NHL Building Blocks – January 4
We’ve got 10 games on the slate on this first Saturday of 2025. Let’s dive in!
The premise of each article in this series is to feature starting spots (building blocks) for your lines. These are plays that are cash-viable as well as GPP-worthy and can be considered in all contest formats.
Starting Lineup – January 4
The Goalie: Jake Oettinger
Will be very popular tonight as the Utah offense has been subpar all season, and Oettinger (18-9-1 / 2.37 / .908) and the Stars’ defense has been one of the best in the entire league, allowing the fewest goals (89) in hockey while giving up the fourth fewest shots per game. Another elite goalie who is having his usual elite season.
The Center: Mark Scheifele
Five goals and two helpers in his last five games and is on pace for just under 50 goals this season; Jets get a below-average Wings defense tonight as well, and he’s got nice upside and will be cheaper than some of the other stud centers.
The Wing: Mikko Rantanen
In the middle of a 12-game point streak (seven goals and 14 assists during) and in one of the best matchups tonight. Tied for second in the league in scoring as well.
The Defenseman: Zach Werenski
Definitely on the short list for Norris consideration this season. Plays 26 and a half minutes a night and leads the team in shots with close to three and a half per game; 11 points (including 10 helpers) in his last five games.
The Value: Jason Zucker
Six goals in his last five games.
The Stack: COL (Mackinnon-Rantanen-Makar)
Maybe a bit obvious, but for good reason: the Avs’ offense revolves around them (49 goals between them); Mac leads the league in scoring and Mikko is tied for second. Montreal gives up the sixth most goals on the eighth most shots per game and is in the altitude. Lehkonen (14 goals, tied for second on the team) and Drouin are your secondary pieces to mix in.
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Dec 5, 2024; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (29) and defenseman Cale Makar (8) look on against the Carolina Hurricanes during the third period at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
