Fantasy Hockey Week 20 Waiver Wire Picks & Preview
In the 49th episode of the Fantasy Hockey Hacks Podcast, the FHH team discusses week 20 in the NHL – John’s List & Fantasy Lock Of The Week, Headlines With The Hacks, Ask The Hacks, and Edge Work (Schedule Notes, Week 20 Waiver Wire Picks). Subscribe to our podcast on all major directories; and stay up to date with the latest in fantasy hockey news and fantasy hockey advice. Be sure to visit LeftWingLock.com, the best source for fantasy hockey intelligence; and The Hockey Podcast Network for more great hockey-related content.
Highlights:
- Tony DeAngelo out for at least a month
- Elias Lindholm and the Calgary Flames are white hot
- Dougie Hamilton makes his return from injury
- Another 20-goal season for Mikka Zibanejad
- Kyle Connor reached the 30-goal mark for the fourth time in his career
- First 20-goal season for Jordan Kyrou
- Derek Ryan scores his first hat trick at age 35
- Michael Bunting and Tanner Jeannot lead rookie class in goals
- Tyler Toffoli getting hot for the Flames
- Jordan Binnington registers a shutout against Chicago, making his way back to fantasy relevancy
- John’s List/Fantasy Lock Of The Week (2:30), Headlines With The Hacks (12:35), Ask The Hacks (54:40), Edge Work – Schedule Notes (1:10:16), Edge Work – Waiver Wire (1:15:31)
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John’s List
If you have been listening to our podcast for a while, you’ve undoubtedly heard about “John’s List”; which is basically John’s $h!t list of players past and present. We’ve decided to make this a regular segment on the podcast and will include it in the blog for fun as well. If you have any suggestions for players we should add to the list, let us know!
Sean Avery
Fantasy Lock Of The Week (Feb 21 – 27, 2022) | Presented by Left Wing Lock
🔥Mitch Marner, RW, 99% Rostered (Yahoo)
9 Points, 4 Goals, 18 SOG, +4, 70.3% PP Share, 19:53 ATOI in 4 games played. Marner has 17 points (7 goals) in his last 10 games played; on-pace for 103 points.
Honorable Mentions: Jack Hughes (6 points – 1 goal, 5 assists, 2 PPP, 7 SOG, +2, 70.7% PP share in 2 GP); J.T. Miller (8 points – 2 goals, 6 assists, 1 GWG, 3 PPP, 7 SOG, +2, 53.1% PP in 3 GP), Derek Ryan (4 goals, 1 GWG, 8 SOG, +3, 12.3% PP in 3 GP).
Headlines With The Hacks (News & Injuries) | Feb 21 – 27, 2022
Our partner, Left Wing Lock, has a complete up-to-date list available on their website for all players placed on COVID protocol. You can see that list here.
February 21
- Vitek Vanecek, TJ Oshie, and Justin Schultz we’re all back on the ice for practice on Monday morning.
T.J. Oshie, Vitek Vanecek and Justin Schultz are all on the ice in full contact jerseys at Caps practice.
Oshie and Vanecek have been on IR with an upper body injuries. Schultz was injured last week, upper body as well.
— Samantha Pell (@SamanthaJPell) February 21, 2022
- Elias Lindholm, Aaron Ekblad, and Jake Oettinger are the NHL’s 3 Stars Of The Week.
Elias Lindholm (@NHLFlames), Aaron Ekblad (@FlaPanthers), Jake Oettinger (@DallasStars) named NHL’s “Three Stars” for the week ending Feb. 20.#NHLStats: https://t.co/SXVeQJzLM2 pic.twitter.com/pNI0uDFYrk
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 21, 2022
- Carter Hart was expected to start Monday, but has an eye infection, so he did not start. Ustimenko backed up Martin Jones.
Carter Hart (PHI – G): Was originally scheduled to start today. He will not. He has an eye infection. https://t.co/pcGs4vMKxs #nhl #BringItToBroad
— Left Wing Lock (@Left_Wing_Lock) February 21, 2022
- Ryan Dzingel is claimed off waivers by the San Jose Sharks.
- Elias Lindholm scored in his 8th straight game and extended Calgary’s win streak to 10 games, tying a franchise record.
- Tony DeAngelo left Monday’s game against the Flyers with an upper-body injury.
- Jake Muzzin left the game against Montreal, did not return.
February 22
- Lindy Ruff confirmed that Dougie Hamilton will make his return to the lineup on Thursday against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Lindy Ruff confirms that #NJDevils Dougie Hamilton will return to the lineup on Thursday against the Penguins.
— Amanda Stein (@amandacstein) February 22, 2022
- Patrik Laine scored the OT winner against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday night. It was Laine’s second goal of the game, and 12th goal in 9 games.
Patrik Laine ends a close game with this @SamuelAdamsBeer OT winner! 🚨 pic.twitter.com/b2ZlUMYoPO
— NHL (@NHL) February 23, 2022
- Mats Zuccarello did not participate in Warm-ups on Tuesday, apparently out with an upper-body injury.
