Category Giants redefine value in ESPN-style NHL H2H: chase specialists who dominate one category while still contributing elsewhere. The guide spotlights Connor, Point and Thompson as goal engines; Keller and Raymond as power-play and playmaking forces; Bratt, Hughes and Necas as elite helpers; Crosby and Trocheck on faceoffs and multi-category impact; Tkachuk as a holistic asset. It also maps top goaltending bets for wins and ratios, offering a blueprint for category-focused rostering.

Beyond the obvious stars, the piece highlights under-the-radar threads across assists, blocks, hits, and saves, urging managers to balance floor and upside. The takeaway: structure your lineup to maximize wins in multiple categories by pairing reliable point-producers with high-category specialists and versatile netminders who can swing ratios in close battles.

Nashville’s Luke Evangelista is drifting toward a two- to three-year deal, with a missed camp shading the negotiation for both sides and a possible shift in his early role. Edmonton’s goalie situation remains unsettled; no Kostin re-engagement and no PTOs on the horizon. Carter Hart’s next destination is likely U.S.-based, while Vancouver doubles down on on-ice prep as the season looms.

Columbus and Ottawa linger in rumors, and the Oilers’ goaltending path could reshape rosters across the league. Monitor camp reports, line combos, and power-play time closely for fantasy implications across the landscape.

Easton Cowan faces a brutal 14-forward logjam in Toronto, making opening-night fate uncertain for the Leafs’ top prospect. He grabbed attention at the Prospect Showcase with an assist and a defense-first mindset, signaling a potential path through two-way play and PK value. With veteran depth like Kampf, Robertson, and Jarnkrok in the mix, Cowan’s best route may be a late-season call rather than an immediate boost, as the organization prioritizes the present.