THE PROMISE OF YOUTH

Yes, there’s risk in drafting young, unproven players to your fantasy team. But there’s also the potential for a breakout performance and great reward

WITH JASON CHEN

FEW THINGS ARE MORE rewarding in fantasy hockey than drafting a young breakout player. They are potential difference-makers on your roster who can provide value exceeding their draft capital because they’re usually picked later than established players. It doesn’t happen often, though, because it’s fraught with risk. There’s usually little previous history to rely on, and if you pick the wrong player, you’re forced to replace them with a waiver-wire pickup. Keep in mind, however, that fantasy leagues are never won on draft day. Young players need time to acclimate to their new environments, and fledgling stars don’t always dominate immediately. It’s not just about talent and puck wizardry – ice time, role and injury risk are key factors in their ability to rack up the points and, by extension, increase their…

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The Hockey News (Digital) - 1 Issue, Prospects Unlimited 2024-25

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