- Carter Hart remained out with an eye-infection. Jones started again on Tuesday against St. Louis.
- Dylan Larkin left practice early, still being evaluated – listed as DTD.
- Zdeno Chara tied the NHL record for most games played by a defenceman with 1,651. Record was held by Chris Chelios until Tuesday.
Big night for Zdeno Chara.
Not only did he tie the NHL record for most games played by a defenseman (1,651 GP), he also climbed the League’s all-time wins list with the 865th of his career. #NHLStats: https://t.co/DDmyYoM1ER pic.twitter.com/V6pqW0So0z
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 23, 2022
- Former Ducks GM, Bob Murray, joined the Flames as a scout – will operate on the west coast.
- Trevor Zegras recorded the 52nd point of his career against the Sharks, tied Dustin Penner for 2nd-most points by a rookie in franchise history.
Trevor Zegras recorded the 52nd point of his career (16-36—52 in 71 GP) and matched Dustin Penner (33-19—52 in 101 GP) for the second most by a rookie in @AnaheimDucks history.#NHLStats: https://t.co/zRtKrD8l8T https://t.co/cCKlykbLMV
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 23, 2022
- Vladimir Tarasenko scored his 40th GWG, tying Bernie Federko and Garry Unger for 3rd-most in St. Louis Blues history.
- Thomas Chabot played in his 300th NHL game against the Minnesota Wild. Chabot posted 1 goal and 2 assists in a 4-3 win.
February 23
- With a goal against the Oilers on Wednesday night, Corey Perry became the 103rd NHL player to score 400 goals in his career.
To the 103rd player in @NHL history to reach 400 goals… pic.twitter.com/ct2DX1EQAv
— Tampa Bay Lightning (@TBLightning) February 24, 2022
- With 2 assists Moritz Seider now sits in 3rd place for rookie scoring with 37 points and 5 goals.
Moritz Seider (0-2—2) boosted his season totals to 5-32—37 (52 GP) to take sole possession of third place in NHL scoring among rookies behind Trevor Zegras (13-26—39 in 47 GP) and teammate Lucas Raymond (13-26—39 in 52 GP).#NHLStats: https://t.co/ytIyUajvAG pic.twitter.com/30yYL4feaF
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 24, 2022
- Josh Anderson suffered an upper-body injury against the Buffalo Sabres, did not return to the game. It doesn’t sound like it will be a long-term issue.
- Ryan Nugent-Hopkins played in his 700th NHL game Wednesday against the Tampa Bay Lightning. 515 points (192 goals) in his career to date.
7️⃣0️⃣0️⃣‼️#LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/B9D2lSt1cz
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) February 24, 2022
- The Los Angeles Kings are looking to acquire a left-shot defenceman with some term. According to David Pagnotta, there is interest in Jakob Chychrun.
Is Jakob Chychrun playing against his future team tonight?@TheFourthPeriod } @JamisonCoyle | #NHLTonight pic.twitter.com/rvjjYyOPPH
— NHL Network (@NHLNetwork) February 24, 2022
- Jake Muzzin has been placed on LTIR, will be out a minimum of 10 games or 24 days.
Jake Muzzin headed to LTIR. Out minimum of 10 games / 24 days.
Scary having a couple concussions back-to-back like that. Best for Leafs to be cautious.
— James Mirtle (@mirtle) February 24, 2022
- Sean Avery signed a contract with the Orlando Solar Bears of the ECHL.
- Nathan MacKinnon missed the Avs game against Detroit, but the team is hopeful he will be available for Friday.
February 24
- Zach Werenski is not on the road with the team, will miss at least the next 2 games with a lower-body injury, DTD.
Zach Werenski (CBJ – D): Is considered day-to-day with an upper-body injury. https://t.co/32mQffzfjF #nhl #CBJ
— Left Wing Lock (@Left_Wing_Lock) February 24, 2022
- Elvis Merzlikins was placed on IR retroactive to February 17th. Lower-body injury, DTD.
- Michael Bunting was fined $2,000 for diving during a game against the Penguins on February 17th.
- T.J. Oshie made his return to the Capitals lineup against the New York Rangers on Thursday night.
- Jared McCann (upper-body) was placed on IR by the Seattle Kraken. Kole Lind was recalled in a subsequent move.
Forward Kole Lind has been recalled from @CheckersHockey. #SeaKraken forward Jared McCann has been placed on IR. pic.twitter.com/4Ll5cyUNSR
— Seattle Kraken PR (@SeattleKrakenPR) February 24, 2022
- Tony DeAngelo will be out for a month or so, according to Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind’Amour. “Midsection” injury.
Brind’Amour says DeAngelo out for month or so. Injury was in midsection.
— Chip Alexander (@ice_chip) February 24, 2022
- Joel Farabee is expected to return to the Flyers lineup on Saturday.
