As we approach the final week of February, NHL teams are gearing up for a relatively standard fantasy hockey schedule. With most teams scheduled to play on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday serve as lighter nights for fantasy hockey enthusiasts to target. In fantasy sports leagues, particularly those with varying schedules, optimizing your lineup is imperative.
During this week, the Edmonton Oilers and Washington Capitals have the most advantageous fantasy hockey schedules, featuring at least three lighter nights. Let us delve into the waiver wire pickups and additions for these two teams.
Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers are heading into a busy week with four games on the agenda, including matchups against the Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues, Seattle Kraken, and Pittsburgh Penguins. While prominent players like Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Zach Hyman, Evan Bouchard, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins are rostered in at least 97% of leagues, there are still some under-the-radar players worth considering.
Mattias Ekholm, with a rostered percentage of 48%, has emerged as a standout player for the Oilers. Serving as a defenseman on the top pair alongside Bouchard, Ekholm has witnessed an uptick in offensive contributions, registering five points in his last five games. Furthermore, Warren Foegele, who plays alongside McDavid and Hyman on the top line, has exhibited potential with three goals in his last four games. Additionally, Corey Perry, an experienced winger, has left a mark with three goals and an assist in his last six games.
Washington Capitals
The Capitals are set to enjoy a favourable schedule this week, squaring off against the Ottawa Senators, Detroit Red Wings, Philadelphia Flyers, and Arizona Coyotes. While notable players like Alex Ovechkin and John Carlson are heavily rostered, there are some lesser-known players worthy of consideration.
Dylan Strome, currently boasting a 29% rostered percentage, has proven himself as a consistent center for the Capitals, tallying 42 points in 56 games this season. His recent four-game point streak and 14 points in his last 11 games make him a valuable addition to fantasy lineups. Additionally, Connor McMichael, with a 1% rostered percentage, has displayed promise with seven points in his last eight games.
As we approach Week 20, strategic adjustments to lineups can significantly impact fantasy hockey performance. Keep a keen eye on these waiver wire pickups and contemplate adding them to your fantasy roster for the upcoming week.
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