Articles

Top NHL Fantasy Prospects for 2021

ByBlake Beggs

Dec 21, 2020

We are all getting ready for the holiday season, and for the first time, many of us are also starting to prepare for fantasy hockey season as well! It is going to be quite a different season in the NHL, as it’s expected to consist of only 56 regular season games, and unique division realignments due to the different COVID-19 restrictions around the world.

It will be even tougher than usual to predict how teams will go about their rosters, with questions still remaining about how many players each team will have within their teams “bubble”, or how it will work with AHL affiliates, as some are located in different countries than their NHL club. Another factor to consider when anticipating whether or not a prospect will play for their respected NHL team this year, is that the seasons of many other leagues around the world will be ending in a couple months, whereas the NHL season is likely not to begin until at least January 13th, 2021.

In the following lists, I have ranked NHL affiliated prospects in order of how valuable I believe they will be for Fantasy Hockey managers. The prospects have to be signed or drafted by an NHL team, and have played no more than 45 NHL games. I tried my best to keep it simple, and focused on two main catagories:

  1. NHL Expectancy
  2. Fantasy upside

“NHL Expectancy” – meaning how soon I believe the prospect could be playing full-time in the NHL.
Regarding most of the players, I was fairly optimistic. However, with the NHL salary cap staying flat over the next couple seasons, it is predicted that more teams will be plugging young players on entry-level contracts into their rosters, to assist in staying cap compliant.

I chose to rank them from 1-5 for NHL Expectancy:
Forwards NHL Expectancy:
5/5 Right Away
4.5/5 Sometime This Season
4/5 Next Season
3/5 2 seasons away
2/5 3 seasons away
1/5 4 seasons away

“Fantasy Upside” – meaning the total upside that a prospect can bring to fantasy owners in regards to their skill and environment.
There are varying opinions on the potential that each prospect brings, and it typically takes several years to truly understand what each prospect is going to bring at the NHL level. Another factor that I believe is important to consider for fantasy owners is what kind of environment will the prospect enter when he does get a shot on an NHL lineup.
Are the players drafted by playoff contending teams that have no reason to rush prospects into their lineup? Are they drafted by rebuilding teams that are eager to give opportunities to their top prospects? Where do the prospects rank on their organizations depth chart, not just now, but over the next few years?
These are the kinds of questions I asked myself when deciding how to rank players on this list. I chose to rank them out of 10 for Fantasy upside, rather than the 5 for NHL expectancy, because I believe the potential of a player is of much more value than the NHL readiness of a player, however, depending on the rules of your fantasy pools, others may value NHL readiness more heavily.

Let’s take a look at the top fantasy prospects!

Forwards:

  1. Alexis Lafrenière 6’1 Left Wing 19 years old 1st overall 2020 New York Rangers 2019/2020 season: 52gp 35g 77a 112pts 50pim QMJHL
    NHL Expectancy: 5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9.75/10

The most recent 1st overall pick is going to be going straight to the NHL. He has all the tools to become a dominant player in the NHL, and is going to be a big part of what appears to be a very special team in New York.

  1. Quinton Byfield 6’4 Center 18 years old 2nd overall 2020 LA Kings 2019/2020 season: 45gp 32g 50a 82pts 44pim OHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9.5/10

There is a good chance Byfield makes the rebuilding Kings’ team out of training camp. He may not put up big numbers immediately, as he is still a bit raw, but Byfield has a special blend of size and skill that could make him the best player from this list in a few years time.

  1. Marco Rossi 5’9 Center 19 years old 9th overall 2020 Minnesota Wild 2019/2020 season: 56gp 39g 81a 120pts 40pim OHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9.5/10

Rossi is my dark horse to not only make Minnesota’s starting line-up, but to make push for the Calder this year. He is an extremely smart player which aids him on both ends of the ice. He has incredible playmaking ability and no issues filling the net himself. Rossi, Kaprizov and Fiala look to be the start of something new and exciting in Minnesota.
“but he’s small.”
I don’t care.

  1. Kirill Kaprizov 5’10 Left Wing/Right Wing 23 years old 135 overall 2015 Minnesota Wild 2019/2020 season: 57gp 33g 29a 62pts 10pim KHL
    NHL Expectancy: 5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

The wait is over and Kaprizov has finally crossed the pond. He has been tearing up the KHL for years and should get every opportunity from the Wild to continue that success in the NHL. I wouldn’t classify him as a sniper, but he posesses a good shot and works to get in positions to score. He has the offensive awareness to read the play and set up his teammates for easy goals. Some believe his skating could hold him back, but I’m not one of them.

  1. Cody Glass 6’2 Center 21 years old 6th overall 2017 Vegas Golden Knights 2019/2020 season: 39gp 5g 7a 12pts 6pim NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Playing 39 games in the NHL should make Glass a lock in Vegas’ starting lineup next season. His 12 points in 39 games may appear underwhelming, but lets remember that Vegas is a Stanley Cup contending team, and contending teams don’t feel inclined to give 20 year olds prime opportunities. This year however, it seems there is a full-time spot for Glass and don’t be surprised if the playmaking centerman piles up the points.

  1. Lucas Raymond 5’10 Right Wing 18 years old 4th overall 2020 Detroit Red Wings 2019/2020 season: 33gp 4g 6a 10pts 4pim SHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9.5/10

Raymond is a complete player: He has the skating ability to beat defenders on the outside. He has the puck skills to dangle his way on the inside. He has a nice release on his shot. He has the IQ to make creative offensive plays and the compete to be reliable defensively. The only downside is that the Red Wings haven’t signed him yet, so he may not get NHL action this season.

  1. Tim Stüetzle 6’0 Center/Left Wing 18 years old 3rd overall 2020 Ottawa Senators 2019/2020 season: 41gp 7g 27a 34pts 12pim DEL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9.5/10

Stuetzle’s best attribute is his explosive speed. He uses that speed to create time and seperation from opposing defenders, then he uses his vision to identify which teammate is now open for an excellent scoring opportunity. He has the potential to be a top line playmaking center that can hold his own defensively.

  1. Alexander Holtz 6’0 Right Wing 18 years old 7th overall 2020 New Jersey Devils 2019/2020 season: 35gp 9g 7a 16pts 12pim SHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9.5/10

Holtz may be the best goal scorer on this list. He has a quick release, hard shot, pin-point accuracy, and the ability to identify the open ice, ready to snipe one home in the blink of an eye. The Devils have 2019 1st overall pick: Jack Hughes and the 2017 1st overall pick: Nico Hischier, both of them are playmaking centermen, and Holtz is going to be finishing a lot of their plays over the course of his career.

  1. Cole Perfetti 5’10 Center/ Left Wing 18 years old 10th overall 2020 Winnipeg Jets 2019/2020 season: 61gp 37g 74a 111pts 16pim OHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9.5/10

Perfetti is the guy you want out there when you’re down by 1 with 2 minutes left. He has an incredible shot combined with the ability to create dangerous scoring chances in the offensive zone. It will be interesting to see if he gets an opportunity in Winnipeg this season, or if the Jets decide to give him time to improve his defensive game first.

  1. Anton Lundell 6’1 Center 19 years old 12th overall 2020 Florida Panthers 2019/2020 season: 44gp 10g 18a 28pts 18pim Liiga
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9.5/10

Lundell slipped a bit in the 2020 Draft in my opinion. Some believed that he lacked offensive potential, and that he was more of a two-way forward that is good at all things but not necessarily great at any one attribute. Well, the teen has 12 goals and 8 assists in 17 Liiga games(as of writing this) and is wearing an “A” on his sweater for HIFK, the offense is there.

  1. Trevor Zegras 6’0 Center/Wing 19 years old 9th overall 2019 Anaheim Ducks 2019/2020 season: 33gp 11g 25a 36pts 43pim NCAA
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Another dark horse candidate for the Calder this year, Zegras is an extraordinary playmaker and is fresh off his first and last season of NCAA hockey where we saw him put up 36 points in 33 games. There is a chance that Zegras makes the Ducks out of training camp, but I dont believe he is a lock. I would classify Zegras as a pure playmaker, with exceptional hockey IQ and creativity. Don’t expect him to be scoring a lot of goals himself as he has a pass-first mentality.

  1. Dylan Cozens 6’3 Center 19 years old 7th overall 2019 Buffalo Sabres 2019/2020 season: 51gp 38g 47a 85pts 38pim WHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Cozens is a big, strong centerman that also blends strong skating and offensive awareness, making him a coveted find for NHL teams. He is not as dynamic of a playmaker as others are on this list, but has the ability to make smart plays or fire a quality shot on net. I think he’s ready for some NHL action this season, but I’m not sure it will be right out of training camp.