- The Nashville Predators raised Pekka Rinne’s number to the rafters on Thursday night. Rinne became the first Predator in franchise history to have his jersey retired.
Immortalized. 3⃣5⃣
Pekka Rinne becomes the first player in @PredsNHL history to have their jersey retired. 🙌 pic.twitter.com/pMP5IRiZDI
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) February 25, 2022
- With a goal against the Washington Capitals Thursday night, Mikka Zibanejad has scored 20+ goals in 5 consecutive seasons.
That’s 20 goals in each of his past five seasons with the @NYRangers for @MikaZibanejad.#NHLStats: https://t.co/5OBg9VGpPu pic.twitter.com/YBU0xJBybQ
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 25, 2022
- Patrik Laine extended his point streak (21 points, 13 goals) to 11 games, the longest-active streak in the NHL.
- Zdeno Chara reached 1,652 games played in the NHL, making him the new all-time leader in games played by a defenceman.
A big night for Big Zee.
Congratulations, Zdeno, on this incredible achievement. 👏 pic.twitter.com/TdyLOIAv5G
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) February 25, 2022
- Zach Parise scored his 400th career NHL goal on Thursday night against the San Jose Sharks.
Zach Parise scored his 400th NHL goal and became just the fifth player from the 2003 #NHLDraft to reach the milestone, joining Eric Staal (441), Joe Pavelski (415), Jeff Carter (412) and Corey Perry (400).#NHLStats: https://t.co/5OBg9VFRZW pic.twitter.com/wQx7OukAY4
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 25, 2022
- JT Miller scored 2 goals to reach the 20-goal plateau for the fourth time. Miller had a total of 4 points on the night, including a penalty-shot goal in Vancouver’s 7-1 win over Calgary.
Mike Matheson (PIT – D): Is considered week-to-week with an upper-body injury. https://t.co/nconoeM70x #nhl #LetsGoPens
— Left Wing Lock (@Left_Wing_Lock) February 25, 2022
- Mark Giordano scored his second short-handed goal of the season, both shorties happened over his last 3 games.
- Auston Matthews scored his 35th and 36th goals of the season, surpassing Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl for the league-lead in goals. Toronto beat Minnesota 3-1.
Auston Matthews scored twice to record his 35th and 36th goals of the season, surpassing Edmonton’s Leon Draisaitl (35) for the NHL lead.#NHLStats: https://t.co/5OBg9VFRZW pic.twitter.com/V0FxxxnvIf
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 25, 2022
- Jonathan Huberdeau scored 2 points in a 6-3 loss to Columbus. With those points, Huberdeau (74 points, 18 goals) overtook both Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl for the league lead in points.
Jonathan Huberdeau (1-1—2) boosted his totals to 18-56—74 (52 GP), overtaking Connor McDavid (28-45—73 in 50 GP) and Leon Draisaitl (35-38—73 in 51 GP) for the NHL lead in points this season.#NHLStats: https://t.co/5OBg9VGpPu pic.twitter.com/DyXcyLO1vv
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 25, 2022
- Jesper Bratt scored twice against the Pittsburgh Penguins; his completely unexpected break-out season continues. 45 points (16 goals) in 46 games played – matched career-high in goals.
Jesper Bratt (16-29—45 in 46 GP) scored twice in the first frame to reach 16 goals on the season, matching the highest total he’s had in a campaign (16-16—32 in 60 GP, 2019-20).#NHLStats: https://t.co/5OBg9VFRZW pic.twitter.com/jx2HcoKj7C
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 25, 2022
February 25
- Elvis Merzlikins was activated from IR on Friday, serving as backup to JF Berube for the game against Carolina.
- Mike Matheson is considered week-to-week with an upper-body injury.
Mike Matheson (PIT – D): Is considered week-to-week with an upper-body injury. https://t.co/nconoeM70x #nhl #LetsGoPens
— Left Wing Lock (@Left_Wing_Lock) February 25, 2022
- Jake Allen started practicing with the team again, making progress.
- Yegor Sharangovich played in his 100th NHL game against the Chicago Blackhawks.
- With a 4-1 win over the Anaheim Ducks, the Kings took over 2nd place in the Pacific division; and Jonathan Quick became the 3rd active goaltender to reach 350 wins.
Jonathan Quick joined Marc-Andre Fleury (508) and Carey Price (360) as just the third active goaltender to reach the 350-win mark.#NHLStats: https://t.co/TP7ray7aGk pic.twitter.com/HhBrHbkvaQ
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 26, 2022
- Trailing 3-0 to the Winnipeg Jets, Gabriel Landeskog scored a hat trick, helping the Avs score 6 unanswered goals in a 6-3 comeback win.
After trailing 3-0, Gabriel Landeskog scored three of his team’s six unanswered goals for his fifth career hat trick and led the @Avalanche to their fifth multi-goal comeback win of the season.#NHLStats: https://t.co/TP7ray7aGk pic.twitter.com/X2EXv2b5Nq
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 26, 2022
- Kyle Connor reached the 30-goal plateau for the 4th time in his career. Connor is the 5th player to reach that mark this season.
