Fantasy Hockey Rising Stars: Key Waiver Wire Targets This Week

Every week in the NHL brings new opportunities for fantasy hockey enthusiasts to gain an edge in their leagues. With various players making headlines and showing real potential, it’s time to dive into the top waiver wire pickups you should consider adding to your lineup this week.

Top Forwards to Consider

• Pierre-Luc Dubois, F, Washington Capitals
  Fantasy Points Per Game (FPPG): 1.7
  Availability: 65.7%
  Dubois has made a significant impact lately, netting five goals and three assists in his last seven games, averaging an impressive 2.6 fantasy points per game. With the Capitals facing the Panthers and Flyers this week, he’s a player you want on your roster for some extra firepower.

• Filip Chytil, F, Vancouver Canucks
  FPPG: 1.2
  Availability: 97.3%
  Chytil has started strong with the Canucks, scoring a goal in his debut and logging over 20 minutes of ice time. Playing alongside Conor Garland, he’s poised for a breakout season after being traded from the Rangers, and this fresh environment should help him flourish.

• Morgan Frost, F, Calgary Flames
  FPPG: 1.5
  Availability: 93.9%
  Frost scored against the Kraken recently and is playing alongside notable players like Yegor Sharangovich, making him a valuable asset to consider, especially with his involvement in the Flames' top power play.

• Quinton Byfield, F, Los Angeles Kings
  FPPG: 1.2
  Availability: 63.3%
  Byfield is finding his form again, especially as the Kings have a favorable schedule this month. He has started to rediscover his scoring touch after a slow January.

• Valeri Nichushkin, F, Colorado Avalanche
  FPPG: 2.0
  Availability: 61.0%
  Although currently sidelined with a lower-body injury, Nichushkin's potential is undeniable. If you’re willing to wait out the injury, he could be a fantastic pickup when he returns to the ice.

Defensemen Worth Adding

• Tony DeAngelo, D, New York Islanders
  FPPG: 2.4
  Availability: 85.8%
  DeAngelo is one of the hottest defensemen in the league right now, averaging 2.4 fantasy points per game. With his ability to contribute offensively, he’s a smart addition while he’s hot.

• Aaron Ekblad, D, Florida Panthers
  FPPG: 1.7
  Availability: 60.9%
  Returning from an upper-body injury, Ekblad is showing promise. He’s already demonstrated solid performance with one goal and four assists since coming back.

Goaltenders to Watch

• Anthony Stolarz, G, Toronto Maple Leafs
  FPPG: 3.5
  Availability: 53.3%
  Stolarz is on the mend and set to return to action soon. Before his injury, he delivered impressive stats, making him a compelling add if you need goalie depth.

• Joey Daccord, G, Seattle Kraken
  FPPG: 2.6
  Availability: 45.4%
  Daccord has emerged as a top-10 fantasy goalie since returning from illness. His upward trend in fantasy points is promising, making him a wise investment for your roster.

Streaming Options

• Shane Pinto, F, Ottawa Senators
  FPPG: 1.4
  Pinto is gathering momentum with two goals and three assists in his last four games. His upcoming schedule could offer multiple scoring chances.

• Jake Allen, G, New Jersey Devils
  FPPG: 1.9
  Allen is a reliable option for goaltending due to his performance while Markstrom is out. He’s set to face several competitive teams but has shown he can handle the pressure.

Conclusion

With weekly changes in player performance, keeping an eye on waiver wire pickups can significantly impact your fantasy hockey success. Be sure to evaluate your roster and consider these emerging players as you make your moves heading into the next stage of the season!