Special to Yahoo Sports
Last week, I detailed the important matchup I was facing in the RotoWire Staff Keeper Hockey League. A win would clinch a top-six spot — more specifically, sixth — to qualify for the playoffs. Confidence wasn’t exactly high considering the team had been underwhelming of late outside of one outstanding effort.
So, it was no surprise when I lost by 28 points. I could complain about a disappointing end, but there are positives. This being a dynasty league (first started in the early 2000s), I have a number of players — most with very reasonable salaries — to carry over for next season. And since I don’t have to worry about fantasy results, watching hockey won’t be as stressful.
Even though I have no lineups to set, my motivation to help others remains. Which, of course, comes in the form of waiver selections. If you’re in contention, I want you to do well. Fight for a title. Battle for better placement prizes. And make me proud.
(Rostered rates as of Mar. 29)
Forwards
Bryan Rust, PIT (Yahoo: 46%)
For a decade, Rust has skated alongside elite centers in Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. And rather unsurprisingly, he’s been quite the reliable scorer over the last half of his career. Injuries have also appeared throughout the years, which is probably why Rust has never exceeded 58 points. He was sidelined for two significant stints this season and has still produced 23 goals and 21 assists. Since returning from his latest absence, Rust has managed six points and 22 shots while joining forces with the captain in all attacking areas.
Alexis Lafreniere, NYR (Yahoo: 42%)
It’s taken a bit of time, but Lafreniere is finally following through on his pedigree. It’s obviously helped to be placed in the top six with Artemi Panarin and Vincent Trocheck, yet you can clearly see the improvement. Going back to Jan. 23, Lafreniere has racked up 11 goals, 10 assists, 74 shots and a plus-12 on 17:18 a night. He also has eight points in his last eight games. The only potential drawback would be his lack of a lead power-play role, though six PPPs overall isn’t terrible. As long as Lafreniere continues to develop and is surrounded by solid linemates, there’s no telling how high his potential could be.
JJ Peterka, BUF (Yahoo: 34%)
When Peterka was first featured in November, he was amid an upswing thanks to a move up the depth chart. He continued to excel in…