Full Breakdown
Fantasy Hockey Sleepers for the 2025-26 Season
9/12/2025, 1:40:59 PM
Key Players to Watch
As the 2025-26 NHL season approaches, several players are positioned as potential fantasy hockey sleepers, offering significant value based on their current average draft positions (ADP).
Elias Pettersson - Vancouver Canucks
Elias Pettersson, with an ADP of 79.5, is looking to rebound from a disappointing 2024-25 season where he recorded only 45 points in 64 games. Prior to this, he averaged 36.5 goals and 95.5 points per season over the previous two years. Pettersson's talent remains evident, and he is expected to play a crucial role in Vancouver's offense, likely occupying key positions on both the top power play and forward lines. His previous performance, including a 102-point season in 2022-23, suggests he has the potential to return to elite production.
Mika Zibanejad - New York Rangers
Mika Zibanejad, currently being drafted at an ADP of 150.5, is another player to consider. Despite a challenging 2024-25 season, where he finished 75th in scoring, Zibanejad has a history of strong performance, including an average of 81.3 points per game over the past three seasons. He is expected to start the season alongside JT Miller on the Rangers' top power play, which could enhance his scoring opportunities significantly.
Mats Zuccarello - Minnesota Wild
Mats Zuccarello, who is going undrafted in many leagues, has consistently produced mid-to-low 20s in goal scoring and near point-per-game production. With an ADP of undrafted, he presents a low-risk option for fantasy managers looking for reliable point production, especially given his position on Minnesota's top line and power play.
John Klingberg - San Jose Sharks
John Klingberg, also undrafted, is entering his first season with the San Jose Sharks. After a strong postseason with Edmonton, Klingberg is expected to take on a significant role in San Jose, potentially mirroring the success of Jake Walman, who excelled in a similar position last season. His history of offensive production makes him a viable late-round pick.
Josh Norris - Buffalo Sabres
Josh Norris, with an ADP of undrafted, is another intriguing option. After a season-ending injury limited his play last year, Norris is expected to return to a top-six role with the Sabres. His previous performance, including a 35-goal season in 2021-22, indicates he could provide substantial value if he can stay healthy.
Why These Players Matter
These players represent a mix of bounce-back candidates and undervalued assets who could significantly impact fantasy rosters. Their current draft positions do not reflect their potential upside, making them attractive options for managers looking to fill out their rosters with high-reward players.
Official Statements & Responses
Fantasy analysts emphasize the importance of considering these players' previous performances and current roles within their teams. The consensus is that while they may have faced challenges in the past, their potential for a strong season makes them worthy of attention in upcoming drafts.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Pettersson is expected to be a key force driving Vancouver’s offence back to prominence in 2025-26, occupying both their top power play and forward lines, putting him in all the right positions for a bounce back.” — Fantasy Analyst
- “His position in Minnesota’s lineup makes him a must-roster bottom-of-the-roster asset.” — Fantasy Expert
These insights highlight the potential for these players to exceed their draft expectations and contribute significantly to fantasy teams in the 2025-26 NHL season.
