Fantasy analysts identify twelve NHL players expected to outperform draft positions

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.

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