Adding Ryan Hartman can do the trick

Introducing Frozen Frenzy, a whirlwind of hockey action that took place on Tuesday night with 16 games in total. With so many games to choose from, it was a challenge for fans to find enough screens to watch all of them. (Although for those who prefer the old-fashioned channel-changing option, there was a broadcast that moved around the arenas throughout the evening.)

Fantasy hockey can be overwhelming as well, with countless player options to consider. The key is to prioritize the categories you want to improve and then explore other areas of concern. To assist you in your search, here is a condensed list of underrated fantasy NHL players to consider. (All rostered rates are accurate as of Oct. 27)

Forwards:

1. Ryan Hartman, Minnesota Wild (Yahoo: 46%)
There’s a good chance Hartman may no longer be available in your league by the time you read this. After a slow offensive start, he exploded for five points, including a hat trick, in one game. He plays between Kirill Kaprizov and Mats Zuccarello at five-on-five, making him a valuable asset.

2. Adam Fantilli, Columbus Blue Jackets (Yahoo: 33%)
Fantilli has shown immense talent and potential. He dominated the USHL and won multiple awards in college. Although he hasn’t immediately produced, he has been picking up momentum with two goals, an assist, and 10 shots in his last three games. As his opportunities increase, so will his stock.

3. Dylan Strome, Washington Capitals (Yahoo: 27%)
Strome has taken over the top center spot for the Capitals and has already scored four goals, with two of them assisted by the team’s captain. He is a regular on the top power play and has contributed significantly with 13 shots and 39 faceoff wins.

4. William Karlsson, Vegas Golden Knights (Yahoo: 27%)
Karlsson is a consistent scorer who often goes underappreciated in fantasy hockey. He plays a crucial role for the Golden Knights and is tied for second in team scoring with seven points, despite being the third center at even-strength and on the power play.

5. Casey Mittelstadt, Buffalo Sabres (Yahoo: 19%)
After struggling with injuries and underperforming in previous seasons, Mittelstadt has finally found his groove. He has formed a successful line with Jeff Skinner and Alex Tuch, contributing to four of Buffalo’s last seven five-on-five goals. If this continues, Mittelstadt will be a valuable asset to have on your roster.

6. Trevor Moore, Los Angeles Kings (Yahoo: 11%)
Moore often gets overlooked due to his bottom-six placement, but he has been productive for the Kings. He has already tallied five goals, an assist, and 16 shots while playing on the third line and backup power play. Moore has also developed great chemistry with Phillip Danault and contributes across both special teams units.

7. Matias Maccelli, Arizona Coyotes (Yahoo: 5%)
Maccelli had an impressive rookie season, finishing fourth in Calder Trophy voting. Although he started slowly this season, he has recently picked up the pace with four assists in his last three games, including three on the power play. While he may not excel in other categories, his role on the power play makes him a valuable rising player.

8. Gustav Nyquist, Nashville Predators (Yahoo: 3%)
At 34 years old and on his fifth team, Nyquist may not reach his previous 50-point seasons, but he has been performing well for the Predators. Despite their young forward group, Nyquist has contributed with three power play assists and has also provided 15 shots, nine hits, and four blocks.

Defensemen:

1. Filip Hronek, Vancouver Canucks (Yahoo: 46%)
Hronek has been a reliable defenseman throughout his career and has seen an increase in ice time since joining the Canucks. He has four assists, 12 shots, 10 blocks, five hits, and six penalty minutes this season. Although he has a secondary power-play role, his partnership with Quinn Hughes at even strength boosts his offensive potential.

2. Neal Pionk, Winnipeg Jets (Yahoo: 28%)
Pionk may have lost some offensive opportunities with Josh Morrissey taking the lead role on the Jets’ defense, but he has consistently produced at least 32 points in recent seasons. He has contributed three assists and has shown his physicality with hits and blocks. While he may not generate many shots, his overall performance and track record make him worth considering.

3. Travis Sanheim, Philadelphia Flyers (Yahoo: 24%)
Sanheim shares similarities with Hronek in terms of offensive potential, but he plays a larger role on the power play. With a goal, seven assists, 16 shots, and 13 blocks, Sanheim has excelled this season while averaging over 26 minutes of ice time per game. Despite his contributions, he remains undervalued compared to other fantasy defensemen.

4. Juuso Valimaki, Arizona Coyotes (Yahoo: 5%)
Valimaki’s impressive 34-point season from last year has gone somewhat unnoticed due to recent acquisitions by the Coyotes. Despite limited ice time, he has three power-play assists and remains a key part of the team’s plans. While he may not excel in other categories, his offensive contributions make him a valuable option.

Goaltenders:

1. Petr Mrazek, Chicago Blackhawks (Yahoo: 17%)
The Blackhawks were not expected to perform well defensively this season, but Mrazek has provided some stability. He has faced a significant number of shots and has a strong save percentage. While Chicago may not be a popular destination for fantasy goaltenders, Mrazek could provide short-term help in your lineup.

2. Jake Allen, Montreal Canadiens (Yahoo: 16%)
Montreal’s defensive struggles from last season have continued, but Allen has emerged as the team’s lead goaltender. With wins against the Capitals and Sabres, he has shown his ability to perform well. While there is competition from other goaltenders on the team, Allen’s recent success suggests he will continue to be the top choice in net.

By considering these underrated players, you can enhance your fantasy team and gain an edge over your competition. Good luck with your roster moves!

Reference