April 8, 2025, features a packed NHL slate with top daily fantasy picks for DraftKings and FanDuel. Goalies like Anthony Stolarz are generating buzz due to their exceptional recent performance, while centers such as Evgeni Malkin are showing improvements despite team struggles. The day’s key players include Tage Thompson and Jiri Kulich, both of whom offer significant potential against weaker defenses. Creatively stacking players from high-scoring teams will be crucial for maximizing lineup potential.

In the latest NHL news, Buffalo Sabres forward JJ Peterka is day-to-day with an unspecified issue. Meanwhile, teammate Jiri Kulich returns to the lineup after battling an illness. The Calgary Flames face challenges as forward Mikael Backlund left the last game with an upper-body injury. Dallas Stars coach Peter DeBoer provided a hopeful update on Roope Hintz, stating he could return as soon as Sunday after recovering from a facial injury, contingent on passing a five-day threshold.

Additionally, the Montreal Canadiens see Patrik Laine back in action, but Joel Armia is sidelined due to a hand injury. Pittsburgh Penguins defensemen Ryan Shea and Pierre-Olivier Joseph are both week-to-week with upper-body injuries. Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev remains a question mark for the upcoming game, still day-to-day after an upper-body injury sustained on February 25. Vancouver Canucks' Quinn Hughes has returned from injury, although Elias Pettersson left a recent game with an undisclosed injury, adding to the team's concerns.

The NHL season is heating up, and with it comes an exciting ten-game slate for NHL DFS enthusiasts. On March 4, 2025, players have the chance to create some dynamic lineups on platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel. With teams like Edmonton, Colorado, and Buffalo leading the charts in implied goals, strategic picks will be crucial for success.

Connor Hellebuyck stands out as a top goalie option against the New York Islanders, showcasing impressive stats with a 4-0-1 record and stellar saves. Meanwhile, Connor McDavid's matchup against the Ducks offers a prime opportunity for points, as Anaheim has struggled defensively on the road.

Other notable players include Juri Kulich of Buffalo and Kyle Connor from Winnipeg, both of whom face favorable matchups. As always, it's essential to keep an eye on the latest injury reports and game-time decisions to optimize your lineups.

Jiri Kulich's late goal clinched a thrilling 4-3 victory for the Buffalo Sabres against the Nashville Predators. Kulich scored twice in the game, including the decisive goal with just over two minutes remaining. The Sabres initially led 2-0 before allowing three consecutive goals from the Predators. Jason Zucker and Ryan McLeod contributed to the scoreline for Buffalo, while Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made 28 saves to secure the win. Nashville's Brady Skjei highlighted a losing effort with a goal and an assist as they faced their third consecutive defeat after a five-game winning streak.

Key moments included Zucker's goal that tied the game in the second period, along with significant assists from Tage Thompson and Rasmus Dahlin, who moved into second place all-time for assists by a Sabres defenseman. The Sabres improved their record for games when scoring first, while the Predators matched their second-fewest wins through the first 50 games in franchise history. The night also saw Buffalo honor former enforcer Rob Ray, solidifying his legacy with an induction into the team’s hall of fame.

The Vancouver Canucks are struggling to maintain leads, having blown another third-period advantage in a 3-2 loss to the Buffalo Sabres. This defeat marks the seventh time this season the Canucks have relinquished a lead in the final frame. Goalie Thatcher Demko, who made 23 saves, expressed the need for the team to improve their game management, stating that every player must step up to string together wins.

Head coach Rick Tocchet echoed Demko's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of consistency and executing key plays during crucial moments. Despite a strong second-period goal from Elias Pettersson, the Canucks failed to capitalize on their offensive opportunities as they pressed for the equalizer in the closing moments of the game.