands are sneakily good. While his game is built on aggression, he knows when he needs to slow things down and play with the type of finesse and deception required to fool talented NCAA defenders. His physical tools and overall versatility provide safety to his projection, and his intriguing combination of size and skill informs much of its upside. If Knies can learn to round out his game and adjust to the challenges of scoring as a pro player, he can become a valuable top-six winger at the NHL level. - Ethan Hetu

3 - Topi Niemela D

A 3^rd round pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2020, going just five picks after Toronto selected fellow Finn Roni Hirvonen, Niemelä is one of the top defensive prospects outside the NHL. While his slight build has long been a concern, Niemelä is so solid in his stickhandling, passing, shooting, and overall puck-management game that size looks like it won’t play a role in his career. Very shifty and adept at avoiding contact while prancing about on the ice, his skating gives him extra opportunities in seeking out defense-splitting passes through the neutral zone or new avenues in getting pucks to the goal from the blueline. Highly adept at faking a slapshot only to hit a teammate perfectly for a one-timer, Niemelä has been a WJC star for two straight tournaments, earning a bronze and a silver in the process. He finished seventh in defenseman scoring in Liiga play last season thanks to a blistering start with 22 points in his first 25 games. A machine in transition and a wizard on the opposition blueline, Niemelä has signed his ELC and is scheduled to play on loan with his hometown Kärpät this season. Although Toronto has plenty of options on the blueline and a number of cap-related issues to tend to, Niemelä is a player they are very much looking forward to bringing into the fold. – CL

4 - Rodion Amirov LW

Rodion Amirov was selected 15th overall by Toronto Maple Leafs in 2020 and had been active at the highest level for the past few seasons with the Salavat Yulayev Ufa team (KHL). Unfortunately, Amirov was diagnosed with brain cancer in February 2022. It stopped him from finishing his last hockey season. However, his treatment in Germany went well and he is back in Russia with a chance at playing this year. Amirov is an intelligent and quick-moving forward who works well in all three zones. He is great on both the backcheck and forecheck. He never gives up on a play and his competitiveness is one of the keys to his success on the ice. A strong skater, Amirov can also push the pace of attack and will look to beat defenders one on one as he drives the net. The full extent of his offensive potential remains a bit of an unknown, however he has the athletic and physical tools to be a high impact player. The wildcard is his health. Recovery is priority number one. If Amirov can get in some games this season in Russia, he should make the jump to North America the following season, given that he is already under contract with the Maple Leafs. - DB

5 - Roni Hirvonen C

Drafted 59th overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2020, the 5’9”, 172-pound Hirvonen makes up with skill and heart what he lacks in size. Serving as Finland’s captain at the 2022 WJC, he collected seven points in as many games, helping to guide his team to within inches of a gold medal. Alas, he could only add a silver to the bronze he collected at the 2021 tournament. Calm, collected, and constantly ready to seek a creative route to buy his team more time, Hirvonen isn’t afraid to sacrifice himself to make a play. The WJC performance topped yet another productive season of improvement. After a strong year of Liiga play for Ässat in 20-21, he upped the ante for his new club HIFK, with five more points despite playing eight fewer games, before an even more productive postseason run. A hard worker who takes his defensive duties seriously, Hirvonen has signed his ELC and is scheduled to be loaned back to HIFK where he is all but guaranteed a top six role. With a large entourage of forward prospects in their system, Toronto can provide Hirvonen with all the time he needs although continued progress this season in Finland will almost assuredly see him come to North America for the 23-24 season. - CL

