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Victoria Matiash, Fantasy HockeyJul 1, 2024, 04:24 PM ET
CloseESPN.com Fantasy Contributor since 2010Part-time anchor at NEWSTALK1010
Now that the sound has faded and lights have dimmed at the NHL’s most spectacular selection event ever, we can take a step back and evaluate what some of the more prominent prospects offer within the sphere of fantasy hockey. While some suggest this year’s group lacks the flash and pizzazz of drafts gone by, there remain plenty of promising skaters to immediately consider in both dynasty competition and down the road in redraft leagues. Plus, a competitor or two that may make an impact as soon as this October. Including the No. 1 overall pick, who’s (probably) set to make a reasonable initial splash in San Jose.
Additional analysis provided by ESPN’s Rachel Doerrie.
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Macklin Celebrini, C, San Jose Sharks, Boston University (H-EAST) Selected: 1, Rank: 1
Rachel Doerrie: “Offensively, he navigates the middle of the ice, disrupts defensive schemes and finds passing lanes that others cannot. His puck protection skills, willingness to play through contact, spin off defenders and maintain play are qualities that will translate well to the NHL…”
While considered NHL-ready, there’s a still a chance Celebrini could return to Boston University for one last year. Fortunately that will be well determined, one way or another, by the time most fantasy leagues launch in the fall. If he does choose to take the pro route, as generally anticipated, this year’s No. 1 draft selection could immediately slide into a top-six role with a club that’s rebuilding up from the most basic foundation. He’s not going to put up Connor Bedard first-year numbers (0.9 points/game), but a 60-point season is hardly out of the question. That’s just to start. The Sharks were rather awful last year. They’re already better with the just-turned 18-year-old on board. A no-brain top pick in dynasty competition, Celebrini should also merit consideration in all…
Source link : https://www.espn.com/fantasy/hockey/story/_/id/40474344/2024-nhl-draft-fantasy-hockey-best-picks-analysis-keepers-celebrini
Author : Victoria Matiash
Publish date : 2024-07-01 21:24:33
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