NHL Fantasy Focus: The Weekend Warriors That Should Be Added to Your Team

The defenseman is the most underrated fantasy stud an owner could have. They are important in swing categories like power-play points and plus/minus.

Let’s break down some of the Weekend Warriors could-be fantasy studs to watch for. 

(If these guys are unavailable in your league and you need additional help, look for players from teams with two games this weekend, including the Thrashers, Sabres, Flames, Blackhawks, Panthers, Canadiens Devils, Islanders, Flyers and Lightning.)

Defensemen to Watch

Dennis Wideman, Panthers

A player that has been traded for offensive talents like Brad Boyes and Nathan Horton has finally found his scoring touch with his latest team. The 27-year-old has six points in his last eight games, five coming on the power play.

But, if you are looking for a plus player to win that category this weekend, do not look this kid’s way—he is minus-13 this season.

With games this weekend versus the Lightning and Devils, Wideman has a chance to put up some points. Both of those teams rank near the bottom of the league in goals against.

Trevor Daley, Stars

Start believing folks—the Stars are for real, and they are a fantasy gold mine.

The latest gem to come out of Big D is Trevor Daley. The 27-year-old has five points in his last six games, three coming on the man-advantage. In his sixth NHL season, Daley has entrenched himself as a top-four defender for the Stars, playing 23:00 a game, second only to top D-man Stephane Robidas.

The Stars have already shown their trust in this talented player, locking him into a six-year extension in late December

You should do the same for your fantasy squad.

Andy Greene, Devils

As the Devils continue their slide, let’s not forget their fantasy value—their top defender has been producing lately. 

Andy Greene took advantage of his added ice time last season and rewarded the team with a career-high 37 points, 15 on the power play. This season, like most of the Devils, he has taken a step backwards in his production. 

But, he has five points in his last six games, and more importantly, he has moved his plus/minus from a horrendous minus-25 to a moderately respectable minus-19. 

The 28-year-old is second on the team in ice time per game (22:02), and with the recent injury to Matt Taormina you can expect his power-play time to expand. The Devils have been employing a one-defender-top power play all season.