NHL Team Rankings and Fantasy Hockey Tips for Playoffs

The 2024-25 NHL regular season is nearing its conclusion on April 17, and teams are actively vying for playoff berths or positioning in the draft lottery.

Fantasy hockey playoffs have also commenced this week in standard leagues. If you find yourself behind, don’t be discouraged; there is still ample opportunity to reverse your fortunes within this two-week playoff period.

In addition to the updated weekly power rankings, Sean Allen (Eastern Conference) and Victoria Matiash (Western Conference) have pinpointed the most valuable playoff acquisitions still accessible in your free agent pool. These players can provide a significant boost as you aim for a fantasy championship.

Ranking Methodology: A panel of ESPN hockey experts, including commentators, analysts, reporters, and editors, contributes to the rankings by submitting a 1-32 poll based on team performance through Wednesday. This collective input determines our comprehensive list.

Note: The previous ranking for each team refers to the edition published March 14. Points percentages are current through Thursday’s games.

1. Washington Capitals

Previous ranking: 2
Points percentage: 72.46%

Pierre-Luc Dubois, F (available in 41.4% of ESPN fantasy leagues): Pre-season projections for Dubois suggested a ceiling of top-40 forward value, but his trade to Washington has revitalized his performance. Despite ranking 39th in fantasy points among forwards since December 1st, he remains available in some leagues.

Next seven days: vs. FLA (March 22), @ WPG (March 25), @ MIN (March 27)

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2. Winnipeg Jets

Previous ranking: 1
Points percentage: 71.43%

Dylan Samberg, D (available in 92%): Samberg has emerged as a standout fantasy option, leading Winnipeg’s defense in blocked shots and shots on goal over the past couple of weeks. Playing alongside veteran Luke Schenn, the 26-year-old defenseman tallied two goals and an assist in a recent three-game span. He’s a worthwhile addition in deeper leagues right now.

Next seven days: vs. BUF (March 23), vs. WSH (March 25)

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3. Carolina Hurricanes

Previous ranking: 8
Points percentage: 64.71%

Shayne Gostisbehere, D (available in 51.6%): While Mark Jankowski’s four goals on four shots is an interesting story, Shayne Gostisbehere presents a more reliable fantasy option for sustained production. He consistently plays significant minutes on the power play, where he has accumulated 22 of his 37 points this season.

Next seven days: @ LA (March 22), @ ANA (March 23), vs. NSH (March 25)

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4. Dallas Stars

Previous ranking: 3
Points percentage: 66.18%

Casey DeSmith, G (available in 96.2%): Following their game against the Lightning on Thursday, the Stars face a busy schedule with six games in ten days, followed by another four games in six days during the first week of April. With Jake Oettinger likely to get some rest, DeSmith is a viable streaming option when he’s in net. Since mid-January, DeSmith boasts a 6-0 record with an impressive .931 save percentage and a 2.01 goals-against average.

Next seven days: vs. PHI (March 22), vs. MIN (March 24), @ EDM (March 26), @ CGY (March 27)

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5. Vegas Golden Knights

Previous ranking: 5
Points percentage: 64.71%

Pavel Dorofeyev, F (available in 59.4%): The duo of Dorofeyev and Tomas Hertl has been performing effectively at even strength and on the power play, consistently contributing to the scoresheet. Dorofeyev is the more readily available of the two in ESPN fantasy leagues.

Next seven days: vs. DET (March 22), vs. TB (March 23), @ MIN (March 25)

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6. Florida Panthers

Previous ranking: 4
Points percentage: 63.04%

Mackie Samoskevich, F (available in 91.6%): While Brad Marchand might return in the later stages of the season, Samoskevich is currently solidified in a top role within the Panthers’ forward group. Since February, he ranks sixth in fantasy points per minute among players with at least 100 minutes of ice time, positioned just behind Auston Matthews and ahead of Leon Draisaitl.

