Welcome back to this week's edition of Analytics Advantage! As we kick off the New Year, fantasy hockey managers are looking for ways to fine-tune their rosters for the second half of the NHL season. This week, we spotlight five players with intriguing performances and potential: Jake DeBrusk, Alex Laferriere, Travis Sanheim, Artturi Lehkonen, and Cam Fowler.

Through detailed metrics and visual tools, we'll uncover their strengths, areas for improvement, and fantasy value. By analyzing key performance indicators like Fantasy Points Per Game (FPPG), Time On Ice Per Game (TOI/GP), and other advanced stats, this week's breakdown aims to provide actionable insights for your fantasy decisions.

Methodology

For each player, we analyzed their current-season performance across key metrics, including:

                •             Goals (G)

                •             Total Assists (A)

                •             Shots on Goal (SOG)

                •             Shots Blocked (BLK)

                •             Hits (HIT)

                •             Fantasy Points Per Game (FPPG)

                •             Time on Ice per Game (TOI/GP)

This week's analysis also incorporates advanced visualizations:

                •             Stacked Bar Graphs: Comparing raw metrics to league averages for a clearer view of player impact.

                •             Scatter Plot (FPPG vs. TOI/GP): Highlighting player efficiency relative to ice time.

                •             Bubble Chart (Goals vs. SH%): Evaluating shooting efficiency and potential for regression or sustainability.

Player Analyses

Jake DeBrusk (VAN – L)

Jake DeBrusk continues to impress with his offensive output for the Vancouver Canucks, recording 16 goals, 11 assists, and 27 points over 36 games. His 9.39 FPPG and aggressive playstyle make him a fantasy standout, particularly in leagues that value scoring and secondary stats like hits (53).

The stacked bar graph highlights DeBrusk's strong goal-scoring performance, which ranks in the 96th percentile compared to the league average. However, his TOI/GP (16:37) sits slightly above average, suggesting room for even greater production if his role expands.

Fantasy Advice: DeBrusk is a must-have in leagues that emphasize goals and physicality.

Alex Laferriere (L.A. – R)

A breakout performer for the Los Angeles Kings, Alex Laferriere has racked up 13 goals and 13 assists for 26 points across 37 games, supported by a solid 8.83 FPPG. His versatility and ability to generate offense consistently make him an underrated asset.

Laferriere's stacked bar graph reveals above-average contributions across key offensive metrics, while the scatter plot positions him as an efficient forward relative to his TOI/GP (16:52). His shooting percentage (15.5%) is notable but not overly inflated, indicating his production is likely sustainable.

Fantasy Advice: Laferriere is a valuable mid-tier option, especially in deeper leagues. With consistent ice time and a balanced stat line, he's a dependable contributor.

Travis Sanheim (PHI – D)

Travis Sanheim has emerged as a key defensive presence for the Philadelphia Flyers. Over 38 games, he's tallied 6 goals, 15 assists, and 21 points, with a stellar 9.63 FPPG. His defensive contributions shine, highlighted by 84 blocked shots (98th percentile).

The stacked bar graph underlines Sanheim's dominance in defensive metrics, while the bubble chart suggests his 8% SH% leaves room for modest offensive growth. At 24:53 TOI/GP, he's one of the league's most utilized players, offering high-floor value in fantasy formats.

Fantasy Advice: Sanheim is a cornerstone in leagues valuing blocks and TOI. His balanced contributions make him a reliable defender with occasional offensive upside.

Artturi Lehkonen (COL – L)

Artturi Lehkonen continues to provide steady offense for the Colorado Avalanche, posting 14 goals, 6 assists, and 20 points in 26 games. His 9.13 FPPG reflects his efficiency, especially with limited TOI/GP (21:47).

Lehkonen's stacked bar graph shows his goal-scoring is a major strength, ranking in the 94th percentile. His shooting percentage (24.1%) is high, indicating potential regression, but his high-impact scoring opportunities (ixG: 12.47) highlight his role in generating quality chances.

Fantasy Advice: Lehkonen is an excellent option in goal-heavy formats. While some regression is possible, his consistent role on a potent offense ensures continued value.

Cam Fowler (ANA/STL – D)

The veteran Cam Fowler has been a steady presence for Anaheim and St. Louis, contributing 3 goals, 8 assists, and 11 points in 26 games. His 6.85 FPPG and defensive metrics make him a serviceable depth option.

The stacked bar graph highlights Fowler's defensive reliability, with 48 blocked shots far exceeding the league average. However, his offensive production remains limited, as reflected in his 3% SH% and lower-than-average shot volume.

Fantasy Advice: Fowler is a defensive specialist best suited for leagues valuing blocks and TOI. While offensive contributions may remain modest, his defensive impact provides a solid fantasy floor.

Key Takeaways

                •             Jake DeBrusk: A goal-scoring machine with strong physicality; reliable across most formats.

                •             Alex Laferriere: Consistent offensive producer with sustainable metrics; a great mid-tier option.

                •             Travis Sanheim: Elite defender with high TOI and balanced contributions.

                •             Artturi Lehkonen: Goal-heavy winger with a knack for generating quality scoring chances.

                •             Cam Fowler: Reliable depth defender in leagues emphasizing blocks and defensive stats.

How FPPG is Calculated

Fantasy Points Per Game (FPPG) combines goals, assists, shots, blocks, and hits, weighted to reflect their fantasy relevance, divided by games played.

Tips for Fantasy Managers

                •             Watch Ice Time: Players like Sanheim and Laferriere thrive with increased roles.

                •             Monitor SH%: High SH% players (Lehkonen) may regress, while low SH% players (Fowler) may see improvement.

                •             Capitalize on Defensive Specialists: Sanheim and Fowler offer stability in blocks and TOI categories.

Stay Connected

For further insights, personalized roster advice, or more detailed analysis:

                •             Twitter/X: @DH_staspup

                •             Email: [email protected]

                •             Bluesky: stasp.bsky.social

Data Source: Statistics as of January 1, 2025, courtesy of NaturalStatTrick.