NHL Preview: Sleepers, Schedules and Best Bets

NHL Fantasy, Team Betting Targets, NHL Schedule Conflicts

As the NHL runs out apologies all across the league, fantasy freaks, bettors, and traditional fans are all scrambling to get ready for Saturday’s opening day. There are a lot of variables to consider this season. Firstly, we’re obviously dealing with a 48-game shortened schedule that will test players’ endurance. Schedules will also play a major factor this year and you have to take a long look at teams that had players play in strong leagues during the NHL lockout. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Here’s a look at some futures odds and you can check out my Google+ page here.

Teams to Watch – Trending Up

Minnesota Wild – There are big expectations in hockey-crazy Minnesota after the signings of Zach Parise and Ryan Suter. Some people forget how good this team was to begin with last year before it was swamped with injuries. A week before last Christmas Minnesota was a league-best 20-8-5. Now that Mikko Koivu is healthy and has some support, this team could make some noise in the playoffs.

Tampa Bay Lightning – Guy Boucher’s  bunch was a big time underachiever last year. Another subpar season won’t be tolerated by Steve Yzerman, especially considering some of the new talent on board this year. Sami Salo and Matt Carle should improve the blue line and goaltender Anders Lindback gets his shot as a No. 1 guy. The season probably hinges on Lindback and the health of Martin St. Louis and Vincent  Lecavalier – Steven Stamkos can’t do it all. Expect a breakout year from Lindback as the Lightning cruise into the playoffs.

Also watch:

Edmonton Oilers – Young roster built for a sprint.
Carolina Hurricanes – Excellent goaltending from Cam Ward and smart additions to the forward unit.

Teams to Watch – Trending Down

Winnipeg Jets – Until realignment comes around, the Jets are fighting an uphill battle. Last season they were terrific at home and nearly turned that into a playoff berth, but travel will wear on them again this year. They open the year Saturday at home to the Senators, then have a back-to-back at Boston and Washington before heading home to host the Penguins. Ouch. In February they play a run of five of six at home, but then have five straight on the road against the likes of the Rangers, Flyers and Sabres. The Jets’ defence and goaltending will have to hold firm for to have any shot at the playoffs, even though they do play seven of their last nine regular season games at home.

New Jersey Devils – New Jersey made the Stanley Cup finals last year, but could be lucky to make the postseason this time around. The loss of Zach Parise can’t be overstated and as good as the club’s “no name” defence was last season, they’re going to have to be that much better. Marty Brodeur is on his last legs and often struggles to find his groove early on. The Devils don’t have any time to waste and play in likely the toughest division in hockey. When a team gives Travis Zajac an eight-year, $46-million extension, there are major problems.

Also watch:

Dallas Stars – Signed lots of veterans in the offseason, but could take the team a while to gel.
Toronto Maple Leafs – Different GM, same problems. Goaltending and goal scoring remain big concerns.

Fantasy Sleeper Targets

Kevin Shattenkirk, St. Louis Blues – Poised for a big year on St. Louis’ blue line.
Mikko Koivu, Minnesota Wild – Fills up the stat sheet and has two snipers on his line.
Justin Faulk, Carolina Hurricanes – Could become a top-20 defenceman sooner rather than later. Also check out Edmonton’s Justin Shultz.
Brandon Dubinsky, Columbus Blue Jackets – Bigger role and out to prove something following a down year with the Rangers.
Carl Hagelin, New York Rangers – Speedy winger expected to start on the team’s top line with Brad Richards and Rick Nash.
Kyle Okposo, New York Islanders – Filled the net at the end of last year and lines up beside John Tavares.
Damien Brunner, Detroit Red Wings – Ripped up the Swiss league and should play with Datsyuk and/or Zetterberg.
Andrei Markov, Montreal Canadiens – If he stays healthy, he will be a major asset on the power play.