Next seven days: @ WSH (March 22), vs. PIT (March 23)

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7. Colorado Avalanche

Previous ranking: 11
Points percentage: 62.14%

Scott Wedgewood, G (available in 95.3%): As he sees more playing time in place of Mackenzie Blackwood, Colorado’s secondary goalie is accumulating wins. He recently achieved four consecutive victories, including a shutout against the Blackhawks. Wedgewood is an attractive streaming goalie option for the fantasy playoffs.

Next seven days: @ MTL (March 22), vs. DET (March 25), vs. LA (March 27)

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8. Toronto Maple Leafs

Previous ranking: 6
Points percentage: 63.04%

Matthew Knies, F (available in 35.9%): Although slightly deviating from the recommendation of widely available players, Knies deserves attention. While other readily available fantasy contributors on the Leafs’ roster are scarce, Knies possesses substantial potential and arguably should be universally owned. In the 51 games played alongside Auston Matthews this season, Knies has averaged 1.98 fantasy points per game.

Next seven days: @ NSH (March 22), vs. PHI (March 25), @ SJ (March 27)

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9. Edmonton Oilers

Previous ranking: 9
Points percentage: 61.59%

Calvin Pickard, G (available in 96.7%): Pickard has recently outperformed Skinner as the Oilers’ goaltender. If Skinner encounters further struggles, Pickard’s workload is likely to increase. Coming off two strong performances, he could be a valuable fantasy pickup for managers needing goaltending assistance.

Next seven days: vs. SEA (March 22), vs. DAL (March 26), @ SEA (March 27)

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10. Tampa Bay Lightning

Previous ranking: 7
Points percentage: 62.50%

Oliver Bjorkstrand, F (available in 59.3%): While Yanni Gourde has seen increased top-six minutes, Bjorkstrand remains a consistent presence on Tampa Bay’s effective power play. This role offers more reliable fantasy production in the final month, although Gourde on a scoring line also warrants attention.

Next seven days: @ UTA (March 22), @ VGK (March 23), vs. PIT (March 25), vs. UTA (March 27)

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11. Los Angeles Kings

Previous ranking: 12
Points percentage: 61.94%

Quinton Byfield, F (available in 52.4%): Acquiring Byfield before his six-game goal streak would have been ideal, but he remains relevant. Logging significant ice time, the 22-year-old has further potential as the Kings compete for playoff positioning in the Pacific Division.

Next seven days: vs. CAR (March 22), vs. BOS (March 23), vs. NYR (March 25), @ COL (March 27)

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12. Minnesota Wild

Previous ranking: 10
Points percentage: 60.15%

Ryan Hartman, F (available in 77.3%): Hartman has seemingly backed up his commitment to improve post-suspension, contributing three goals and three assists in eight games. He is now a potential candidate for the top line following Marco Rossi’s lower-body injury on Wednesday.

Next seven days: vs. BUF (March 22), @ DAL (March 24), vs. VGK (March 25), vs. WSH (March 27)

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13. New Jersey Devils

Previous ranking: 13
Points percentage: 57.14%

Luke Hughes, D (available in 56.3%): The Devils currently have injury-related openings both upfront and on defense. While Timo Meier is likely rostered in most fantasy leagues, Hughes offers availability as he fills in for the injured Dougie Hamilton.

Next seven days: vs. OTT (March 22), vs. VAN (March 24), @ CHI (March 26)

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14. Ottawa Senators

Previous ranking: 17
Points percentage: 56.62%

Dylan Cozens, F (available in 41%): Cozens is flourishing in Ottawa, receiving significant ice time and playing with physicality. His hits per 20 minutes have doubled since joining the Senators compared to his time with the Sabres. With hits, points, and power-play opportunities, Cozens is an appealing fantasy option after his change of scenery.

Next seven days: @ NJ (March 22), @ BUF (March 25), @ DET (March 27)

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15. St. Louis Blues

Previous ranking: 21
Points percentage: 55.00%

Jake Neighbours, F (available in 83.9%): This young winger is excelling on a line with Robert Thomas and Pavel Buchnevich, amassing three goals and four assists in five games. Neighbours should be considered in significantly more than 16.1% of ESPN fantasy leagues.

