In an eventful period for the NHL, teams are shuffling key players into strategic positions as they gear up for crucial games that could shape their season trajectories. Among those making waves, Valeri Nichushkin of the Colorado Avalanche is proving to be a pivotal figure as he reassumes his powerful presence on the ice.
Nichushkin’s Command on the Ice
Valeri Nichushkin has dynamically reclaimed his roles, both on the power play and at even strength, continuing to be an integral asset for the Colorado Avalanche. Sharing ice time with heavyweights Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen, and Cale Makar, Nichushkin is expected to be a vital contributor to the team's upcoming four-game schedule.
This schedule pits the Avalanche against the Buffalo Sabres, the Carolina Hurricanes, and the Detroit Red Wings. Notably, both the Sabres and Hurricanes languish among the bottom 10 teams in power-play opportunities allowed, while the Red Wings rank last in terms of power-play goals allowed. These encounters provide the Avalanche with promising opportunities to leverage Nichushkin and his teammates' skills on the power play.
On a Streak: Kent Johnson
Meanwhile, in Columbus, Kent Johnson continues to deliver strong performances. Johnson is currently riding a five-game point streak with the Blue Jackets, a feat that has been instrumental to the team's recent success, helping them secure points in each of their last six games. Averaging 2.82 fantasy points per game since his return from injury, Johnson remains a key player to watch.
Dante Fabbro has also been consistent for the Blue Jackets, aiding their run with an average of 2.71 fantasy points over the past seven games. These individual performances have bolstered Columbus as they look to climb contention ladders in their division.
Macklin Celebrini and Rising Stock
Over on the West Coast, Macklin Celebrini is making headlines with the San Jose Sharks. He has been averaging an impressive 3.35 fantasy points per game over their last six outings. His growing influence on the ice is mirrored in his rising popularity, with his rostership escalating from 57% to 66% in just a week—a testament to his increasing importance in the fantasy realms.
Maple Leafs' Busy Week and Joseph Woll's Performance
The Toronto Maple Leafs, fresh off reintegrating Matthew Knies over the weekend, face a packed schedule with games set for Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Notably, goaltender Joseph Woll has demonstrated reliability, averaging 4.2 fantasy points per game, solidifying his role as a cornerstone in Toronto’s defensive strategies.
Thriving Rangers and Senators' Key Scorers
The New York Rangers continue to benefit from the offensive capabilities of Will Cuylle, who has scored in eight of his past ten games. Across the rival landscape, Adam Gaudette of the Ottawa Senators has found the back of the net 12 times this season, showcasing his knack for critical scoring opportunities.
Kapanen’s Role with the Oilers
When it comes to partnerships on the ice, Kasperi Kapanen has found a formidable ally playing alongside Connor McDavid at even strength for the Edmonton Oilers. This partnership hints at strategic depth for the Oilers, as they aim to capitalize on the synergy between Kapanen and one of the league's brightest stars.
As the NHL season progresses, these teams and players are poised to steer their fates, each match promising to contribute towards the defining moments of their campaigns. With such talent and tenacity gracing the ice, fans and analysts alike are assured of riveting hockey action in the coming weeks.