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.

As the NHL season approaches, fantasy hockey players are sharpening their strategies and targeting key players to enhance their rosters. The Columbus Blue Jackets are highlighted as a treasure trove of potential fantasy stars, led by the likes of Matthew Olivier and Kent Johnson, both of whom have shown significant upside. Olivier, particularly, emerged as a standout in banger leagues, finishing last season with career highs in goals, assists, and hits. Meanwhile, Johnson, despite being an honorable mention for some, possesses elite offensive potential that could see him rise as a crucial contributor for fantasy squads.

Shawn Monahan's return to form after injury also raises eyebrows, particularly as he finds himself in a supportive role among a young core. Adam Fantilli, the promising rookie, showcased impressive scoring ability in his debut season, suggesting he could be a high-value pick in the upcoming drafts. As the Jackets look to capitalize on their offensive talents, the potential for breakout performances makes them a team to watch closely this season, presenting ample opportunities for fantasy managers to exploit.

Breakout players are key in fantasy hockey, and assessing their sustainability is crucial for next season's success. Analysis of performance trends can help fantasy managers make informed decisions about drafting and trading players. Logan Cooley is a standout candidate; with 56 points in 68 games, he's poised for a 70-75 point season next year, bolstered by teammates like Clayton Keller and Dylan Guenther. Dylan Holloway also shows potential with 80% confidence in sustaining his performance. Zach Werenski is emerging as a top-tier defenseman, while Kent Johnson's future remains uncertain despite encouraging numbers.

The podcast further discusses Alexi Protas, who has had a breakout season but might struggle to replicate it next year. Jack Eichel is highlighted as a player on the rise, with 93 points this season, while Matty Ny is also expected to be a fantasy stud moving forward. Lastly, players like Yuraj Slafkovsky and Lane Hudson are mentioned as upside candidates, with great expectations for the next season.

The Columbus Blue Jackets are determined to secure a playoff spot, significantly aided by Zack Werenski's stellar performance. After a break, Werenski returned with a goal and two assists, putting him on pace to break the team's single-season points record. The Jackets' recent win against the Chicago Blackhawks was crucial for boosting their playoff hopes, especially since they are facing tough competition in the Wild Card race.

Meanwhile, the LA Kings are navigating through injuries as they look to solidify their position in the standings. Drew Doughty's return has been a bright spot, elevating the defense's performance. However, their power play struggles remain a concern. The Dallas Stars are also dealing with injuries, particularly with the loss of one of their key players, which could impact their playoff push as well.

Columbus Blue Jackets are on the rise as they returned from the Four Nations tournament with a win, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Zach Werenski delivered an impressive performance, contributing a goal and two assists. He's on pace to break the franchise record for points in a season. The Blue Jackets, facing a tough playoff race, needed this win after a disappointing four-game losing streak.

With the trade deadline approaching, the team is eyeing a top-six winger to boost their chances. Coaching changes and player injuries have shaped the season, but the return of key players like Kirill Marchenko is promising. The upcoming outdoor game against the Detroit Red Wings is set to be exciting and impactful for both teams as they are in contention for playoff spots.