Roughly one week in the books for this brand-new NHL season and for some fantasy GMs, it's already been a rough ride. Cold starts, injury scares, line jostling—these are all angles that can derail a squad before we've even been able to get a true feel for how these teams will look in the spring. But in terms of positive news, there's been no shortage of stellar showings from young players looking to make their mark on the game's biggest stage. This week's top-10 list serves up the best fantasy young guns in the NHL who are already turning heads and making an impact. If possible, hit the waiver wire and jump on these young cats before they pop off.

It's a small sample size, but these players are demanding consideration while fantasy value soars.

10. Will Cuylle – New York Rangers

Shout out to Fern Avenue Public School, one time. Cuylle, a west-end Toronto product, has been making waves early on for the Rangers with his physical style and aggressive forechecking. Known for his power-forward presence, Cuylle is fearless in front of the net, creating scoring chances with his gritty play while registering three points, four penalty minutes, and eight hits in under 14 minutes of ice time per night. This is the deepest cut on the list, but Cuylle's ability to rack up hits, along with scoring upside, makes him a valuable fantasy asset in banger leagues. While the offense might still be growing, Cuylle's high motor and consistent energy make him a player to watch.

9. Lukas Dostal – Anaheim Ducks

Dostal is off to a promising start between the pipes for the Ducks and while it's only one game and against the San Jose Sharks, he looked good in his first start while logging a shutout. As Anaheim's goaltender of the future, Dostal is already showing he can be the number one guy. Keep your eyes peeled on this team, if the Ducks take a step, Dostal becomes a waiver-wire darling for fantasy GMs in need of goaltending help. If he continues to post strong numbers and win games, he'll be a must-add for any fantasy roster.

8. Connor Zary – Calgary Flames

Zary has injected some serious speed and playmaking ability into the Flames' lineup. His agility and hockey IQ have been evident early in the season, creating scoring opportunities and generating offense in transition while putting up four points playing on Calgary's second line. Zary's vision and quick decision-making make him a valuable fantasy option for those in need of offensive production. As he adjusts to the NHL pace, Zary's ability to contribute across multiple categories will only increase, solidifying his value as a rising star in deeper fantasy leagues.

7. Martin Pospisil – Calgary Flames

Speaking of which, Pospisil is another Flames prospect making noise early in the season. A rugged forward with an edge, Pospisil brings a strong physical game while also contributing offensively, something he's already doing to the tune of four points. His willingness to go to the dirty areas of the ice and battle for pucks has earned him praise from coaches and teammates alike. Fantasy owners looking for someone who can fill up the hits column while chipping in with points should keep an eye on Pospisil as he continues to establish himself at the NHL level. Don't look now but this Flames group might not be as bad as most predicted, especially if they can continue to get decent goaltending from Dustin Wolf and Dan Vladar.

6. Yegor Chinakhov – Columbus Blue Jackets

Chinakhov has wasted no time in showcasing his ability and fantasy value with the Blue Jackets. His shot is lethal, and his early success in producing offensively and fitting in nicely in the Blue Jackets top-six has raised his fantasy stock. Chinakhov's goal-scoring upside makes him an attractive pickup, especially in leagues that weigh goals heavily. His chemistry with Columbus' young core has made him a fixture in the top-six, and as his confidence grows, so will his offensive output, making him a valuable add for fantasy teams needing scoring punch. Should the former first-rounder continue to form chemistry with Kirill Marchenko and Sean Monahan on the top line, Chinakhov could end up being a fantasy steal.

5. Kent Johnson – Columbus Blue Jackets

Johnson has been a standout early in the season with his slick puck-handling and creativity in the offensive zone. He looks to be finally living up to the hype that saw the Jackets draft him fifth overall in the 2021 NHL Draft. A dynamic playmaker, Johnson has shown a knack for setting up teammates and generating scoring chances. His ability to contribute to Columbus' power play gives him significant fantasy value especially if he continues to see an uptick in playing time, something he currently is doing while getting nearly 20 minutes a night. With his role increasing as the season progresses, Johnson is shaping up to be a breakout star and a key piece in the Blue Jackets' attack.

4. Connor Bedard – Chicago Blackhawks

No list of head-turning young guns is complete without including the best young star in the NHL today in Connor Bedard. With his smooth skating, incredible hockey sense, and elite shooting ability, Bedard has instantly become the focal point of Chicago's offense. His fantasy value is sky-high, as he's contributing across multiple categories, including shots, power-play points, and assists. Bedard's fantasy owners will be thrilled with his immediate impact, and he's only scratching the surface of his immense potential. One hundred points is not out of the question for this player.

3. Lane Hutson – Montreal Canadiens

Hutson's offensive skills from the blue line have been turning heads early in his NHL career and the start to this season has not disappointed. The young defenseman is already proving to be a capable point producer, quarterbacking the second power play and joining the rush at every opportunity while chipping in with a goal and three assists in nearly 20 minutes of ice time per night. His vision and poise with the puck allow him to generate chances for both himself and his teammates, making him a highly valuable fantasy asset in leagues that count assists and power-play points. The Habs have themselves a good one here, who could be the focal point of the blue line for years to come.

2. Matt Boldy – Minnesota Wild

The breakout season we've all been waiting for is seemingly here as Boldy continues to show why he's one of the most exciting young forwards in the NHL. Off to a fast start of two goals and three assists, Boldy's blend of size, speed, and elite offensive instincts makes him a fantasy star in the making. He's a multi-category contributor, posting strong numbers in goals, assists, shots, and power-play points. His chemistry with the Wild's top players and his versatility to play in different roles make him a must-own player in all fantasy formats, as he looks primed for a stepping-out-type season.

1. Dylan Guenther – Utah Hockey Club

Guenther has been a revelation early this season for the Utah Hockey Club, quickly establishing himself as one of the team's top offensive threats. His smooth skating and lethal finishing ability have been on full display, making him a goal-scoring machine. Guenther's chemistry with Utah's young core and his usage on the power play add to his already enticing fantasy value. As he continues to develop, Guenther has the potential to be a true fantasy star, capable of filling multiple categories and leading his team in scoring, something he is already doing with a five-piece of goals in three games. There really is no telling how long this heater lasts for Utah, but for now let's ride the wave while targeting a number of their young studs like Guenther.