Every NHL season brings with it a fresh batch of breakout stars, young talents who defy expectations and make their mark on the ice. Whether you’re an avid fantasy hockey manager or someone who likes to bet on sports, identifying these breakout players early can give you a significant edge.
These players become invaluable assets in fantasy hockey leagues, transforming mediocre teams into championship contenders. In this article, we’ll spotlight nine rising stars from the 2023-24 NHL season who are set to dominate power plays in the upcoming 2024-25 season.
These players have impressed with their on-ice performances and promise to deliver even more in the future. Whether you’re a fantasy hockey enthusiast or just a fan of the sport, these players are worth keeping an eye on.
Wyatt Johnston: The Dallas Dynamo
Wyatt Johnston, the dynamic center for the Dallas Stars, stands out as a key player to monitor. In his second NHL season, the 20-year-old center managed to hit the 30-goal mark, thanks to his synergistic partnership with veterans Jamie Benn and rookie Logan Stankoven. Johnston’s ability to find the back of the net makes him a powerhouse on the power play. As he grows more comfortable and experienced, expect his point tally to rise, making him a top pick for fantasy managers next season.
Why Johnston Shines:
- Chemistry: Strong connection with seasoned players like Benn and Stankoven.
- Consistency: Proven ability to score regularly, hitting the 30-goal mark.
- Future Potential: At only 20 years old, his best years are undoubtedly ahead of him.
Alexis Lafreniere: New York’s Next Great Hope
Alexis Lafreniere, the former No. 1 draft pick for the New York Rangers, is another rising star to watch. After a few seasons of adjusting to the NHL’s pace, Lafreniere finally found his stride alongside elite talents like Artemi Panarin and Vincent Trocheck. His performance in the latter half of the 2023-24 season suggests he’s ready to take on more responsibility and deliver consistently on the power play.
Rangers forward Alexis Lafreniere (left) attempts to control a rebound in front of goalie Mackenzie Blackwood as defenseman Jan Rutta (84) provides support – Photos by Jack Lima
Key Statistics:
- Goals: Piling up points late in the season.
- Versatility: Playing effectively on a line with top-tier talent.
- Fantasy Points: Averaging 2.7 fantasy points per game, indicative of his growing influence.
Brock Faber: Minnesota’s Defensive Anchor
Brock Faber brought a glimmer of hope to an otherwise challenging season for the Minnesota Wild. As the team’s top power play defenseman, Faber not only provided solid defense but also contributed significantly to the team’s scoring efforts. His ability to play extensive minutes while maintaining high-performance levels makes him a valuable asset for both his team and fantasy managers.
Factors Behind Faber’s Rise:
- Minutes Played: Averaging 25 minutes per game.
- Power-Play Role: Integral part of the team’s powerplay unit.
- Scoring Potential: On pace for 45 points, with a good portion coming from power-play points.
Stuart Skinner: Edmonton’s Goaltending Marvel
Stuart Skinner’s 2023-24 season with the Edmonton Oilers was nothing short of impressive. Competing with established goaltenders, Skinner managed to outperform expectations and became a cornerstone for his team. His consistency and ability to keep the Oilers competitive throughout the season earned him a spot among the league’s elite goaltenders.
Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner stops a long clearing shot – Photo by Jack Lima
Skinner’s Credentials:
- Consistency: Remained a pivotal player despite competition from peers.
- Points Leader: Ranked among the top for total fantasy points.
- Future Outlook: With Edmonton’s high-powered offense, Skinner’s win potential remains sky-high.
Conclusion
As the 2024-25 NHL season approaches, these rising stars promise to bring excitement and exceptional performances to the ice. Wyatt Johnston, Alexis Lafreniere, Brock Faber, and Stuart Skinner have all proven their worth in the previous season and are poised to become mainstays on power plays in both real and fantasy hockey. Whether you’re looking to draft the best talent for your fantasy league or just observing the future of the sport, these players are worth your attention.
So, keep these rising stars on your radar as they look to light up the league and make significant impacts on their teams and fantasy rosters.
By staying updated on these players’ progress and potential, you could just find yourself one step closer to that fantasy league championship or a deeper appreciation for the next generation of NHL talent.
You must be logged in to post a comment.