Kyle Turris, C, OTT (35 percent): Turris made quite a statement against the Maple Leafs (two goals, including overtime winner) to bounce back from an injury-plagued second half last season. He plays on the top line with Mike Hoffman and Mark Stone, and offers exposure to point-per-game defenseman Erik Karlsson.
Paul Stastny, C, STL (34 percent): Stastny played on the second line with Robby Fabbri and Alexander Steen in the Blues' season opener, but also did serious damage on the power play with Vladimir Tarasenko against the Chicago Blackhawks. He had three points (two PPP) with a plus-1 and one SOG. There are always injury concerns surrounding Stastny, but you know he's going to produce when healthy.
Dylan Strome, C, ARI (28 percent): Strome is a dark horse rookie expected to play top-six minutes for the Coyotes alongside Anthony Duclair and/or Max Domi. He may even see first power-play action over time. If you're looking for a center with a high ceiling who could be a keeper even after Eichel returns, add Strome rather than Turris or Stastny. Bank on Strome for at least 50 points this season.
Jiri Hudler, C/RW, DAL (26 percent): With Jamie Benn and Tyler Seguin expected to play with Patrick Eaves, the Stars will have a loaded second line with Hudler and potential top-50 fantasy assets in Jason Spezza and Patrick Sharp. The Stars debut Thursday at home against the Anaheim Ducks, so add dual-eligible Hudler before he puts up a multipoint game and gains greater ownership.
Sam Bennett, C, CGY (17 percent): Bennett had a quiet opener scoring-wise for the Flames, but chipped in peripheral category production with four penalty minutes and three SOG. He's centering a much-improved second line with Troy Brouwer, who scored shorthanded in the opener, and rookie Matthew Tkachuk. If that trio sticks for the full season, Bennett can be a fantasy steal. He's the best option right now among centers under 20 percent owned.
Nick Bonino, C, PIT (4 percent): It's unknown how long Sidney Crosby (concussion) will be out, but one look at Pittsburgh's lines is all you need to know about Bonino's short-term value. He thrived late last season and in the Stanley Cup Playoffs alongside Phil Kessel and Carl Hagelin, and that trio will remain intact for the season opener Thursday against the Washington Capitals. For as long as Crosby is out, Bonino will also have a chance to join the first power-play unit alongside Kris Letang, Evgeni Malkin and Co. Many forget Bonino had 20 PPP three seasons ago with the Anaheim Ducks.
Read:
Jack Eichel sidelined 'weeks' with injury
