Key Players for Your 2025-26 Fantasy Hockey Team
In the world of ice hockey, strategic planning is crucial, especially in fantasy leagues. As the 2025-26 NHL season approaches, it’s time to identify the players who could make a difference on your team. Here’s a list of players you should keep an eye on.
The key to success in fantasy hockey lies in selecting players who consistently accumulate points. For this season, the following scoring criteria will be considered:
- Forwards: Goals (2 points), Assists (1 point), Shots and Hits (0.1 points), Blocks and Special Teams Points (0.5 points).
- Goalies: Wins (4 points), Overtime Losses (1 point), Shutouts (3 points), Saves (0.2 points), Goals Against (-2 points).
With these rules in mind, let’s analyze the players who could lead your team to victory.
Nikita Kucherov, F, Tampa Bay Lightning
Although names like Nathan MacKinnon, Connor McDavid, and others often top fantasy player lists, Kucherov stands out for several reasons. His consistency is remarkable, having led the NHL in assists for two consecutive seasons, without neglecting his goal-scoring ability. With 44 goals in the 2023-24 season and 37 in the following one, and an average of at least 265 shots on goal in the last three seasons, Kucherov is a safe bet.
Furthermore, the synergy with his teammates in Tampa Bay, such as Victor Hedman, Jake Guentzel, and Brayden Point, promises to maintain his high performance. The line they share averaged more than four goals per 60 minutes of play under equal conditions. An additional factor is that, as Russia does not participate in the Olympic tournament, Kucherov will have a break in the middle of the season. In addition, he is entering the last two years of his contract, which could motivate him even more.
Pavel Dorofeyev, F, Vegas Golden Knights
The arrival of Mitch Marner to the Golden Knights could redefine the team’s offense. The key question is how Marner will integrate and who will benefit from his presence. Dorofeyev could be a key piece. With 35 goals and 52 points in 82 games last season, and an increase in his shots on goal, Dorofeyev demonstrated his potential. The incorporation of Marner, who is a top player in power play points, could further enhance Dorofeyev.
If Dorofeyev manages to establish himself alongside Jack Eichel and Marner, his ability to finish plays could be crucial. It’s a bet with a high potential for reward.
Nick Suzuki, F, Montreal Canadiens
Suzuki has shown consistent growth in his points, going from 66 to 77 and reaching a maximum of 89 points last season. His ability to score goals, combined with his consistency, makes him an attractive option. He is expected to continue playing alongside Cole Caufield and Juraj Slafkovsky, a line that has proven to be effective. With an average of 2.11 shots per game in the last three seasons and a good performance in blocks and hits, Suzuki is a solid option.
Furthermore, their possible participation in the Olympic Games could be an additional incentive.
Alex Tuch, F, Buffalo Sabres
Tuch is ideal for the ESPN Fantasy Hockey scoring system. His ability to score goals and block shots makes him valuable. Last season, he led the NHL in blocked shots (113) and scored 36 goals. His complete game, including 73 hits, makes him an option to consider.
Although there is still room for improvement in the power play, Tuch is a player with a profile that fits perfectly into this system.
Will Cuylle, F, New York Rangers
Cuylle is on his way to having a standout season. In his second full season, he scored 20 goals and 25 assists, with a significant increase in his shots on goal. His potential for the power play is high, especially if he manages to replace Chris Kreider on the first line.
Evan Bouchard, D, Edmonton Oilers
Bouchard is a defenseman with high potential in fantasy hockey, thanks to his point production playing with McDavid and Draisaitl. His ability to score goals and his performance on the power play make him attractive. Although his numbers in the 2024-25 season were slightly lower, he is expected to return to his previous level.
Jackson LaCombe, D, Anaheim Ducks
LaCombe, with 43 points in 75 games last season, is a rising player. His game will improve with new coach Joel Quenneville. LaCombe is expected to increase his offensive production. He is a pick that could surprise in your draft.
Sam Rinzel, D, Chicago Blackhawks
Rinzel, with only nine games in the NHL, is a risky bet, but with potential. He is expected to become a key defenseman for the Blackhawks. If he gets time on the power play and combines blocks and hits, he could be valuable to your team.
Karel Vejmelka, G, Utah Mammoth
With playoff expectations, Vejmelka, who signed a five-year extension, could benefit from the team’s performance. With 26 wins last season, he could improve his performance if Utah meets expectations.
Mackenzie Blackwood, G, Colorado Avalanche
Blackwood, with 22 wins last season, could have a good season if he manages to stay healthy. However, his injury history is a concern.