13.Filip Zadina 6’0 Left Wing/Right Wing 20 years old 6th overall 2018 Detroit Red Wings 2019/2020 season: 28gp 8g 7a 15pts 2pim NHL/ 21gp 9g 7a 16pts 8pim AHL
NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Zadina has had two small stints in the NHL already, puting up 8 goals and 7 assists in 28 NHL games last year. I think he’s NHL ready now, but Detroit could decide to let him refine his 200ft game for a little longer. Zadina has a deadly release on his shot and also threatens with creative passing that can fool his opposition. The Red Wings have added some promising young talent over the last few years and Zadina looks to be a big piece of the team going forward.

  1. Alex Turcotte 5’11 Center 19 years old 5th overall 2019 LA Kings 2019/2020 season: 29gp 9g 17a 26pts 20pim NCAA
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Another player who is one and done in the NCAA, Turcotte put up 26 points in 29 games for the University of Wisconsin in his draft +1 season. Turcotte is a centerman that is good in all areas of the ice due to his intelligence. He has offensive upside, but with all the centerman in LA’s system, I’m unsure where he ends up. The Kings just drafted Byfield 2nd overall, who I believe has greater potential than Turcotte and will be the #1 center of their new core.

  1. Drake Batherson 6’3 Center/Right Wing 22 years old 121st overall 2017 Ottowa Senators 2019/2020 season: 44gp 16g 38a 54pts 24pim AHL/ 23gp 3g 7a 10pts 13pim NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Batherson has dominated at the AHL level over the past two seasons, registering 116pts in 103 AHL games. Unfortunately, this hasn’t quite translated at the NHL levels, as he has put up 19 points in 43 NHL games over the last 2 seasons. I think this is the year that Batherson gets a legitimate spot on the Senators lineup. He has great vision on the ice, he reads the play well and can execute tape-to-tape passes when his teammates are in prime scoring areas. He has the size to hold his own against NHL competition, but will need to continue to improve his skating if he wants to reach his full potential.

  1. Gabriel Vilardi 6’3 Center 21 years old 11th overall 2017 LA Kings 2019/2020 season: 32gp 9g 16a 25pts 14pim AHL/ 10gp 3g 4a 7pts 4pim NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Vilardi got a taste of the NHL last season and fit in well, racking up 7 points in 10 NHL games. Vilardi is NHL ready, and on a rebuilding Kings squad, he should be a lock to be on the team, right? The issue for me, is that the Kings also have Byfield, Turcotte, and Madden who are all centers hoping to make the team this year out of training camp. Vilardi’s two-way ability should be enough to earn a spot somewhere in the lineup, but where he ends up may limit his offense, at least for now.

  1. Owen Tippett 6’1 Right Wing/Left Wing 21 years old 10th overall 2017 Florida Panthers 2019/2020 season: 46gp 19g 21a 40pts 18pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Fantasy owners have been waiting for Tippet to break into the NHL for what feels like forever, but Florida has let him marinate. After going nearly a point-per-game in the AHL last season, he appears ready for the next challenge, but the Panthers may think differently. Tippett is one of the best scorers on this list, with the ability to make it seem like the puck finds him wherever he goes.

  1. Cole Caufield 5’7 Right Wing 19 years old 15th overall 2019 Montreal Canadians 2019/2020 season: 36gp 19g 17a 36pts 6pim NCAA
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Speaking of goal scorers, one of my favourites on this list, Caufield is as deadly as they come when the puck is on his stick. He is able to pick corners from ridiculous angles and he loves to shoot the puck. He has the goal scorers ability to find open space in the offensive zone and is always ready to quickly rip the puck when it enters his vicinity. He has been working on his 200ft game and playmaking, and has had a hot start to his second NCAA season. He should be signing with Montreal after this college season.
“But he’s really small.”
I dont care.

  1. Vasili Podkolzin 6’1 Right Wing 19 years old 10th overall 2019 Vancouver Canucks 2019/2020 season: 30gp 2g 6a 8pts 7pim KHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Podkolzin has all of the tools to be a modern day power forward. He works his tail off every shift, retrieving pucks and battling along the boards. He loves to drive the net and has the puck skills to get him there, and he can make sneaky passes resulting in high end scoring chances for his teammates. Prior to his draft, the KHL offered him a big contract extension, which he rejected as he aimed to come to North America. It appears SKA didn’t appreciate Podkolzin’s decision, resulting in him often being deployed as a 4th liner, or healthy scratched. It’s ridiculous. Once this KHL season is concluded, however, the Canucks will sign Podkolzin and there is a chance he slots immediately into their top 6 and becomes an multi-category asset to fantasy owners.

20.Alex Newhook 5’11 Center 19 years old 16th overall 2019 Colorado Avalanche 2019/2020 season: 34gp 19g 23a 42pts 8pim NCAA
NHL Expectancy: 4/5
Fantasy Upside: 9/10

I think Newhook should have been taken much higher in his draft than he was. He has incredible speed and playmaking ability, as well as a hard, accurate shot. He had an impressive first NCAA season with 42 points in 34 games after there was uncertainty as to how his game would translate after playing in the BCHL prior to being drafted. One more season with Boston College and he should be ready to test his trade in the NHL. It doesn’t hurt that he will be joining a dangerous Avalanche team.

  1. Morgan Frost 6’0 Center 21 years old 27th overall 2017 Philadelphia Flyers 2019/2020 season: 20gp 2g 5a 7pts 4pim NHL/ 41gp 13g 16a 29pts 20pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Frost is another player that was given a small stint with his NHL team last season, notching 7 points in 20 games for the Flyers. Solid production from a 20 year old playing in the NHL, but making the starting lineup out of training camp isn’t a guaruntee as the team may opt to give him more seasoning in the AHL. Frost uses his quick speed and hockey sense to be effective in all areas of the ice. His shot isn’t overly dangerous, and his offensive potential isn’t as high as other players on the list.

  1. Nils Hoglander 5’9 Left Wing 19 years old 40th overall 2019 Vancouver Canucks 2019/2020 season: 41gp 9g 7a 16pts 39pim
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Currently on loan in the SHL, Hoglander is having a good start to the season with 10 points in 18 games (as of writing this), but will come to North America and push for a Canucks roster spot out of training camp. It may seem unlikely given the logjam of players currently on the Canucks roster, but Benning has said that they will make room for young players if they earn it. Hoglander is a shifty winger that has some of the best puck skills on this list. He loves to dangle the puck and isn’t afraid to get creative. You may have seen him score a “Zorro” goal at last years world juniors, he has done the move several times over the years. Has the ability to drive the play and create space for his teammates in the offensive zone. Carries a bit of an edge which bodes well for PIM catagories of fantasy owners.

  1. Grigori Denisenko 5’11 Left Wing/Right Wing 20 years old 15th overall 2018 Florida Panthers 2019/2020 season: 38gp 6g 6a 12pts 8pim KHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Don’t let Denisenko’s modest numbers in the KHL fool you, he has been dominant against his peers in international tournaments. Fresh off signing his entry-level contract with the Panthers, Denisenko may earn himself a spot on the starting roster right out of training camp, potentially in their top-6. He plays a high-speed game, utilizing his impressive speed and strong edgework. He is a dangerous offensive player who can deke around defenders and use his quick release to beat goaltenders himself, or slip a pass through to his teammate for a scoring chance. His defensive game is a questionmark, and that could factor in on his ability to jump into the NHL immediately.

  1. Eeli Tolvanen 5’10 Left Wing/Right Wing 21 years old 30th overall 2017 Nashville Predators 2019/2020 season: 63gp 21g 15a 36pts 18pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Fantasy owners have long been waiting for Tolvanen to be the special player that he appeared to be after going to the KHL for the 2017/2018 season and registering 19 goals and 17 assists (36 points) in 49 games for Jokerit. Since then, he has been in the AHL and puting up average offensive numbers. He is still gifted offensively, and his shot is still his biggest weapon, but he has been refining his game in all areas of the ice to be a more reliable player. Not every prospect develops as quickly as fans hope, and Tolvanen still has all the tools to be a sniper at the NHL level. This may be the year he gets a chance to show it.

