When it comes to deciding how many goalies you should have in fantasy hockey, there are several factors to consider. Here are five facts to help guide your decision-making process:
1. League settings: The number of goalies you should roster can vary depending on the settings of your fantasy hockey league. Some leagues may require you to start two goalies each week, while others may only require one. Consider how many roster spots are dedicated to goalies in your league and plan accordingly.
2. Scoring system: Take a close look at your league’s scoring system. If goaltending categories carry a significant weight in determining overall scores, it may be wise to invest in more goalies to increase your chances of earning points in those categories.
3. Injury risks: Goaltenders are prone to injuries, and having a backup or two can help mitigate the impact of potential injuries on your fantasy team. Additionally, with the condensed NHL schedule and back-to-back games, teams may opt to rest their starting goalies more frequently, opening up opportunities for backups to earn valuable playing time.
4. Depth of available goalies: Assess the quality and depth of available goalies in your league’s waiver wire. If there are a limited number of viable goaltending options, it might be beneficial to carry more goalies on your roster to prevent your opponents from acquiring them.
5. Overall roster composition: Consider the makeup of the rest of your fantasy team. If you have a strong offensive group and solid defensemen, you may be able to allocate more roster spots to goalies. On the other hand, if you have weaknesses in other positions, it might be wise to prioritize those areas instead of overinvesting in goaltending.
FAQs:
1. How many goalies do most fantasy hockey leagues start each week?
Most leagues typically require starting two goalies each week, but this can vary. It’s essential to review your league’s specific settings to determine the required number.
2. Should I carry more goalies if my league heavily values goaltending categories?
Yes, if goaltending categories receive significant weight in your league’s scoring system, it is advisable to carry additional goalies to maximize your chances of accumulating points.
3. Are backup goalies worth rostering?
Backup goalies can certainly have value in fantasy hockey, especially if they have proven to be competent and get occasional starts. They can help provide a boost in save percentage, goals against average, and even earn wins when given an opportunity.
4. How frequently do starting goalies get rested?
Starting goalies are often rested in back-to-back game scenarios or when dealing with minor injuries. This can vary from team to team and depend on the coach’s strategy, but it’s not uncommon for backups to see a fair share of playing time throughout the season.
5. Can I trade for a goalie if I don’t have enough on my roster?
Yes, trading for a goalie is a viable option if you find yourself lacking sufficient goaltending depth. Keeping an eye on the trade market and seeking out teams with surplus goalies can help you bolster your roster.
6. What strategies can I use to identify underrated goalies for my fantasy team?
Looking at goalie statistics, analyzing team defense, and monitoring goalie usage patterns can help identify potentially underrated goalies. Pay attention to goalies who may have a strong save percentage but receive fewer wins or those who play on teams with solid defensive systems.
7. Is it ever a good idea to have only one goalie on my roster?
Having only one goalie on your roster can be risky, as it leaves you vulnerable to that goalie’s performance, injury, or unexpected rest. It’s generally advisable to have at least two goalies to ensure stability and maximize your potential points in the goaltending categories.
BOTTOM LINE: The number of goalies you should have in fantasy hockey depends on your league settings, scoring system, the depth of available goalies, and your overall roster composition. While most leagues require two starting goalies, it’s essential to assess these factors before finalizing your roster. Consider carrying additional goalies to mitigate injury risks, benefit from strong scoring categories, and prevent opponents from acquiring solid goaltending options.
