Drafting the best fantasy hockey team can be a challenging task, as there are many factors to consider. However, with proper research and planning, you can increase your chances of building a winning roster. Here are five supporting facts to help you draft the best fantasy hockey team:
1. Familiarize Yourself with Player Rankings: Before entering a draft, it’s crucial to understand player rankings. Research reputable fantasy hockey resources to identify top performers and potential breakout stars. This knowledge will guide your drafting strategy and help you make informed decisions.
2. Balance High-Scoring Forwards and Reliable Defensemen: Scoring goals is the name of the game in fantasy hockey, so prioritize forwards who consistently produce points. However, don’t neglect the importance of reliable defensemen. Defensemen who contribute offensively and accumulate points can significantly boost your team’s overall performance.
3. Assess Goaltending Options: Goaltending is a critical position in fantasy hockey, as it can often make or break a team’s success. Analyze the goaltending landscape and invest in netminders who are proven starters for their teams and have a strong track record of saves and wins. Solid goaltending can provide invaluable stability to your roster.
4. Evaluate Injury Histories: Injuries are inevitable in hockey, so it’s crucial to assess players’ injury histories during your drafting process. While some players may offer exceptional performance, their injury proneness could impact their availability for long stretches, negatively impacting your team’s performance. Strike a balance between high-risk, high-reward players and those with a more reliable health track record.
5. Don’t Overlook Special Teams: Pay attention to players who excel on power plays and penalty kills. Skaters who consistently contribute on special teams have a higher likelihood of generating points and accumulating valuable statistics, making them valuable assets for your fantasy hockey team.
FAQs:
1. How many players should I draft for my fantasy hockey team?
Typically, fantasy hockey leagues comprise of 12-16 teams with around 20 players per team. Therefore, drafting around 18-20 players is a good starting point to ensure you have a well-rounded roster.
2. Are there any specific strategies for drafting in different types of leagues?
Yes, different league formats may require different strategies. For example, in a head-to-head league, prioritizing players who accumulate penalty minutes could be advantageous, while in a rotisserie league, focusing on well-rounded players with contributions in multiple categories is key. Familiarize yourself with your league’s scoring and format to develop a tailored strategy.
3. Is it essential to draft players from a variety of teams?
While it’s not mandatory, diversifying your roster by including players from different teams can be beneficial. It allows you to take advantage of scheduling and ensures that your team isn’t too dependent on the success of a single NHL team.
4. Should I prioritize drafting rookies or more experienced players?
It depends on the situation. Rookies with high potential can be valuable assets, but they may also come with added risks and uncertainties. It’s generally safer to balance rookies with established players who have a consistent track record of success.
5. How much should I rely on projections when drafting fantasy hockey players?
Projections can serve as a helpful guide, but it’s crucial to use them alongside your own research. Projections are based on various factors, but they can’t account for unforeseen circumstances like injuries or changes in player usage. Trust your judgment and consider both projections and real-time information when making your selections.
6. Is it better to draft players from winning NHL teams?
While players from successful NHL teams often provide more opportunities for fantasy points, it’s not a strict rule. Fantasy points are generated based on individual player performance, irrespective of a team’s success. Look for players who have a proven ability to consistently contribute and accumulate points, regardless of the team’s overall record.
7. Should I draft players solely based on their previous season’s performance?
While previous season performance can be a valuable indicator, it shouldn’t be the sole basis for drafting decisions. Factors such as changes in team dynamics, player roles, and offseason developments can significantly impact a player’s performance. Consider a player’s entire body of work, including historical performance and potential upside, when making drafting choices.
BOTTOM LINE:
Drafting the best fantasy hockey team requires thorough research, knowledge of player rankings, and a balanced approach towards key positions such as forwards, defensemen, and goaltenders. Consider factors like injury histories, special teams contributions, and different league formats to establish a well-rounded roster. While projections and previous season performance are valuable, apply your own analysis to make informed decisions. With these strategies in mind, you’ll increase your chances of building a winning fantasy hockey team.
