NHL Building Blocks for October 21
In this article, we spotlight today’s top NHL DFS studs and stack recommendations, focusing on high-upside players and synergistic line combinations that can elevate your lineups. Whether you’re targeting cash games or GPPs, these picks are designed to maximize value and exposure. Let’s dive into the matchups and identify the key players to target.
Feb 28, 2026; Tampa, Florida, USA; Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin (26) before the game against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images
SKATERS
Forward: Brady Tkachuk
Tkachuk is going back to Ottawa tonight and it’s going to be must-watch TV. He is coming off a two-assist performance against Seattle on October 17 following a hat trick against Vancouver and a four-point game (including a second hattie) against Columbus. That’s nine points across those three games alone to go along with 17 shots over that stretch. He’s bringing both playmaking and shooting upside, making him an appealing option when Florida’s offense gets rolling.
Defense: Rasmus Dahlin
Dahlin has four points (two goals and two assists) through six games to go along with 19 shots and substantial ice time. His offensive role gives him a path to production through both scoring and playmaking while his shot volume provides an additional route to fantasy points. He’s a defenseman worth considering when Buffalo can generate sustained pressure and give him opportunities to contribute offensively.
Goalie: Linus Ullmark
Ullmark has been excellent, going 6-1 with a 1.33 GAA and a .945 save percentage through seven appearances. He stopped 25 of 27 shots in Ottawa’s 3-1 loss to Philadelphia on October 17, so the defeat wasn’t down to a poor individual performance. His strong early numbers make him an attractive goalie option, particularly when Ottawa can give him enough defensive support to turn quality saves into wins.
Value: Lars Eller
Eller is an intriguing value play skating alongside Sam Reinhart and Carter Verhaeghe on Florida’s second line. That placement gives him access to two skilled offensive teammates, and he could benefit if the Panthers’ scoring continues to run hot. He’s a more speculative option than a high-end forward and the floor is low, but his salary is appealing with the chance to get inexpensive exposure to Florida’s offense.
Jan 25, 2025; San Jose, California, USA; Florida Panthers center Sam Reinhart (13) skates against the San Jose Sharks during the third period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
STACKS
Full: FLA (Bennett-Tkachuk-Tkachuk)
The Tkachuk brothers alongside Bennett is what everyone wants to see. They are able to give Florida a physical, high-upside stack with plenty of finishing ability. Brady had a natural hat trick and four points Tuesday while Matthew dished out five assists in the Panthers’ 7-3 win over Columbus. All three have power-play correlation, making this an especially appealing way to capture Florida’s offensive breakout. Reinhart is my favorite fourth if you can afford it.
Mini: BUF (Thompson-Dahlin)
This duo gives you a strong forward-defenseman mini-stack, and they’re going to be a bit less popular than the Florida skaters, which is nice to help you get a bit different on this two-gamer. They’ve got a good floor (Thompson shoots a ton and Dahlin gets there with a bit of everything), and the power play connection is excellent.
Unlock the Ultimate NHL DFS Edge!
Want access to the most advanced Daily Fantasy NHL content in the industry? Join DFS Army VIP and chat player picks and lineups with our DFS pros and a community of savvy players. Get exclusive projections, optimizer tools, and insider insights that give you the edge every slate.
Sign up today with promo code DARTH to grab 10% off your monthly membership. Don’t miss out — this is the best deal and the strongest DFS team you’ll find anywhere!
