Fantasy hockey managers looking to tinker with their rosters will benefit from zeroing in on specific categories. Whether you are looking for long-term fits or short-term options, there should be a plethora of potential pickups to help your fantasy squad. Happy New Year, everyone!
Let’s get into this week’s suggestions for your consideration
Radko Gudas, D, Ducks (27% rostered)
Categories: Hits/Blocks/PIM
Gudas won’t contribute much offensively but has four assists in his last six games. He has only seven points, all of which are helpers, in 35 appearances this season. However, fantasy managers seeking a boost in banger leagues could add him during a busy four-game week for the Ducks. Gudas has amassed 112 hits, 77 blocked shots and 42 penalty minutes in 2024-25. Anaheim’s offense has been unreliable, but the 34-year-old defender could be a solid pickup for physical categories.
Nick Schmaltz, C/RW, Hockey Club (24%)
Categories: Assists/Points/Shots/PP
Schmaltz has generated six goals and 13 points in 14 contests going into this week’s action. He has registered two goals, five assists and 17 shots in his past seven outings. Schmaltz has two goals and two helpers during power plays over that span. He has bounced back from a rough patch in early November and should be rostered in more leagues, especially with Utah scheduled to play four times this week. Schmaltz is a fixture on the top line and the first power-play combination, and he’s trending toward his second straight 60-plus point campaign.
Jonathan Drouin, LW, Avalanche (19% rostered)
Categories: Assists/Points/Shots/PP
Drouin has been limited to five appearances this season and has missed the past 16 contests due to an upper-body injury. However, he is close to returning to the lineup and could play as early as Tuesday versus Winnipeg. Drouin has showcased plenty of upside when he’s played this campaign, collecting two goals, two assists, six shots and four blocks. The 29-year-old Drouin has spent most of his playing time alongside Nathan MacKinnon, making him an intriguing stash option heading into a three-game week for Colorado. If Drouin skates in the top six when he returns to action and sees time on the top power-play unit, he will possess plenty of fantasy appeal.