Last call for Bryan Rust & Josh Norris

In the world of fantasy hockey, it’s important to stay on top of the latest trends and potential breakout players. While it may be tempting to give up on underperforming players early in the season, it’s crucial to analyze their lineup position and underlying numbers before making any rash decisions. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some players who are trending in the right direction and could provide a boost to your fantasy team.

Bryan Rust of the Pittsburgh Penguins (Yahoo: 50%) has never been an elite scorer, but his partnership with Sidney Crosby has been beneficial throughout his career. While Rust’s role on the power play may have changed this season, he has still managed to record four goals, 12 shots, and six blocks. His substantial ice time suggests that he will continue to be a valuable asset.

Josh Norris of the Ottawa Senators (Yahoo: 49%) is a player on the rise. After missing the first three games of the season, Norris returned to the lineup and immediately made an impact on the power play, scoring a goal and firing three shots on net. Surrounded by talented teammates, Norris has the potential to be a key contributor for fantasy teams.

Evan Rodrigues of the Florida Panthers (Yahoo: 43%) surprised many with his performance in the season opener, tallying two goals, two assists, and five shots. While there may be competition for his spot in the lineup, Rodrigues has proven his ability to produce alongside star linemates in the past.

Alexis Lafreniere of the New York Rangers (Yahoo: 21%) may not have lived up to the hype just yet, but he is still a young player with plenty of potential. Lafreniere has displayed promise in the past and now finds himself playing alongside Artemi Panarin. While his output hasn’t been spectacular so far, reports indicate that Lafreniere’s effort and hockey IQ have been praised by coaches and analysts.

Andrew Copp of the Detroit Red Wings (Yahoo: 15%) may not be a household name, but he has quietly been a valuable fantasy asset. With 42 points and 120 shots last season, Copp has proven that he can contribute offensively. Now playing as the second center alongside J.T. Compher, Copp has already scored three goals and added an assist, making him a worthwhile option for fantasy teams.

Sean Couturier of the Philadelphia Flyers (Yahoo: 15%) has made a seamless return to the lineup after missing over 20 months due to injury. Couturier has taken on a heavy workload, averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game and contributing four points and nine shots. His ability to dominate in the faceoff circle has also been a valuable asset.

Kirill Marchenko of the Columbus Blue Jackets (Yahoo: 12%) has the potential to be a breakout player this season. After an impressive debut last year, Marchenko has continued to make an impact with three assists and 10 shots. With Columbus scheduled for five games in the next nine days, Marchenko could provide a short-term boost to fantasy teams.

Kyle Palmieri of the New York Islanders (Yahoo: 3%) may not have the best supporting cast, but his regular power-play minutes make him a worthy consideration. Palmieri has a history of producing on the man advantage and is currently playing on the first power-play unit for the Islanders. While his production has been limited so far, Palmieri’s role on the power play makes him a player to keep an eye on.

When it comes to defensemen, Mike Matheson of the Montreal Canadiens (Yahoo: 33%) is worth considering. Despite playing on a weaker team, Matheson has been involved in the power play and has already recorded nine shots and 11 blocks. With talented forwards surrounding him, Matheson has the potential to contribute offensively.

Jonas Siegenthaler of the New Jersey Devils (Yahoo: 16%) may not be a flashy pick, but he is a solid option for fantasy teams. Siegenthaler is a physical player who excels on the penalty kill, and his partnership with Dougie Hamilton could lead to valuable opportunities. While he may not contribute much offensively, Siegenthaler can provide supplementary categories and occasional points.

Calen Addison of the Minnesota Wild (Yahoo: 7%) is a defenseman to keep an eye on in fantasy leagues. While his fantasy value is tied to power-play opportunities, Addison has already recorded two assists on the man advantage this season. If you are looking to improve your power-play production, Addison is a player worth considering.

Pavel Mintyukov of the Anaheim Ducks (Yahoo: 3%) is a young player with plenty of potential. After being drafted 10th overall in 2022, Mintyukov has already made an impact in the NHL with a goal and an assist in three games. With a spot on Anaheim’s top power-play unit, Mintyukov could be a valuable addition to fantasy teams.

In the goaltending department, Jack Campbell of the Edmonton Oilers (Yahoo: 45%) has the potential to be a solid option. While his start to the season has been mixed, Campbell has shown flashes of brilliance with 43 saves in a game against Nashville. With a share of starts behind a strong offensive team, Campbell could provide plenty of fantasy value in the long run.

Reference

Sarah Anderson

Sarah Anderson dives into the fast-paced world of NHL hockey. Her coverage includes game analysis, player spotlights, and the latest news from the ice. Sarah’s dedication to the sport ensures that hockey enthusiasts stay informed about the NHL’s thrilling action.