As the NHL season kicks off on January 21, 2025, RotoBaller's Brandon provides crucial insights for daily fantasy sports (DFS) players. With an eight-game slate, players can expect exciting matchups and strategic lineup opportunities.

Key players to watch include Logan Thompson from the Vegas Golden Knights, who has been exceptional in recent games. Also highlighted are centers Elias Pettersson of the Vancouver Canucks and Steven Stamkos of the Tampa Bay Lightning, both expected to perform well against their opponents.

Thompson’s impressive stats and the absence of star player Connor McDavid from the Edmonton Oilers elevate his DFS value. Similarly, Pettersson's resurgence amid team changes positions him for success against the struggling Buffalo Sabres.

DFS players can also consider defensive picks like Jake Sanderson from the Ottawa Senators, who faces the New York Rangers, providing additional potential for scoring and assists. With numerous teams playing back-to-back games, monitoring injury updates and player statuses is essential for success in cash games and GPP contests.

In a thrilling encounter, the Seattle Kraken triumphed over the Buffalo Sabres 6-4, with Jamie Oleksiak netting the pivotal goal in the second period. Oleksiak's strike came shortly after Tage Thompson equalized for Buffalo, showcasing the intense back-and-forth action of the game. The scoring frenzy began early, with Jack Quinn giving the Sabres an initial lead before Seattle surged ahead with goals from John Hayden, Chandler Stephenson, and Matty Beniers.

Despite Buffalo's attempts to rally through Jason Zucker and Thompson's goals, the Kraken regained control with third-period goals from Adam Larsson and Jared McCann, whose performance included a goal and two assists. The victory marked Seattle's dominance over Buffalo, improving their all-time record against the Sabres to 7-1, with their only loss occurring earlier this year.

Lindy Ruff, the head coach of the Buffalo Sabres, faces unprecedented pressure as his team struggles through a ten-game winless streak. Following a 5-3 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs, Ruff expressed his determination to turn things around, acknowledging the challenges ahead.

The Sabres, now 0-7-3 since their last victory, have seen players like Alex Tuch and Jack Quinn speak out about the team's effort and performance. Quinn, who scored twice, emphasized the need for the team to find a way to win.

Meanwhile, Toronto's John Tavares shone with a hat trick, showcasing his relentless work ethic and helping his team find offensive rhythm after recent struggles.

Lindy Ruff, head coach of the Buffalo Sabres, faces mounting pressure as his team endures a 10-game winless streak following a 5-3 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Ruff acknowledges the challenge and takes responsibility for the team's struggles, emphasizing the need for improvement and unity.

Despite early leads, the Sabres faltered against the Leafs, with players like Alex Tuch and Jack Quinn expressing frustration over their performance. Meanwhile, Toronto's John Tavares shone with a hat trick, highlighting the contrasting fortunes of the two teams.

John Tavares led the Toronto Maple Leafs to a comeback victory against the Buffalo Sabres, scoring a hat trick in a 5-3 win. The Leafs overcame a 3-1 deficit with a flurry of goals in the second period, including contributions from Max Domi and Nick Robertson.

Buffalo's struggles continued, marking their 10th game without a win. Despite two goals from Jack Quinn, the Sabres could not hold onto their early lead. Toronto's Dennis Hildeby made 24 saves in his third NHL start.