Looking Ahead: Edmonton and Minnesota with Tough Schedules; McMann’s Early Returns; Goncalves Producing, and More

Caleb Desjardins

2026-03-20

Welcome back for another week of 'Looking Ahead'! For fantasy managers still in the thick of your championship chase, we have the information you need. Managers, let's look ahead at the upcoming weeks in fantasy hockey.

Fantasy Hockey Player Outlook

Which players should you be targeting in your league’s fantasy season. Who can be had on the waiver wire, and who should you avoid picking up? Check out the fantasy hockey players’ outlook for the upcoming week.

*Note: All stats are courtesy of ESPN Fantasy Hockey and current as of Thursday, March 19th.

Mid-Season Adds (Claim these players on the waiver wire)

Bobby McMann, LW, Seattle Kraken, Rostered-28.5%

            McMann has had no learning curve with his new club in Seattle. He's scored in all three contests, registering six points. He seems to be a perfect fit for the Kraken and could also be for managers looking for a playoff boost.

Gage Goncalves, LW, Tampa Bay Lightning, Rostered-3.1%

            Goncalves has long been the obvious weak link in the Lightning's top-six. However, as of late, he's been proving his merit with 10 points in his last eight contests. With the amount of talent around him, Goncalves could be a solid pickup due to his current play.

Young Players to Build Off (Young players who are hot right now)

Frank Nazar, C, Chicago Blackhawks, Rostered-27.3%

            In recent outings, Frank Nazar has resumed the scoring pace he was on to begin the season. He's a big part of Chicago's present and future, and for managers looking for a playoff add, Nazar could be their guy.

Cole Hutson, D, Washington Capitals, Rostered-5.1%

            The younger brother of Canadiens Lane Hutson, Cole Hutson made his NHL debut on Wednesday night. Much like his brother, he wasted no time showing off his offense potential at the highest level, scoring his first goal. He controlled the game just as he did at every other level in his debut. With Washington out of the playoff picture, expect Hutson to receive large minutes moving forward.

Steer Clear (Players you should avoid in fantasy leagues, or sell immediately if you own them)

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Anton Lundell, C, Florida Panthers, Rostered-72.5%

            The injuries to the Panthers have been extensive this season and despite a larger role, the lack of supporting cast is affecting Anton Lundell. The centreman has just one point in his last eight games. With Florida reeling, don't anticipate Lundell to score at the pace he did early on this year.

Devon Toews, D, Colorado Avalanche, Rostered-47.2%

            The fact that Devon Toews ownership remains so high is baffling. He has been irrelevant for fantasy managers this season despite playing with Cale Makar on a consistent basis. Toews brings a lot to the game but unfortunately that doesn't translate to fantasy value.

NHL Team Outlooks

Analyzing the upcoming week’s schedule and looking at which NHL teams are expected to have a strong week and who will be in tough. Which teams’ players should you be buying stock in, and which teams should you avoid at all costs? Take a peek at the NHL team outlook for the upcoming week.

*Note: This week’s analysis runs from March 20-March 26. The weekly fantasy matchup runs from Mar 23-29. Teams that play more games during the week/matchup often gain favor in the schedule analysis.

Matchup Favorites (These teams will pay dividends in the coming games.)

Columbus Blue Jackets

            The Blue Jackets are one of the hottest teams in the NHL right now and their play has them inches away from a playoff position. Don't expect them to slow down as they have a favorable schedule ahead.

Nashville Predators

            Nashville have rebounded nicely and due to a weak Western Conference, they still have playoff hopes. Some contests at home could push them closer to that goal.

New York Islanders

            The Islanders were buyers at the deadline so failing to make the postseason would be a huge disappointment. They are clinging onto a Metro Division berth and their upcoming homestand could help them fend off challengers.

Matchup Killers (Avoid players from these teams at all costs in the upcoming games.)

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Edmonton Oilers

            The Oilers will be without Leon Draisaitl for the remainder of the regular season. They're fortunate to be in a weaker Pacific Division, but their upcoming schedule won't be easy without one of their stars.

New Jersey Devils

            New Jersey has been in tough this season as they're set to miss the playoffs once again. They now head on the road to face some tough opponents. Don't expect them to pay dividends in the coming days.

Minnesota Wild

            The Wild have come back down to Earth as of late along with their Central Division adversaries. They have a tough schedule coming up but thankfully for them, they've all but secured a divisional seed.

*For more hockey and fantasy coverage, follow me on X (formerly Twitter) @Cdesjardins67

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