6 - Pontus Holmberg C

Holmberg was selected 156^th overall in the 2018 NHL draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs and has exceeded expectations with his play in the SHL over the past couple seasons. He is a gifted playmaker who combines that ability with strong skating and good offensive awareness to set up his teammates. When Holmberg has the puck, he does not try to overcomplicate things, rather he opts for the simple plays to advance the puck. His awareness and above average skating help him complete many of his transitions, whether it is through a pass or by carrying the puck himself. Since Holmberg was drafted by the Leafs in 2018, he has played almost exclusively in the SHL, improving his point totals each year. In the 2020-21 season, he produced 23 points in 45 games before leading the playoffs in points with 14 in 14 games, helping his Växjö Lakers to earn the SHL championship. Holmberg carried that success into this past season, which he finished with 41 points in 46 games. After his SHL season was over, he came over to North America to play for Toronto’s AHL team, the Marlies, putting up 4 points in 6 games. This upcoming season, Holmberg is expected to have a prominent role with the Marlies and will be a name to watch if the Leafs forward group deals with injuries. The Leafs have had plenty of success in turning late round picks into valuable depth including the likes of Pierre Engvall and Andreas Johnsson. There is no reason why Holmberg can’t follow in their footsteps. - ZS

7 - Nick Abruzzese C

Abruzzese was passed over twice in the draft (2017, 2018) before being selected 124^th by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2019. He turned heads in 2019, producing 80 points in 62 games for the Chicago Steel in the USHL, but it wasn’t until his first season with Harvard that fans truly started to remember his name. As a freshman, Abruzzese finished in the top 5 in scoring in all of the NCAA and took home a bunch of honors, including the NCAA Rookie of the Year award. Since his breakout campaign, he has dealt with a hip injury as well as losing his entire sophomore season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. When play resumed, Abruzzese continued to show his line-driving playmaking game, producing 24 assists in 28 games, while playing in the Olympics for Team USA and earning an NHL contract, which allowed him to participate in 9 games for the Leafs. Abruzzese’s game truly excels when he is able to slow the game down. He has a strong ability to scan the ice and quickly problem solve using his slick and elusive hands. He needs to work on improving his explosiveness in his skating if he hopes to gain a role in the middle-six in the NHL. Abruzzese hopes to fight for a bottom-six role this year, however, is more likely to end up in a top-six role with the AHL Marlies. When injuries do occur, he is expected to be one of the names the Maple Leafs will call on to fill a depth role throughout the year. - ZS

8 - Fraser Minten C

Trading out of the first round in order to jettison the contract of Petr Mrazek, the Leafs used their early second round selection to take Minten, a competitive two-way center with Kamloops of the WHL. While our Western scouting team was only lukewarm on Minten heading into the draft, there is a safe projection for him as a pro player. He has good size. He is already a decent skater with the chance to become an above average one. He has strong two-way instincts and projects as someone who is tough to play against and who can play a shutdown role. The key will be the development of his offensive skills, in particular his play with the puck. Can Minten develop into a high-end playmaker who can make plays with pace? That remains to be seen. Best case scenario, Minten grows into a quality middle six center who can play in all situations. Worst case scenario, he likely ends up as a fourth line pivot and penalty killing specialist. He will return to Kamloops this season and the hope is that he can cross the point per game plateau while becoming a more consistent offensive threat. - BO

9 - Ty Voit C

The 153rd overall selection in the 2021 NHL Draft, Ty Voit looks like great mid-round pick for the Leafs after having a breakout year for on the Sting. Voit had a good rookie season, finishing with 28 points (8G,20A) in 49 games. Unfortunately for Voit, he was forced to miss the 2020-2021 season due to Covid-19. During the 2021-2022 season, Voit was a standout player for the Sting, finishing the year with 80 points (26G,54A) in 67 games, which was 19th in the league for points, 10th in the league for assists and 1st on the team for assists and points. Voit’s best assets are his playmaking and hockey sense. He has the ability to anticipate plays and see passing lanes before they open, making high-danger scoring chances consistently. He can drive play well, but isn’t selfish with the puck, always knowing where his teammates are and being able to execute the perfect pass-through traffic when needed. He’s a threat with the puck and is hard to contain because he’s so shifty and uses deception and his quick hands to beat opponents to get into the slot. Going into the 2022-2023 season, Voit will once again be looked to be a leader both on and off the ice for the Sting. His offensive talent is undeniable, but he also showed strong defensive play as well, which he will look to continue to grow and improve. You could also expect an increase in points. - DK

