Drafting players on the verge of breakout performances is a great way to supplement your fantasy hockey rosters. It is usually a gamble, given the hit-or-miss nature of choosing individuals who haven’t quite reached their peak yet. Still, the ability to identify players who can get to another level in their production is tremendously helpful. The focus here will be on uncovering the potential of some bright young stars beyond their sophomore years who are capable of reaching new heights offensively in the 2024-25 season.
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Wyatt Johnston, C/RW, Dallas Stars
After racking up 32 goals and 65 points in 82 games during the regular season in 2023-24, one could argue that Johnston has already broken out. He added 10 goals and six assists in 19 playoff outings to push that theory further. However, there is reason to believe that Johnston could improve further in 2024-25. His torrid scoring pace in the second half of 2023-24 earned him 22 goals and 42 points in his final 42 outings.
Following Joe Pavelski’s retirement, Johnston could shift to the right-wing spot alongside Jason Robertson and Roope Hintz on the first line. The 21-year-old Johnston will likely also see an increase in power-play time after averaging just 1:46 of ice time last season. He should surpass 70 points and could be a point-per-game performer if the consistency he displayed down the stretch and during the playoffs carries over into the 2024-25 campaign.
Juraj Slafkovsky, LW, Montreal Canadiens
Slafkovsky went from generating just four goals and 10 points in 39 NHL outings during the 2022-23 season to supplying 20 tallies and 30 assists over 82 contests last campaign. Following a sluggish start to the year, he compiled 18 goals and 43 points in 53 appearances. He also concluded the season with 152 shots on target, 152 hits and 71 blocked shots.
Slafkovsky is primed to take another step forward in 2024-25 after seizing control of a top-line role with Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield. The 20-year-old Slafkovsky will also be on the first power-play combination. He should be eager to prove himself after signing an eight-year, $60.8 million contract extension in July. Fantasy managers should benefit from his category coverage as he pushes past the 60-point plateau.