The NHL trade deadline, which took place on March 8th, brought about changes that have significant implications for fantasy hockey managers everywhere. Teams throughout the league made strategic moves, acquiring players to bolster their rosters for playoff pushes or to build towards future success. Among these changes, the New Jersey Devils, Carolina Hurricanes, New York Islanders, Colorado Avalanche, Anaheim Ducks, Tampa Bay Lightning, and New York Rangers made notable moves that fantasy managers should pay close attention to.
New Jersey Devils' Goalie Shuffle
In light of Mackenzie Blackwood's injury, the Devils were quick to reinforce their goaltending department by acquiring Jake Allen and Kaapo Kahkonen. This move has opened a pathway for both goalkeepers to significant playing time, an opportunity that fantasy managers should be keen to exploit, especially in leagues that value goaltender statistics highly. The added depth at goalie could be a game-changer for teams in the fantasy playoffs.
Teuvo Teravainen's Point Streak
Over in Carolina, Teuvo Teravainen is enjoying a prolific seven-game point streak. Teravainen's consistent performance makes him a must-have in fantasy lineups, particularly in leagues that reward points, assists, and plus/minus ratings. His streak indicates not just personal form but hints at the Hurricanes' effectiveness as a unit, which could translate into more fantasy-relevant production from the team's players.
Anders Lee's Recent Surge
The New York Islanders' Anders Lee has found the back of the net four times, adding four assists in his last ten games. This surge in productivity comes at a crucial time for fantasy managers looking for players hitting their stride. With the Islanders scheduled for a four-game stretch, Lee's chances of adding to his tally are promising, making him an attractive option for fantasy rosters.
Casey Mittelstadt's New Role
After his move to the Colorado Avalanche, Casey Mittelstadt debuted with 13 minutes of ice time. Tallying an impressive 14 goals and 47 points in 63 games this season, his performance merits attention from fantasy managers, particularly those in deeper leagues or needing a boost in offensive statistics. Mittelstadt's versatility and scoring touch could pay off handsomely in the fantasy realm.
Alex Killorn's Scoring Streak with Anaheim
With Anaheim Ducks, Alex Killorn has been on fire, scoring eight goals and setting up two in the past 13 games. Currently on a four-game goal streak, Killorn's hot hand is something fantasy managers can't afford to overlook, especially with the Ducks embarking on a four-game road trip, an opportunity for him to extend his scoring streak.
Debuts with Their New Teams
Several players have made immediate impacts with their new teams. Evgeny Kuznetsov debuted for the Hurricanes with two shots on goal and a plus-minus rating of +1, showcasing his ability to blend into Carolina's system from the get-go. Anthony Duclair made a splash with Tampa Bay, scoring a goal and assisting another while seeing power-play time alongside Stamkos and Cirelli, indicating he'll be a crucial part of Tampa Bay's offensive plans.
Jack Roslovic found himself on the top line with Zibanejad and Kreider in his debut for the Rangers, also featuring on the second power-play unit. This prominent role, combined with the Rangers' packed schedule of five games in the week, increases Roslovic's fantasy value exponentially, making him a potential diamond in the rough for fantasy managers.
The flurry of activity around the NHL trade deadline has reshaped teams and, by extension, the fantasy hockey landscape. Managers need to stay on top of these changes, leveraging the opportunities they present to secure victory in their fantasy leagues. Whether it's banking on the new goalies in New Jersey, tapping into streaking forwards, or capitalizing on players with new roles on their teams, the post-trade deadline period is ripe with possibilities for the astute fantasy manager.