There are a number of rookies that have made a name for themselves this season, but there are also a few that tend to fly under the radar. While these players may not be in the running for the Calder Trophy, they can still make an impact on your fantasy team throughout the second half of the campaign.
John Klingberg, Dallas Stars
After starting the season in the American Hockey League, Klingberg earned himself a call-up and has exceeded expectations. He exploded out of the gate with 8 points in his first 8 games, while playing on the top defensive pairing with Alex Goligoski, and at times, has played on the Stars’ top powerplay unit. He leads the team in plus-minus with a plus-9 rating, an impressive feat for a rookie, considering the amount of goals Dallas gives up. He puts up numbers all across the board, making him useful in a number of fantasy leagues. Look for him to continue to produce throughout the second half of the season.
Evgeny Kuznetsov, Washington Capitals
After showing glimpses of promise down the stretch last season, Kuznetsov has not lived up to expectations so far this year. Many thought he would center the second line for the Capitals, but instead he has played many games on the fourth line, and has also been a healthy scratch on occasion. Yet despite all of that, he is tied for fourth on the team in powerplay points, appears to have earned the coach’s trust, and has now finally earned himself that spot on the second line. Should he continue to receive powerplay time, it would not be surprising to see him heat up during the second half of the schedule.
Anders Lee, New York Islanders
The New York Islanders are the highest scoring team in the Metropolitan division, and that is largely due to their depth. Lee has been shuffled throughout the lineup over the course of the season, but that hasn’t slowed down his production. His 11 goals rank him third among Islanders. No matter what line he is playing on, he will have quality linemates, and should be able to continue scoring goals as the season progresses.
Teuvo Teravainen, Chicago Blackhawks
The highly touted Finnish prospect and World Junior’s star wasn’t able to crack the Blackhawks roster out of training camp, due to their awe-inspiring depth. However, now that Kris Versteeg will miss some time because of injury, Teravainen will get the opportunity to fill in for him. This is his chance to make an impact at the NHL level. He is surrounded by talent in Chicago, which will increase his chances of getting onto the score sheet. Teuvo could very well earn a permanent spot on the roster, and possibly play his way into a bigger role on the team.
Melker Karlsson, San Jose Sharks
Karlsson, a 24-year-old undrafted forward out of Sweden, has put up 6 goals and 4 assists through 15 games this season. He has scored a goal in five of his last six games, while being promoted to the top line in the process. He may get bumped off of that line in the near future, but he should be able to secure a spot on the Sharks’ second or third line, should he keep up his strong play. As long as he has a top-nine role, he will remain an intriguing fantasy option.
Whether you are in a deep league, or simply in need of a rookie, picking up one of these players could reward your fantasy team, and maybe even help you claim a championship in the end.
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