Kyle Connor (30-26—56 in 52 GP) became the fifth player to reach the 30-goal mark in 2021-22.#NHLStats: https://t.co/TP7ray7aGk pic.twitter.com/bbE2dP7Of9
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 26, 2022
- Patrick Kane and Brandon Hagel each scored a hat trick against the New Jersey Devils on Friday night in an 8-5 win. Hagel has 18 goals on the season, good enough for a 32 goal pace over 82 games.
Patrick Kane and Brandon Hagel accounted for six of the @NHLBlackhawks‘ eight goals tonight. 🎩🧢#NHLStats: https://t.co/TP7rayoLxS pic.twitter.com/Y7evdthXOi
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 26, 2022
- The Hurricanes blanked Columbus 4-0, and Frederick Andersen reclaimed top spot for wins among goaltenders with 28. Andersen has 3 shutouts on the season. Carolina peppered Blue Jackets net minder JF Berube with 50 SOG, but Berube was up to the task stopping 46 of them (.920 SV%).
- With 2 goals against the Buffalo Sabres, Jordan Kyrou reached the 20-goal mark for the first time in his career. On-pace to score 35 goals over 82 games.
Jordan Kyrou has notched his first career 20-goal season. With another tally in the opening 20 minutes, Kyrou can record the sixth first-period hat trick in franchise history and first since Al MacInnis on Oct. 12, 1998.#NHLStats: https://t.co/TP7ray7aGk https://t.co/MKsk80gQYE
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 26, 2022
February 26
- Ryan Nugent-Hopkins suffered an upper-body injury against the Florida Panthers on Saturday.
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (EDM – C): Has suffered an upper-body injury and will not return to the game. https://t.co/NK05deVGii #nhl #LetsGoOilers
— Left Wing Lock (@Left_Wing_Lock) February 26, 2022
- Derek Ryan (35 years old) became the oldest player in Edmonton Oilers history to score a hat trick. Ethan Moreau (33 years old) previously held the record.
Derek Ryan became the 56th different player to score a hat trick in 2021-22, the most at this stage of a season since 1993-94 (59).#NHLStats: https://t.co/IhQQaL7gc3 pic.twitter.com/8VNgXUHOOD
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 26, 2022
- The Toronto Maple Leafs scored a rare 10 goals against the Detroit Red Wings in a 10-7 win. Michael Bunting scored his 18th goal of the season, finishing the night with his first career 5-point game, taking the NHL rookie goal-scoring lead.
Michael Bunting scored his 18th goal of the season and surpassed Tanner Jeannot (17) for the most among rookies.#NHLStats: https://t.co/IhQQaL7gc3 https://t.co/f5Tvt7DgkV
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 27, 2022
- Mitch Marner scored his first career NHL hat trick, finishing the game with 6 points (4 goals, 2 assists) and 5 SOG in just over 15 minutes of ice-time!
What a period for @Marner93!
That marks his first career hat trick 🧢🧢🧢. #NHLStats: https://t.co/IhQQaL7gc3 pic.twitter.com/NKCluFycvk
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 27, 2022
- Detroit Red Wings rookie Moritz Seider posted 2 assists against the Leafs, extending his point-streak to 6 games – the longest amongst rookie D-men in franchise history.
A multi-point third period for @DetroitRedWings rookie Moritz Seider extended his point streak to six games (1-9—10). The last rookie defenseman to post a longer run was Neal Pionk in 2017-18 (7 GP).#NHLStats: https://t.co/IhQQaL7gc3 pic.twitter.com/ziqTxyQgde
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 27, 2022
- The Tampa Bay Lighting took a 3-2 win in the Stadium Series game against the Predators. 68,619 fans were in attendance on Saturday, making it the 7th largest NHL outdoor-game to date. Steven Stamkos was the first star with 1 goal, 2 assists, and 5 shots on goal in 18:35 TOI.
All ready for #StadiumSeries! pic.twitter.com/LzThTyl4kk
— NHL GIFs (@NHLGIFs) February 27, 2022
- Also with a goal in the Stadium Series, Brayden Point reached the 20-goal plateau for the 5th consecutive season.
Make it five consecutive 20-goal seasons for Brayden Point. #StadiumSeries #NHLStats: https://t.co/XpQTiN6J7Z pic.twitter.com/F9am1xxVo2
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 27, 2022
- Tanner Jeannot scored his 18th goal of the season during the Stadium Series in Nashville.
- Tyler Toffoli is making Flames management look good – scoring 3 points (2 goals) against the Minnesota Wild. The former Hab now has 5 points and 4 goals in 6 games since being traded to Calgary. Toffoli played just under 17 minutes in Saturday’s contest, along with nearly 5 minutes on the power play (4:53 PPTOI, 57.5% PP share).
