Welcome back to this week's edition of Analytics Advantage! As the NHL season progresses, fantasy hockey managers are actively tweaking their rosters to gain a competitive edge. Understanding trends in player transactions can provide valuable insights into which players to target or avoid. This week, we'll dive into the top five most traded, added, and dropped players (excluding goalies) to help you make informed decisions for your fantasy team. (Data is from Yahoo Sports on November 14, 2024.)

Top 5 Most Traded Players

1. J.T. Miller (VAN – C, RW)

% Roster	% Started	Trades	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
99	91	29	14	5	8	13	29	26	9.20	18:55	58.87%

Analysis:

J.T. Miller is off to a strong start, leading the Canucks with 13 points in 14 games. His high Fantasy Points Per Game (FPPG) and significant ice time make him a valuable fantasy asset. The 29 trades suggest managers are capitalizing on his high value, either by trading him for a substantial return or acquiring him to bolster their lineup. His versatility in playing both center and right wing adds roster flexibility. Miller's contributions across multiple categories, including hits and power-play points, enhance his appeal.

Recommendation:

Hold. Unless you're receiving an offer that significantly upgrades your team, it's wise to keep Miller. His consistent production is a reliable foundation for your roster.

2. Matthew Tkachuk (FLA – LW, RW)

% Roster	% Started	Trades	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
100	79	26	11	4	6	10	34	16	10.47	17:22	65.66%

Analysis:

Matthew Tkachuk continues to be an elite fantasy performer. His high Corsi For Percentage (CF%) of 65.66% indicates that the Panthers dominate puck possession when he's on the ice. Tkachuk's willingness to shoot and physical style of play contribute to his strong FPPG of 10.47. The 26 trades involving him suggest that managers are leveraging his high value or addressing specific roster needs.

Recommendation:

Hold. Tkachuk is a cornerstone player in fantasy hockey. Unless you're receiving an exceptional trade offer, keep him on your roster.

3. Mika Zibanejad (NYR – C)

% Roster	% Started	Trades	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
91	58	25	14	2	9	11	29	2	7.74	18:19	48.89%

Analysis:

Mika Zibanejad's goal production is below expectations with only two goals in 14 games, but his nine assists keep him valuable in points leagues. His CF% suggests that the Rangers are slightly out-possessed when he's on the ice. The number of trades indicates that managers are either capitalizing on his name value or seeking upgrades at the center position.

Recommendation:

Hold or Buy Low. Zibanejad has a history of bouncing back, and his assist totals are solid. If you're an owner, be patient. If you're looking to acquire him, now might be a good time to negotiate a favorable trade.

4. Wyatt Johnston (DAL – C, RW)

% Roster	% Started	Trades	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
87	49	23	14	2	5	7	38	9	8.04	18:57	54.11%

Analysis:

Wyatt Johnston is seeing significant ice time and generating a high volume of shots, suggesting his point totals could increase. His CF% indicates that the Stars control play when he's on the ice. The 23 trades involving him suggest managers are intrigued by his potential upside. Johnston's dual eligibility adds flexibility to fantasy lineups.

Recommendation:

Hold or Trade For. Johnston's underlying metrics are promising. If he's on your roster, consider holding onto him. If not, he could be a savvy acquisition before his production potentially spikes.

5. Mitch Marner (TOR – RW)

% Roster	% Started	Trades	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
100	98	22	18	5	17	22	47	10	10.67	21:30	53.28%

Analysis:

Mitch Marner is performing at an elite level, leading the Maple Leafs with 22 points. His high TOI/GP and involvement in all situations make him invaluable. The trades involving Marner are likely managers making blockbuster deals to either acquire or move him for significant returns.

Recommendation:

Hold or Sell High. Only consider trading Marner if you're receiving a substantial return that addresses multiple needs on your roster. His consistent elite performance makes him a cornerstone player.

Top 5 Most Added Players

1. Jesperi Kotkaniemi (CAR – C)

% Roster	% Started	Adds	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
7	7	4,466	15	2	8	10	37	10	8.03	14:19	59.85%

Analysis:

Kotkaniemi is benefiting from increased responsibility and is delivering solid offensive numbers. His high CF% suggests the Hurricanes control play when he's on the ice. The surge in adds reflects fantasy managers' recognition of his potential, especially given his recent performances.

Recommendation:

Add. Kotkaniemi is a valuable pickup, particularly in deeper leagues or if you need center depth. His upward trajectory makes him an intriguing option moving forward.

2. Trevor Moore (LA – LW, RW)

% Roster	% Started	Adds	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
49	39	3,278	18	3	9	12	42	20	7.93	17:04	55.20%

Analysis:

Moore's dual eligibility and contributions across multiple categories make him an attractive addition. His consistent shot production and physical play (20 hits) enhance his fantasy value. The Kings' strong performance amplifies his potential for continued success.

Recommendation:

Add. He's a solid addition for leagues that value hits and shots, providing well-rounded fantasy contributions. Moore can be a valuable asset for depth scoring.