  1. Barrett Hayton 6’1 Center/left wing 20 years old 5th overall 2018 Arizona Coyotes 2019/2020 season: 20gp 1g 3a 4pts 14pim NHL/ 5gp 1g 4a 5pts 4pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

As a 19 year old, Hayton played 20 games for Arizona last year and produced 4 points. In Haytons case, I am a bit lower on his offensive upside than where he ended up on this list, however, one factor that I had to consider was his opportunity. Arizona surprised many when they drafted him 5th overall, but the fact was that they loved his game. This leads me to believe that they will give Hayton every opportunity to be successful. Hayton has a sound 200 foot game, and a nice shot, but his overall offensive potential is up in the air.

  1. Josh Norris 6’2 Center 21 years old 19th overall 2017 San Jose Sharks 2019/2020 season: 56gp 31g 30a 61pts 21pim AHL/ 3gp 0g 0a 0pts 0pim NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Norris began his professional hockey career hot out of the gates. After signing with Ottawa, Norris dominated the AHL, scoring over a point-per-game over 56 games(31 goals and 30 assists). There will be the opportunity for Norris to make the Senators team out of training camp this season. He may just earn himself a key role on this rebuilding Senators team, with a powerful shot and willingness to compete and create plays in the offensive zone.

  1. Nicholas Robertson 5’9 Center/Left Wing 19 years old 53rd overall 2019 Toronto Maple Leafs 2019/2020 season: 46gp 55g 31a 86pts 40pim OHL
    NHL Expectancy: 5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Robertson scored 1 goal and played 4 games for the Maple Leafs last season during their short playoff run. It seems like he’s a lock to make the team this season as the Leafs don’t have a lot of cap space to work with and Robertson has an affordable entry-level-contract. He is a player that brings a lot of energy and offensive creativity to his game, and after scoring 55 goals in 46 OHL games, its clear that he knows how to fill the back of the net. I’m not sure he will get the opportunity in Toronto to put up big numbers right away, but he has the skill to force his way up the lineup sooner than later.

  1. Matthew Boldy 6’2 Left Wing 19 years old 12th overall Minnesota Wild 2019/2020 season: 34gp 9g 17a 26pts 8pim NCAA
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Boldy is off to a hot start in his second season of NCAA hockey with 8 points in his first 4 games(as of writing this). Boldy is a deceptive winger that is good in all areas of his game. He makes dynamic plays with the puck or also be the one sniping over the goalies shoulder. He has the size and IQ to be effective and reliable defensively. His quickness is the only fault to his game but he has been working hard to improve his first step quickness. Boldy should sign with Minnesota after this college season.

  1. Jack Quinn 6’1 Right Wing 19 years old 8th overall 2020 Buffalo Sabres 2019/2020 season: 62gp 52g 37a 89pts 32pim OHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Quinn is a player that I think was taken higher in the draft than he should have given the talent that was still on the board. Quinn has a hard, accurate shot with a deceptive realease which resulted in 52 goals over 62 OHL games in his draft year. He has the stickhandling to maneuver around opposing players to create offensive chances. I think he needs to refine his game, improve his skating, strength and playmaking before he is ready for the NHL, but as an 8th overall pick, he may get the chance sooner than later.

  1. Peyton Krebs 5’11 Center/Left Wing 19 years old 17th overall 2019 Vegas Golden Knights 2019/2020 season: 38gp 12g 48a 60pts 38pim WHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Krebs is a player who hasn’t had the most ideal situations over the last couple years. He was the 1st overall pick in the 2016 WHL Bantam Draft. Unfortunately for him, this meant he was to play for an extremely bad Kootenay Ice team. In his draft year, he put up a modest 19 goals and 49 assists(68 points) in 64 WHL games, not bad considering the team he was on. Then, just just before the NHL Draft, a skate blade cut through his cut-proof sock and into his achilles tendon, which he required surgery for. He limped up to the podium once his name was finally called 17th overall by the Vegas Golden Knights. He recovered and put up 60pts in 38 WHL games the following season. He has great edgework and strong skating, and hee always makes the smart pass. Dependable on both ends of the ice, Krebs has a high floor, and the potential to have a higher ceiling than some may realize.

  1. Arthur Kaliyev 6’2 Left Wing 19 years old 33rd overall 2019 LA Kings 2019/2020 season: 57gp 44g 54a 98pts 28pim OHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

I had heard rumblings that some viewed Kaliyev as a top 10 pick in his draft after registering 51 goals and 51 assists in 67 OHL games, however, he slipped to the 2nd round. His lack of effort on the ice, particularly in the defensive zone where he often would coast, led many to believe that he doesn’t posess the drive to be legitimate high-end prospect. I belive there is some merit to this, however, I think his “lack of effort” was overblown, and his offensive gifts are impossible to ignore. Kaliyev has a wicked shot: it’s powerful, it’s accurate, he has a quick release, and he loves to let it rip. Kaliyev could be given a chance to play alongside Turcotte or Byfield in the coming years as LA rebuilds their team, and if this happens, he could become one of the top goal scorers in the league.

  1. Connor McMichael 6’0 Center 19 years old 25th overall 2019 Washington Capitals 2019/2020 season: 52gp 47g 55a 102pts 26pim OHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

McMichael saw his stock rise in his draft+1 season where he registered 1.96pts/game in the OHL. He is a very intelligent 2-way centre that always seems to have the puck on his stick in the offensive zone. Has a threatening shot, and the hockey sense to make clever plays wherever he is on the ice. A hard working player that should have no issues becoming an NHL regular, but I’m not sure how soon the Caps will be rushing to give him a spot in their lineup.

  1. Jonatan Berggren 5’11 Left/Right Wing 20 years old 33rd overall 2018 Detroit Red Wings 2019/2020 season: 24gp 2g 10a 12pts 6pim SHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Berggren is currently having a big year in the SHL, with 23 points in 20 games(as of this writing). He plays the game with energy and speed which bodes well for his NHL future as the game just keeps getting faster. He has the hands and playmaking ability to be dangerous in the offensive zone, but needs to work on his shot to be more of a threat. He is strong defensively and if he continues his dominant play this season, he could cross the pond and push for a roster spot next season.

  1. Adam Beckman 6’1 Left Wing 19 years old 75th overall 2019 Minnesota Wild 2019/2020 season: 63gp 48g 59a 107pts 18pim WHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Beckman is another player who saw his stock rise after a big draft+1 season puting up 48 goals and 59 assists(107 points) in 63 WHL games. Beckman isn’t the flashiest of players, but that doesn’t mean that he isn’t a very effective player in the offensive zone, the kid keeps it simple and finds a way to get the job done. He is the guy you want out during the final minutes of a game, regardless of the score. He can protect a lead with his compete and smart defensive game, or he can create scoring chances and tie the game up in the final seconds. Beckman is a bit of a late bloomer, but posesses the passion and dedication to keep on blooming.

35.Tyler Madden 5’11 Center 21 years old 68th overall 2018 Vancouver Canucks 2019/2020 season: 27gp 19g 18a 37pts 34pim NCAA
NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Madded was traded from Vancouver to Las Angeles prior to last years trade deadline for a rental player in Tyler Toffoli, and as a Canucks fan, that one stung. Madden recorded 19 goals and 18 assists (37 points) in 27 NCAA games. The Kings have signed the 21 year old center and he will be pushing for a roster spot out of training camp this season. Madden is a threat in the offensive zone, posessing a strong, accurate shot and the ability to make smart passes to his teammates. He is not an overly dynamic player, but he does a lot of things well and competes hard to get results. With other high-profile centerman in LA’s system, I’m not sure where Madden ends up in the Kings’ lineup long-term.

  1. Logan Brown 6’6 Center 22 years old 11th overall 2016 Ottawa Senators 2019/2020 season: 25gp 7g 21a 28pts 43pim AHL/ 23gp 1g 7a 8pts 4pim NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Brown is another Senator who has produced very well in the AHL level, and had a few small stints in the NHL. Brown has the potential to be a special player, a 6’6 centre that can be a menace in the offensive zone. He has good playmaking ability and a hard, accurate shot that makes him dangerous in the offensive zone. As good as Brown has been in the AHL, I’m not sure that he’s more skilled than other young players in the Senators system, and for that reason I bumped him down my list.

  1. Rasmus Kupari 6’1 Center 20 years old 20th overall 2018 LA Kings 2019/2020 season: 27gp 6g 2a 8pts 9pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

After notching 33 points in 43 Liiga games in 2018/2019, Kupari had a slow start in his North American debut. He registered 8 points in 27 AHL games before tearing his ACL at the World Junior Championships. Kupari will look to rebound this year, he stikk has the offensive tools that made him a first round selection in 2018. He uses his speed, hands, playmaking ability and shot to make him a potential top line player, but his abilities on the defensive end may limit him. LA also has a couple young, extremely talented centerman that appear to be locks in the top 6 for years to come, which leaves a big questionmark as to where Kupari ends up.

