As the first few weeks of the 2024-25 NHL season unfold, savvy fantasy managers are always on the lookout for hidden gems on the waiver wire. While established stars tend to dominate the spotlight, it’s often the unheralded players who can provide that extra edge, especially in the crucial realm of power play production. Let’s dive into some early-season standouts making their mark with the man advantage.
Morgan Frost Heats Up in Philly
Leading the charge is Morgan Frost of the Philadelphia Flyers. The 23-year-old center has firmly grasped the reins of the Flyers’ top power play unit, displaying instant chemistry with his talented linemates. Frost’s vision and creativity have been on full display, as he’s racked up a team-high three power play points through the early going.
What’s more, Frost has cemented his role as the Flyers’ top-line pivot at even strength as well. This dual deployment bodes well for his fantasy value moving forward. As he continues to gel with the likes of Travis Konecny and Cam Atkinson, expect Frost’s point totals to climb steadily. He’s a must-add in virtually all formats.
Barrett Hayton: Arizona’s Power Play Ace
Meanwhile, in the desert, Barrett Hayton is turning heads with the Utah Hockey Club. The fifth overall pick from 2018 seems poised for a breakout campaign, anchoring Utah’s top unit with his shoot-first mentality and deceptive speed.
Averaging over 22 shifts per game in all situations, Hayton’s prominent role places him among the league-leaders in power play ice time.
an NHL scout told ESPN
The burgeoning chemistry between Hayton and offensive dynamo Clayton Keller has been evident, as the duo has already connected for multiple man-advantage tallies.
Stefan Noesen Seizing Opportunity in Jersey
Out East, Stefan Noesen of the New Jersey Devils is quietly making his mark. Skating alongside elite talents like Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier on the Devils’ loaded top unit, Noesen has been a beneficiary of his plum assignment.
The 29-year-old journeyman is no stranger to embracing opportunities. A quick glance at the Devils’ upcoming schedule reveals favorable matchups against penalty kill units that struggled mightily in 2023-24:
- Detroit Red Wings (31st)
- Tampa Bay Lightning (28th)
In leagues that reward power play points, Noesen is shaping up to be a savvy short-term addition with the potential for longer-term value if he can maintain his role.
Defensemen Getting in on the Action
It’s not just the forwards making noise on the man advantage. On the blue line, Simon Edvinsson (Detroit) and Vladislav Gavrikov (Los Angeles) have seen upticks in their power play involvement.
Edvinsson, the highly-touted rookie, has looked poised while quarterbacking the Red Wings’ second unit. His heavy shot and keen passing eye have already yielded a pair of power play assists. As he gains comfort at the NHL level, look for his confidence and production to trend upward.
In LA, Gavrikov has been eating up minutes in all situations for the Kings. Averaging over 21 minutes a night, the sturdy Russian rearguard has been a staple on the point during power plays. His booming shot and underrated vision could lead to a sneaky-good fantasy campaign.
Goaltenders to Monitor
Between the pipes, Joel Blomqvist (Pittsburgh) and Kevin Lankinen (Vancouver) are making cases for increased workloads with strong early-season play.
Blomqvist, thrust into duty by a rash of injuries in Pittsburgh, has looked composed while helping to stabilize the Penguins’ crease situation. If he can maintain his level of play on their upcoming road trip through Western Canada, the rookie could earn a longer look even after the regulars return to health.
In Vancouver, Lankinen has been rock-solid while splitting starts with youngster Arturs Silovs. With Thatcher Demko sidelined, Lankinen is making a strong case to serve as the 1A option even upon Demko’s return. He’s been a calming presence for a Canucks squad with playoff aspirations.
Closing Thoughts
As the 2024-25 season kicks into high gear, the fantasy hockey landscape continues to evolve. By staying attuned to early-season trends and pouncing on emerging opportunities, shrewd managers can gain a valuable edge over their competition.
Which of these power play specialists will you be targeting on your waiver wire this week? The choice is yours, but don’t wait too long—in the fast-paced world of fantasy hockey, those who hesitate are often lost.
