Fantasy Hockey 2025-26: Unlocking Weekly Success with Strategic Streaming — Week 2
Here’s the harsh truth: In fantasy hockey, your success often hinges on squeezing every last drop of value from your roster. But how do you gain that elusive edge? It’s all about maximizing player games and targeting matchups that tilt the odds in your favor. That’s where our Fantasy Hockey Strength of Schedule tool comes in—your secret weapon for identifying the week’s most promising opportunities.
Each week, we dissect every NHL team’s schedule through three critical lenses:
Games Played: More games equal more chances for your players to rack up fantasy points. Simple, right?
Strength of Schedule (SOS): We rate opponent difficulty, with higher scores indicating easier matchups. Think of it as a roadmap to fantasy gold.
Light Nights: Nights with eight or fewer NHL games are prime time to sneak in extra players and boost your lineup’s firepower.
By blending these factors, our tool pinpoints the teams—and under-the-radar players—poised to dominate this week. But here’s where it gets controversial: not all favorable schedules are created equal, and some players might be flying under your league mates’ radar. Let’s dive in.
Week 2 Strength of Schedule: Where Opportunity Knocks
Week 2 Streaming Targets: Who to Watch
4 Games, 3 Light Nights
Utah Mammoth: The Undisputed Streaming Kings
The Utah Mammoth are this week’s fantasy darling. With four games, three on light nights, and the third-easiest opponent rating, they’re a no-brainer. But this is the part most people miss: they also boast two widely available players who could be game-changers.
First up is Nick Schmaltz (C/RW – 30% Rostered). Over the past four seasons, he’s averaged a stellar 69 points (25G, 44A) per 82 games. This year, he’s already chipped in two assists and seven shots while logging 19:52 TOI per game. Schmaltz is the crown jewel of this week’s streamers.
If Schmaltz is snagged, or if you’re in a hits-heavy league, consider Jack McBain (C/LW – 7%). With Barrett Hayton sidelined, McBain has stepped into the top six, delivering a goal, seven shots, four hits, and three blocks in just 17:05 ATOI. Skating alongside Schmaltz and Keller, McBain’s line has been a 5v5 juggernaut, generating 12 scoring chances and four high-danger looks. Bold prediction: McBain could be more than just a streamer.
Chicago Blackhawks: High Risk, High Reward
Chicago mirrors Utah’s four-game, three-light-night schedule, but their opponents are far tougher (20th in difficulty). Still, the Blackhawks offer intriguing options—players who could evolve from short-term picks to long-term assets.
Take Frank Nazar (C – 36% Rostered). He’s been on fire with five points in three games and 19:53 TOI per game. However, his production might cool off—his line with Bertuzzi and Teravainen has scored three 5v5 goals on just 0.87 xGF and a sky-high 30.0 SH%. Even if the goals dry up, Nazar’s ice time and 4.3 shot attempts per game make him a solid play.
Teuvo Teravainen (LW/RW – 16%) is another hot starter with four points, but his lighter shot volume caps his upside. If that line’s luck runs out, Teravainen could fade faster than Nazar. Sam Rinzel (D – 39% Rostered) is the wildcard here. The rookie defenseman has impressed with a goal, five shots, and 23:26 TOI/gm, including PP1 duties. Finding a defenseman with this role and availability is rare—don’t sleep on him.
Detroit Red Wings: Tough Schedule, Bright Spots
Detroit also plays four games with three light nights, but their opponents (Maple Leafs, Panthers, Lightning, Oilers) are brutal. Still, two players stand out.
Patrick Kane (RW – 49% Rostered) is a no-brainer if available. He’s started strong with four points in two games and has produced at a 73-point pace since joining Detroit. He deserves a spot in more leagues.
If Kane’s gone, Marco Kasper (C/LW – 20%) is worth a look. Centering the second line with Kane and DeBrincat, Kasper’s trio has been dominant early, posting a 79.4 xGF% and a 15–4 scoring chance edge at 5v5. If this keeps up, Kasper could break out—especially in banger leagues, where his 8.0 hits per 60 add extra value.
4 Games, 2 Light Nights
Vancouver Canucks: Monday’s Hidden Gems
Vancouver has just two light-night games, but Monday’s 10-game slate could free up roster spots. If so, the Canucks are loaded with under-rostered talent.
Brock Boeser (RW – 45%) and Jake DeBrusk (LW/RW – 28%) lead the charge, skating on the top line and PP1. Boeser, just two years removed from a 40-goal season, is more of a long-term hold, while DeBrusk is a steady 50-point producer with multi-category appeal.
The second line is equally enticing. Evander Kane (LW/RW – 34%) is the top pick here, with PP1 usage and nine hits in two games. Conor Garland (RW – 6%) and Filip Chytil (C – 3%) are solid backups. Chytil’s two-goal opener is hard to ignore, while Garland’s consistent 50-point pace makes him a reliable depth option.
Tampa Bay Lightning: Limited but Intriguing
Tampa Bay’s two light-night games include Monday’s slate, but their waiver targets are slim. Oliver Bjorkstrand (RW – 10%) stands out with PP1 time and two points, though his 5v5 usage limits his ceiling. Anthony Cirelli (C – 21%) offers a safer floor with heavy 5v5 minutes but minimal power-play exposure. Which would you choose?
Edmonton Oilers: Thursday’s Wild Cards
The Oilers are only relevant if you have a Thursday spot open, but their wingers are worth a look. Trent Frederic (C/LW/RW – 12%) skates with McDavid and Draisaitl, making him a high-risk, high-reward flier. David Tomasek (RW – 2%) is even more intriguing. Despite limited 5v5 minutes, his PP1 role alongside Edmonton’s elite unit gives him massive upside. With a PPA and seven shots already, he’s a potential breakout candidate.
Final Thoughts: The Debate Begins
This week’s streaming landscape is ripe with opportunity, but it’s not without controversy. Are players like Nazar and Tomasek worth the gamble, or will their production fizzle? And how much should we value a tough schedule when players like Kane and Schmaltz are involved? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take on this week’s hottest fantasy debates!
