value to be found in the Flyers’ blueliner, especially in deeper leagues where defensive contributions are highly sought after.
Stock Down
Jake DeBrusk W Boston Bruins After failing to capitalize on numerous scoring chances in the Bruins’ opening games of the season, DeBrusk finds himself demoted to the fourth line for their upcoming matchup against the Sharks. With just one assist to his name so far, DeBrusk needs to start finding the back of the net soon if he wants to regain his spot in the top-six and prove his fantasy worth.
Jacob Trouba D New York Rangers Trouba got off to a strong start with two assists in the Rangers’ season opener, but he has since gone cold. With no points in his last three games and a -4 rating, Trouba’s fantasy value has taken a hit. Owners may want to bench him until he shows signs of breaking out of his scoring slump.
Jesper Kotkaniemi C Carolina Hurricanes After a promising start to the season with a goal and an assist in the Hurricanes’ first game, Kotkaniemi has gone pointless in his last three contests. The young center has struggled to generate offense and has seen his ice time decrease as a result. Fantasy owners may want to consider benching him until he shows signs of rediscovering his scoring touch.
Cam Talbot G Minnesota Wild Talbot has had a rough start to the season, surrendering 14 goals in his first three games. With a subpar save percentage and a goals against average nearing six, Talbot is a risky fantasy option right now. It may be wise to explore other goaltending options until Talbot can find his form and stabilize his numbers.
Morgan Rielly D Toronto Maple Leafs Rielly had a hot start to the season with three points in the Maple Leafs’ first two games, but he has since cooled off. With no points in his last two games and a -4 rating, Rielly’s fantasy value has taken a hit. Owners may want to consider benching him until he shows signs of getting back on the scoresheet.
Injury Updates
Evgeny Kuznetsov C Washington Capitals Kuznetsov remains on the NHL’s COVID-19 protocol list and there is no timeline for his return. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status closely and be prepared to make alternative arrangements until he is cleared to return.
Joel Armia W Montreal Canadiens Armia is dealing with a lower-body injury and is considered day-to-day. Owners should keep an eye on his status leading up to the Canadiens’ next game to determine whether or not he should be activated in fantasy lineups.
Kirby Dach C Chicago Blackhawks Dach is still rehabbing from a wrist injury and remains on injured reserve. There is no definitive timeline for his return, but he is making progress in his recovery. Owners may want to stash Dach on the IR until he is closer to returning to action.
Conclusion
As the NHL season progresses, it’s important for fantasy owners to stay updated on player performances, injuries, and lineup changes. The stock up and stock down analysis provided here should serve as a guide for making informed decisions in fantasy hockey leagues. Good luck to all fantasy managers as they navigate the ups and downs of the season!