Top Fantasy Hockey Linemate Stacks for Your Lineup – ESPN Guide
Skill and opportunity. A simple formula, but one usually necessary for most players to experience success in the fantasy hockey field. It’s a much lesser challenge to contribute goals and assists when surrounded by leading talent on a quality scoring line and power play than when buried in the bottom-six.
With that in mind, here are a few under-the-radar fantasy forwards who are set to benefit handsomely from the on-ice company they keep in the upcoming season.
### Tyler Bertuzzi, W, Chicago Blackhawks
Tyler Bertuzzi is set to benefit from top-line minutes with Connor Bedard which should net the scrappy forward his first 55-plus point campaign since his impressive 62 in 68 contests with the Red Wings back in 2021-22. The potential of Bertuzzi thriving alongside the generational center could lead to a breakout season, especially if the duo clicks right away. Bertuzzi’s fantasy value is also boosted in leagues that reward hits.
**Fantasy stack: Bedard/Bertuzzi**
### Jake DeBrusk, W, Vancouver Canucks
Jake DeBrusk, at 27 years old, is relishing the opportunity to play on the same line as center Elias Pettersson. With a fresh contract close to home, DeBrusk is in position to potentially achieve a career-high of 30 goals, and maybe even 40 if he forms a strong connection with Petterssen and stays healthy throughout the season.
**Fantasy stack: Pettersson/DeBrusk**
### Mats Zuccarello, W, Minnesota Wild
Despite being perennially underappreciated as a fantasy performer, Mats Zuccarello continues to deliver solid numbers season after season. At 37 years old, Zuccarello put up 63 points, including 33 on the power play, in 69 games in the previous campaign. Playing on a top line and power play with Kirill Kaprizov, Zuccarello remains a valuable asset for savvy fantasy managers in deeper leagues.
**Fantasy stack: Kaprizov/Zuccarello**
### Jeff Skinner, W, Edmonton Oilers
Jeff Skinner finds himself in a plum role alongside Leon Draisaitl this season, a coveted position for any winger. Skinner’s past success, including a 35-goal, 47-assist season in Buffalo, suggests he has the potential to match or even surpass those numbers in his new role with Draisaitl in Edmonton.
**Fantasy stack: Draisaitl/Skinner**
### JJ Peterka, W, Buffalo Sabres
JJ Peterka is on the verge of a breakout season after showing significant improvement in his sophomore year. With 28 goals and 22 assists in the previous campaign, Peterka is poised to score 30 goals and 30 assists easily on a line with Tage Thompson and Alex Tuch. If Thompson can bounce back from a rough season, Peterka’s production could soar.
**Fantasy stack: Thompson/Peterka**
### Matthew Knies, W, Toronto Maple Leafs
Matthew Knies, at 21 years old, is in prime position to make a big impact in his final year of his entry-level contract. Skating on a top line with Auston Matthews and Mitchell Marner, Knies has the potential to be a near point-per-game player this season. His physical playstyle adds an extra dimension to his fantasy value, making him a valuable asset in deeper leagues.
**Fantasy stack: Matthews/Knies**
### Anthony Duclair, W, New York Islanders
Anthony Duclair, known for his erratic performances, has the potential to be a dynamic force when he’s on his game. Playing on a top line with Bo Horvat and Mathew Barzal, Duclair has the opportunity to shine in his first season with the Islanders. Fantasy managers should consider streaming Duclair during his goal-scoring hot streaks for maximum benefit.
**Fantasy stack: Horvat/Duclair**
### Tommy Novak, C, Nashville Predators
Tommy Novak, at 27 years old, is poised to center a scoring line with shot-happy forwards like Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault in Nashville. Marchessault praises Novak’s passing abilities and skill, highlighting his potential to excel in his new role. Additionally, minutes on the secondary power play could help Novak return to his previous form and boost his fantasy production.
**Fantasy stack: Stamkos/Novak**
### Shane Pinto, C, Ottawa Senators
Shane Pinto, at 23 years old, is part of a dangerous second scoring line for the Senators alongside Josh Norris and Drake Batherson. Despite injury concerns, Pinto showed promise in the latter half of the previous season with 27 points in 41 games. A breakout campaign with 60-plus points is within reach for Pinto if he can stay healthy and continue his upward trajectory.
**Fantasy stack: Norris/Pinto**
### J.T. Compher, C, Detroit Red Wings
J.T. Compher has the opportunity to slot in on a new scoring line between Vladimir Tarasenko and Patrick Kane in his second season with the Red Wings. The potential of playing alongside two veteran wingers known for their scoring prowess could propel Compher to new heights in terms of fantasy production. Fantasy managers in deeper leagues should keep an eye on Compher during Red Wings training camp for updates on his role.
**Fantasy stack: Kane/Compher**
In conclusion, the upcoming fantasy hockey season presents numerous opportunities for under-the-radar players to shine alongside elite linemates. By strategically selecting fantasy stacks that capitalize on these potential combinations, managers can gain a competitive edge and maximize their team’s scoring potential. As the season unfolds, keeping a close eye on player performances and lineup changes will be crucial for maintaining a successful fantasy hockey roster.