The fantasy hockey playoffs will soon be here. So if you’re looking to strengthen your squads for the important part of the season, we’ve got a few NHLers who can be of service.
(Rostered rates as of Mar. 21)
Forwards
Jake DeBrusk, VAN (Yahoo: 35%)
DeBrusk may not be the most consistent scorer, but he’s sufficiently involved in all attacking situations. The top-six spot is nice, but his biggest draw comes from skating on Vancouver’s top power play having already set a career-high with 16 PPPs. DeBrusk averages two shots per game while delivering a decent amount of hits and a few blocks, though you’re ultimately picking him up for his offense.
Ryan Hartman, MIN (Yahoo: 11%)
The Wild have lost a few notable forwards, resulting in only 36 goals since the start of February — or an average of 2.31. Since missing eight contests due to suspension, Hartman has helped the cause by posting 3 goals, 3 assists, 23 shots and 8 hits through eight games. Oh, and let’s not forget the four PPPs on Minnesota’s lead unit over that stretch. As Joel Eriksson Ek’s return is unknown and Marco Rossi just got hurt on Wednesday, Hartman should be given plenty of opportunities to log major minutes at center while enhancing his stats.
Leo Carlsson, ANH (Yahoo: 11%)
Carlsson experienced a couple offensive droughts after coming back from injury, though he’s been on fire since Feb. 2 with 17 points over 18 matchups. As a top-six pivot and point man on Anaheim’s top man-advantage, there’s no shortage of offensive opportunities. Carlsson’s shooting percentage during this latest run may be unsustainable (28.0), yet the overall contributions make him a solid fantasy performer who deserves much more coverage.
Jordan Eberle, SEA (Yahoo: 9%)
It’s mainly been a lost season for Eberle thanks to him being out for nearly three months. Nothing came during the first three outings upon returning, but he’s reeled off two goals and eight assists from the last 10, and the team has found the back of the net 35 times (and that includes getting blanked on Wednesday). The Kraken may not have much to play for, as they’re somewhat behind in the playoff hunt and one of the teams on a league-leading 70 games, though a reliable scorer like Eberle still can boost his offensive numbers the rest of the way.
Casey Mittelstadt, BOS (Yahoo: 9%)
Mittelstadt kicked off the campaign with 16 points in 15…