Tyler Toffoli is on fire in Calgary 🔥 pic.twitter.com/O6uc0Ble0T
— Daily Faceoff (@DailyFaceoff) February 27, 2022
- 🔥Matthew Tkachuk scored 3 points (2 goals) in his 400th career NHL game. To date in his career, Tkachuk has scored 335 points and 136 goals. On-pace this season for 95 points with 59 points (26 goals) in 51 games.
Matthew Tkachuk scored in his 400th career game and improved his career totals to 135-200—335. The only active @NHLFlames player who has more points through his first 400 contest with the club is: Johnny Gaudreau (136-258—394 in 400 GP).https://t.co/IhQQaL7gc3 https://t.co/sQx1bJGkTG
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 27, 2022
- With an assist against the Islanders, Anze Kopitar recorded his 15th season of 50 points or more (9th consecutive season).
Anze Kopitar collected an assist to record his 15th season with 50+ points (15-35—50 in 53 GP). Among active players, only two have more: Joe Thornton (17) and Alex Ovechkin (16).#NHLStats: https://t.co/IhQQaL7gc3 pic.twitter.com/EGs6Pa16Zn
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 27, 2022
February 27
- Vitek Vanecek was reassigned to the AHL for a conditioning stint.
- Kailer Yamamoto and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins did not play Sunday against the Hurricanes.
- According to Gord Miller (TSN), there is wide support to ban Russia from all IIHF events for the remainder of 2022; including: World Championship and the World Junior Championships scheduled for August and December.
Based on what I’m hearing, there is wide support for:
-immediate removal of Russian teams from all @IIHFHockey events for the rest of 2022, including the World Championship and the World Junior Championships scheduled for August and December.
-moving the 2023 WJC out of Russia https://t.co/26n0gIMshX
— Gord Miller (@GMillerTSN) February 27, 2022
- Oliver Bjorkstrand scored his 100th career NHL goal against the Penguins on Sunday. 8 points (5 goals) in Bjorkstrand’s last 10 games.
Goal No. 💯 for Oliver Bjorkstrand (@OBjorkstrand)! pic.twitter.com/BQ37K7uiGr
— NHL (@NHL) February 27, 2022
- Mathew Barzal and Zdeno Chara were both out against Anaheim on Sunday and are considered DTD.
- John Gibson was also out for Sunday’s contest against the Islanders. Anaheim did recall Lukas Dostal
- Jordan Binnington recorded his 10th career shutout against the Blackhawks in a 4-0 win.
Jordan Binnington turned aside all 30 shots he faced to earn his 85th career win, tying Greg Millen for sixth place on the @StLouisBlues’ all-time list.#NHLStats: https://t.co/GNHXXy2rPW pic.twitter.com/DQcHNu7y3a
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 27, 2022
Ask The Hacks
- Better ROS value- Jake Muzzin or Ryan Pulock? Multiple category banger league.
- I’m in a 12 team / 5 player Bangers Keeper league. Who would you keep? Jordan Kyrou or Troy Terry?
- I am thinking about offering Jack Eichel and Dylan Larkin for Kirill Kaprizov. I am flush with centers and a bit short on wings. What do you think?
- Would you consider dropping Ryan Hartman for Clayton Keller?
- John Gibson. Apparently he usually goes through a slump in February. Do I keep him? Will he turn it around? I have Thatcher Demko, John Gibson & Kappo Kakkonen. 12 man league, H2H. W, GA, GAA, Saves, Shots, SV%, SO. Matt Murray, James Reimer, Jonathan Quick, Elvis Merzlikins, and Alex Nedeljkovic are available.
- What is the deal with Torey Krug and Miro Heiskanen?
- Do I drop Kappo Kahkonen for Jeremy Swayman?
Edge Work | NHL Schedule, Week 20
There are a total of 50 games on the schedule this week, with the majority of the games taking place on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. There are a total of 8 teams that play 4 games, and one of them (Los Angeles) actually plays all 4 of their games on “light days” (less than 50% of teams play, generally falling on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday). There are an additional 4 teams that play 75% of their games on light days – New Jersey, Buffalo, Dallas, and New York Rangers. Arizona, Florida, and Pittsburgh do not play until Thursday; so if you have players from one or any of those teams, look for some streaming options to start the week.
- Monday – 3 Games
- Tuesday – 9 Games
- Wednesday – 4 Games
- Thursday – 9 Games
- Friday – 7 Games
- Saturday – 10 Games
- Sunday – 8 Games
Teams With 4 Games:
Team Of Interest | Los Angeles Kings (Strength of Schedule: -13)
- The Los Angeles Kings have been absolutely rolling lately, going 7-1-2 in their last 10 games played. Since February 1st, the Kings are 3rd in the league with a USAT% of 57.4%; and 2nd in the NHL with a points percentage of .833, only bested by the Calgary Flames. LA is also 8th in GF/GP (3.83) and 14th in PP% (21.1%) during the month of February. The Kings have not faced Boston or Columbus yet this season; split the season series with Dallas (recently taking a 4-0 victory); and beat the Buffalo Sabres 3-2 on October 31st. Players To Consider: Adrian Kempe (50%), Alex IaFallo (21%), Philip Danault (22%), Viktor Arvidsson (49%), Jonathan Quick (52%), Cal Petersen (37%).