  1. Liam Foudy 6’1 Center 20 years old 18th overall 2018 Columbus Blue Jackets 2019/2020 season: 45gp 28g 40a 68pts 24pim OHL/ 2gp 0g 1a 1pt 0pim NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Foudy played 2 games for the Blue Jackets and was able to produce his first NHL point in that time. He will fight for a roster spot this year, but may need time to develop before making it as a full-time NHLer. Foudy has the skating ability and offensive instincts to make it in the NHL, but his play without the puck needs work before he earns the trust of Tortorella.

  1. Vitali Abramov 5’10 Left Wing/Right Wing 22 years old 65th overall 2016 Columbus Blue Jackets 2019/2020 season: 51gp 18g 23a 41pts 30pim AHL/ 2gp 1g 0a 1pt 2pim NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Abramov is another Senators’ prospect that has been producing very well at the AHL level. He plays a fast-paced game, and posesses soft hands and a quick shot, which make him very effective in the offensive zone. Consistency with his game may be an issue. He wont be on the top of Ottawas depth chart this year as he needs more time to improve his overall game.

  1. Jack Studnicka 6’1 Center 21 years old 53rd overall 2017 Boston Bruins 2019/2020 season: 60gp 23g 26a 49pts 30pim AHL/ 2gp 0g 1a 1pt 2pim NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Studnicka started his professional career on a strong note, registering 49 points in his first 60 AHL games. He earned himself a small taste of NHL action, playing 2 games for the Bruins and notching his first career assist. He is a reliable centerman that is capable of producing in the offensive zone when given the chance. He is a smart player, and has a deceptive release on his shot that fools goaltenders. He will probably need another year in the AHL to refine his game before he becomes a full-time NHLer.

  1. Alex Formenton 6’3 Left Wing 21 years old 47th overall 2017 Ottawa Senators 2019/2020 season: 61gp 27g 26a 53pts 65pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Formenton is another player in the Senators’ system that will be pushing for an NHL roster spot as early as this year. He played his first season of professional hockey last season and he made the transition look easy. He used his fantastic speed and skating ability to take advantage of AHL competition, registering 53 points in 61 games. He can be hard to maintain in the offensive zone, but probably needs to refine his decision making and defensive game before testing his trade at the NHL level.

  1. Joe Veleno 6’1 Center 20 years old 30th overall 2018 Detroit Red Wings 2019/2020 season: 54gp 11g 12a 23pts 18pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Veleno is a strong skating two-way center, which may help earn him an NHL roster spot on the Red Wings this season. He is currently on loan in the SHL, and has put up 5 goals and 4 assists (9 points) in his first 19 games. Veleno is a reliable player that you can expect to make smart plays in all areas of the ice. His offensive tools are good, but he doesn’t have one single attribute that is elite. He has a high floor, with a moderate ceiling that could increase as he continues to develop.

  1. Vitali Kravtsov 6’4 Right Wing 20 years old 9th overall 2018 New York Rangers 2019/2020 season: 39gp 6g 9a 15pts 4pim AHL/ 11gp 2g 1a 3pts 2pim KHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

There is word that the Rangers are going to leave Kravtsov on loan in the KHL until his season concludes, as he is developing nicely and receiving a lot of opportunity overseas. Kravtsov is a big winger with excellent offensive skills. He has a nose for the net, and a good shot that he uses frequently. His playmaking ability is another strong skill of his, as he looks for open teammates and can connect with passes that his opponents don’t see coming. Will need to continue to improve his 200-foot game.

  1. Kristian Vesalainen 6’4 Left Wing/Right Wing 21 years old 24th overall 2017 Winnipeg Jets 2019/2020 season: 60gp 12g 18a 30pts 10pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Vesalainen has taken a bit longer to develop than the Jets had hoped. Consistency has been an issue, but this isn’t uncommon for a young player who is constantly having to adapt to a new team and a new league. He has the good size and speed, he has excellent playmaking ability, and he has a bomb of a shot. He needs to still work on his overall game and his decision making without the puck, but it’s only a matter of time before he gets an opportunity to make it on the Jets roster.

45.Rodion Amirov 6’0 Left Wing/Right Wing 19 years old 15th overall 2020 Toronto Maple Leafs 2019/2020 season: 21gp 0g 2a 2pts 4pim KHL /17gp 10g 12a 22pts 31pim MHL
NHL Expectancy: 3/5
Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Amirov is a smart, hard working winger on both ends of the ice. He is a high-volume shooter, but has the hockey sense to read the play and be ready to make a slick pass to one of his teammates. There is the chance that Amirov chooses to stay in Russia and develop in the KHL for longer than the Maple Leafs would like, but with his strong two-way ability already, expect him to be NHL ready when he does sign his entry-level contract.

  1. Seth Jarvis 5’10 Right Wing 18 years old 13th overall 2020 Carolina Hurricanes 2019/2020 season: 58gp 42g 56a 98pts 24pim WHL
    NHL Expectancy: 3/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Jarvis had a big season with the Winterhawks, but it was what he did in the second half of that season that really caught the attention of NHL scouts. In his last 26 games, Jarvis scored a monstreous 27 goals and added 36 assists (63points). He uses his deceptive skating and excellent edgework to consistantly beat defenders and take the puck to the net. He has the quick release to finish, and the awareness to dish the puck to a teammate for a tap-in goal. If his skating can allow him to dance around his opponents at the NHL level, then he could be a special player, but if he can’t maintain that competative edge, I’m not sure where he ends up in an NHL lineup.

  1. Jakob Pelletier 5’10 Left Wing 19 years old 26th overall 2019 Calgary Flames 2019/2020 season: 57gp 32g 50a 82pts 16pim QMJHL
    NHL Expectancy: 3/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

I hate player comparisons, but I’m sure that there are some Flames’ fans that are comparing Pelletier to Johnny Gaudreau once they see that he’s listed as 5’10”. In all fairness, there are some similarities to their games, both are strong skaters with good edgework. Both have high-end hockey IQ and use that to make sneaky passing plays in the offensive zone. Both need to shoot the puck a bit more and try to improve their shots as well. And yes, both are undersized in the eyes of old-thinking NHL front offices. But, Pelletier isn’t Johnny Hockey. He plays a stronger defensive game than Gaudreau, and probably wont be as dynamic in the offensive zone, but give the kid some time to develop and he could be another fan-favourite in Calgary.

  1. Dylan Holloway 6’1 Center/Left Wing 19 years old 14th overall 2020 Edmonton Oilers 2019/2020 season: 36gp 8g 9a 17pts 49pim NCAA
    NHL Expectancy: 3/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Holloway had a decent start to his NCAA career last season, netting 8 goals and 9 assists (17 points) in 35 games. This year he has came out of the gates hot, scoring 2 goals in his first 2 games. Holloway has the speed, agility and defensive play to make it in the NHL, but his offensive potential is still up in the air. He may sign with the Oilers at the end of this NCAA season, but may need some seasoning in the AHL before cracking an Oilers lineup that is already young up front.

  1. Philip Tomasino 6’0 Center 19 years old 24th overall 2019 Nashville Predators 2019/2020 season: 62gp 40g 60a 100pts 12 pim OHL
    NHL Expectancy: 3/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Thomasino is probably a couple years out from making his debut in the NHL, but when he gets there, Predators fans are going to love him. His impressive speed and edgework combined with the ability to process the play at high speeds make him a dangerous fast-paced player. He isn’t afraid to get in on the forecheck and battle for the puck. He has a quick release on his shot and his passes are accurate, but I’m not sure he has the offensive skill to make it as a big producer at the NHL level.

  1. Roby Jarventie 6’3 Left Wing 18 years old 33rd overall 2020 Ottawa Senators 2019/2020 season: 36gp 23g 15a 38pts 56pim Mestis/ 5gp 1g 0a 1pt 4pim Liiga
    NHL Expectancy: 3/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Jarventie forced his way onto my list with his impressive play so far this season in the Liiga. With 7 goals and 7 assists(14 points) in 19 games in his first full season playing in the top league in Finland. Jarventie is looking to make a lot of NHL scouts regret not taking him in the first round of the draft. Jarventie has great awareness in the offensive zone, always keeping his head up, looking for open lanes to get the puck to his teammates. He has a hard, accurate shot and he loves to use it. He has that blend of size and speed is always covetted by NHL teams. He will need some time to develop his 200-foot game, but, if he keeps up his point production at the pro-levels, he could be making his NHL debut sooner than expected.

