As playoff positions tighten and the intensity rises, certain players are stepping up to make a big difference on the ice. Whether it's their consistent scoring, leadership on the power play, or newfound energy with a playoff spot on the line, these players will be crucial in determining the fate of their teams—and fantasy hockey draft pools. With so much at stake, keeping an eye on the players who can carry their teams to the postseason is essential.

Below are five players who are good bets to drive their team as they scramble to make the playoffs, or as their teams prepare to ramp their games up for a run at the Stanley Cup.

Lucas Raymond, Detroit Red Wings

The 22-year-old Swede, Lucas Raymond, could not have picked a better time to find his stride. As the Detroit Red Wings continue their push for a playoff spot, they find themselves just two points behind the final wildcard position. With the stakes higher than ever, the team is relying heavily on Raymond, their leading scorer, to deliver when it matters most.

Raymond has been more than up to the challenge lately. Over his past five games, he has been on fire, racking up an impressive six points. His recent hot streak has come at a crucial time, and with every point counting towards the Red Wings’ playoff hopes, Raymond’s ability to step up and produce has become a key factor in their quest to secure a postseason spot. The pressure is on, but Raymond’s performance shows he is more than capable of delivering when the team needs it most.

Since Detroit is currently in a dog fight with six other teams for the final wildcard spot, the 5’ 11”, 188-pound native of Gothenburg, Sweden, will need to continue his hot scoring ways for the Red Wings to have a shot at the Cup.

Nick Suzuki, Montreal Canadiens

There’s a timeless saying in hockey: a team’s success is often determined by the performance of its best players. For Nick Suzuki, the captain of the Montreal Canadiens, this adage isn’t just something he’s heard — it’s a mantra he’s embodying on the ice every day.

Suzuki has proven his value over the past few games, tallying five points in his last five outings. This recent surge has brought his season total to an impressive 69 points, making him the Canadiens’ leading scorer. As Montreal battles fiercely with six other teams for the coveted final wildcard playoff spot, Suzuki’s leadership and offensive production have become more crucial than ever. His ability to elevate his game during these critical moments is a clear indicator of just how much Montreal is relying on their captain to carry them to the playoffs.

Currently, he is logging heavy minutes on the ice, playing 20 minutes per game or more, including regular shifts on the power play. This increased responsibility is a clear indication of just how vital he is to the Canadiens' success. As the 25-year-old captain from London, Ontario, continues to shoulder a significant workload, you can expect him to keep producing at a high level. With Montreal fighting tooth and nail for a playoff spot, Suzuki’s contributions will be key in their pursuit of securing a postseason berth. His consistent presence on the ice will play a crucial role as this young Canadiens team strives to make a late-season push for the playoffs.

Dylan Cozens, Ottawa Senators

Dylan Cozens had spent the first few years of his career in Buffalo, a franchise mired in mediocrity and struggling to find success. The Sabres have not made the playoffs in 13 years, which created a difficult environment for Cozens to develop and thrive. However, his fortunes took a dramatic turn when he was traded to the Ottawa Senators at the March trade deadline.

Now, in Ottawa, Cozens has found a new sense of purpose and motivation, as the Senators fight to make their first playoff appearance since 2017. Energized by the opportunity to contribute to a team with playoff aspirations, Cozens has been a key player. He’s been taking crucial faceoffs, earning valuable power-play minutes, and contributing offensively. Over his past five games, the 24-year-old center has registered four points, showing how quickly he's adjusting to his new team and role. As the Senators continue to push for a berth, expect Cozens to remain a central figure in their quest for postseason success. Additionally, Look for the same down the stretch as the Senators depend on the skilled, reliable Cozens to continue to shine as he chases the first playoff action of his young career.

Cole Perfetti, Winnipeg Jets

Heading into the 2024-25 NHL season, expectations for Cole Perfetti, the young winger for the Winnipeg Jets, were significantly higher. After an impressive 38-point performance during the 2023-24 campaign, which showcased his undeniable talent and potential, Perfetti secured a two-year, $6.5 million contract as a restricted free agent.

Fast forward to this season, and Perfetti has proven that last year’s success was no fluke. Through 68 games, he has set a new career-high with 42 points, consistently producing for his team. What stands out even more in his recent play is his growth and maturity on the ice. Over his last five games, he’s been on a point streak, registering five points, highlighting his increasing confidence and ability to drive the offense.

Despite not being the biggest player on the ice at 5’ 11” and 185 pounds, Perfetti has shown a remarkable ability to battle in the tough areas. His tenacity is evident as he fights for position and goes to the dirty spots to score and set up plays. Combined with his natural hands, vision, and creativity, Perfetti has evolved into a dynamic player who can impact all areas of the game.

With the Jets currently sitting at the top of the NHL standings, Perfetti is poised to play a crucial role in their push for the Stanley Cup. As the team looks to make a deep playoff run, expect Perfetti to be a key contributor, further solidifying his place as one of the NHL’s rising stars.

With the stakes higher than ever, these five players are poised to deliver when it matters most. As they lead their teams into the final stretch of the season, they will not only impact the playoff race but could also become key assets in your fantasy hockey lineup. Whether they’re already playing at a high level or on the verge of a breakout, these players are ones to watch as the battle for the Stanley Cup heats up.