Fantasy hockey is a game where participants create their own team of real-life hockey players and compete against other teams based on the statistical performance of these players in actual games. The key to success in fantasy hockey is drafting a well-rounded team. Here are five tips to help you draft a strong team for the 2015 fantasy hockey season:
1. Research player rankings: Before drafting your team, it is crucial to research player rankings. This will give you an idea of the top players at each position and help you prioritize your picks. Many websites and publications provide expert rankings, so make sure to take advantage of them.
2. Consider positional scarcity: Some positions in fantasy hockey tend to have fewer top-tier players compared to others. For example, there may be more high-scoring forwards available compared to elite defensemen. Keep this in mind when making your picks and try to secure top players at positions with limited talent pool.
3. Review team schedules: The NHL schedule can have an impact on player performance. Some teams may have a favorable schedule with more home games or a stretch of games against weaker opponents. Look for teams with favorable schedules and consider drafting players from those teams who are likely to benefit from the schedule.
4. Pay attention to injuries: Injuries can significantly impact a player’s performance and availability. Keep an eye on the injury reports and take note of any players recovering from injuries. Drafting players who are healthy and have a good track record of durability can minimize your team’s injury risk.
5. Don’t neglect goaltenders: Goaltenders play a crucial role in fantasy hockey, as they can earn you valuable points in categories like wins, save percentage, and shutouts. Make sure to allocate a significant portion of your draft to secure at least one reliable starting goaltender and consider handcuffing them with their respective backups for added insurance.
FAQs:
1. How many players should I draft?
A standard fantasy hockey league usually requires drafting 14-16 players per team. This includes forwards, defensemen, goaltenders, and a few bench spots.
2. Should I focus on drafting players from my favorite team?
While it’s tempting to draft players from your favorite team, it’s essential to focus on player performance rather than personal preferences. Drafting the best available players, regardless of the team they play for, will increase your chances of success.
3. When should I draft rookies?
Drafting rookies in fantasy hockey can be risky. While some rookies may have extraordinary talent, their performance at the professional level can be unpredictable. It’s safer to consider drafting rookies in later rounds or as bench players rather than relying on them as core contributors.
4. How important is it to draft defensemen early?
Defensemen can contribute significantly to your team’s success, but it’s not always necessary to draft them early. Depending on the fantasy hockey scoring system, forwards tend to accumulate more points. It’s crucial to strike a balance between drafting top defensemen and maximizing point production from forwards.
5. Is it better to draft players from winning teams?
Drafting players from successful NHL teams can have its advantages, as they are more likely to contribute to team victories and accumulate points. However, talented players on weaker teams can still provide excellent value, especially in categories like power-play points or shots on goal.
6. Should I draft players solely based on their statistics from last season?
While previous statistics can be a useful reference, they shouldn’t be the sole determining factor when drafting players. Consider factors like player age, offseason trades or signings, changes in team dynamics, and playing style. This will help you make informed decisions based on the potential for future success.
7. What should I do if another team drafts the player I wanted?
In fantasy hockey, it’s essential to have backup strategies. If another team selects a player you had your eye on, refer to your pre-draft rankings and select the best available player at that position. Flexibility and quick decision-making are key to building a competitive team.
BOTTOM LINE:
Drafting a successful fantasy hockey team in 2015 requires thorough player research, consideration of positional scarcity, reviewing team schedules, paying attention to injuries, and giving due importance to goaltenders. By following these tips and strategies, you’ll be well on your way to building a strong team and competing for the championship.
