Last week's top-10 list featured a look at the hottest hands in the fantasy game, players tearing it up at torrid pace that warranted GMs' attention. Conversely, this week's iteration is doing the dirty work, breaking down the top-10 coldest players in the NHL right now that fantasy fanatics need to be weary of. If you're a GM out there who, much like many others, invested into one of these higher-tier options somewhat early on in the draft, it's likely been a really tough start. Meaning, hanging on to some of these names much longer might end up being detrimental in the long run.

10) Oliver Ekman-Larsson

The Maple Leafs took a pretty solid gamble on bringing in Ekman-Larsson in the offseason and throwing significant term and money at the inconsistent fantasy option. Even though he started the season decent with six points in 10 games, he's since gone ice cold, registering zilch in the past six. While he can still chip in with decent peripheral coverage, his point production has dried up, leaving fantasy owners wondering if he's worth the roster spot. His slow foot speed and defensive lapses are issues, and as his power-play usage dwindles, so does his fantasy value. If he's not helping in offensive categories, he's a tough sell for fantasy teams that need more consistent production.

9) Jonathan Marchessault

After three consecutive stellar seasons with the Vegas Golden Knights in which he combined for exactly 100 regular-season goals, Marchessault hasn't managed to bring that momentum to Nashville. His shot volume remains steady, but the quality chances just aren't there, and his lack of points reflects it. Despite being in a top-six role, his shooting percentage has been a major concern, making him a drain in the plus/minus department. If this cold streak continues, GMs may need to consider moving on for more productive options as three goals in 15 games is simply not going to cut it.

8) Patrick Kane

The American sniper's reputation keeps him rostered in many leagues, but Kane's current numbers don't justify the investment. His somewhat reduced ice time and limited involvement in high-danger scoring chances are glaring concerns, so are his two goals so far this season. He's simply not generating the points that his fantasy owners need right now, and his defensive play doesn't add any extra value. With fewer opportunities and a dip in speed, Kane might not turn things around soon, making him a risky hold moving forward – especially when you consider his lackluster linemates of Andrew Copp and J.T. Compher.

7) Brady Skjei

Skjei's offensive stats have taken a bit of a nosedive this season, making him a bit of a liability in fantasy leagues until this point. It's been no secret that the Nashville Predators have been struggling and there are signs of that turning around but without regular point production or substantial peripheral stats, Skjei's appeal in most fantasy formats continues to dwindle. GMs counting on him for more than hits and blocks may be in for continued disappointment.

6) Dylan Cozens

Considering how loaded on up-and-coming young talent the Buffalo Sabres are, it's somewhat head-scratching that Cozens isn't putting up points like most fantasy pundits expected. Even with last year's dip in production following a sensational 2022-23 campaign, Cozens was a trendy pick at draft time as a potential bounce-back piece, but his production has come to a grinding halt. His playmaking has been subpar, and his offensive zone efficiency is a shadow of what it used to be. He's struggling to find the back of the net with only two goals and five points this season and his inability to produce consistently is hurting fantasy rosters. If you're still holding out hope, it might be time to consider alternatives unless he can snap out of this slump soon.

5) Noah Dobson

Dobson was projected to be a reliable fantasy defenseman, but his lack of production has been tough to stomach. Despite logging plenty of minutes, his offensive contributions have been minimal, as six assists this year is leaving fantasy managers disappointed. His peripheral numbers don't quite offset his lack of points, and his defensive zone play has been suspect at times. Dobson's upside is still there, but it's a gamble to rely on him in his current state.

4) Evan Bouchard

After setting the playoffs on fire last spring, Bouchard has struggled to generate offense over the first five weeks of the 2024-25 campaign and his cold streak has been frustrating for fantasy GMs. His power-play role hasn't translated into points, and his even-strength contributions have been minimal. Defensive miscues and lack of scoring touch are hurting his fantasy relevance. Without regular points and improved play, Bouchard is currently shaping up to be one of the bigger busts of the year considering his average draft position that saw him off the board as one of the first three D-men taken.

3) Luke Hughes

Hughes entered the season with high expectations and many pegged him as a breakout star, but his offensive production has been nearly nonexistent. Clearly, starting the year injured has played a factor, but one point in nine games is just not good enough for a player of his caliber and skill set. Sure, this might be a little harsh to have him this high on the list considering Hughes' age and limited body of work at the NHL level, but that's just how good he is. He needs to be better and will have to be if New Jersey wants to solidify itself as a true contender in the Metro Division.

2) Charlie McAvoy

Along with the Boston Bruins in the Atlantic Division standings, McAvoy's fantasy value has plummeted as he's failed to consistently hit the scoresheet. Known more for his two-way play, McAvoy's contributions in categories like hits and blocks have not compensated for his lack of scoring. The offensive upside hasn't materialized, and his cold streak is a big disappointment for those who counted on him for multi-category production. He's still valuable in defensive formats, but it may be wise to explore other options if you need points – especially when the overall offensive quality of the Bruins is factored in.

1) Wyatt Johnston

Johnston was a popular breakout pick, but he hasn't lived up to the hype so far. Despite getting nearly 20 minutes of ice time per night, the most of his career, his scoring chances have been few and far between and he's found the back of the net only once. Johnston's slow start and lack of consistency have hurt his fantasy stock significantly and at this point, it's almost impossible to hang on to him in most formats. While he still has long-term upside, his production this season is a major risk for fantasy GMs needing reliable scoring.