3. Connor McMichael (WSH – C, LW)

% Roster	% Started	Adds	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
66	64	3,028	15	10	7	17	44	8	11.63	17:15	52.43%

Analysis:

Connor McMichael has emerged as a top offensive option for the Capitals with 17 points. His high FPPG and substantial ice time make him a must-add in most formats. His dual eligibility at center and left wing offers additional lineup flexibility.

Recommendation:

Add Immediately. His current form suggests he can be a game-changer for your fantasy team. Don't hesitate to pick him up if he's still available.

4. Jordan Martinook (CAR – LW)

% Roster	% Started	Adds	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
6	6	2,868	15	5	4	9	28	12	7.39	15:25	53.27%

Analysis:

Martinook is contributing offensively while providing physical play, making him valuable in multiple categories. His consistent performances and involvement in the Hurricanes' offense have caught the attention of fantasy managers.

Recommendation:

Add in Deeper Leagues. Consider adding him if you need coverage in hits and secondary scoring. He's a solid depth option who can contribute across the board.

5. Gabriel Vilardi (WPG – C, RW)

% Roster	% Started	Adds	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
52	33	2,441	16	7	7	14	35	4	8.53	18:23	53.44%

Analysis:

Vilardi is thriving with the Jets, posting impressive point totals and solid FPPG. His dual eligibility adds lineup flexibility, and his significant ice time indicates a strong role within the team. The increase in adds reflects managers recognizing his consistent production.

Recommendation:

Add. He's a strong offensive contributor and should be rostered in most formats. Vilardi can bolster your roster with steady point production.

Top 5 Most Dropped Players

1.Sean Monahan (CBJ – C)

% Roster	% Started	Drops	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
28	18	1,994	15	6	5	11	46	2	9.57	19:01	59.90%

Analysis:

Despite respectable stats, Monahan is being dropped, possibly due to concerns about his consistency and health history. His high CF% and TOI/GP suggest he remains an integral part of the Blue Jackets' offense. The significant number of drops indicates managers may be seeking more reliable options.

Recommendation:

Hold if Possible. Given his solid FPPG and involvement, consider retaining Monahan if your roster allows. Monitor his performance closely; if his production declines, be prepared to explore other options.

2. Evan Rodrigues (FLA – C, LW)

% Roster	% Started	Drops	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
11	8	1,747	16	4	5	9	30	21	6.94	16:20	58.58%

Analysis:

Rodrigues offers decent production but lacks standout numbers to warrant a roster spot in standard leagues. His contributions in hits and a solid CF% are positives, but his offensive output is limited. The high number of drops indicates managers are seeking higher-upside options.

Recommendation:

Drop in Standard Leagues. He's a fringe player best suited for deeper formats. If better options are available on the waiver wire, it's reasonable to move on.

3. Yegor Sharangovich (CGY – C, RW)

% Roster	% Started	Drops	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
23	12	1,256	10	2	0	2	26	3	5.86	18:39	53.23%

Analysis:

Sharangovich hasn't produced much offensively despite significant ice time. His lack of assists and minimal contributions in other categories make him a liability in fantasy lineups. The number of drops reflects managers' disappointment with his performance.

Recommendation:

Drop. There are likely better options available on the waiver wire. Focus on players with more consistent production.

4. Hampus Lindholm (BOS – D)

% Roster	% Started	Drops	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
13	9	1,192	17	3	4	7	35	5	7.07	20:51	47.74%

Analysis:

Lindholm's offensive contributions are modest, and his CF% indicates the Bruins are out-possessed during his shifts. The surge in drops suggests managers are opting for defensemen with higher upside or better peripheral stats. He is out for a couple weeks with a lower body injury, which is another reason for the influx in drops.

Recommendation:

Drop. Unless you need defensive depth, it's safe to release him in favor of a more productive option.

5. Jeff Skinner (EDM – LW)

% Roster	% Started	Drops	GP	G	A	PTS	SOG	Hits	FPPG	TOI/GP	CF%
48	28	1,102	16	3	3	6	45	10	7.05	14:04	54.27%

Analysis:

Skinner's limited ice time and underwhelming point totals make him a candidate for dropping. While his high shot volume suggests potential, the lack of production is concerning. Managers may find more reliable scoring options elsewhere.

Recommendation:

Drop. Free up the roster spot for a more productive player. Keep an eye on Skinner in case his situation improves, but for now, better alternatives are likely available.

Tips for the Week:

                •             Monitor Player Trends: Keep an eye on transaction trends to spot emerging players early.

                •             Stay Active on the Waiver Wire: Be ready to pick up players who are heating up or have favorable upcoming schedules.

                •             Balance Short-Term Gains with Long-Term Strategy: Don't make hasty decisions based solely on recent performances.

Good luck in Week 7! By staying proactive and informed, you'll be well-positioned to outperform your competition.

How FPPG is Calculated

Fantasy Points Per Game (FPPG) is calculated by assigning point values to specific in-game actions:

                •             Goals: 6 points

                •             Total Assists: 4 points

                •             Shots on Goal and Shots Blocked: 1.6 points each

                •             Hits: 0.6 points

FPPG is then averaged over the number of games played to reflect each player's average contribution to a fantasy lineup per game.

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]).