Best NHL Fantasy Player

There is a widespread debate about who is the top fantasy hockey player.  Some thing that Steven Stamkos is the top fantasy performer, while others say it is Sidney Crosby.  There is no debating that those two and Alexander Ovechkin and Evgeni Malkin are the four top fantasy players, but there is speculation on the order.  Here is my break down of the order and here's why:

1. Steven Stamkos

Stamkos is probably the best all around fantasy player, giving him the number one spot.  Stamkos is the purest shooter in the NHL and his goal numbers reinforce that statement. He has at least 20 goals in every single one of his NHL seasons (including the shortened season last year) and has scored 40+ goals three times in his career.  He is also very consistent and has become a more complete player over the past couple years.

2. Alexander Ovechkin

Ovechkin is probably the next best goal scorer behind Stamkos.  He may be the best powerplay player in the league.  He is a very streaky player, but when he is on, there is no stopping him.  He went on a tear the last third of the season earning him league MVP which was well deserved.  He may hurt you in plus/minus, but he will make up for it in points and powerplay points.

3. Evgeni Malkin

Malkin is a very dynamic player.  He puts up points in bunches and is great in every situation.  He has put up 70+ points five different times.  He has fallen on this list because he has struggles to stay healthy lately.  When he misses a good chunk of games his productivity falls drastically.  If he is healthy he could easily take the number two spot on this list.

Today, the Philadelphia Flyers have signed first round draft pick Sam Morin to an entry level contract.  He really impressed the coaching staff with his preseason debut last night against the Washington Capitals.  He had one assist and notched 23 minutes and 14 seconds of ice time.  His contract is an entry level contract for three years, $4.275 million.
Although he was sent back to his junior club, Rimouski Oceanic of the QMJHL (Quebec Major Junior Hockey League), he still has a bright future ahead of him.  The eleventh overall pick of the 2013 NHL draft, his 6-6, 211 pound frame, already gives his a large physical presence.  I think sending him back to the QMJHL was a smart move since he is only eighteen years old.  Hardly any eighteen year old is mentally prepared to compete at the NHL level.  Another year in juniors will also help him develop his game and mature and grow into his body.

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The Fourth Line will bring you important news throughout the NHL.  I will do my best to keep you updated on free agent signings, trades, and any other interesting things that happen throughout the year.  We will also provide analysis on these potentially season changing decisions that teams make.  Thanks for checking us out and I hope you enjoy our content!

-Matt