10 - Alex Steeves C

Steeves went undrafted through his entire period of eligibility for the NHL draft. After a dominant season at the University of Notre Dame in 2020-21, where he produced 32 points in 29 games, he was awarded an entry-level contract by the Toronto Maple Leafs. Steeves wasted no time showing how he can be valuable to the Maple Leafs in the future by finishing third in scoring on the Marlies this past season with 46 points in 58 games. His play with the Marlies earned him a brief opportunity with the Maple Leafs, where he played bottom-six minutes and was able to produce his first NHL point in three games. Steeves has a combination of slick hands while transitioning the puck and a smooth but not overpowering skating stride. He pairs that with a quick pull and drag move to create scoring chances and rebounds for his teammates. While the Maple Leafs forward depth is extensive, it is pretty clear that Steeves will get an opportunity in training camp to earn a bottom-six role with the NHL club. More likely though, he will begin the season in a top-six role for the Marlies again, looking to replicate the strong season he had last year. With the strong possibility of injuries occurring, it may not be long until we see Steeves earn a role with the Maple Leafs and make a more significant impact in the NHL. - ZS

11 - Brandon Lisowsky

A favourite of our Western scouting team, Lisowsky was someone we had ranked much higher heading into the 2022 Draft. He may lack ideal size, but he is ultra quick and has a terrific shot. Improving his consistency and strength will be the key.

12 - Nicholas Moldenhauer

Moldenhauer’s draft season was slowed by injury, but he finished the year strong. He is a very versatile player because of his quickness, tenacity, and skill. It looks like he will play another year with Chicago of the USHL before deciding on an NCAA program to attend. The OHL remains an option too.

13 - Ryan Tverberg

Tverberg was outstanding for UConn as a sophomore last season, emerging as a top scoring threat. He likely settles in as more of a high energy, penalty killing forward at the pro level, but the offensive improvements are encouraging.

14 - Mikhail Abramov

The skilled playmaking center was predictably average in his first pro season with the Marlies. There were bound to be growing pains as he lacked the strength to likely be a difference maker in the AHL. Hopefully gains made to his conditioning and quickness can help him be better in his second year.

15 - Semyon Der-Arguchintsev

SDA is like a further along in development Abramov. Also, a skilled passer, his vision with the puck is his best quality. He too, needs to focus on getting quicker and stronger to become a more consistent offensive threat.

16 - Veeti Miettinen

A speedy offensive winger, Miettinen’s creativity with the puck gives him significant offensive potential. However, he’s been only average with St. Cloud State. His play away from the puck and his strength on it need to improve.

17 - Dmitri Ovchinnikov

After signing the speedy, skilled forward to an ELC this year, the team has agreed to loan him back to the KHL for another year. He will hopefully become a regular with Sibir Novosibirsk before playing with the Marlies the following season.

18 - Erik Kallgren

The former Arizona Coyotes farm hand was thrust into NHL action with Toronto this past season; a second attempt to make it in the North American pro loop. Kallgren was solid enough to show NHL potential and will be in the mix as an injury replacement again this year.

19 - Mikko Kokkonen

There is some concern that the former third round selection’s development has stagnated. A mobile and intelligent puck mover, it is important to get him back playing with the Marlies this season full time to truly assess where he is at.

20 - William Villeneuve

The big right shot defender was a Memorial Cup champion this year with Saint John, and an offensive standout, yet again, in the QMJHL. There are still concerns about his mobility and his projection, but the Leafs should have a better indication of his potential after his first pro season ends this year.

Nick Robertson – McKeen's Hockey

NHL: CULLEN – 20 FANTASY POINTS – Michkov flying high, Jenner returns, Byfield is creating, Guenther is sniping, and much more!

