Fantasy Hockey Buy Low/Sell High – Week 9

This week marks the halfway point for many fantasy hockey leagues, where dominant managers start to buy in, and losing owners begin to sell their best talent. However, it’s wise for managers to cut corners where they can, making the buy low/sell high options below worth considering, regardless of an owner’s position in the standings.

More Fantasy Hockey Analysis: | Goalie Streamers | Buy-Low, Sell-High | NHL Schedule Preview | Fantasy Hockey Cold List | Prospect Report | NHL Injury Report | Fantasy Hockey Waiver Wire

Fantasy Hockey Buy Lows

Dylan Strome – Washington Capitals

Dylan Strome has only recorded 1 point throughout his last 5 games, while just scoring 3 goals during the month of November. It’s understandable for those with Strome to become frustrated with his scoring ability or insufficient shot volume, but the positives outweigh the negatives for the Washington Capitals centerman.

For leagues that track plus/minus and face-offs, Strome is one of the best options to target going forward, with the 28-year-old being a +15 and winning 244 draws this season. Additionally, he’s 1 assist shy of being Washington’s assist leader this year, and is currently featured on the team’s first power-play unit. For managers who are already confident in the goals category, buying low on Strome would be an instrumental move to add peripheral value.

Jackson LaCombe – Anaheim Ducks

Jackson LaCombe had an unusually slow start to the year despite the Anaheim Ducks playing well, having tallied just 3 points in October. However, the 24-year-old has finally started to come alive heading into the winter season, and could be one of the more consistent defensemen for fantasy owners down the stretch.

During November, LaCombe drew 11 points in 15 games and has remained one of Anaheim’s best blocking defensemen. That said, LaCombe has started to revert to his point-production from October over his last three games, making it the perfect opportunity for managers to inquire about the Minnesota native before he returns to form.

Fantasy Hockey Sell High

Jesper Wallstedt – Minnesota Wild

Jesper Wallstedt is arguably the biggest storyline in hockey as of late, proving to have one of the best goaltending starts for a rookie in NHL history. Over his last six games, the Swede has recorded 4 shutouts and is currently averaging a 0.944 save percentage on the season. Some who were desperate for a goaltending hit the jackpot with Wallstedt, but those who feel comfortable in the crease should consider the idea of selling him while he’s hot.

Good goaltending has been hard to come by this year, and managers could offer premium assets if they’re in need of a reliable netminder. Although Wallstedt is showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon, it’s the perfect opportunity to sell him for a league-leading player that immediately has an impact on the offensive or defensive end.

Sidney Crosby – Pittsburgh Penguins

Sidney Crosby has proved once again that he’s still at the top of his game, but at the age of 38, many question how long his elite play will continue. There’s no doubt that Crosby wanted to demonstrate that he still belongs on Team Canada at the Olympics next year, but it’s best to trade the future Hall of Fame player ahead of his eventual decline, especially for owners in keeper or dynasty leagues.

Crosby is a fantasy hockey asset that can lead to championship victories, but if he’s on a losing manager’s roster, there are definitely contenders looking to add him for the rest of the season. For those out of a playoff spot, trading Crosby for a top-tier player that’s 10 or more years younger could significantly change the trajectory of your fantasy hockey career, even if it’s difficult to initially let him go.

Moving forward, any deals made at this point in the season will be pivotal, and it’s best to know which players to target as the trade deadline approaches. Make sure to return next week for another round of buy low/sell high advice.