Victoria Matiash's early fantasy hockey look at the 2026-27 NHL season highlights injury and goaltending news that could shape fantasy rosters. Several teams are already making headlines, including Alex Ovechkin announcing his retirement and Connor Hellebuyck's absence while suspended.
Florida Panthers center Aleksander Barkov (knee) appears less seriously hurt than first feared. Early projections of a 10-to-12-week absence have shrunk to roughly six weeks. Matiash advises fantasy managers to place Barkov on injured reserve and wait it out, while suggesting Sam Bennett as a substitute top center, though he is largely taken in ESPN leagues. The outlook for Brad Marchand is less certain after he slammed his knee into a goal post and left the ice without putting weight on the leg. Managers should await an update within a day or two and consider dropping him if the news is bad.
In Colorado, Jared Bednar has started Mackenzie Blackwood in three straight games over Scott Wedgewood, suggesting Wedgewood will see limited action outside back-to-back games. Matiash advises fantasy managers not to rely on Wedgewood as a top fantasy goalie this season, despite his strong 2025-26 numbers.
Winnipeg's active No. 1 goalie, Stuart Skinner, is off to a strong start, allowing just two goals combined against the Red Wings and the Avalanche after a mediocre debut against the Bruins. Matiash notes Skinner's capability when at his best, having taken his team to consecutive Stanley Cup Finals, and recommends picking him up while he performs well. Hellebuyck should stay on injured reserve for as long as reasonably possible.
Source: ESPN NHL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing