In the NHL's 2024-25 season, several players have emerged as exceptional value for their performance relative to their salaries. Simon Holmstrom of the New York Islanders stands out with 45 points and a cap hit of just $850,000, resulting in a remarkable point value of $18,889. His offensive contributions were significant, especially during Mathew Barzal's absence. Meanwhile, Jackson LaCombe from the Anaheim Ducks also proved his worth, tallying 43 points for a value of $21,512, showcasing his ability on the blue line.

Veteran James van Riemsdyk of the Columbus Blue Jackets displayed strong production with 36 points despite limited ice time, while Darren Raddysh of the Tampa Bay Lightning reached new career highs with 37 points. Tanner Pearson of the Vegas Golden Knights and Eric Robinson from the Carolina Hurricanes also provided solid contributions on lower salaries, showing that savvy fantasy managers can find value in less heralded players.

Bo Horvat's overtime goal propelled the New York Islanders to a nail-biting 4-3 victory over the Montreal Canadiens, marking their third consecutive win. Ilya Sorokin not only made 38 saves but also recorded two assists, becoming the first Islanders goalie to achieve multiple points in a game. The Islanders have turned around their season, going 7-3-1 in their last 11 games after a rough patch. The victory puts them within two points of the Canadiens for the second wild-card playoff spot.

Despite the defeat, the Canadiens have remained resilient, earning points in 11 of their last 12 games. Brendan Gallagher's goal tied the game late in the third period after the Canadiens had trailed 3-1. Notably, Horvat's decisive goal capped a brilliant 2-on-1 rush, showcasing his skill as he beat goaltender Sam Montembeault on the short side. The Islanders' performance is a testament to their improved play and determination as they aim for a playoff berth.

The New York Islanders secured a dominant 3-0 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers, marking their sixth consecutive win. Ilya Sorokin stood out with 23 saves, achieving his third shutout of the season and his 21st career shutout overall. Marc Gatcomb netted his first NHL goal, while Simon Holmstrom and Kyle Palmieri contributed with goals of their own. The Islanders' strong performance has them just three points away from a wild-card playoff spot, demonstrating a resurgence in their defense and goaltending with just four goals allowed in five games.

Conversely, the Flyers struggled offensively, being shut out for the second game in a row. Rookie Matvei Michkov faced a frustrating night, having a potential power-play goal overturned due to goaltender interference, which led to a heated exchange with head coach John Tortorella. As the Islanders travel to Tampa Bay next, the Flyers will attempt to break their scoring drought against Colorado.

The New York Islanders secured a commanding 5-2 victory against the Colorado Avalanche, led by Simon Holmstrom's two goals and one assist, along with a stellar performance from goaltender Ilya Sorokin, who made 30 saves. This win marks the Islanders' fifth consecutive triumph, with notable contributions from Bo Horvat, Anders Lee, and Alexander Romanov.

Despite the loss, Colorado saw goals from Artturi Lehkonen and Jack Drury, and goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood made 23 saves. The game was tied 1-1 until the Islanders erupted for four goals in the third period, including Horvat's game-winning goal.

The Buffalo Sabres dominated the Boston Bruins with a 7-2 victory, highlighted by hat tricks from both Tage Thompson and JJ Peterka, marking a notable achievement for the team. This victory also saw Mason Lohrei and Brad Marchand score for the Bruins, with Jeremy Swayman saving 26 shots. Despite the loss, the Bruins have recently found some form after a rough patch, winning five of their last eight matches.

Thompson's hat trick was his seventh career hat trick, while it was a first for Peterka. The Sabres also had contributions from Zach Benson and solid goaltending from Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, who also made 26 saves.