  1. Oliver Wahlstrom 6’2 Right Wing 20 years old 11th overall 2018 NY Islanders 2019/2020 season: 45gp 10g 12a 22pts 29pim AHL/ 9gp 0g 0a 0pts 4pim NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 7.5/10

Wahlstrom looked like a great pick at 11th overall in 2018, but it’s almost 2021 and his development hasn’t went the way many expected. He put up 19 points in 36 games during his first NCAA season, and was then signed my the Islanders. Last year he went pointless in the 9 NHL games he played, and scored 10 goals and 12 assists in 45 AHL games. Wahlstrom is a strong skater, but is best known for his terrific shot. He has the offensive tools, but may just need more time to develop and imrpove his game in all areas before making it to the NHL. I wouldn’t give up on Wahlstrom just yet, but I also wouldnt count on him becoming a 30+ goal scorer at the NHL level one day.

  1. Lucas Elvenes 6’1 Left Wing/Right Wing 21 years old 127th overall 2017 Vegas Golden Knights 2019/2020 season: 59gp 12g 36a 48pts 18pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 7.5/10

Elvenes was one of the top rookies in the AHL last season, with 48 points in 59 games. He is definitely more of a playmaker, and excels when given time and space to make plays. He has a quick release on his shot, but needs to utilize it more. It doesn’t appear like Vegas is going to be giving him much of an opportunity this season, with a pretty full roster already, and Cody Glass likely to get a full time roster spot. If Elvenes continues this production at the AHL level, and improves his defensive play, he will force the Golden Knights to give him a look once injuries occur.

  1. Aleksi Heponiemi 5’10 Center/Right Wing 21 years old 40th overall 2017 Florida Panthers 2019/2020 season: 49gp 3g 11a 14pts 16pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 7.5/10

After a big year in 2018/2019, scoring 46 points in 50 Liiga games, fantasy owners thought Heponiemi might come to North America and make the Panthers team out of camp. He didn’t, and then he had a poor year adapting to the AHL level. He has a good shot and the ability to slither by opponents in the offensive zone, but needs to find a way to play in the tough areas more often. He has good awareness on both ends of the ice, and is always looking for open teammates when he has the puck. This year will be a big one for Heponiemi, as he needs to prove he can play a North American-style game.

  1. Matias Maccelli 5’11 Left Wing 20 years old 98th overall 2019 Arizona Coyotes 2019/2020 season: 43gp 13g 17a 30pts 16pim Liiga
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 7.5/10

Maccelli scored 13 goals and 17 assists (30 points) in 43 Liiga games last season and was named the Rookie of the Year, which made the decision easy for Arizona to offer him an entry-level contract. He’s back in Finland this year on loan and has 17 points in 19 games (as of this writing). Maccelli has the offensive instincts, creativity, and excellent passing ability to make him a player to keep an eye on, however, his skating and defensive game are still works in progress.

  1. Jan Jenik 6’1 Left Wing/Right Wing 20 years old 65th overall 2018 Arizona Coyotes 2019/2020 season: 27gp 22g 34a 56pts 30pim OHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 7.5/10

Jenik is an intelligent playmaker. He is always aware of where his teammates are on the ice, and has the passing ability to execute tape-to-tape passes consistantly. He is strong on his skates, with good top-speed and decent edgework. If he works on his shot a bit more, and continues to develop an overall game, he could be a player who makes an earlier appearance in the NHL than expected.

  1. Alexander Khovanov 5’11 Center 20 years old 86th overall 2018 Minnesota Wild 2019/2020 season: 51gp 32g 67a 99pts 94pim QMJHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 7.5/10

Khovanov has thrived at the junior level. Most recently, he registered 32 goals and 67 assists(99 points) in 51 QMJHL games. He has great vision on the ice and can make creative plays with the puck on his stick. He has a quick release and good accuracy on his shot, but he needs to use it more. Needs to improve his skating and defensive play.

  1. Kirill Marchenko 6’2 Left Wing 20 years old 49th overall 2018 Columbus Blue Jackets 2019/2020 season: 31gp 7g 9a 16pts 6pim KHL
    NHL Expectancy: 3/5
    Fantasy Upside: 7.5/10

Marchenko is having very productive seasons in the KHL for being a young player. Last season he registered 16 points in 31 KHL games, and this season he is up to 20 points (11 goals 9 assists) in 29 KHL games. He is signed with SKA until the end of the 2021/2022 season, and I am sure that Columbus has that date circled on their calendars as they would like to get him signed and over to North America. Marchenko has silky smooth hands that he loves to use to deke through his opponents. He has a quick release on an accurate shot that he uses when he’s close to the net. He uses his vision to find his teammates when they are open in the offensive zone. The defensive side of his game is still a work in progress, and his skating could still use some work. His edgework is good, but his acceleration and top speed could be improved.

Defensemen:

When it comes to defensemen in fantasy pools, typically, the defensemen that produce the most points are the most valuable. There is value in defensemen that will provide a lot of hits and blocked shots, but those categories are much harder to predict, especially from unproven prospects. A factor considered in my rankings is the opportunity that the defensive prospect will likely receive with their NHL team once they crack the lineup, particularly on the powerplay.

  1. Jamie Drysdale 5’11 Defenseman 18 years old 6th overall 2020 Anaheim Ducks 2019/2020 season: 49gp 9g 38a 47pts 24pim OHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy upside: 9/10

Many believed that Drysdale should have been the first defenseman taken in the 2020 Draft, myself included. Drsydale is one of few dynamic offensive defenseman who can quarterback a powerplay with ease. He has excellent edgework, and can thread the needle with his passes, and he isn’t afraid to rip a shot from the outside. Defensively he isn’t as dominant, however, he can hold his own and has good positioning and gap control on the rush.

  1. Bowen Byram 6’1 Defenseman 19 years old 4th overall 2019 Colorado Avalanche 2019/2020 season: 50gp 14g 38a 52pts 76pim WHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy upside: 9/10

Byram was the first defenseman taken in his draft, and he is also a dynamic offensive defenseman. Byram has very good skating, as he quickly jumps up on the rush when given the opportunity, and can stop on a dime with his excellent edgework. He can quarterback a powerplay and be a big threat with his accurate shot from the point. Like Drysdale, he could still work on his defensive game. The biggest issue for me with Byram, is that Colorado has Makar set to quarterback their powerplay, and I’m not sure Byram will get the opportunity to be a dominant defenseman for fantasy owners, at least not right away.

  1. Moritz Seider 6’4 Defenseman 19 years old 6th overall 2019 Detroit Red Wings 2019/2020 season: 49gp 2g 20a 22pts 28pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5
    Fantasy upside: 9/10

Seider has has a great start to his season, with 11 points in 15 SHL games(as of this writing), he will be competing for a spot on the rebuilding Red Wings roster. Seider isn’t as dynamic offensively as the first 2 players on this list, but he is the better overall defenseman. Seider is a very intelligent player, able to predict what his opponents will do as they come at him on the rush. He already has NHL size and NHL skating. Luckily for Seider, he looks to be the go-to defenseman for Detroit as they look to rebuild their team, and they have added some very talented forwards through the draft over the last few years. Seider could see his offensive numbers inflate if he is given powerplay opportunity with the likes of Raymond, Zadina, Berggen and Veleno.

  1. Ty Smith 5’11 Defenseman 20 years old 17th overall 2018 NJ Devils 2019/2020 season: 46gp 19g 40a 59pts 42pim WHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy upside: 9/10

Ty Smith has been dominant in the WHL over the last few years, and many fantasy owners, including myself, thought that he would make the jump to the NHL last season. Instead, New Jersey opted to send him back to the WHL, where he played his 3rd straight season going over a point per game. Smith is not a pure offensive defenseman, as he is effective on both ends of the ice. He is great at getting breakout passes off under pressure, and has no issues skating the puck out of the zone himself. He can quarterback a powerplay as his playmaking ability is high end and he hsa a big, accurate shot from the point. If he can reach his full potential, he will have a few former 1st overall picks on the receiving end of his passes for the entirety of his career.

  1. Erik Brannstrom 5’10 Defesemen 21 years old 15th overall 2017 Vegas Golden Knights
    2019/2020 season: 31gp 0g 4a 4pts 12pim NHL/ 27gp 3g 20a 23pts 22pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Fantasy owners were let down with Brannstrom’s performance last year as he put up a wopping 4 points in 31 NHL games. It’s easy to forget that more often than not, defenseman take more time to develop and that it’s very rare for defenseman to step into the league and thrive the way that Hughes and Makar did this past season. He is still a defenseman that can be a real offensive threat and quarterback a powerplay as his skating and offensive instincts are high-end. Ottawa has added some talented young players over the last few years and Brannstrom should get the opportunity to quarterback the powerplay filled with elite players.

