Fantasy hockey pickups: Dostal and Laferriere top the waiver wire as NHL resumes

The NHL returns from the Olympic break with a condensed scoring period ahead. No games on Monday or Tuesday means most teams play three, but 10 squads get just two. This setup favors waiver wire adds who can deliver immediate value in fantasy leagues. Lukas Dostal and Alex Laferriere stand out as prime targets, blending recent form, opportunity and favorable matchups.

Fantasy managers should prioritize these players in standard formats. Dostal’s goaltending surge and Laferriere’s top-line potential make them must-adds. With the trade deadline looming, roster spots open up quickly.

Goalie targets: Lukas Dostal emerges as a priority add

Lukas Dostal has been on fire for the Anaheim Ducks, securing wins in eight of his last nine starts before the break. His 1.64 fantasy points per 60 minutes reflect strong play, and he’s available in 31.9% of leagues. Dostal also shone for Czechia in Milan, handling the starter duties and boosting his confidence.

Anaheim faces a homestand against Western Canadian teams, solid matchups except Edmonton. This schedule plays to Dostal’s strengths in volume starts. Managers needing wins or saves should grab him now.

Dostal’s recent extension with the Ducks signals long-term commitment. Despite past injuries like his November upper-body issue, he’s proven resilient. His Olympics performance ranked him among top fantasy goalies.

In deeper leagues, Dostal offers streaming upside too. Projections see him as a top-10 goalie asset post-break. Don’t overlook his save volume in a rebuilding Anaheim squad.

For more waiver trends, check NHL Insight’s latest fantasy pickups, which highlight similar high-upside goalies.

Forward priorities: Alex Laferriere’s breakout window

Alex Laferriere’s fantasy stock soars with Kevin Fiala’s season-ending Olympic injury. At 1.6 fantasy points per game and available in 24.4% of leagues, Laferriere slots into a top line with new arrival Artemi Panarin and Adrian Kempe. This trio could dominate if it gels.

Panarin’s debut for the Kings simplifies the wing depth. Laferriere shifts from streamer to roster staple in standard leagues. His speed and shot fit perfectly alongside Panarin’s playmaking.

Laferriere posted solid numbers pre-break, and the Kings’ offense needs his spark. With Fiala out, power-play time increases. Fantasy experts project elevated output.

The Kings face a manageable schedule post-break. Laferriere’s versatility as RW/C adds multi-cat appeal. In head-to-head leagues, he’s a category monster.

Recent analyses confirm his trade value rising. Pair him with Kempe for stack potential.

Other waiver wire standouts

Beyond the headliners, several players warrant attention:

• Anthony Duclair, LW, Islanders (1.21 FPPG, 93.3% available): Hot January faded with benchings, but Thursday’s ice time vs. Montreal tests his role.
• Pierre-Luc Dubois, C, Capitals (1.04 FPPG, 73.8% available): PP points in injury return; pairs with Wilson and Protas.
• Eeli Tolvanen, LW/RW, Kraken (1.83 FPPG, 32.9% available): All-category producer with Olympic goal and assists.
• Dylan Holloway, C/LW, Blues (1.68 FPPG, 41.7% available): Top-line shot if St. Louis sells at deadline.

Defensemen like Neal Pionk (Jets) offer upside if Morrissey’s hurt. Uvis Balinskis (Panthers) mans PP1 sans Seth Jones.

Carter Hart (Golden Knights) returns potentially, splitting with Adin Hill. In 92% available, he’s a lottery ticket on a contender.

Short-term streamers to watch

Streamers shine in this short week:

• Ben Kindel, Penguins: Crosby injury elevates him, possible PP1.
• Matt Duchene, Stars: Six-game streak pre-break; more ice sans Rantanen.
• Arturs Silovs, Penguins: Pushing for crease share vs. soft matchups.

These provide one-week boosts. Monitor lines closely.

Act fast on Dostal and Laferriere—their availability won’t last amid deadline chaos. These adds position rosters for the sprint to playoffs. Track projections and lines daily for edges in this pivotal stretch.