Navigating the Rise of NHL Goaltending Timeshares
As the NHL season approaches, fantasy hockey managers are faced with a growing trend: goaltending timeshares. Many teams are opting to split time between two capable netminders rather than relying on a single workhorse. This shift, driven by the need to manage player fatigue and maximize performance over an 82-game season, has significant implications for fantasy drafts.
According to insights from recent analyses, teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs and Vegas Golden Knights are prime examples of this strategy. In Toronto, both Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz are expected to share the crease, with Woll potentially taking a slight edge as the starter. Meanwhile, in Vegas, Adin Hill and Ilya Samsonov form a tandem where starts could be evenly distributed, making both goalies valuable picks in deeper leagues.
Key Teams and Goalies to Draft for Fantasy Success
Several NHL teams stand out for their goaltending splits, offering fantasy managers a chance to capitalize on value. The Toronto Maple Leafs, as noted earlier, present a duo worth watching. Joseph Woll, with a save percentage of .916 last season, is a solid mid-round pick, while Anthony Stolarz could be a late-round steal if he secures more starts than anticipated.
In Vegas, Adin Hill's proven playoff pedigree makes him a reliable choice, having posted a .932 save percentage during the Golden Knights' Stanley Cup run in 2023. Ilya Samsonov, coming off a challenging year, is a riskier pick but offers upside if he rebounds. Other teams to monitor include the Colorado Avalanche, where Alexandar Georgiev and Justus Annunen could split time, and the Boston Bruins, with Jeremy Swayman and Linus Ullmark continuing their effective partnership.
For fantasy managers, targeting these tandems means balancing risk with reward. Drafting both goalies from a timeshare team can ensure consistent points, especially in leagues that reward wins and saves over shutouts. As one expert noted, 'Don't sleep on backup goalies in a timeshare; they often provide starter-level stats at a fraction of the draft cost.'
Strategic Draft Tips for Goaltending Timeshares
When approaching your fantasy hockey draft, understanding goaltending timeshares can give you a competitive edge. Experts suggest not waiting too long to draft goalies, especially in leagues where starting slots are limited. Grabbing a primary goalie from a timeshare team in the middle rounds, followed by their backup later, can secure a strong goaltending foundation without sacrificing high picks on skaters.
Additionally, keep an eye on training camp updates and preseason performance to gauge how splits might shake out. For instance, if Joseph Woll dominates early games for Toronto, his draft stock could rise quickly. Ultimately, flexibility is key—be prepared to pivot based on real-time data as the season nears, ensuring your roster maximizes the potential of these dynamic goaltending duos.