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The 2025 NHL season is officially underway, and as fantasy managers, staying informed on early performances is crucial for building a successful team. Preseason statistics can be a valuable predictor of early performance, especially when we look beyond traditional metrics and focus on advanced analytics like Corsi For Percentage (CF%) and Points Per 60 Minutes (P/60). These stats provide deeper insight into a player's effectiveness on the ice—both in controlling possession and converting opportunities into points. In this article, seven players from the 2024-25 preseason who excelled in these categories will be highlighted. These standout players have shown promising trends that could translate into significant fantasy value, so let's explore their metrics and discuss how they might influence your draft and lineup strategies.

Player Analysis:

                1.            Lars Eller (PIT)

Eller's preseason numbers show an impressive CF% of 58.8 and a league-leading P/60 of 11.2. His ability to drive play while contributing offensively is a great sign for fantasy managers looking for depth in later rounds. Not only does Eller excel in possession, but his efficiency in converting opportunities into points suggests he could be an undervalued asset.

                •             Why He's Valuable: With the Penguins providing ample opportunities, Eller's combination of puck control and scoring could make him a strong sleeper pick for fantasy teams in need of a balanced forward. His consistent involvement in both even-strength and special-teams play increases his chances of maintaining high production levels.

                2.            Mats Zuccarello (MIN)

Zuccarello has carried his possession game into the regular season, boasting a CF% of 64.4 and a P/60 of 10.8 during the preseason. As one of the veteran leaders on the Wild, Zuccarello's experience and skill set make him a reliable option for fantasy managers, especially in multi-category leagues where puck possession and offensive output are critical.

                •             Why He's Worth Considering: Zuccarello's high CF% indicates that he's not just participating in plays but is a pivotal driver of Minnesota's possession game. His ability to generate points efficiently, combined with his steady role on the top lines and power-play units, makes him a safe and effective fantasy choice for managers seeking consistency and upside.

                3.            Joel Eriksson Ek (MIN)

With a CF% of 58.2 and P/60 of 9.5, Eriksson Ek has proven to be a consistent performer in both puck possession and offensive output. His role on Minnesota's top lines and involvement on special teams provide him ample opportunities to make an impact. Fantasy managers can rely on him for steady production, especially in leagues that reward both offensive and two-way contributions.

                •             Why He's Reliable: Eriksson Ek's strong metrics indicate that he is a key part of the Wild's forward core and effectively balances both offense and defense. This balanced approach makes him a safe mid-round fantasy option, capable of contributing consistently across multiple categories.

                4.            Jonathan Marchessault (NSH)

Marchessault posted a CF% of 70.0, the highest among the top 10 players, along with a P/60 of 9.4 during the preseason. His ability to dominate possession is a standout feature, indicating that he's not just involved in plays but actively driving them. This level of control over the game gives Marchessault significant upside in fantasy leagues, particularly for managers seeking a player who can consistently generate scoring chances.

                •             Why He's a Must-Own: Marchessault's elite CF% highlights his effectiveness in maintaining possession and creating opportunities, making him a prime target for fantasy managers looking for consistency and high output. His role on the Predators' top lines ensures he will have plenty of opportunities to convert his possession game into points.

                5.            JJ Peterka (BUF)

Peterka's preseason stats included an impressive CF% of 62.7 and a P/60 of 9.3, highlighting his balanced and effective approach on the ice. His two-way game makes him a versatile fantasy option, especially in leagues that value both offensive and defensive contributions. As he continues to earn ice time with the Sabres, his metrics suggest he can be a dependable multi-category contributor.

                •             Why He's a Strong Pick: Peterka's ability to maintain a high CF% while generating points indicates he is effective in both puck possession and offensive situations. This versatility makes him a valuable asset for fantasy managers who are looking for a player capable of impacting multiple categories.

                6.            Kirill Kaprizov (MIN)

Kaprizov continues to showcase his offensive prowess with a CF% of 59.1 and P/60 of 8.4. As a key figure on Minnesota's top power-play unit, Kaprizov's consistent performance in both possession and scoring metrics underscores his fantasy value. His ability to maintain high efficiency while driving play makes him an essential player to prioritize in early rounds.

                •             Why He's Essential: Kaprizov's combination of puck control and offensive consistency ensures that he will be a top point producer throughout the campaign. His established role and talent for converting scoring opportunities make him a must-have player in any fantasy league.

                7.            Danil Gushchin (SJS)

Gushchin posted a CF% of 53.4 and a P/60 of 8.1, indicating his potential as an offensive contributor for the Sharks. While his Corsi numbers suggest he can maintain possession effectively, his scoring efficiency highlights his capability to make an impact when opportunities arise. As the Sharks look for young talent to step up, Gushchin's preseason performance positions him as a player to watch.

                •             Why He's a Sleeper: Gushchin's balanced metrics suggest he has the potential to rise as an offensive asset, especially if he secures more ice time. Fantasy managers should monitor his usage closely as his ability to convert possession into points makes him a high-upside option.

Thank you for reading! Feel free to reach out on Twitter/X – @DH_staspup for any questions, corrections, or comments. You can also ask for any player's graph or a whole set of graphs for your roster—I can post it, DM, or email. (For entire rosters, please DM an email or email me at [email protected]).