So you've decided to take the fantasy hockey plunge, joining millions of others in enjoying one of the sporting world's best game within a game. Welcome. Or perhaps you've already waded through these puck-friendly fantasy waters and feel inspired to dive into a different type of pool. Preseason greetings to you too. Either way, leaving other customizable options (roster size, lineup rules, bench flexibility, IR spots etc.) alone for now, here's a rundown of ESPN Fantasy's variety of fantasy hockey leagues, available to suit any taste.

H2H Points: The most popular game in ESPN's fantasy hockey universe pits individual managers against others in weekly head-to-head fisticuffs with a slew of weighted points at stake. Most total points wins the week 1-0 - no fuss, no muss. In stride with this formula, skaters who shoot regularly, score plentifully, and contribute often on the power play, qualify as fantasy royalty. But those characters are limited in number. Once the elite are spoken for, especially on larger fantasy rosters, there's much to appreciate about prolific shot-blockers who also chip in on offense on occasion. Think defenseman Jacob Trouba.

H2H Categories: Varying from the H2H points formula, so-called "each" category leagues also maintain a committed, loyal following. Managers engaged in this style of contest, where stat egalitarianism reigns, are best served by striving for competitive balance. Each category, in direct head-to-head competition, is equal to each other in that goals, hits, blocked shots, whatever-your-fantasy-fancy etc. counts towards the week's final score, accruing over the course of the season. You've earned 31 shots on goal and your opponent has 30? You win that category, full stop. Since defeating your direct rival 10-2 in a 12 category format is a significantly bigger victory than edging them 6-5-1, you want to give yourself a competitive chance in all/most aspects of the fantasy game. Top-tier, well-rounded players are extra valuable in battling for a favorable blowout, especially on small rosters. For example, Florida's Brady Tkachuk checks a bunch of valuable boxes, night in a...