  1. Evan Bouchard 6’3 Defenseman 21 years old 10th overall 2018 Edmonton Oilers 2019/2020 season: 54gp 7g 29a 36pts 42pim
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy upside: 9/10

Bouchard is a little higher on this list than he probably should be, but hear me out. Bouchard posesses a booming shot from the point, and has the offensive instincts to quarterback a powerplay. He has been working on his game defensively as there are still some inconsistancies. I think it’s only a matter of time before Bouchard is quarterbacking one of the most lethal powerplays in the NHL, playing with McDavid and Draisaitl. Some will argue that Broberg is the heir to this opportunity, but you will see that I have Broberg much further down my list.

  1. Juuso Valimaki 6’2 Defenseman 22 years old 16th overall 2017 Calgary Flames 2019/2020 season: no stats
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy upside: 9/10

Valimaki looked like he was going to solidify a roster spot on the Flames last season, after playing 24 games for the club the season prior. Unfortunately, he suffered a torn ACL and had knee surgery during the offseason which saw him miss the entirety of the 2019/2020 season. This year he has registered 2 goals at 17 assists in 19 Liiga games(as of this writing), as he awaits the start of the NHL season. Valimaki is a smart hockey player that can use his skating and accurate passes to push play up the ice. He has the potential to be a powerplay quarterback for the Flames as they don’t have a defenseman like him in their system, and Giordano’s best days are behind him.

  1. Jake Sanderson 6’1 Defenseman 18 years old 5th overall 2020 Ottawa Senators 2019/2020 season: 47gp 7g 22a 29pts USDP/ 19gp 2g 12a 14pts USHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy upside: 9/10

Ah, the first defenseman taken in the 2020 draft finally appears on the list. Sanderson breakout machine, utlizing his impressive skating or his crisp, accurate stretch passes under pressure. He is effective in all areas of the ice, knowing when to pinch offensively or when to hold down the fort in his own end. His gap control on the backcheck is very good, as he rarely gets beat. The reason I have him lower on my list is because I’m not sure Sanderson brings that same dynamic offensive ability that others on the list do, but he could very well prove me wrong. As of this writing, he has 3 points in his first 3 NCAA games, so maybe don’t sleep on Sanderson.

  1. Nils Lundkvist 5’11 Defenseman 20 years old 28th overall 2018 NY Rangers 2019/2020 season: 45gp 11g 20a 31pts 30pim SHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy upside: 9/10

Last season Lundkvist broke an SHL record as the first under-20 defenseman to register 25 or more points in a single season. Though he is more of an offensive defenseman, Lundkvist holds his own defensively as well. He is a strong skater, and uses his high IQ to always be one step ahead of his opponents. He seems to always make the smart play, and can effectively move the puck up the ice to his teammates. He doesn’t hesitate to join the rush and once in the offensive zone he is a dangerous playmaker. Lundkvist likely would have signed with the Rangers last summer, had there not have been pandemic-delayed NHL season. An issue for Lundkvist is that the Rangers have Tony Deangelo and Adam Fox, two offensive defenseman that may be hard to hurdle over for powerplay time.

  1. Ryan Merkley 5’11 Defenseman 20 years old 21st overall San Jose Sharks 2019/2020 season: 60gp 15g 61a 76pts 48pim OHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy upside: 9/10

Merkley had the talent to be a top-10 pick in his draft as he has incredible offensive abilities. His defensive game, and attitude was what diverted NHL teams from drafting him. He posesses all the skills that you want in an offensive defenseman, he has exceptional skating and edgework, he can quarterback a powerplay and thread the needle with passes to his teammates, he has a threatening shot with good accuracy from the point. His attitude, effort level away from the puck, and other on and off-ice issues have been the glaring negatives for the young prospect. There has been word that San Jose has been working with him and seen improvement in these areas, and if he can put those issues in the past, Merkley could pile up the points at the NHL level.

  1. Alexander Romanov 5’11 Defenseman 20 years old 38th overall 2018 Montreal Canadiens 2019/2020 season: 43gp 0g 7a 7pts 14pim KHL
    NHL Expectancy: 5/5
    Fantasy upside: 8/10

Romanov is a player that I felt I had to put higher on my list than I think he deserves, but I had to remember that this list isn’t about who’s the best player, it’s about who will bring the most value to fantasy owners. Romanov is a two-way defenseman that can be effective on both ends of the ice. He has a very good shot, and can identify when to pinch in the offensive zone. Defensively, he plays a strong game and knows where he needs to be positionally. The big thing that Romanov has going for him though, is that the Canadiens are drooling over him. This leads me to believe that he will receive a lot of opportunity in Montreal, and if he can take advantage of that opportunity, particularly on the powerplay, then fantasy owners will be very happy they added him to their team.

  1. Thomas Harley 6’3 Defenseman 19 years old 18th overall 2019 Dallas Stars 2019/2020 season: 59gp 18g 39a 57pts 33pim OHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy upside: 8.5/10

Harley almost made it on the Stars out of training camp last season. The coaches raved about him and he was compared to another Dallas defenseman, Miro Heiskanen. Harley plays a very mature game, using his exceptional skating ability to control the play. He can break the puck out with ease, and isn’t afraid to jump in on the rush. Although he isn’t a pure offensive defenseman, his playmaking ability allows him to very effectively quarterback a powerplay. With Klingberg and Heiskanen above him, I’m not sure we will see Harley on a top powerplay unit for awhile.

  1. Jake Bean 6’1 Defenseman 22 years old 13th overall 2016 Carolina Hurricanes 2019/2020 season: 59gp 10g 38a 48pts 34pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy upside: 8.5/10

Bean has had two productive seasons in the AHL, most recently racking up 48 points in 59 games. He will challenge for a full-time roster spot this season on the Hurricanes. Bean plays an intelligent game, making smart-easy passes when they are available, and identifying when he needs to use his strong skating to get himself out of tough situations. Bean has been extremely effective quarterbacking the powerplay in the AHL, and if he can grow into that role at the NHL level, he will be a very valuable defenseman for fantasy owners.

  1. Rasmus Sandin 5’11 Defenseman 20 yeears old 29th overall 2018 Toronto Maple Leafs 2019/2020 season: 28gp 1g 7a 8pts 10pim NHL/ 21gp 2g 13a 15pts 17pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Sandin teased fantasy owners last season after posting a solid 6 goals and 22 assists (28 points) in his first 44 AHL games in the 2018/2019 season. It appeared that he would be getting a legitimate shot on the roster of the Maple Leafs, however, Toronto decided that more fine-tuning in the minors was the best option. This season, Toronto has a pretty full roster again after signing depth players, meaning Sandin may again be playing the majority of his season in the AHL. Sandin plays a very mature and intelligent game. He is a great puck mover and creates a lot of offense with his clever playmaking ability. Sandin has the potential to be a powerplay quarterback for the leafs one day, but we may have to wait a few more years before he gets the opportunity to show his true offensive potential.

  1. Victor Soderstrom 6’0 Defenseman 19 years old 11th overall 2019 Arizona Coyotes 2019/2020 season: 35gp 5g 11a 16pts 12pim SHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy upside: 8.5/10

Soderstrom is a smooth skating two-way defenseman. He is strong in his own zone and can use his awareness to create plays offensively. He isn’t an overly dynamic player but he seems to make the right play more often than not. I think that Soderstrom has another level to reach offensively, and could earn himself an NHL spot sooner than later as it appears the Coyotes are looking to rebuild and explored trading Oliver Ekman-Larsson prior to free agency.

  1. Ville Heinola 5’11 Defenseman 19 years old 20th overall 2019 Winnipeg Jets 2019/2020 season: 29gp 0g 7a 7pts 12pim/ Liiga 8gp 1g 4a 5pts 4pim NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy upside: 8.5/10

Heinola teased fantasy owners last year in his short 8-game NHL debut. He scored 1 goal and added 4 assists in that span before the Jets decided to loan him back to the Liiga to further develop. Back in the Liiga, Heinola registered a bit more dissapointing 0 goals and 7 assists in 29 games. He’s back in the Liiga this year and has had a more productive season, with 1 goal and 13 assists(14points) in 19 games. Heinola is a strong skater and has great vision on the ice, both of which he uses to swiftly breakout of his own zone. He can make smart passes in the offensive zone, but he isn’t overly dynamic. He plays well positionally in his own zone, and he keeps his stick active in passing lanes. Needs to continue to add strength to go up against top players in the NHL.

