Fantasy analysts identify twelve NHL players expected to outperform draft positions

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 5:54 PM

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

Fantasy analysts identify twelve NHL players expected to outperform draft positions

Summary

Fantasy hockey projections for the 2026-27 season highlight several players positioned to exceed their average draft positions. Alexis Lafreniere remains a primary target after showing scoring growth late last season following roster adjustments in New York. Chicago’s Roman Kantserov enters the mix as a potential rookie contributor, while William Eklund is slated for a larger role in Ottawa following recent trades. Other highlighted players include veterans like Jaden Schwartz in Colorado and goaltenders Stuart Skinner in Winnipeg and the tandem of Arturs Silovs and Sergei Murashov in Pittsburgh. These projections rely on expected shifts in team depth charts, injury recovery, and new contract signings across the league. Managers are encouraged to monitor training camp developments to confirm these roles as teams finalize rosters for the upcoming season.

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Key Details

•Alexis Lafreniere saw increased point totals after moving to the top power play unit last season.
•Roman Kantserov joins the Blackhawks roster as a potential contributor while Connor Bedard recovers from injury.
•William Eklund is expected to take on a larger role in the Ottawa offense this season.
•Jaden Schwartz signed a three-year contract with Colorado and is expected to fill a top-six wing role.
•Stuart Skinner remains a potential fantasy option in Winnipeg if a starting goalie position opens.

Latest Updates

5:54 PMCBS Sports — 2026-27 Fantasy hockey sleepers: Alexis Lafreniere leads 12 draft-day values poised to outperform ADP

What they're saying

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Alexis Lafreniere, Roman Kantserov, William Eklund and Stuart Skinner headline potential draft-day values poised to outperform their ADP
— CBS Sportsby Jon Litterine

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Hockey