Unveiling the Hidden Gems: Fantasy Hockey Sleepers You Can't Afford to Miss
Hey there, hockey enthusiasts! We know you're all about dominating your fantasy leagues, and we're here to help you do just that. Today, we're diving deep into the world of fantasy hockey sleepers - those under-the-radar players who could turn your season around. So, grab your coffee, get comfortable, and let's explore some hidden gems together. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and fantasy hockey sleepers.
What Makes a Fantasy Hockey Sleeper?
Before we dive into our list, let's quickly define what we mean by a fantasy hockey sleeper. These are players who are currently undervalued or underappreciated by the fantasy community. They might be young guns on the rise, veterans looking to prove themselves, or players in new situations primed for a breakout. The key is that they're not among the first names called when drafting, but they have the potential to outperform their average draft position (ADP).
The Art of Drafting Sleepers
Drafting sleepers isn't just about finding the next big thing; it's about strategy. Here's why:
- Value: Sleepers allow you to draft high-value players later in the draft. By snagging a sleeper in the 10th round, you're essentially getting a player who should perform like a 5th or 6th round pick. - Depth: Sleepers give you flexibility. If one doesn't pan out, you can drop them and pick up another. It's all about finding that diamond in the rough. - Trade Bait: Sleepers can also be valuable trade assets. If a sleeper starts performing at a high level, you can trade them to a team in need of that position for a more established player.
Now that we've covered the basics, let's get to the fun part - the players!
Our Top Fantasy Hockey Sleepers for the 2022-23 Season
Forwards
Alex DeBrincat, Ottawa Senators
ADP: 107.9
DeBrincat might not be a household name yet, but he should be. He's coming off a 41-goal season with the Chicago Blackhawks and is now playing with a better team in Ottawa. With more talent around him, DeBrincat could easily reach the 40-goal mark again. He's a steal in the late rounds.
Jake Sanderson, Ottawa Senators
ADP: 172.5
A rookie defenseman might not seem like a sleeper, but hear us out. Sanderson is a former first-round pick who's finally getting his shot in the NHL. He's got high-end offensive potential and should see plenty of power play time on a Senators team that's on the rise. If he pans out, he could be a massive steal in the late teens or early 20s.
Defensemen
MacKenzie Weegar, Florida Panthers
ADP: 124.5
Weegar is coming off a career-high 12 goals and 44 points last season. He's a workhorse on the blue line, playing over 23 minutes a night, and he's got a favorable matchup with the Panthers' talented forward group. He's a safe bet for 40 points and could reach 50 if things break right.
Erik Cernak, Tampa Bay Lightning
ADP: 148.2
Cernak is a physical, shutdown defenseman who's flown under the radar in fantasy circles. But with Tampa Bay's offense taking a hit this offseason, Cernak could see an increase in power play time. If that happens, he could approach 30 points while providing solid peripheral stats.
Goalies
Carter Hart, Philadelphia Flyers
ADP: 160.1
Hart has had an up-and-down career so far, but the talent is undeniable. He's got a .915 career save percentage and is still just 23 years old. With a full season under new head coach John Tortorella, Hart could take a step forward in his development. If he does, he's got top-10 goalie potential.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, folks! Our top fantasy hockey sleepers for the 2022-23 season. Remember, drafting sleepers is all about finding value and giving yourself options. Don't be afraid to take a chance on a player who could pay big dividends.
As always, do your homework. Stay up-to-date on injuries, line combinations, and playing time. The more informed you are, the better your chances of finding that diamond in the rough.
Now go out there and dominate your leagues! We believe in you.