  1. Cam York 5’11 Defenseman 19 years old 14th overall 2019 Philidelphia Flyers 2019/2020 season: 30gp 5g 11a 16 pts 10pim NCAA
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy upside: 8.5/10

York had a decent first season of College hockey, with 5 goals and 11 assists (16 points) in 30 games. He’s back in Michigan this year and has 2 goals and 3 asissts (5 points) in his first 8 games. York is a skilled defenseman in all areas of the ice. He has great skating and edgework which allow him to remain in position defensively. He is capable of making breakout passes under pressure, or skating the puck out of the zone himself. He has great offensive instincts, knowing when to jump in on the rush. He has a hard, accurate shot and smart playmaking ability making him a threat in the offensive zone. He will likely sign with the Flyers at the conclusion of this season.

  1. Kale Clague 6’0 Defenseman 22 years old 51st overall 2016 LA Kings 2019/2020 season: 49gp 8g 17a 25pts 26pim AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Clague is an offensive defenseman that can utilize his strong skating and playmaking ability to be very effective. He is reliable in his own zone and can transport the puck up the ice effectively. Clague has been developing well within the Kings’ system, and appears to be ready to get a chance at the NHL level, luckily for him, it’s just in time for the team to add some very talented young forwards as well. If he can establish himself as the next powerplay quarterback for the Kings, he will be very valuable to fantasy owners.

  1. Calen Addison 5’10 Defenseman 20 years old 53rd overall 2018 Pittsburgh Penguins 2019/2020 season: 50gp 10g 42a 52pts 51pim WHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy upside: 8/10

The Minnesota Wild acquired Addison along with Galchenyuk in exchange for Jason Zucker prior to last years trade deadline. Addison has been excelling in the WHL over the last 3 seasons, posting 182 points in 185 games. He is another offensive defenseman with very good edgework, and excellent playmaking ability. He can quarterback a powerplay and create scoring chances with his quick, accurate passes. His shot is good but he could benefit by adding more power behind it. He can transport the puck up the ice well, and doesn’t back off to pressure. His positioning in the defensive zone is strong, but will need to continue to add strength as he goes pro.

  1. Timothy Liljegren 6’0 Defenseman 21 years old 17th overall 2017 Toronto Maple Leafs 2019/2020 season: 40gp 5g 25a 30pts 18pim AHL/ 11gp 0g 1a 1pt 2pim NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy upside: 8/10

Liljgren is an interesting defenseman when considering what he brings to fantasy owners. Going into his draft year, he was deemed as a top prospect, but with an underwhelming draft year, he slipped down to 17th overall where Toronto scooped him up. Liljgren shows all the signs of a skilled offensive defenseman with strong skating, a big shot from the point, good hockey sense in the offensive zone, and playmaking ability that you want from a powerplay quarterback. However, his point totals since his draft year haven’t been quite as promising. I still think there is potential for Liljgren to become the player many believed he would become, but with other skilled offensive defenseman already established in Toronto, I don’t know when he will get the opportunity to put up big point totals.

  1. Jack Rathbone 5’11 Defenseman 21 years old 95th overall 2017 Vancouver Canucks 2019/2020 season: 28gp 7g 24a 31pts NCAA
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8/10

Rathbone may be a name that you haven’t heard much of, this is because in his first season at Harvard, Rathbone was overshadowed by a high-profile defenseman in Adam Fox. Playing alongside Fox, Rathbone put up 7 goals and 15 assists(22 points) in 33 games. Last season Rathbone was on a mission to prove that he wasn’t Fox’s “side-kick”, but a talented puck-moving defenseman in his own right. He registered 7 goals and 24 assists in 31 games, and earned himself an entry-level contract with the Canucks, who were so eager to sign him that they burned a year off his contract. Rathbone is a very smart defender, and uses his vision and skating to transition the puck up the ice. Offensively, he is always ready to rip a one timer, that catches goalies off-guard. He will never pass Hughes as the first unit powerplay quarterback, but don’t be surprised if he eventually ends up on the 2nd unit powerplay in Vancouver.

  1. Kaiden Guhle 6’3 Defenseman 18 years old 16th overall 2020 Montreal Canadiens 2019/2020 season: 64gp 11g 29a 40pts 56pim WHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy upside: 8/10

Guhle was the player in the 2020 Draft that I loved to watch. He plays like a pitbull in his own zone, ready to jump on anyone who dare enter his territory. He has excellent gap control, and will step up on his opponents if they get too close. Offensively, he can run a powerplay at the WHL level, but he isn’t overly dynamic. He can make smart passes, and has a hard shot that he can get off in a hurry. Guhle is a defenseman who will be a fantasy defenseman that will be more valuable in leagues that count hits, blocks, and penalty minutes rather than a points-only league.

  1. Philip Broberg 6’3 Defenseman 19 years old 8th overall 2019 Edmonton Oilers 2019/2020 season: 45gp 1g 7a 8pts 6pim SHL
    NHL Expectancy: 3/5
    Fantasy upside: 8.5/10

Finally, Broberg appears on the list. There are those who love Broberg because they see the potential in his impressive raw skills, and there are those who think that he may not be an NHL defenseman because of his poor hockey IQ. If it isn’t obvious based on his rankings on my list, I’m on the side of the latter. Broberg has exceptional skating ability especially for his size, and he has the ability to make smart passes out of the zone and in the offensive zone. Consistently making these smart passes is a concern, and his defensive play is also a huge red flag at times. He could become an elite defenseman one day, but I’m not holding my breath.

Goalies:

Goalie Prospects:

When goaltenders are drafted by NHL teams, it is rare that the teams expect them to become bonafied starters for their club. There are a few exceptions over the years, and there has been a goalie in each of the last two NHL drafts that fits this exception. Typically, goaltenders develop for several years to prove that they are worth a chance at the NHL level. Unfortunately, there are not a lot of goalie jobs available on NHL teams, and this forces some promising young goalies to patiently wait for their time, and seize the opportunity when it comes.

  1. Igor Shesterkin 6’1 Goalie 24 years old 118th overall 2014 NY Rangers 2019/2020 season: 25gp 1.9gaa 9.34save% 17-4-5 AHL 12gp 2.52gaa .932save% 10-2-0 NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 10/10

Shesterkin has been tearing up the KHL for years. He will likely be the starter for the Rangers, ahead of Georgiev. He is already a favourite for the Calder Trophy, which is very rare for a goaltender. He is the real deal, and it appears that the team playing in front of him is going to be very good, very soon.

  1. Ilya Sorokin 6’2 Goalie 25 years old 78th overall 2014 NY Islanders 2019/2020 season: 40gp 1.5gaa .935save% 26-10-3 KHL
    NHL Expectancy: 5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 10/10

Similar to Shesterkin, Sorokin has been excelling in the KHL for years. He may not be the starter for the Islanders right away, but if he plays like he has in Russia, he will win that number one spot quickly. Barry Trotz coaches his teams to play a defensive style game, which will certainly benefit Sorokin’s numbers. Could end up being better than Shesterkin.

  1. Spencer Knight 6’3 Goalie 19 years old 13th overall 2019 Florida Panthers 2019/2020 season: 33gp 1.97gaa .931 save% 23-2-8 NCAA
    NHL Expectancy: 3/5
    Fantasy Upside: 10/10

The first goalie taken in the 2019 NHL Draft, Knight has the chance to be a special goalie, and his first NCAA season just solidified that as he went 23-2-8, with a .931 save percentage and a 1.97 goals-against-average. He is still only 19 years old, and Florida has Bobrovsky signed to a long-term contract, so fantasy owners may need to wait for few years, but the wait will be worth it.

  1. Yaroslav Askarov 6’4 Goalie 18 years old 11th overall 2020 Nashville Predators 2019/2020 season: 18gp 2.45gaa 9.20 save% 12-3-3 VHL
    NHL Expectancy: 2/5
    Fantasy Upside: 10/10

The first goalie taken in the 2020 NHL Draft, Askarov also could become a very special goalie, but as we have seen with Sorokin and Shesterkin, Russian goaltenders often opt to stay in the KHL until they feel they will get a good opportunity to step right into the NHL, and for that reason, he is probably further away from an NHL lineup. The 18-year-old 6’4 goaltender has a .962 save percentage and a 0.96 goals-against-average over 7 KHL games this season. Ridiculous.