Teams With 3 Games:
Team Of Interest | Edmonton Oilers (Strength of Schedule: -38)
- The Edmonton Oilers are 9th in the NHL in terms of points percentage for the month of February with a record of 7-4-0. The Oilers also have the 9th ranked PP (25%), are 12th in GF/GP (3.45), and 5th in Shot-Attempt Percentage (SAT%) at 55.1%. Edmonton has a very favorable schedule with matchups against Philadelphia (3-5-2 last 10 GP), Chicago (3-6-1 last 10 GP), and Montreal (5-5-0) – all games that the Oilers need to take points from if they have aspirations of making the playoffs this season. The Oilers shelled the Canadiens by a score of 7-2 on January 29th; have split the season series with Chicago, and lost their first matchup with the Flyers by a score of 5-3 on October 27th. Players To Consider: Ryan McLeod (0%), Kailer Yamamoto (5%), Derek Ryan (0%), Evan Bouchard (49%), Tyson Barrie (74%), Mikko Koskinen (37%).
Teams With 2 Games:
Team Of Interest | Nashville Predators (Strength of Schedule: -27)
- The Nashville Predators have struggled during the month of February, with a 3-5-0 record to date, and 21st ranked offence in terms of GF/GP (2.75) and PP% (18.5). However, the Preds have a favourable schedule for the upcoming week with matchups against Seattle (2-7-1 last 10 GP) and San Jose (2-4-4 last 10 GP), teams currently sitting 8th and 7th in the Pacific Division, respectively. Nashville has split the season series with Seattle so far this season, but most recently beat the expansion franchise by a score of 4-2 on January 25th. Nashville took the first game in the season series against San Jose, a 3-1 win on October 26th. Players To Consider: Tanner Jeannot (49%), Ryan Johansen (28%), Mikael Granlund (45%), Dante Fabbro (0%).
Edge Work | NHL Week 20 Waiver Wire Targets
Waiver wire targets will be focused on players with ownership ~50% or less.
Top Waiver Wire Targets
📈 Nico Hischier (C), NJD | Rostered: 26% (Yahoo) | GP: 4 (Vs.Van, @CBJ, @NYR, Vs.STL) | Line: 2 (w/ Bratt & Zacha, PP1)
- The Devils captain has been on an absolute offensive tear lately, posting 9 points and 6 goals in his last 6 games played. New Jersey paired Hischier with Jesper Bratt and Pavel Zacha on Thursday night, and the results were noticeable; the line combined for 2 goals (100 GF%), 75 CF%, 60.27 xGF%, 63.64 SCF%, 4 HDCF (100%). Hischier has also been great on draws, averaging 55% (10.1 FOW/GM) in the dot. On-pace for 60 points and ~25 goals over 82 games.
📈 Josh Anderson (LW), MTL | Rostered: 17% (Yahoo) | GP: 3 (@WPG, @CGY, @EDM) | Line: 1 (w/ Caufield & Suzuki, PP1)
- The Montreal Canadiens have been hot with Martin St.Louis behind the bench, and now find themselves on a four-game win streak. Anderson seems to have found his offence, along with his linemates Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield. Caufield has garnered most of the attention, but Anderson has been serviceable as well with 6 points and 4 goals in his last 10 games. The Habs winger is on-pace for a healthy 24 goals and moderate 42 points over 82 games; but also contributes hits, blocked shots, and occasionally PIMS.
📈 Viktor Arvidsson (LW/RW), LAK | Rostered: 49% (Yahoo) | GP: 4 (Vs.Bos, @DAL, @CBJ, @BUF) | Line: 2 (w/ Danault & Moore, PP1)
- Viktor Arvidsson is currently on a 5-game point streak, and has posted 10 points (5 goals) in his last 10 games played. The former Pred is currently shooting at a career-best 3.8 SOG/GM, and receiving the most TOI since 2018-2019. On-pace for 63 points and 28 goals over 82 GP.
📈 Jamie Benn (LW), DAL | Rostered: 58% (Yahoo) | GP: 3 (Vs.LAK, @WPG, @MIN) | Line: 1 (w/ Seguin & Gurianov, PP1)
- Jamie Benn has been back to his productive self over the past 10 games, posting 9 points and 4 goals in that stretch playing with Tyler Seguin and Dennis Gurianov. Benn also covered PIMS (19), SOG (17), Hits (24), and Face-off Wins (69, 59.5%).
