Every year we always come across players who have been have been unexpected saviors for your fantasy team. When it comes to defensemen, pickings can be slim, especially outside their ADP or pre-draft projections but when you snag one of these guys, it feels like hitting the jackpot. These players were either flying under the radar or surpassed preseason expectations, have stepped up in a big way and have helped salvage or boost your squad. Maybe they've been racking up points, logging heavy minutes, or thriving on the power play, whatever it is, they're making a serious impact. So, let's give some love to the defensemen who've provided unexpected value and might just keep your team in the running for the long haul.

10. Jackson LaCombe (Anaheim Ducks)

LaCombe has taken a step forward this season and while many believe Zellweger (including myself) will eventually take over as the power play quarterback, the coaching staff still views him and Mintyukov as not quite ready, evident in their healthy scratches. In 35 games, Lacombe has eight goals and 12 assists for 20 points, higher than his 17 points last season. For now, enjoy LaCombe's production and don't overthink it, sometimes, you just have to ride the wave, especially if he's helping you win your fantasy week.

9. Jake Sanderson (Ottawa Senators)

Jake Sanderson has really stepped up as the Senators' top defenseman, forming a solid duo with Chabot, though it's clear Sanderson is starting to take the lead. Chabot has not hit his 2018 peak of 55 points, while Sanderson is making his mark. In 39 games, he has two goals and 21 assists (16 on the power-play), on pace for 48 points, well above last season's 38 in 79 games. His 2.3% shooting percentage is a bit low compared to his 10 goals last year, but he's still contributing. With 24:18 TOI and solid two-way play, Sanderson is becoming a key piece and has the potential to hit a 50–55-point season.

8. Mikhail Sergachev (Utah Hockey Club)

While it might seem obvious to some, it's worth noting that Sergachev was traded to a weaker team compared to Tampa. While he did get some time on the top power-play with the Lightning, there were questions about whether his production would translate. Since the move to the Utah Hockey Club, Sergachev has thrived. Through 40 games, he's tallied 29 points, his ice time, both at even strength and on the power play, have increased. With 12 power-play points already, Sergachev has firmly established himself as a key offensive contributor in Utah.

7. Shayne Gostisbehere (Carolina Hurricanes)

Shayne Gostisbehere has become a bit of a power-play journeyman, hopping from Philly to Arizona, Carolina, Detroit, and back to Carolina. At some point, you would expect his production to slow down, in this case, it has improved. Gostisbehere had been a solid offensive asset for your fantasy squad leading up to the injury. He's now firmly taken over as Carolina's top power-play quarterback, a role once held by Brent Burns. Before hitting the IR, Ghost had 6 goals and 21 assists for 27 points in 35 games. At his current pace, he's on track for a 65-point season, which is totally within reach.

6. Neal Pionk (Winnipeg Jets)

Neal Pionk is having a solid bounce-back season, stepping out of Josh Morrissey‘s shadow. Through 42 games, he's put up five goals and 23 assists. A big factor in his improvement is his role on the power play, with nine power-play points already. His 7.0% shooting percentage is slightly above his career average but still sustainable for a defenseman. Pionk is on track to finish as a strong 55-point defenseman, and if Morrissey misses any time, Pionk will get prime power-play opportunities, only increasing his point totals.

5. Brandt Clarke (Los Angeles Kings)

Clarke's stint as the Kings’ top blue-liner may be winding down with Doughty's imminent return, but he has made every second count. In 40 games, he's posted 22 points (three goals, 19 assists, averaging two shots per game (80 total) and 17:31 of ice time. Clarke's 3.8% shooting percentage shows there's untapped scoring potential. While his role might take a hit, his offensive instincts and power-play production make him a good fantasy asset. Clarke's upside suggests he's just scratching the surface, not bad for someone likely scooped off the waiver wire.

4. Jakob Chychrun (Washington Capitals)

Jakob Chychrun‘s move to the nation's capital has been a breath of fresh air, showcasing significant progress from his time with Ottawa last season. He has posted 12 goals and 17 assists thus far, while last year he had a total of 41 points on the season. While his shot volume has dipped slightly at 2.3 SOG/G, his efficiency has been a game-changer. He is sharing top line duties and power-play TOI with John Carlson and looks to be thriving in Washington’s system. At this point, 65 points is realistic and 70 within reach if he keeps rolling.

3. Jake Walman (San Jose Sharks)

The Red Wings probably did not expect to see this, but here we are watching Jake Walman have a breakout season with the San Jose Sharks. After missing some time due to injury, Walman returned this past weekend and picked up right where he left off. His time in Detroit saw much less production, just 21 points in 63 games, where he played a more defensive role with limited power-play time. With five goals and 20 assists for 25 points in 31 games, this season’s success can be attributed to both his growth and the Sharks’ fast-paced, offensive system that's letting him truly shine.

2. Lane Hutson (Montreal Canadians)

Lane Hutson's rookie season with the Montreal Canadiens has been nothing short of impressive. With 31 points already, he's pacing for 61 and, as of now, is leading the Calder race. Playing an average of 22:44 per game, including 2:38 on the power play, Hutson has recorded 14 power-play points (all assists). His 6.1% shooting percentage is sustainable, and his role on the man advantage, paired with his playmaking skills, sets him up for even more success. If he keeps this up, he could push toward 70 points in his debut season. The Calder race is definitely heating up!

1. Zach Werenski (Columbus Blue Jackets)

Zach Werenski has truly surprised everyone this season. With 48 points through 41 games, he's right in the thick of the Norris Trophy race alongside Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes. On pace for 92 points, Werenski has already collected 19 power-play points (five goals, 14 assists), he's primed for a career-best season and maybe even more. For a Blue Jackets team that's had its ups and downs, Werenski's production is a feel-good story and a much-needed boost. He's really stepped up as the leader on this team.

Thanks for reading! See you next week. For more content/fantasy hockey analysis, follow and message me on X @Punters_hockey.