Bandits alumni who rose to stardom, Makar’s elevation to Norris Trophy and Conn Smythe-level success underscores Papaioannou’s development impact and the potential for players coming through the Penguins’ system to reach elite status.

Makar sits among the top defensemen above Heiskanen, representing the pinnacle of blueline production and dynamic offense, a benchmark for fantasy managers seeking elite production from Colorado’s star defenseman.

Makar is cited as a top defensive talent with high offensive upside, capable of driving 100-point seasons from the blue line and delivering heavy PP juice.

Makar is the frontrunner for Norris, bringing historic scoring for a defenseman, heavy ice time, and premium power-play impact. Health is the only red flag; if he stays in the lineup, he’s the standard to beat due to goal-scoring pace, playmaking, and two-way dominance that drives Colorado’s offense and defense in all situations.

Makar atop the draft as a premier all-around asset, poised to anchor a fantasy roster with elite offensive numbers and top-tier power-play production.