Sleepers and Busts: Draft Landeskog, Pass on Vladar

Sleepers: The Hidden Gems You Need to Watch

When it comes to fantasy hockey, few things excite a manager more than discovering that elusive player who sneaks into the lineup and delivers a consistent performance. These are the players that don't make headlines but provide value in spades.

"Fantasy hockey sleepers are those players who quietly go about their business, outperforming expectations without fanfare."

In my experience, the best sleepers often emerge from new situations. When a veteran moves to a fresh team with a prominent role, they're usually well-positioned for success.

Patrick Kane: The Veteran Who Keeps on Giving

At 37, Patrick Kane is not your typical fantasy sleeper. But his return to the Chicago Blackhawks is one of those rare moments that makes you sit up and take notice. Kane's ability to produce points in the most crucial situations has always been a hallmark of his career. The fact that he's now playing with Connor Bedard, a promising young star, only increases his value.

Coach Jeff Blashill has praised Kane's physical condition, noting that he 'feels as good as he has in a long time.' If healthy, Kane is a reliable asset who can provide consistent points for your team. His presence on the top line with Bedard and the power play setup makes him a compelling late-round pick.

Mats Zuccarello: The Underrated Veteran

While Mats Zuccarello may have lost his star status in Minnesota, he's now found a new home in Los Angeles. With the addition of Artemi Panarin, Zuccarello will be positioned on a top line and power play unit. This move significantly enhances his fantasy value.

Zuccarello's consistency has been impressive. Over the past season, he averaged 0.92 points per game, showcasing his ability to contribute regularly. With a shot at a full season, he could be a great late-round pick in deeper leagues.

Valeri Nichushkin: A Fresh Start with Big Potential

Nichushkin's move from Colorado to Columbus has provided him with an opportunity to shine. He's no longer competing for playing time with Nathan MacKinnon, Martin Necas, and others. Instead, he's now a key contributor in the top-six lineup.

This new environment should allow him to make a bigger impact. His ability to score and contribute on the power play has made him a valuable asset. In fantasy hockey, players who can produce 2.0 points per game are rare finds.

Gabriel Landeskog: The Captain Who's Still Relevant

While his name may not be at the top of the rankings, Gabriel Landeskog deserves consideration. Despite being a veteran, he still has the skills and experience to contribute significantly. His move to Colorado's top line, alongside MacKinnon and Necas, makes him a key player.

With a proven track record and his leadership qualities, Landeskog is worth drafting in deeper leagues. He's not just a veteran with experience, but a potential contributor who can help your team succeed.

Mason Marchment: The Veteran with a New Role

Mason Marchment's journey through various teams has given him a wealth of experience. Now, with the opportunity to play alongside Macklin Celebrini in San Jose, he's poised for a breakout season.

His ability to contribute 30 goals and over 35 assists in a season is not far-fetched. The combination of his experience and a fresh start makes him a compelling pick for deeper leagues.

Jiri Kulich: The Breakout Candidate

Kulich, at just 22 years old, is still developing as a player. After recovering from a blood clot injury, he's ready to make an impact in Buffalo. His selection in the 2022 draft makes him a promising prospect.

With opportunities to play on top lines and contribute significantly, he's worth considering in late rounds or off the wire. The key is being patient and allowing his potential to unfold.

Adam Fox: A Defensive Asset

At 28 years old, Adam Fox is still one of the top defensive players in the league. His move from injury to full health makes him a valuable addition. His 53 points last season, including 24 with the extra skater, show his ability to contribute.

In fantasy hockey, top defenders are rare and valuable. With Fox back on track, he's an excellent late-round pick for your team. His ability to compete on the power play makes him even more appealing.

Stuart Skinner: A Reliable Goalie

With Connor Hellebuyck suspended, Stuart Skinner has stepped into a key role with the Winnipeg Jets. As a two-time Stanley Cup Finalist, he's a solid choice for fantasy leagues.

Despite some uncertainty, Skinner remains a reliable option. His experience and performance make him worth considering in deeper leagues.

Busts: The Players to Avoid

In contrast to the sleepers, busts are players who may have been overrated or are no longer as effective as they once were. Identifying these players is just as important as finding the hidden gems.

Steven Stamkos: The Veteran with a Lower Ceiling

At 36, Steven Stamkos is no longer the dominant scorer he once was. While he's still capable of producing points, his ceiling has dropped significantly.

Projected to average around 17 minutes per game on Nashville's second line and the top power play, his numbers may not meet expectations. There are many other players with greater fantasy potential, making him a risky pick.

Alex Ovechkin: The Legend with Limited Fantasy Value

Ovechkin, at 41, is still a fan favorite and a goal scorer. However, his role in Washington's lineup has changed, which affects his fantasy potential.

While he may still score 30 goals in a season, the lack of support from teammates makes him less attractive for fantasy purposes. There are too many better options available.

Morgan Geekie: The Player Who Failed to Deliver

Last season, Morgan Geekie was a sleeper who performed well initially but failed to maintain his form. After scoring 25 goals in the first 36 games, he only managed another 14 in the remaining 45.

This inconsistency makes him a risky pick for fantasy hockey. Despite his potential, his performance history suggests he may not be a reliable contributor this season.

Brent Burns: The Aging Defender

At 41, Brent Burns is no longer the defender he once was. His role in Colorado is limited to third pairing duty, which affects his fantasy value.

His projected points are not enough to compensate for his lack of contribution. In fantasy hockey, a defender with limited ice time and low point totals should be avoided.

Dan Vladar: The New Hope or a Risky Pick?

Dan Vladar's performance in Philadelphia's net has been impressive, but he's not yet proven to be a consistent starter. Joseph Woll is a strong contender for the position, which creates uncertainty.

While Vladar may have a shot at being a solid goalie, there are other options that are more reliable and promising. For deeper leagues, it's best to pass on him in favor of better prospects.

The Final Word

Fantasy hockey is all about finding the right balance between potential and risk. Sleepers can make a significant impact on your team, while busts can derail your season. By carefully analyzing player performance and situational factors, you can make informed decisions that lead to success.