Next seven days: vs. CHI (March 22), vs. NSH (March 23), vs. MTL (March 25), @ NSH (March 27)

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16. Vancouver Canucks

Previous ranking: 19
Points percentage: 55.07%

Kevin Lankinen, G (available in 39.8%): Despite Thatcher Demko traveling with the team, Vancouver’s playoff aspirations largely depend on their current starting goalie. Fortunately for Lankinen, the return of Quinn Hughes and improved play from Elias Pettersson and Brock Boeser enhance Vancouver’s chances.

Next seven days: @ NYR (March 22), @ NJ (March 24), @ NYI (March 26)

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17. Montreal Canadiens

Previous ranking: 20
Points percentage: 54.41%

Patrik Laine, F (available in 35%): Laine’s fantasy value is tied to the consistency of his power-play one-timers. Recent success in this area makes him an intriguing option as the Canadiens pursue a wild-card spot. However, increased shot volume would further enhance his fantasy appeal.

Next seven days: vs. COL (March 22), @ STL (March 25), @ PHI (March 27)

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18. Calgary Flames

Previous ranking: 15
Points percentage: 55.15%

Dan Vladar, G (available in 98%): The limited number of truly valuable fantasy players on Calgary are generally rostered in ESPN leagues. Vladar, the backup goalie, has performed admirably and warrants consideration as a streaming option when he starts.

Next seven days: @ NYI (March 22), vs. SEA (March 25), vs. DAL (March 27)

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19. Utah Hockey Club

Previous ranking: 22
Points percentage: 52.90%

Nick Schmaltz, F (available in 68.5%): While Utah’s roster features flashier fantasy options like Clayton Keller, Dylan Guenther, and Logan Cooley, Schmaltz is currently in a productive stretch. Fantasy managers should capitalize when Keller’s veteran linemate is performing well.

Next seven days: vs. TB (March 22), vs. DET (March 24), @ TB (March 27)

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20. New York Rangers

Previous ranking: 16
Points percentage: 51.43%

Will Cuylle, F (available in 67%): Since the 4 Nations Face-Off break, Cuylle has secured a top-six role with the Rangers. He is among a select group of forwards combining high hit totals with strong point production, demonstrating a rare blend of physicality and scoring ability.

Next seven days: vs. VAN (March 22), @ LA (March 25)

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21. New York Islanders

Previous ranking: 23
Points percentage: 52.94%

Kyle Palmieri, F (available in 51.2%): Palmieri ranks among the top goal-scorers among forwards since the beginning of February. He continues to play alongside Bo Horvat on the top line and power play. With Mathew Barzal’s return uncertain, the Islanders’ primary source of fantasy points resides within their top line.

Next seven days: vs. CGY (March 22), vs. CBJ (March 24), vs. VAN (March 26)

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22. Columbus Blue Jackets

Previous ranking: 14
Points percentage: 52.21%

Adam Fantilli, F (available in 57.3%): Even upon Sean Monahan’s return, it’s unlikely Fantilli will relinquish his top-line role. Since Monahan’s injury, Fantilli has ranked highly in both fantasy points and total ice time among forwards, impressive for a second-year player.

Next seven days: @ PIT (March 21), @ NYI (March 24)

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23. Detroit Red Wings

Previous ranking: 18
Points percentage: 51.47%

Patrick Kane, F (available in 32.5%): While not widely available, Kane is the most compelling fantasy option on the Red Wings that you might still find on waivers. His recent five-point game underscores his game-changing potential.

Next seven days: @ VGK (March 22), @ UTA (March 24), @ COL (March 25), vs. OTT (March 27)

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24. Boston Bruins

Previous ranking: 24
Points percentage: 49.29%

Mason Lohrei, D (available in 89%): Following the trade deadline, the Bruins’ fantasy outlook has diminished for most players besides David Pastrnak. However, Lohrei presents an upside play, ranking high in power-play time among defensemen since the 4 Nations break as he substitutes for Charlie McAvoy.

