Isles, Rangers, and Wings dominate the preseason chatter as teams weigh a swift rebuild against ceiling seasons. Barzal and Horvat anchor New York’s attack while Shesterkin backs a veteran-like core in New York; Detroit leans on Larkin, Seider, and Raymond to spark a possible midseason surge. Fantasy angles hinge on line changes, defensive pivots, and whether the Rangers can maximize their new balance with Fox and Lafrenière, while Detroit bets on youth to shorten the reset.

Expect tighter payroll decisions and smarter risk/reward moves dictating value on the wing and in goal. If Barzal, Miller, and Shesterkin regain peak form, top-line fantasy floors rise; if Detroit’s youngsters blossom, late-round steals could emerge as the season unfolds.