Nashville Predators wing Eeli Tolvanen is expected to make his NHL debut this weekend, and fantasy owners have many reasons to take a chance on the talented Finnish prospect.
The 18-year-old
signed his entry-level contract Thursday
and has joined the Predators ahead of their weekend back to back, which includes games at home against the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday (8 p.m. ET; FS-TN, MSG-B, NHL.TV) and on the road against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday.
Tolvanen (RW, fewer than 1 percent owned in Yahoo) is likely to start his NHL career in a third-line role but could feasibly see a trial on one of the Predators' top two lines and/or power-play units over their final five regular-season games or in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. It may take time for Tolvanen to earn the top-six role he appears destined for, but his ability should not be questioned considering his international success as a teenager.
Playing for Jokerit of the Kontinental Hockey League prior to joining the NHL, Tolvanen had 36 points (19 goals, 17 assists) in 49 regular-season games and added seven points (six goals, one assist) in 11 KHL playoff games. Tolvanen also showcased his high ceiling for Team Finland in the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, scoring nine points (three goals, six assists) in five games.
Nashville's top two lines have remained intact when healthy since acquiring center Kyle Turris on Nov. 5. Left wing Filip Forsberg, center Ryan Johansen and right wing Viktor Arvidsson make up the first line, and Turris has centered wings Kevin Fiala and Craig Smith on the second line. But that line stability shouldn't scare fantasy owners away in the short term; Tolvanen could be a sleeper in season-long leagues, DraftKings DFS contests and playoff pools, even if he's on the third or fourth line with experienced postseason performers Nick Bonino and Mike Fisher.
Even if Nashville's current top six stays the same, it should bring fantasy owners peace of mind knowing Tolvanen is stepping into a favorable situation with the Predators ranked among the NHL's best offenses (3.17 goals per game, 7th) and defenses (2.45 goals allowed per game, T-1st with Los Angeles Kings).
Keeper and dynasty league owners who are still able to make roster moves should keep an eye on Tolvanen or even consider adding him late in the regular season. He's eligible to play for Nashville in the postseason, meaning he'll have the stage to showcase his long-term fantasy upside.
---
Check out DraftKings.com to play 1-Day Fantasy Hockey today. Entering is quick and simple: sign up for one free entry with first deposit (min $5) into a $3 1-Day Fantasy Hockey contest and set your lineup, catch the games and win!
For entertainment purposes only. Winning a contest on DraftKings depends on knowledge and exercise of skill. Available to play for free. Not a gambling website. See www.ncrg.org for information regarding responsible gaming. Must be at least 18 years or older. Higher age limits may apply in some states. Residents of AL, AZ, GA, HI, ID, IA, LA, MT, NV and WA not eligible to play in paid contests. Offered in IL and TX pending litigation. Void where prohibited. See www.draftkings.com/help/terms for details.
