Metro Division sleepers rise as fantasy drafts approach: Adam Fantilli anchors Columbus as a high-upside third center with clear PP time, a profile that could push 60+ multi-cat fantasy points if he locks top-six minutes. Samuel Ersson gives Flyers’ fantasy managers a credible goalie floor with favorable schedules and a path to 25+ wins in a developing crease army. Timo Meier’s Devils landing injects instant top-six scoring and PP1 upside, while Logan Stankoven shores up Carolina’s youth-driven depth and top-six potential behind Svechnikov and Jarvis.

Columbus’ youth, Flyers’ goalie depth, Devils’ offensive upgrade, and Hurricanes’ stacked young core reshape the sleeper map. Islanders and Capitals get late-round floors from veterans, while Penguins’ Mantha lockers in as a power-forward seam option. Overall, the metro slate trades in big upside at every level, rewarding patient rostering and smart late-round gambles as drafts loom.

Columbus adds Ivan Fedotov to deepen goalie depth with a low-cost, risk-light move that starts in the AHL and could spark an NHL recall if injuries bite. The Jackets bet on internal growth from Fantilli and Johnson, while Charlie Coyle provides steady middle-six minutes. It’s a conservative rebuild play with upside if Fedotov adapts and develops behind Elvis Merzlikins.

Marc-Andre Fleury's ceremonial Penguins sendoff dominates the headlines, signaling a lasting Penguins legacy and a potential jersey retirement. The moment electrifies Pittsburgh fans before the season starts.

Columbus adds depth with Fedotov, Knight earns Chicago's starting-gear spotlight, and Bedard's Chicago arc keeps the rebuild in focus. Fantilli and Johnson anchor Columbus' youth push, making this season ripe for surprising fantasy moves and breakout performances.

Barzal anchors a late‑round plan with dual eligibility and strong power‑play upside, paired with Horvat’s finishing touch. Jet Greaves is a Zer0G goalie sleeper behind Columbus’s emerging roster, while Adam Fantilli and Frank Nazar provide solid middle‑center depth for Columbus and Chicago with high upside as the season unfolds. On the New York Rangers, Miller and Zibanejad offer high floor and big‑shot production, with Wright showing late‑season Seattle breakout potential. Lock wings and defense early, then mine middle men and goalies later.