As the NHL trade deadline came to a close on March 8th, the frenzy of activity has left fantasy hockey managers scrambling to adjust their lineups. The trades and player movements have significantly altered the landscape of many teams, with some players finding new opportunities to shine while others adapt to their new surroundings. This season, like every other, the deadline did not disappoint, offering a mix of surprising trades and strategic moves by teams looking to bolster their rosters for a playoff push or future considerations.
New Jersey Devils Bolster Goaltending
In light of Mackenzie Blackwood's injury, the New Jersey Devils did not waste time fortifying their goaltending, acquiring Jake Allen and Kaapo Kahkonen. With both netminders having a clear path to playing time, fantasy managers should keep a keen eye on their performance moving forward. The addition of these goalies provides the Devils with depth and options in the crease, a move that could pay dividends as they jockey for postseason positioning.
Players on Hot Streaks
Several players across the league are riding impressive point streaks, commanding attention from fantasy managers. Teuvo Teravainen of the Carolina Hurricanes is on an outstanding seven-game point streak, making him an essential asset in fantasy rosters. Likewise, Anders Lee of the New York Islanders has been finding the back of the net with regularity, recording four goals and four assists in his last ten games. With the Islanders gearing up for a four-game stretch, Lee's recent form could be instrumental for fantasy managers and the team's success.
Notable Debuts and Player Movements
Casey Mittelstadt has made his Colorado Avalanche debut, logging 13 minutes of ice time. With a tally of 14 goals and 47 points in 63 games this season, Mittelstadt's transition to the Avalanche could be a critical watch for managers seeking depth in their rosters. Additionally, Alex Killorn's move to Anaheim has been nothing short of productive, boasting eight goals and two assists in the past 13 games. Currently on a four-game goal streak and the Ducks embarking on a road trip, Killorn's hot streak could continue.
Two players making their presence felt with their new teams are Evgeny Kuznetsov and Anthony Duclair. Kuznetsov, now with the Hurricanes, put up two shots on goal and recorded a plus-minus rating of 1 in his debut. On the other hand, Anthony Duclair scored a goal and an assist with Tampa Bay, finding himself on the power play line alongside Stamkos and Cirelli. These additions could provide invaluable points for fantasy owners down the stretch.
Jack Roslovic's move to the New York Rangers has positioned him on the top line with Zibanejad and Kreider, along with time on the second power-play unit. Given the Rangers' packed schedule of five games this week, Roslovic's role could yield significant fantasy points.
Conclusion
The NHL trade deadline always brings a whirlwind of changes, with this year being no exception. As teams adjust to their new lineups and strategies, fantasy hockey managers will also need to stay on their toes. Keeping track of player performances, line changes, and power-play opportunities will be crucial in the weeks ahead. With the playoff race heating up, every point matters, both on the ice and in fantasy leagues. Managers would do well to keep a close eye on these players and others who may rise in the wake of the deadline's dust settling.