📈 Rickard Rakell (LW), ANA | Rostered: 16% (Yahoo) | GP: 3 (Vs.BOS, Vs.VGK, Vs.SJS) | Line: 1 (w/ Zegras & Henrique, PP1)
- A pending UFA for the Ducks, Rakell has picked up his play lately with 7 points (6 goals) in his last 8 games played. On-pace for just 47 points, but 26 goals over 82 games. Rakell offers good shot volume (2.8 SOG/GM) and is playing alongside Zegras at even-strength. Another player that could be on the move to a contender at the deadline.
📈 Zach Parise (LW), NYI | Rostered: 5% (Yahoo) | GP: 3 (@COL, Vs.VAN, Vs.STL) | Line: 1 (w/ Barzal & Palmieri, PP2)
- Zach Parise has been unexpectedly productive over his last 10 games, scoring 9 points and 4 goals, playing with Barzal at even-strength. The Isles have a tough schedule next week, but as long as Parise maintains his current deployment and production, he is worth a stream – even if only in deeper leagues. Looking at Parise’s iSH% (9%) and team even-strength shooting percentage (tEVSH%, 6.8%), I would expect to see his current production continue, at least in the short-term. Also: Brock Nelson (20%).
📈 Jakub Voracek (LW/RW), CBJ | Rostered: 47% (Yahoo) | GP: 3 (Vs.NJD, Vs.LAK) | Line: 1 (w/ Jenner & Laine, PP1)
- Jakub Voracek is currently tied with Mikko Rantanen for 3rd in the NHL with 28 primary assists (all strengths); and is currently on-pace for 61 points (57 assists) this season. Voracek has reached the 20-goal plateau 6 times in his career, but has just 2 goals on the season through 50 games. Looking at Voracek’s iSH% (2.2%) versus his career (8.9%) and 3-year Avg. (7%), we can reasonably expect to see some positive regression in terms of goals scored. Better yet, the former Flyer is starting over 62% of his shifts in the offensive zone, getting 68% PP share, and playing on a line with the red-hot Patrik Laine, and 5v5 force Boone Jenner.
📈 Nick Schmaltz (C/RW), ARI | Rostered: 6% (Yahoo) | GP: 2 (Vs.COL, Vs.OTT) | Line: 1 (w/ Keller & Boyd, PP1)
- Nick Schmaltz is quietly having a very good season with 25 points and 11 goals in 33 games to date. Schmaltz leads all Coyotes players in terms of Total Points/60 (2.73), even ahead of team scoring leader and line mate, Clayton Keller, who is on-pace for a 73 point season. Schmaltz has 9 points and 6 goals in his last 6 games played, on-pace for 62 points over 82 games. Criminally under-rostered by fantasy managers at 6%. Note, Schmaltz’s iSH% (19.3%) versus his 3-year Avg. (12.5%) is a concern; and he has benefitted from some puck-luck with a tEVSH% of 11.3%.
📈 Connor Brown (LW), MTL | Rostered: 11% (Yahoo) | GP: 4 (@TB, @FLA, @ARI, @VGK) | Line: 2 (w/ Sanford & Paul, PP1)
- Connor Brown is quietly on-pace for 62 points this season playing in the top 6 for the Senators. Additionally, Brown is playing 20:30 ATOI and 51% PP share (likely dips when Batherson and Norris return) to date this season. Also of note, Brown’s iSH% (10.3%) is below his 3-year Avg. (12.1%), and his tEVSH% (8.6%) is right around league average. Currently ahead of players like Claude Giroux, William Nylander, Lucas Raymond, Taylor Hall, and Brady Tkachuk in terms of Total Points/60 (2.04).
📈 Jeff Petry (D), MTL | Rostered: 53% (Yahoo) | GP: 3 (@WPG, @CGY, @EDM) | Pair: 2 (w/ Kulak)
- Similar to the rest of the Habs lineup, a coaching change has had a positive effect on Jeff Petry and his fantasy hockey value for the remainder of the season. 5 points (2 goals) in his last 5 games played. Unfortunately, Petry’s ceiling may be limited in Montreal as he has received little to no power play time for the majority of February. That said, Petry may be a valuable stash ahead of the trade deadline, assuming he is moved to a contender.
📈 Damon Severson (D), NJD | Rostered: 27% (Yahoo) | GP: 4 (Vs.Van, @CBJ, @NYR, Vs.STL) | Pair: 2 (w/ Graves, PP1)
- Damon Severson is on-pace for nearly 50 points, which would be a career-best for the Devils Dman. In Dougie Hamilton’s absence, Severson excelled for New Jersey, posting 16 points (3 goals) in 17 games and playing 66% PP share in over 25 minutes per game. Many suspected that when Hamilton returned that Severson would lose his role on the power play; but through 2 games that has not been the case. Severson saw 54% and 74% PP share with Hamilton back in the lineup; and with 2 assists on Friday, Severson has 9 points and 1 goal in his last 7 games played.
