As the NHL fantasy season rolls on, finding a scoring boost can make all the difference. Below, I’ve listed four players to consider adding to your roster to strengthen your team heading into Week 4.
NHL Fantasy Hockey Waiver Wire Advice: Week 4
(Rostership percentages courtesy of ESPN)
William Karlsson (C – VGK) | 51.0% rostered
It’s no secret that William Karlsson of the Vegas Golden Knights is a standout player. The centerman tallied 60 points last season, including an impressive 30 goals. Although he’s rostered in 51% of leagues, he might still be available in yours due to a recent injury. ‘Wild Bill’ returned strong in his season debut, logging two points against the Sharks on Saturday with a goal and an assist.
Nino Niederreiter (RW – WPG) | 22.9% rostered
The Jets are off to an unstoppable start this season, improving to 8-0-0 with a 5-3 win over the Flames on Saturday. Depth scoring has been key to their undefeated run, with the third line of Niederreiter, Lowry, and Appleton combining for 23 points. Nino Niederreiter, who plays on Adam Lowry‘s wing, has contributed eight points, including four goals and four assists. The veteran winger has been active offensively, registering 20 shots on goal-fifth most on the team.
The Jets have six games scheduled from 10/28 to 11/7, with all opponents ranking outside the top 10 in team GAA. Expect Winnipeg’s second-ranked offense (4.5 GPG) to keep producing over the next two weeks.
Brandt Clarke (D – LAK) | 24.8% rostered
I highlighted Brandt Clarke in last weekend’s waiver wire article, and I’m sticking with him. The Los Angeles d-man had a strong week, logging three points (1G, 2A) over three games. Clarke now has seven points on the season (1G, 6A), ranking ninth among NHL defensemen, yet he’s rostered in just 25% of leagues on ESPN. Clarke remains on my radar while Drew Doughty (ankle) is sidelined, as the injury has elevated him to Los Angeles’ top power play, where four of his seven points (1G, 3A) have come.
Kevin Lankinen (G – VAN) | 41.7% rostered
Thatcher Demko (knee) still has some time before he returns to Vancouver’s crease. Even when he’s back, management may limit his workload as he works his way to full health. In the meantime, this opens the door for Kevin Lankinen to make a case for the starting role.
The 29-year-old has capitalized on the opportunity, going 4-0-1 with a 1.95 GAA (6th in the NHL) and a .930 SV% (10th). If you’re not looking to keep Lankinen long-term, he’s an excellent streaming option. Over the next 10 games, the Canucks face six of the league’s lowest-scoring teams: Predators (2.6 GPG), Islanders (2.5 GPG), Blackhawks (2.4 GPG), Oilers (2.3 GPG), Ducks (2.3 GPG), and Sharks (2.0 GPG). Snag Lankinen if he’s still available in your league.
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