The Toronto Maple Leafs had a rough start to the season, especially when it came to their power play. They were struggling to score with just four power-play goals in 40 opportunities. However, things took a positive turn when Auston Matthews got injured and had to sit out. In his absence, the Leafs power play thrived, scoring seven goals in just 13 opportunities across three games.
The top unit, consisting of John Tavares, William Nylander, Mitch Marner, Matthew Knies, and Morgan Rielly, stepped up and showed great chemistry. Knies, in particular, got a chance to shine with increased ice time and offensive contributions. While Matthews’ return is imminent, Knies’ performance during this time could earn him more playing time in the future.
For fantasy hockey managers, this situation presents some interesting opportunities. Rielly, who is available in 14.2% of ESPN leagues, is a player worth picking up given his recent performances and potential for continued success. Knies, available in 58.6% of leagues, could also be a valuable addition due to his increased role and offensive output.
In the goaltending world, several teams are experiencing changes in their crease shares. Some notable performances include Lukas Dostal’s struggles with the Anaheim Ducks, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen’s resurgence with the Buffalo Sabres, and Dustin Wolf’s emergence with the Calgary Flames. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on these developments and consider roster adjustments accordingly.
On the power-play front, players like Artturi Lehkonen, Pius Suter, and Timothy Liljegren have seen increased roles and success on their respective teams’ top units. These players could provide a boost to fantasy teams looking for power-play production.
As the NHL season progresses, fantasy managers must stay vigilant and adapt to changing player roles and performances. The recent developments in various teams present both challenges and opportunities for fantasy hockey success. By staying informed and proactive, managers can make the most out of their rosters and stay competitive throughout the season.