2024-25 Fantasy Hockey Draft Rankings
2024-25 Fantasy Hockey Draft Rankings: As the 2024-25 NHL season approaches, fantasy hockey enthusiasts are gearing up for their drafts. With exciting new talent, breakout candidates, and veteran stars, this season’s rankings provide plenty of strategic considerations for managers in both redraft and keeper leagues. Here’s a comprehensive look at the top rankings and tips to give your fantasy team an edge.
Top Players to Watch in 2024-25
- Connor McDavid (C, Edmonton Oilers): Unsurprisingly, McDavid remains the pinnacle of fantasy hockey. With another dominant season expected, his elite scoring, assists, and power-play production make him the undisputed first overall pick. A safe and consistent choice, McDavid is key to any championship team.
- Nathan MacKinnon (C, Colorado Avalanche): MacKinnon’s explosive speed and scoring make him a close second to McDavid. He’s capable of delivering 100+ points, and his multi-category contributions add value for leagues that factor in shots and faceoff wins.
- Connor Bedard (C, Chicago Blackhawks): The 18-year-old phenom enters his second season with high expectations. Having already impressed as a rookie, Bedard is projected to elevate his game further, potentially making him a top-15 pick this season.
Breakout Candidates and Value Picks
- Jason Robertson (LW, Dallas Stars): Despite a slight dip in production last season, Robertson is a prime candidate for a rebound. His advanced play-driving metrics suggest a return to elite form is likely, and he’s a solid pick in the mid-first or early-second round.
- Rasmus Dahlin (D, Buffalo Sabres): Dahlin is a top-tier defenseman who offers a unique blend of scoring, hits, and blocks. At only 24 years old, he’s expected to remain a cornerstone for fantasy rosters for years to come.
- Juuse Saros (G, Nashville Predators): Saros is poised for a bounce-back season after securing long-term stability with Nashville. His potential to lead the league in saves and starts makes him a top-tier goalie option.
Notable Veterans
- Sidney Crosby (C, Pittsburgh Penguins): Crosby continues to defy age, delivering point-per-game performances consistently. While no longer a first-round pick, he remains a valuable option for steady production in the mid-to-late rounds.
- Steven Stamkos (C, Tampa Bay Lightning): Stamkos might not reach his peak numbers from previous years, but his scoring ability and leadership make him a reliable choice for managers looking for a balanced team.
Draft Strategy Tips
- Prioritize Multi-Category Players: Players like MacKinnon and Dahlin offer significant contributions across goals, assists, and peripheral stats like hits and blocks. Targeting these players ensures versatility and consistent point accumulation.
- Balance Forwards and Defensemen: While elite forwards dominate early rounds, don’t overlook the value of top-tier defensemen like Cale Makar or Miro Heiskanen. They provide stability in categories like blocks and power-play points.
- Goaltending Matters: With goaltending depth varying across the league, securing a reliable starter like Saros or Ilya Sorokin early can be pivotal. Pay attention to goalie rotations to maximize weekly starts.
- Take Risks on Rookies and Bounce-Back Candidates: Young stars like Bedard and underperformers with potential to rebound, such as Tim Stutzle, offer tremendous upside. These picks can make or break a fantasy season.
- Monitor Preseason Trends: Player injuries, line combinations, and power-play roles in preseason can heavily influence draft decisions. Keep tabs on developments leading up to the draft.
2024-25 Fantasy Hockey Draft: Final Thoughts
This year’s rankings showcase a mix of dependable stars and intriguing up-and-comers. While the draft order will vary based on league settings and preferences, the key to success lies in balancing safe picks with high-upside selections. With careful preparation and attention to evolving player roles, fantasy managers can position themselves for a strong season ahead.
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