Each day, NHL.com’s team of hockey pool experts provides an overview of the different rosters that will be facing each other and identifies some players who could stand out and succeed.
READ ALSO: Duels to watch | Scheduled training
FORWARDERS
Yevgeny KuznetsovWSH (vs. CBJ) – Things are looking really good for the Capitals offense lately, especially for Kuznetsov, who has at least one point in his last six games for two goals and nine points. It evolves with Alex Oveckin on the Capitals’ front line as well as on the power play, but he’s far less expensive to day-to-day poolers than his captaincy. The Capitals face the Columbus Blue Jackets, who have only two wins in their last 10 games.
Video: OTT@WSH: Kuznetsov causes turnover and scores
Kaapo KakoNYR (vs. MTL) – One budget pick that could pay off tonight is undoubtedly Kakko, who plays in the Rangers front row as well as the second wave of the power play. Why? Because the Rangers face the Montreal Canadiens, who have lost their last six games (0-5-1) and who in this period have allowed an average of 5.33 goals per game, last ranked in the NHL. Kakko has had three assists in his last two outings.
DEFENDER
Tony DeAngeloPHI (versus ARI) – The Philadelphia Flyers defenseman may have seen his one-point streak stop at four last Monday, but he had eight points in that one, including three goals. He could start again tonight when the Arizona Coyotes are in Philadelphia, who have the 25th goal against average in the NHL.
KEEPER
Darcy KuemperWSH (vs. CBJ) – Capitals win, blue jackets lose. This is a great recipe for Kuemper to get a win tonight. A victory that could also be a closure, given that Columbus has only averaged 1.75 goals in the last four games. Also, Kuemper isn’t a particularly expensive keeper for day poolers.
