Are you a fan of hockey and interested in getting started with fantasy hockey? Drafting a strong fantasy hockey team is crucial to having a successful season. Here are five supporting facts to help you get started on drafting your fantasy hockey team:
1. Research player statistics: Before you start drafting your fantasy hockey team, it’s important to research player statistics from previous seasons. Look at factors like goals, assists, power play points, shots on goal, and plus/minus ratings. This will help you evaluate the potential performance of players and make informed drafting decisions.
2. Consider player positions: When drafting your fantasy hockey team, it’s essential to consider player positions. Make sure your team has a good balance of centers, wingers, defensemen, and goalies. This ensures that you have players across different positions who can contribute in various statistical categories.
3. Take note of injuries and suspensions: Injuries and suspensions can significantly impact a player’s performance and availability throughout the season. Stay updated on any player injuries or suspensions and use this information to make informed drafting decisions. Avoid selecting players who have a history of frequent injuries or suspensions.
4. Assess team strength: Consider the overall strength of an NHL team when drafting your fantasy hockey team. A team with a strong offense is more likely to produce players with high scoring potential, while a team with a solid defense and goaltending may provide more opportunities for shutouts and defensive statistics.
5. Utilize fantasy hockey rankings and mock drafts: Make use of fantasy hockey rankings and participate in mock drafts to get a better understanding of player values and average draft positions. This will help you identify potential sleeper picks and avoid reaching for players too early in the draft.
Now let’s move on to seven detailed FAQs about drafting a fantasy hockey team:
1. How does the draft order work?
The draft order is usually determined randomly or through a lottery system. Each team takes turns selecting players in a serpentine style draft, meaning that the team with the last pick in the first round will have the first pick in the second round, and so on.
2. How many players should I draft?
The number of players you should draft depends on the league format, but most leagues require you to draft around 16-20 players, including forwards, defensemen, and goalies. Be sure to check your league’s specific rules.
3. Should I prioritize forwards, defensemen, or goalies?
It’s important to have a balance across all positions, but forwards generally score the most points, with defensemen and goalies providing support in different statistical categories. Consider prioritizing forwards in the early rounds, as they tend to have higher scoring potential.
4. Are rookies worth drafting?
Rookies can be risky picks since their performance is uncertain. However, some rookies, especially highly touted prospects, can make an immediate impact. Do your research on rookies, assess their potential role within their team, and consider them as mid to late-round picks if you believe in their talent.
5. Should I draft players from my favorite NHL team?
While it can be tempting to draft players from your favorite NHL team, it’s important to prioritize performance over personal bias. Focus on selecting players who have consistently produced good statistics and are likely to have a strong season, regardless of the team they play for.
6. Should I consider players’ age in the draft?
Age can be a factor to consider, especially for older players who might be more prone to injuries or a decline in performance. However, younger players can also have breakout seasons. Look at a player’s recent performance and overall health rather than solely relying on their age.
7. How should I approach drafting goaltenders?
Goaltenders play a crucial role, so it’s important to draft at least two solid goalies. Look for goalies who are likely to receive a high number of starts, play for strong defensive teams, and have a history of consistent performance. Secure your starting goalie early in the draft and add a reliable backup later.
BOTTOM LINE:
Drafting a successful fantasy hockey team requires thorough research, consideration of player positions, team strength, injuries, and suspensions. Utilize rankings, participate in mock drafts, and stay updated on the latest player news to make informed decisions. Finding the right balance across positions and prioritizing performance over personal bias is key to building a strong team. Good luck with your fantasy hockey season!