Next seven days: @ SJ (March 22), @ LA (March 23), @ ANA (March 26)

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25. Anaheim Ducks

Previous ranking: 26
Points percentage: 49.28%

Leo Carlsson, F (available 64.1%): Carlsson leads Anaheim forwards in fantasy points per game in ESPN standard leagues since the 4 Nations break. The 20-year-old also tops his team with seven goals in this period.

Next seven days: vs. CAR (March 23), vs. BOS (March 26)

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26. Pittsburgh Penguins

Previous ranking: 27
Points percentage: 47.14%

Tristan Jarry, G (available in 87.2%): Jarry is making a late-season push for fantasy relevance. His recent AHL stint seems to have positively impacted his game. Before a recent loss, he had secured four consecutive wins and earned positive fantasy points in all five preceding games. However, consider this a high-risk fantasy situation.

Next seven days: vs. CBJ (March 21), @ FLA (March 23), @ TB (March 25), @ BUF (March 27)

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27. Seattle Kraken

Previous ranking: 28
Points percentage: 46.43%

Jordan Eberle, F (available in 89.0%): Eberle, playing on a scoring line, is striving to maximize his remaining season after missing a significant portion due to injury. His recent performance, averaging 2.2 fantasy points per game over the last six games, indicates a positive trend.

Next seven days: @ EDM (March 22), @ CGY (March 25), vs. EDM (March 27)

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28. Philadelphia Flyers

Previous ranking: 25
Points percentage: 45.71%

Matvei Michkov, F (available in 49.5%): The Flyers offer limited fantasy production, with no forwards in the top 100 fantasy point earners since the 4 Nations break. Michkov initially showed promise on a line with Tippett and Couturier, but defensive concerns led to line changes. Despite this, Michkov remains one of the few Flyers with breakout potential.

Next seven days: @ DAL (March 22), @ CHI (March 23), @ TOR (March 25), vs. MTL (March 27)

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29. Buffalo Sabres

Previous ranking: 29
Points percentage: 44.78%

Josh Norris, F (available in 48.8%): Despite a new team, the story remains the same for Norris. When healthy, he has significant fantasy potential due to his role and linemates. This holds true in Buffalo, where he is projected to play alongside Tage Thompson upon Thompson’s return.

Next seven days: @ MIN (March 22), @ WPG (March 23), vs. OTT (March 25), vs. PIT (March 27)

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30. Nashville Predators

Previous ranking: 30
Points percentage: 42.65%

Brady Skjei, D (available in 47.5%): Skjei, filling in for Roman Josi on the top power play and logging heavy minutes on the top defensive pairing, is consistently producing points and shots on goal. Combined with blocked shots and hits, Skjei offers solid blue-line fantasy value to finish the 2024-25 season.

Next seven days: vs. TOR (March 22), @ STL (March 23), @ CAR (March 25), s. STL (March 27)

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31. Chicago Blackhawks

Previous ranking: 31
Points percentage: 35.51%

Ryan Donato, F (available in 71.1%): On a Blackhawks team lacking prominent fantasy talent, Donato provides value in deeper leagues down the playoff stretch. As a top-six forward and power-play contributor, he is averaging a solid 2.0 fantasy points per game in standard leagues since the 4 Nations break.

Next seven days: @ STL (March 22), vs. PHI (March 23), vs. NJ (March 26)

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32. San Jose Sharks

Previous ranking: 32
Points percentage: 32.61%

Will Smith, F (available in 91.8%): Smith, the Sharks’ most productive forward recently apart from Macklin Celebrini, averages nearly 18 minutes of ice time in a top-six role and on the top power play. The rookie also generates shots on goal consistently.

Next seven days: vs. BOS (March 22), vs. TOR (March 27)