The key to every fantasy hockey league teams success is getting big-time points where you least expect it. The sleeper pick is critical, and very hard to predict. Here is a quick rundown of who will be this years potential sleepers.
Brock Nelson – C – New York Islanders
This is a solid pick to start with, but he has the potential to explode. Many have him projected to post around 35 points. If he is paired with John Tavares watch out. He has good size, and a knack for the net. Look out, and watch him post 55.
Tyler Toffoli – RW – Los Angeles Kings
After shocking many with his playoff success it is really hard to predict what should be expected from Toffoli this season. It is not like he is being overlooked, with many predicting that he will post 50 points. I think he will have a very solid season, and if he stays healthy he will post in the mid 50’s.
Nikita Kucherov – RW – Tampa Bay Lightning
It looks as though Kucherov will see top six forward time, and potentially could be paired with Jonathan Drouin, and Valtteri Filppula. This will result in points. He is projected to post around 40 points, but I do not think it is out of the question to see him post 50.
Valeri Nichushkin – RW – Dallas Stars
This is one of my big time sleeper picks. He is a big strong winger that will produce, and I can almost guarantee it if he plays on a line with Jamie Benn and Tyler Seguin. The Stars are poised to be a force, and this potentially could be one of the top lines in all of hockey. 60+ is not out of the question.
Mark Scheifele – C – Winnipeg Jets
A knee injury last season slowed a very successful season for the young center. He posted 34 points in 63 games, and is now poised to double that in his second NHL season. It looks as though he will be paired with Andrew Ladd, and Dustin Byfuglien this season. This should equal success for the young Scheifele. I predict that he will lead the Jets this season with 68 points.
Brad Burud the owner/editor of the Inside Edge Hockey News. I am a huge fan of hockey, from youth hockey, to junior hockey, and of course professional hockey. I have played, coached, worked as statistician, and watched hockey all of my life. Hockey is not just a game, it is a lifestyle and family. The game of hockey is great! It can bring you nights of great enjoyment. It also brings nights where you feel like your team will never win. I am proud to be a journalist for the greatest game in the world. I have a degree in Business Administration, Psychology from Minot State University. I also have a Hockey General Manager and Scouting, and Sports Communications/Journalism degree from Sports Management Worldwide. I am also a member of the Sports Executives Association. Most of all I am a fan. Hockey is a huge part of my life and my families life.