Special to Yahoo Sports
Just under two weeks left in the regular season. Some fantasy leagues will soon be finishing, but others go right until the end.
Many NHL players are still looking to do well. Regardless of whether they’re on teams jockeying for playoff position or already eliminated, they’ll be looking to make their mark and/or possibly earn new contracts. And if they succeed, that often yields better fantasy results.
Here are a few motivated — and widely available — NHLers who may push you closer to a championship.
(Rostered rates as of Apr. 5)
Forwards
LAST CALL: Vladimir Tarasenko, FLA (Yahoo: 55%)
When Tarasenko was discussed at the start of 2024, he was doing decently in Ottawa. He was also strongly linked to a trade, which was carried out on Deadline Day. Upon arriving in Florida, Tarasenko immediately hit the jackpot by lining up with Aleksander Barkov and Sam Reinhart. And that trio has been together ever since. After a scoreless debut, Tarasenko has totaled 11 points in 13 games supplemented by 20 shots and 21 hits — including five, eight and four of each from the last three. He eventually joined the Panthers’ top power play, though only has one assist there so far. Go check if he’s still available.
Pierre-Luc Dubois, LA (Yahoo: 40%)
I’ve been tempted to include Dubois for many weeks, but ultimately went with other selections carrying superior stats and placement. Three assists on Wednesday helped to facilitate his inclusion, yet he was also busy during 11 days in the second half of March when he produced seven points, 12 hits and 33 faceoff wins. Dubois’ multipoint outburst came as a result of moving up to the second center spot filling in for Phillip Danault. The latter could be back before the end of the regular season to reclaim top-six status. But even if that happens, Dubois should keep building on his momentum.
Ivan Barbashev, VGK (Yahoo: 36%)
Barbashev has alternated between hot streaks and cold spells since December. And fortunately for poolies, he’s currently on one of those surges with four goals and two assists across six outings in addition to 10 shots and 16 hits. Barbashev has usually skated at even-strength alongside Jack Eichel and has recently joined the elite center on the lead man-advantage. Averaging 16:50 on a strong Vegas attack while playing in all scoring situations while posting enough in other areas —…