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS – Team Preview

Forwards

DEFENCE

GOAL

NHL: DADOUN – THE FANTASY WEEK AHEAD (March 18th to 24th) – Detroit in late season collapse, need to turn it around fast – Favourable schedules and players to target

Carolina Hurricanes – TUE @ NYI, THU VS PHI, FRI @ WAS (BTB), SUN VS TOR

Dallas Stars – WED VS ARI, FRI VS PIT, SUN @ ARI

Edmonton Oilers – TUE VS MTL, THU VS BUF, SAT @ TOR, SUN @ OTT (BTB)

New Jersey Devils – TUE VS PIT, THU VS WPG, SAT VS OTT, SUN @ NYI (BTB)

Tampa Bay Lightning – TUE @ VGK, THU @ SJS, SAT @ LAK, SUN @ ANA (BTB)

Toronto Maple Leafs – TUE @ PHI, WED @ WAS, SAT VS EDM, SUN @ CAR

Winnipeg Jets – TUE @ NYR, THU @ NJD, SAT @ NYI, SUN @ WAS (BTB)

NHL: DADOUN – THE FANTASY WEEK AHEAD – Trade season gets underway with some big names moving – Some teams and players to target in an uneven week

Boston Bruins – TUE VS CGY, THU VS VAN, SAT VS WAS

Colorado Avalanche – MON @ NYR, TUE @ NJD (BTB), THU @ CAR, SAT @ FLA

Dallas Stars – TUE @ BUF, WED @ TOR (BTB), SAT @ MTL

Florida Panthers – TUE VS PHI, THU VS WAS, SAT VS COL

Toronto Maple Leafs – MON VS NYI, WED VS DAL, SAT @ OTT

Vancouver Canucks – TUE @ CAR, THU @ BOS, SAT @ DET, SUN @ WAS

Washington Capitals – TUE VS MTL, THU @ FLA, SAT @ BOS, SUN VS VAN

FANTASY: CULLEN – 20 FANTASY POINTS – Farabee stepping up for Flyers – Injuries open door to opportunity – Goalies bouncing back – Early-season underachievers that might offer potential buy-low value + much more

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #24

Top 20 Toronto Maple Leaf Prospects

1. Matthew Knies

2. Nick Robertson

3. Topi Niemela

4. Easton Cowan

5. Ty Voit

6. Fraser Minten

7. Roni Hirvonen

8. Nick Abruzzese

9. Nikita Greybonkin

10. Joseph Woll

11. Nick Moldenhauer

12. Dennis Hildeby

13. Ryan Tverberg

14. Alex Steeves

15. Artur Akhtiamov

16. Mikko Kokkonen

17. William Villeneuve

18. Vyacheslav Peksa

19. Mike Koster

20. Brandon Lisowsky

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK: FANTASY PROSPECT RANKINGS – Top 30 Forwards – Top 20 Defense – top 10 Goalies

Forwards

Connor Bedard, C – Chicago Blackhawks

Logan Cooley, C – Arizona Coyotes

Matvei Michkov, RW – Philadelphia Flyers

Marco Rossi, C – Minnesota Wild

Leo Carlsson, C – Anaheim Ducks

Lukas Reichel, LW/RW – Chicago Blackhawks

Shane Wright, C – Seattle Kraken

Dylan Guenther, LW/RW – Arizona Coyotes

Logan Stankoven, C – Dallas Stars

Jakob Pelletier, LW – Calgary Flames

Ryan Leonard, C/LW – Washington Capitals

William Eklund, LW – San Jose Sharks

Frank Nazar, C/RW – Chicago Blackhawks

Jimmy Snuggerud, C – St. Louis Blues

Zach Benson, RW – Buffalo Sabres

Cutter Gauthier, C/LW – Philadelphia Flyers

Matt Coronato, RW/LW – Calgary Flames

Alexander Holtz, LW – New Jersey Devils

Mavrik Bourque, C – Dallas Stars

Brennan Othmann, LW – New York Rangers

Will Smith, C – San Jose Sharks

Jiri Kulich, C – Buffalo Sabres

Tyson Foerster, RW – Philadelphia Flyers

Luke Evangelista, RW – Nashville Predators

Ridly Greig, C/LW – Ottawa Senators

Matthew Savoie, C – Buffalo Sabres

Nick Robertson, LW – Toronto Maple Leafs

Luke Hughes, LD – New Jersey Devils

Brandt Clarke, RD – Los Angeles Kings

Lane Hutson, LD – Montreal Canadiens

David Jiricek, RD – Columbus Blue Jackets

Simon Nemec, RD – New Jersey Devils

Olen Zellweger, LD – Anaheim Ducks