Alright fantasy hockey managers, another NHL season has drawn to a close (congratulations, perhaps, to the Florida Panthers on their hypothetical repeat performance?), and just as predictably as taxes and Zambonis, the early rankings are here. The offseason has been a whirlwind of activity – promising draft picks, significant trades, and familiar faces finding new homes. Navigating this landscape is key to building a winning fantasy roster, and ESPN has provided the first major roadmap with their initial player rankings for the 2025-26 season.
These rankings are compiled based on ESPN`s standard fantasy scoring system, which gives weight not just to goals and assists, but also to categories like shots, hits, and blocked shots for skaters, and comprehensive stats including wins, saves, and goals against for goaltenders. It`s a multi-category approach designed to reward players who contribute across the board.
Breaking Down the Top Tier
Leading the charge at the very top is Colorado Avalanche forward Nathan MacKinnon. His consistent high-octane production across numerous categories solidifies his position as a premier fantasy asset. Close behind are perennial fantasy giants like Auston Matthews and Connor McDavid. While debates will surely rage all summer about who *should* be number one, their presence here is hardly surprising. Perhaps more noteworthy is the inclusion of Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck within the top 3 overall. This placement underscores the critical impact and relative scarcity of truly elite, workhorse netminders in fantasy formats.
Positional Insights and Key Players
Beyond the immediate top five, the rankings offer a deeper look at the positional landscape. Goaltending remains a fascinating position; while Hellebuyck stands tall, other high-value netminders like Jake Oettinger and Andrei Vasilevskiy also feature prominently, reminding us that a top-tier goalie can be a significant advantage. On the blue line, Cale Makar leads the defensemen group, embodying the modern fantasy defenseman who drives offense from the back. Other notable defenders appear throughout the top 100, highlighting the need to identify blueliners who provide points and potentially fill peripheral categories.
The forward ranks showcase immense depth. The list features established superstars and rising talents alike. Interestingly, a notable rookie like Macklin Celebrini of the Sharks makes a strong entry high in the rankings, suggesting high expectations for his immediate NHL impact. Keep an eye on how player roles and linemates shake out in training camps, as these can significantly influence fantasy production.
Offseason Moves and Their Impact
The offseason shuffle always adds intrigue to fantasy projections. Players who changed teams, such as Mitch Marner moving to the Vegas Golden Knights or veteran Brent Burns joining the Avalanche, present fascinating case studies. Their new environments, potential linemates, and power-play opportunities could dramatically alter their fantasy outlook compared to previous seasons. These situations require careful consideration when you`re on the clock during your draft.
Strategy Beyond the Stars
While drafting a top player provides a solid foundation, the true art of fantasy hockey lies in identifying value later in the draft. The extensive nature of these rankings, stretching well into the hundreds, serves as a valuable resource for finding potential sleepers, breakout candidates, and reliable depth players who can anchor specific categories on your roster. Drafting isn`t just about accumulating the biggest names; it`s about building a balanced team that maximizes points under your league`s specific rules.
Getting Prepared
Consider these early ESPN rankings your official starting gun for the 2025-26 fantasy hockey season. They provide an expert projection and a necessary jumping-off point for your own research and draft preparation. Remember, fantasy success is a marathon, filled with waiver wire pickups, trade negotiations, and a healthy dose of good fortune. Use these rankings wisely, combine them with your own analysis, and get ready to compete on the virtual ice.
