Kale Makar sits atop a sprawling, offense-heavy era for defensemen, with Quinn Hughes nudging him as the session’s closest challenger. Adam Fox anchors the Rangers’ puck-driving backbone, and Thomas Harley’s breakout season is a marquee storyline for Dallas. Charlie McAvoy, Evan Bouchard, and Zack Werenski form a formidable mid-range tier, while Gustav Forsling, Rasmus Dahlin, Jacob Slavin, and Erik Karlsson round out a defensive corps that now defines fantasy value as much by transition play as by shut-down ability.

The dialogue underscores that the Norris conversation is as much about skating, gap control, and power-play impact as raw points. Heiskanen and Karlsson surface in lighter spots, reminding us mobility and IQ still swing fantasy upside, even if pure totals don’t always shout. Oilers fans especially should note Bouchard’s ascent, a reminder that elite defensemen now pace the fantasy game from the back end.

In practice, owners should lean into players who eat minutes, run the top power play, and push transition plays. The top five or six names are likely to be the season-long anchors, with the rest offering robust complementary value depending on team context and minutes. This top-10 map signals a shift: offense now defines a defenseman’s fantasy ceiling as much as his defensive chops did a decade ago.

Four players are poised to significantly influence their financial futures heading into the 2025-2026 NHL season. Among them, Patrick Laine, a key figure for the Montreal Canadiens, is expected to have a substantial impact on the team's performance and his own contract status. Last season, he logged 20 goals and 13 assists in 52 games, demonstrating his scoring prowess despite battling injuries. If he can maintain his health and build on his performance, Laine could become a highly sought-after player in the upcoming free agency.

On the Los Angeles Kings, Brandt Clarke is set to emerge as a vital player on the defensive line, potentially taking over from veterans like Drew Doughty. Clarke's offensive skills were highlighted during his junior career, and with the Kings clearing space for him, he could prove his worth and command a significant contract after his entry-level deal. Meanwhile, Thomas Harley of the Dallas Stars has also shown potential, needing to step up his game to secure a lucrative deal as he enters restricted free agency. Lastly, Marco Rossi of the Minnesota Wild faces uncertainty in his future with the team, but a breakout season could elevate his value significantly.

This week, the spotlight shines on some underrated NHL players poised to make an impact in next season's fantasy hockey landscape. Among them, Quinton Byfield of the LA Kings is garnering attention for his potential breakout, showcasing his skills in the playoffs. Other players to watch include Carolina's Logan Stankoven, who has shown promise alongside seasoned veterans, and Thomas Harley from the Dallas Stars, who is stepping up in crucial playoff games. As the playoffs unfold, these emerging talents could become valuable assets for fantasy managers looking to stash players for the upcoming season.

The Dallas Stars are facing challenges as they approach the playoffs, primarily due to injuries that have impacted their performance after a strong trade deadline acquisition of Mikhail Rantanen. With key defenseman Miro Heiskanen sidelined until the playoffs, the burden has fallen on players like Thomas Harley, who has stepped up as a leading player in Heiskanen's absence. Harley's performances, including significant ice time and offensive contributions, have been a bright spot amidst the struggles.

However, the Stars' offense has been inconsistent, struggling to score and maintain momentum, leading to concerns among fans. Rantanen's integration into the lineup has shown promise, though he faces challenges adapting after his trade. The potential return of Heiskanen could be pivotal for the Stars as they strive for home-ice advantage in the playoffs, a factor that has historically not benefited them.