📈 Jakob Chychrun (D), ARI | Rostered: 52% (Yahoo) | GP: 2 (Vs.COL, Vs.OTT) | Pair: 3 (w/ Kolyachonok, PP2)
- The Arizona Coyotes only play twice next week, but Jakob Chychrun may be worth stashing for your fantasy hockey playoffs. With the Yotes rebuilding, and Shayne Gostisbehere taking over prime minutes in Arizona, it certainly appears that Chychrun could be on the move. One team that has reportedly shown interest in Chychrun is the Los Angeles Kings. If you’ve been a listener of our show for a while, you know that Mike McLaughlin is big on Chychrun for the second half of the season based on his underlying metrics.
📈 Mark Giordano (D), SEA | Rostered: 49% (Yahoo) | GP: 3 (Vs.NSH, @WSH, @CAR) | Pair: 1 (w/ Larsson, PP1)
- The former Flames captain has been heating up offensively, scoring 5 points (2 short-handed goals) in his last 7 games played. Giordano also contributes to hits and blocks, while seeing a healthy amount of time on the first PP unit for Seattle. With Seattle firmly out of playoff contention, there is a very real chance that Giordano will get moved to a contender at the deadline. Also: Vince Dunn (25%). Should Mark Giordano be moved to a contender at or before the trade deadline, expect Vince Dunn to take over the PP1 role in Seattle for the remainder of the season.
📈 Jacob Slavin (D), CAR | Rostered: 63% (Yahoo) | GP: 4 (@DET, @WSH, Vs.PIT, Vs.SEA) | Pair: 1 (w/ Pesce, PP1)
- Jacob Slavin has been playing some very good hockey for the Hurricanes this season, particularly of late. On-pace for a career-best 49 points, Slavin has posted 7 points (1 G) in his last 9 games played. With news that Anthony DeAngelo is out for at least a month, Slavin should see the bulk of time on the power play, and be very productive offensively. In 2 games without DeAngelo, Slavin saw approximately 80% PP share. Even better, Carolina plays 4 games next week. If he is available, grab Slavin now!
📈 Thomas Greiss (G), DET | Rostered: 6% (Yahoo) | GP: 3 (Vs.CAR, @TB, @FLA) | Role: Tandem (37% Net Share)
- After seeing just 1 start between January 9th and February 9th, Greiss has now started 3 of the last 4 games for the Red Wings. During that stretch, the former Islander has posted a 2-1-0 record with a 2.63 GAA, .922 SV%, and 1.16 GSAA. Greiss’ peripherals have certainly dipped after being in Barry Trotz’s defensive system; but Greiss’s PKSV% (.806%) does give some hope for positive regression, and the Red Wings should be getting Jakob Vrana back soon.
📈 Cal Petersen (G), LAK | Rostered: 37% (Yahoo) | GP: 4 (Vs.Bos, @DAL, @CBJ, @BUF) | Role: Tandem (41% Net Share)
- Calvin Petersen and Jonathan Quick have been splitting the crease at almost exactly 50% over the last 20 games. Petersen’s peripherals have not been great – 2.21 GAA, .905 SV%, -1.44 GSAA; however, he has managed to post an 8-2-0 record over that time. The Kings have a great schedule for next week with 4 games, all of which fall on light/off days (50% or fewer teams playing). If wins carry extra weight in your league, then definitely give Petersen a look for next week, possibly beyond.
📈 J.F. Berube (G), CBJ | Rostered: 7% (Yahoo) | GP: 3 (Vs.NJD, Vs.LAK, Vs.BOS) | Role: Backup (6% Net Share)
- Berube has been great for Columbus in a limited sample size, posting a 3-1-0 record with a 3.25 GAA and .924 SV%. With Korpisalo currently on IR (DTD), the 30 year-old has been worth a stream until further notice. Merzlikins did return from IR on Friday night, backing-up Berube who made 46 saves in a 4-0 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes. Interesting note: the Columbus Blue Jackets are 7-1-0 since February 1st.👀📈
📈 Sam Montembeault (G), MTL | Rostered: 8% (Yahoo) | GP: 3 (@WPG, @CGY, @EDM) | Role: Tandem (48% Net Share)
- At the time of writing, Sam Montembeault has managed to win 3 of his last 4 starts, while posting a 3–0-0 record with a 1.32 GAA, .958 SV%, and a 4.54 GSAA. Montreal has a somewhat challenging schedule for the upcoming week, but it should be noted that 2 of Montembeault’s recent wins did come against Toronto and St.Louis. Jake Allen is back practicing with the Habs, but if Montembeault continues to post solid peripherals, he should continue to see plenty of starts.
Also: Andrew Hammond (7%, 2-0-0, 1.44 GAA, .949 SV%), Laurent Broissoit (18%), Matt Murray (26%), Anton Forsberg (17%), Scott Wedgewood (5%, since Jan. 28, 3-2-0, 1.81 GAA, .952 SV%, 7.82 GSAA).
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