Using the latest NHL fantasy rookie rankings and preseason reports, here are rookies legit expected to contribute this season.
Rookies to Target
These are rookies fantasy managers should be drafting with actual expectations:
| Rookie | Position | Team | Why They’re Valuable & Fantasy Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ivan Demidov (F, Montreal Canadiens) | Forward | MTL | Ranked #1 in NHL.com’s Top 10 Rookie Rankings. Demidov is expected to get steady NHL time, offensive zone usage, and has shown flashes already. Great upside in points and assists. |
| Zeev Buium (D, Minnesota Wild) | Defense | MIN | One of the top defenseman rookies. Buium is likely to get PP exposure and offer good fantasy returns via assists, shots, and defense-eligible stats. |
| Jimmy Snuggerud (F, St. Louis Blues) | Forward | STL | Coming off a strong college season, showing he can score and bring speed. He might slot into the top six this season. |
| Ryan Leonard (F, Washington Capitals) | Forward | WSH | Another rookie with offensive upside; likely to get opportunity with newer lineup pieces. |
| Alexander Nikishin (D, Carolina Hurricanes) | Defense | CAR | Gives you fantasy value via shots, ice time, possibly power play time. Solid pick for those needing defensive depth. |
| Zayne Parekh (D, Calgary Flames) | Defense | CGY | Had an outstanding OHL career; if he earns regular NHL time, he’d be one of the fastest offensive defensemen rookies. Fantasy points via goals, assists, and PP. |
Sleeper / High-Risk, High-Reward Prospects
These might not be immediate fantasy stars, but are worth late-round looks or keeping an eye on in dynasty formats:
- Isaac Howard (F, Edmonton) — shows offensive skill; prime candidate for breakout in limited minutes.
- Sam Rinzel (D, Chicago) — defenseman with potential; if he gets power play time, adds bonus value.
Draft Strategy for Rookies
- Don’t spend early round picks exclusively on rookies — pick 1 or 2 with high floor if possible.
- Target these younger guys in middle rounds where upside outshines cost.
- Pay attention to training camp / preseason usage — who looks locked into top-9 or PP roles gets much more fantasy value.
- In dynasty/keeper leagues, investing in rookies like Parekh, Buium, Demidov is smart — they’re likely to grow fast.
Final Word
For fantasy success in 2025-26, the rookies worth your attention include Ivan Demidov, Zayne Parekh, Zeev Buium, Jimmy Snuggerud, Alexander Nikishin, and Ryan Leonard. These players are the most realistically ready, and have upside that matches their draft cost.