Fantasy Hockey: Risers & Fallers (Week 11)
RISERS
Sergei Bobrovsky, G, Florida Panthers (OWNED: 80%)
Since December 1st, the veteran netminder has registered a 2.27 goals-against average and 0.927 save percentage to go along with one shutout in seven appearances. If I had to handicap things right now, Spencer Knight, who’s been out of action the past few games due to the flu, is still Florida’s No. 1. That said, without question, that can change on a whim. It’s easy to forget but Bobrovsk’y won two Vezina Trophies in his career. Handcuff the pairing if you can.
Brock Nelson, C, New York Islanders (OWNED: 73%)
Completely under the radar, the pivot has now notched at least a point in 10 of his past 11 outings. Additionally, over that time, he’s tallied six goals and 13 points. Seriously, Nelson’s on pace for 38 goals and 85 points. He should not be available in your league, but if he is, grab him immediately.
Taylor Hall, LW, Boston Bruins (OWNED: 63%)
Over his past nine outings, Hall’s notched seven goals, 12 points, three power play points and two game winners. Suffice it is to say, the chemistry continues to brew with linemates David Krejci and David Pastrnak. It’s go-time on Hall.
Ryan Hartman, C, Minnesota Wild (OWNED: 36%)
After missing six weeks with an upper body injury, Hartman returned to the Wild lineup on Sunday afternoon skating alongside Matt Boldy and Frederick Gaudreau. Having said that, I think it’s inevitable that he finds his way back with Kirill Kaprizov again at some point. Afterall, Hartman’s coming off a 34 goal, 65-point breakout last season. Monitor closely.
Brandon Hagel, LW/RW, Tampa Bay Lightning (OWNED: 35%)
The dual-eligible winger’s currently riding a modest five game point streak where he’s racked up five goals and four assists for nine points. Don’t look now, but Hagel’s up to 12 goals and 26 points in 30 contests. For what it’s worth, I think the prolific attachment to Brayden Point and Nikita Kucherov is too juicy to pass up on right now. Have a look.
FALLERS
Chris Kreider, LW/RW, New York Rangers (OWNED: 99%)
To no one’s surprise, Kreider’s production has regressed considerably following his 52 goal explosion in 2021-22. That said, he’s still on pace for 34 goals, which is nothing to sneeze it —it’s just not 52. Honestly, it’s probably too late to execute a sell high here, so if you own him, you just need to temper your expectations and hope for the best. That’s it, that’s all.
Aaron Ekblad, D, Florida Panthers (OWNED: 96%)
Depending on how you feel about the Cats moving forward, now’s the time to buy low on Ekblad. The 26-year-old hasn’t scored in 11 games. No need to be alarmed, it’s a long season. I’m buying. For my money, he remains a top-10 fantasy defender, and he should be treated as such.
Jesper Bratt, RW, New Jersey Devils (OWNED: 89%)
It’s official: For the first time this season, the Devils have hit a rough patch. In sequence with that, Bratt’s now failed to register a point in four straight contests. Considering his body of work over the past year and a half or so, I’d be more interested in buying than I would be in selling —if that makes sense. I believe. And you should, too.
Sean Durzi, D, Los Angeles Kings (OWNED: 47%)
Remember that hot streak a few weeks ago for Durzi? Yeah, it’s over. Furthermore, the 24-year-old has tallied just one assist in his past six outings. I’d give it a few more games before jumping ship, but at the very least, you should start accruing a list of potential replacement options. Be prepared.
Jake Sanderson, D, Ottawa Senators (OWNED: 37%)
The rookie blueliner is now pointless in five straight games and 10 of the past 11. There’s no need to panic, but if you own him in a standard non-keeper league setting, don’t hesitate to drop him. The ups and downs are expected; you can always circle back down the road.