Fantasy Hockey: Risers & Fallers (Week 20)
RISERS
Bowen Byram, D, Colorado Avalanche (OWNED: 66%)
For starters, the third-year blue liner has now notched at least a point in seven of his past nine outings. In addition to that, Byram’s now up to five goals and 13 points in 19 games so far this season. Especially with Cale Makar out, it’s buy-time on Byram. Do it up. This kid’s supremely talented.
Max Domi, C/LW/RW, Chicago Blackhawks (OWNED: 42%)
The tri-eligible forward, who could be on the move over the next few days, has four goals and 12 points during an impressive six-game point streak. Depending on where he ends up, it’s likely Domi’s stock will drop if/when he goes. Bottom line: He’s a third liner on a contender. We’ll see what happens. Monitor closely.
Dawson Mercer, C/RW, New Jersey Devils (OWNED: 33%)
During his current six-game point streak, the 21-year-old has tallied eight goals and 10 points playing predominantly on a line with Nico Hischier and Tomas Tatar. Furthermore, with Timo Meier now in the mix for New Jersey, it will be interesting to see what that means for the red-hot Mercer in terms up line assignment. At any rate, scoop him up immediately.
Nino Niederreiter, LW, Nashville Predators (OWNED: 18%)
In case you missed it, the 30-year-old winger was dealt to the Winnipeg Jets over the weekend. In 56 outings with Nashville, he had 18 goals and 28 points. With Cole Perfetti out long-term, it’s plausible to suggest Niederreiter could find himself in Winnipeg’s stacked top-six in short-order here. At the very least, keep tabs on that new marriage.
Ivan Barbashev, C/LW, Vegas Golden Knights (OWNED: 14%)
Even though we don’t know exactly where he’ll slot in just yet, there’s no question Barbashev’s fantasy stock will rise with the move to Sin City. No offence to Paul Cotter, but a Barbashev, Eichel, Marchessault trio could be nice. Lastly, don’t be surprised if Barbashev evolves into this deadline’s Artturi Lehkonen. He’s so versatile.
FALLERS
Igor Shesterkin, G, New York Rangers (OWNED: 100%)
The New York Rangers can add every superstar they want, but if they can’t get a save, they’re going nowhere this spring. In 15 appearances since January 1st, Shesterkin, who won the Vezina Trophy last season, has tallied a pedestrian 3.12 goals-against average and 0.894 save-percentage. Take your shot at buying low.
Aaron Ekblad, D, Florida Panthers (OWNED: 94%)
The 27-year-old’s been held pointless in six straight contests and seven of the past eight. Considering his average draft position, Ekblad’s been a massive disappointment in fantasy hockey this season. Don’t be afraid to move on, now’s not the time to wait on around on stagnant files.
Filip Forsberg, LW, Nashville Predators (OWNED: 89%)
Once he’s good enough to return from his upper body injury, Forsberg might get a chance to play out that Will Smith GIF from Fresh Prince in real life. Niederreiter’s gone. So is Tanner Jeannot. Ryan Johansen’s hurt. And still, there’s five days to go until deadline. Hell, even David Poile’s leaving. Furthermore, it stinks for Forsberg’s fantasy value with playoffs just around the corner. Sell if you can.
Jordan Binnington, G, St. Louis Blues (OWNED: 73%)
With the St. Louis Blues in full-fledged sell-mode, you should be trying your hardest to move on from Binnington right now. If you can’t find a taker, it could be in your best interest to contemplating cutting bait completely. St. Louis has been awful since trading Ryan O’Reilly. Craig Berube’s squad could be in for a tough finish to their season as Doug Armstrong looks to retool on the fly.
Jakob Chychrun, D, Arizona Coyotes (OWNED: 72%)
Unbelievably, the 24-year-old hasn’t played a game since February 10th as he awaits a deal out of Arizona. At this point, if you’re a Chychrun owner, all you can do is be patient and hope that he ends up on a good team. This soap opera needs to end. HOLD.