  1. Kaapo Kahkonen 6’2 Goalie 24 years old 109th overall 2014 Minnesota Wild 2019/2020 season: 34gp 2.07gaa .927save% 25-6-5 AHL/ 5gp 2.96gaa .913save% 3-1-1 NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4.5/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

After posting a .927 save percentage and a 2.07 goals-against-average over 34 games last year in the AHL, Kahkonen appears ready for the next step. With the Wild having Talbot and Stalock under contract, I’m not sure Kahkonen will get the opportunity to be the backup goaltender out of camp, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he takes that role at some point this season. He appears to be the future between the pipes in Minnesota.

  1. Connor Ingram 6’2 Goalie 23 years old 88th overall 2016 Tampa Bay Lightning 2019/2020 season: 33gp 1.92gaa .933save% 21-5-6 AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Ingram had an impressive season in the AHL, with a .933 save percentage and a 1.92 goals-against-average over 33 games. He looks like he’s ready to get a look in the NHL. He probably won’t make the team out of camp, as Nashville has Saros and Rinne both under contract. However, Rinne is 38 years old and his contract expires after this season, so the writing is on the wall for Ingram to battle Saros to be the starter as soon as the 2021-2022 season.

  1. Jake Oettinger 6’4 Goalie 21 years old 26th overall 2017 Dallas Stars 2019/2020 season: 38gp 2.57gaa .917save% 15-16-8 AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Oettinger had a strong first full season of professional hockey. He had a .917 save percentage and a 2.57 goals-against-average over 38 AHL games for the Texas Stars. Dallas has two 34-year-old goaltenders, Ben Bishop and Anton Khudobin signed until the 2022/2023 and 2021/2022 season respectively, so it is likely that Oettinger spends at least 1 or 2 more seasons marinating in the AHL, but he is lined up to be the future goaltender in Dallas.

  1. Alex Nedelkjovic 6’0 Goalie 24 years old 37th overall 2014 Carolina Hurricanes 2019/2020 season: 29gp 2.49gaa .906save% 16-10-2 AHL/ 4gp 3.05gaa .887save% 1-2-1 NHL
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Nedelkjovic has spent the last 4 seasons in the AHL posting good numbers, but not incredible. His best year was in 2018/2019 when he had a .916 save percentage and a 2.26 goals-against-average. Last season his stats took a small dip, as he registered a .906 save percentage and a 2.49 goals-against-average. The Hurricanes have 28-year-old Petr Mrazek and 32-year-old James Reimer as their two goaltenders entering the 2020/2021 season, however both of their contracts expire at the end of the season. This will be a big season for Nedelkjovic to prove that he is ready for the NHL and earn a roster spot for the 2021/2022 season.

  1. Lukas Dostal 6’1 Goalie 20 years old 85th overall 2018 Anaheim Ducks 2019/2020 season: 43gp 1.78gaa .928save% 27-8-6 Liiga
    NHL Expectancy: 3/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Last season, Dostal established himself as a top goalie prospect. As a 19-year-old, he was a starte for Ilves in the Liiga and recorded a .928 save percentage, and a 1.78 goals-against-average over 43 games. This season he is sporting a .940 save percentage and a 1.64 goals-against-average and has a 10-1-0 record. He will likely need to come over and spend some time in the AHL, but if he continues his spectacular play, he could be a special goaltender for the Ducks.

  1. Justus Annunen 6’4 Goalie 20 years old 64th overall 2018 Colorado Avalanche 2019/2020 season: 23gp 1.77gaa .929save% 15-5-3 Liiga
    NHL Expectancy: 3/5
    Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Some of you may have heard Annunen’s name come up last season. He set a record for the longest shutout streak in Liiga history, a streak that lasted 259 minutes and 28 seconds. He set this record as a 19-year-old goalie playing his first full season in the Liiga. He finished the season with a .929 save percentage, and a 1.77 goals-against-average over 23 games. If he can post these types of numbers once he takes his trade to North American ice, then he’s on the fast track to becoming a goaltender for the Avalanche: one of the most promising teams in the NHL.

  1. Jeremy Swayman 6’3 Goalie 22 years old 111th overall 2017 Boston Bruins 2019/2020 season: 34gp 2.06gaa .939save% 18-5-11 NCAA
    NHL Expectancy: 4/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Swayman just wrapped up his NCAA career, finishing his final season with a .939 save percentage, and a2.07 goals-against-average over 34 games. The Bruins goaltenders are aging as Rask is 33-years-old and Halak is 35-years-old. Both Halak and Rask have their contracts expiring with the Bruins this season as well. If Swayman has an impressive first professional season with the Providence Bruins, he could crack the Bruins roster as soon as next season.

  1. Veini vehvilainen 6’1 Goalie 23 years old 173rd overall 2018 Columbus Blue Jackets 2019/2020 season: 33gp 2.76gaa .901save% 10-18-5 AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 3/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Vehvilainen posted a .925 and .933 save percentages in the Liiga before he came over to the AHL last season. His first season in North America was decent, posting a .901 save percentage and a 2.76 goals-against-average in 33 AHL games. The 23-year-old will need to improve on those numbers before given a chance with the big club, but he’s working his way closer to the opportunity.

  1. Mikey DiPietro 6’0 Goalie 21 years old 64th overall 2017 Vancouver Canucks 2019/2020 season: 36gp 2.79gaa .908save% 21-11-2 AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 3/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Dipietro had a very good first year of professional hockey. He posted a .908 save percentage and a 2.79 goals-against-average over 36 games with the Utica Comets of the AHL. He basically played his way into stealing the starting position and never looked back. The Canucks have Demko as their future number one goaltender, but with Holtby being signed to a two-year contract, and the possibility that Seattle takes Holtby in the Expansion Draft, Dipietro may be just one or two years away from getting a spot on the Canucks roster.

  1. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen 6’4 Goalie 21 years old 54th overall 2017 Buffalo Sabres 2019/2020 season: 23gp 2.24gaa .912save% 12-7-3 ECHL/ 10gp 3.15gaa .874save% 3-4-4 AHL
    NHL Expectancy: 3/5
    Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Luukonen had a down year last year as his first prefessional season started off rocky. He struggled in the AHL and was demoted to the ECHL where he was able to steady his game. He has had a better start to this season as he is on loan to TPS, and has posted a .916 save percentage and a 2.34 goals-against-average in 11 Liiga games(as of this writing). Luukonen has the potential to be a very good NHL starting goaltender, but after last season, we may have to pump the breaks on how soon he will get the opportunity.

15. Cayden Primeau 6’3 Goalie 21 years old 199th overall 2017 Montreal Canadiens 2019/2020 season: 33gp 2.45gaa .908save% 17-11-4 AHL/ 2gp 2.52gaa .931save% 1-1-0 NHL
NHL Expectancy: 3/5
Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Primeau was the 199th pick in the 2017 NHL Draft, and he has made himself look like a gem. He played two seasons of NCAA hockey, registering .931 and .933 save percentages before being signed by the Canadiens. He had a solid first year of professional hockey, posting a .908 save percentage and a 2.45 goals-against-average in the AHL. Carey Price is 33-years-old but many great goaltenders have proved that they can play well into their late 30’s. Primeau may be Price’s successor, and could get a back-up role with the team within the next couple years.

16. Ivan Prosvetov 6’5 Goalie 21 years old 114th overall 2018 Arizona Coyotes 2019/2020 season: 27gp 2.88gaa .909save% 14-10-2 AHL
NHL Expectancy: 2/5
Fantasy Upside: 8.5/10

Prosvetov played his first year of professional hockey in the AHL last season, recording a .909 save percentage, and a 2.88 goals-against-average over 27 games. Prosvetov is a tower in net, standing at 6’5, and could work his way onto the Coyotes team in a few years, but he will need to continue to develop in the minors before having a real shot as an NHL goaltender.

17. Joel Blomqvist 6’1 Goalie 18 years old 52nd overall 2020 Pittsburgh Penguins 2019/2020 season: 34gp .931save% Jr. A SM-Liiga
NHL Expectancy: 1/5
Fantasy Upside: 9/10

Blomqvist is a goalie that some NHL teams had ranked as the 2nd best goaltender in the 2020 NHL Draft, and he was ultimately selected by Pittsburgh 52nd overall. He posted a .931 save percentage in the 34 Jr. A SM-Liiga games in his draft year, and has a .914 save percentage and a 1.50 goals-against-average in the 2 Liiga games he has played this year. Blomqvist plays a good technical game for such a young goalie, and even though he is still a long ways from making it to the NHL, he could be a special goaltender. I have even heard far-fetched opinions that Blomqvist could end up being a better goaltender than Askarov. That is definitely a stretch, but demonstrates just how highly some view Blomqvist’s potential.

Copyright: All images/logos/resources property of their respective owners.

By Blake Beggs

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