Kick back and relax this Sunday, as the NHL has only scheduled three games on the slate starting at 7 p.m. EST or later (and five overall, just in case you were curious). So sit back with your DFS lineups and take a look at my players to target and avoid for the day.
GOALIE
Jeremy Swayman, BOS vs. CLM ($39): The Bruins are playing on the second day of a back-to-back, but Swayman has been outstanding with a 2.17 GAA and .930 save percentage. He’s up against a Columbus team that hasn’t been very productive, averaging only 2.92 goals.
GOALIE TO AVOID
Alexandar Georgiev, COL at LOS ($31): The high-scoring Kings offense is not something I’d want to deal with, making Georgiev a risky pick.
CENTER
Ryan O’Reilly, NAS at BUF ($19): O’Reilly has been on fire recently, racking up points while playing alongside top-tier players like Filip Forsberg and Roman Josi. The Sabres’ goaltending situation also makes O’Reilly a solid choice for your lineup.
CENTER TO AVOID
Nathan MacKinnon, COL at LOS ($36): Against a tough defensive team on the second leg of a back-to-back, MacKinnon might not be the best option.
WING
John-Jason Peterka, BUF vs. NAS ($21): Peterka has proven himself as a dynamic player, contributing to both goals and assists. His recent performance indicates he could be a standout player for your lineup.
Quinton Byfield, LOS vs. COL ($19): Skating with Anze Kopitar and Adrian Kempe has benefitted Byfield, making him a solid choice despite facing a strong defensive team in Colorado.
WINGS TO AVOID
Valeri Nichushkin, COL at LOS ($26): Nichushkin faces a tough matchup and may not provide reliable production given the circumstances.
Patrik Laine, CLM at BOS ($15): Uncertainty surrounding Laine’s ice time combined with the Bruins’ strong defense makes him a risky pick for your lineup.
DEFENSE
Rasmus Dahlin, BUF vs. NAS ($21): Dahlin’s offensive capabilities make him a good choice, especially against a penalty kill that’s struggled on the road.
Ryan McDonagh, NAS at BUF ($16): McDonagh has shown solid form since returning from injury, making him a cost-effective option against the Sabres’ goaltending situation.
DEFENSE TO AVOID
Charlie McAvoy, BOS vs. CLM ($23): With a strong penalty kill facing him, McAvoy may not be as productive in this matchup.
Zach Werenski, CLM at BOS ($21): Despite his strong play, Werenski’s shooting percentage and the Bruins’ solid defense make him a risky pick for your lineup.
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.