NHL fans we have hit the halfway point of the season and as spring is getting close and the COVID pandemic is turning in the right direction its time to review what the first half looks like and what to expect for the second half of the season.
When we first started the season and the new divisions were created it was something that was new to us all. Playing the same group of teams over the entire season had its ups and downs. As mentioned in my article NHL Fantasy: 2021 - A Different Year, I explained the divisions, challenges and what to expect for the start of the season.
So, what has changed from the start to where we are now and how does it effect your daily fantasy choices?
Divisional Alignment
Nothing has changed as the teams continue to play the same schedule against the same teams. Looking at these games it is now getting down to crunch time and the word "playoffs" starts to come into the conversations. So coaches and players are going to be more focused on the strategy and how each game really is worth a four point swing within the division.
How does this effect your player choice? Well look at the teams playing and see how they have matched up and also look to see where they are sitting in the standings. As the games become more and more important for the teams fighting to get into the playoffs, the other games may be less important. Teams such as Detroit, Ottawa, Nashville, Buffalo are among the lower ranked teams, so they may start to look at the taxi players and get them into the lineup which could help your players that are playing against them. Try to take advantage of the lower ranked teams and players facing them that night.
Standings (top-3 in each division)
Scotia North
1. Toronto
2. Winnipeg
3. Edmonton
Discover Central
1. Carolina
2. Tampa Bay
3. Florida
MassMutual East
1. NY Islanders
2. Washington
3. Pittsburgh
Honda West
1. Vegas
2. St. Louis
3. Minnesota
Trade Deadline
April 12 is the deadline for teams looking to improve or teams looking to sell off and gain some assets. There are a number of teams that are already sellers so keep your eyes open to players that could be moved. Once a move is made have a look at the player changing teams from a bad team to a contender and see how they may fit in with the new team. Since you might get them at a really solid price for daily fantasy and for dynasty leagues, these trades could help your team turn the corner.
Fans
At the beginning of the year every team was on the same playing ground as there were no fans allowed in the stands. Things are changing and fans are now starting to attend games and this is a great sign to the country getting back to some normal times. How do fans effect my fantasy teams? Well its simple, some teams play better at home in front of their fans and in turn step up their games. This could be something that lights up a player and, lets be honest, we have all sat at home during this pandemic and the first time you have a chance to get out and do something you enjoy again gets you PUMP UP. The players are the same way. I have spoken to players and they will tell you that even though the game is the same, the atmosphere is something that is missed. Keep in mind, the North Division (Canadian Teams) are no where near getting fans in the stands, as the Canadian government is still trying to deal with COVID.
As we head into the second half we are excited for the pandemic to be trending in the right direction so let's try and get your fantasy teams trending in the same way.
Take some time to review the match ups, review the standings of both teams, the home ice advantage (fans or no fans) and then finally look to see if your players are on the trade block or if already traded what does their new situation look like.
Enjoy the games, stay safe and let the second half of the season be better then the first half.
