Fantasy Hockey Sleepers to Watch for the 2025-26 Season

As the start of the hockey season approaches, fantasy league managers are preparing their strategies and lineups. While star players often dominate the headlines, it’s the lesser-known "sleepers" who can turn the tide in a fantasy league. Here’s a look at some notable sleeper options for the upcoming season that may provide unexpected value.

1. Hampus Lindholm, LD, Boston Bruins

After enduring a challenging 2024-25 season marked by injuries, Hampus Lindholm looks ready for a comeback. He missed 64 games due to a fractured patella but is expected to reunite with defense partner Charlie McAvoy for the 2025-26 season. The duo previously thrived together, and Lindholm achieved a career-high 53 points in the 2022-23 season. As he approaches the upcoming season healthy, Lindholm’s anticipated increased ice time—especially on the power play—poses him as a valuable asset to fantasy managers.

2. Spencer Knight, G, Chicago Blackhawks

Acquired mid-season from the Panthers, Spencer Knight quickly took hold of the starting goalie position for the Blackhawks. Though his statistics—a record of 5-8-2 with a 3.19 GAA and .894 save percentage—reflect the struggles of the Blackhawks as a team, Knight is poised for improvement with a full offseason to bond with his new teammates and an enhanced roster. At just 24 years old, he possesses the potential to evolve into a solid fantasy netminder, especially if the Blackhawks continue to bolster their lineup.

3. Andrew Mangiapane, LW, Edmonton Oilers

After a disappointing season where he tallied just 28 points, Andrew Mangiapane is now looking for redemption with the Edmonton Oilers. Inking a two-year contract worth $7.2 million, he is set to play alongside superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Given that Mangiapane previously scored 35 goals in the 2021-22 season, his upside increases significantly. If he secures a post in the top six during training camp, he could realistically reach the 25-goal mark, rewarding fantasy managers who take a chance on him.

4. Evan Rodrigues, C, Florida Panthers

Evan Rodrigues has proven himself during the playoffs for the Panthers, amassing 30 points over the last two postseason runs. As the team faces potential early season challenges with Matthew Tkachuk likely missing time, Rodrigues may step into a more significant role in the top-six. If he can transfer his playoff success to the regular season, he could post around 40 points, providing excellent value as a late-round pick.

5. Vladimir Tarasenko, RW, Minnesota Wild

Vladimir Tarasenko has grappled with injuries since his peak season with the St. Louis Blues. However, after two relatively healthy seasons, the 33-year-old aims to rebound with the Minnesota Wild. His recent performances have been inconsistent, but a return to top-six duties should benefit him. With an opportunity to play alongside promising young talent, Tarasenko has a strong chance to recapture his scoring touch and reach 50 points this season.

6. Matias Maccelli, F, Toronto Maple Leafs

Matias Maccelli faced challenges last season due to limited ice time and injuries, resulting in only 18 points across 55 games. Now, brought on board by the Toronto Maple Leafs, he is seen as a potential key figure to fill the scoring void left by Mitch Marner. If he earns a spot on the top line or sees increased power-play time, Maccelli could replicate his previous productive seasons, making him a sleeper candidate for managers looking to round out their rosters.

7. Brayden McNabb, D, Vegas Golden Knights

Brayden McNabb’s long tenure with the Golden Knights gives him an edge as a reliable fantasy sleeper. This season, he could experience increased responsibilities in a reshuffled defensive lineup. His recent trend of shooting more and reaching a career-high in goals suggests potential upside, especially if teamed with offensive-minded players like Shea Theodore. As a physical defender capable of contributing on both ends of the ice, McNabb remains an appealing low-risk option for fantasy managers.

Conclusion: The Value of Sleepers

Fantasy leagues are often decided by players hidden in plain sight—those who offer hefty returns despite being overlooked during drafts. While key superstars set the stage, it is often the array of sleeper picks who thread the needle towards success in a fantasy season. With players like Lindholm, Knight, and Mangiapane poised for breakout performances, astute managers are encouraged to scout these talents closely, as they could prove critical in clinching the championship title come season’s end. As the competitive nature of fantasy sports continues to grow, it may be the hidden gems on rosters that provide the most thrilling narratives.