The waiver wire is a crucial resource for fantasy managers as the NHL season begins to wind down, especially with the playoff chase intensifying. With teams like Minnesota Wild playing frequently on off nights, shrewd managers can bolster their rosters with viable streaming options. Key players to look at include Ryan Hartman and Frederick Gaudreau, who can provide valuable points during lighter schedule days. Conversely, teams like the New Jersey Devils and Toronto Maple Leafs have fewer games this week, making their fantasy assets less appealing.

Among potential pickups, Jonathan Drouin is returning to form with the Colorado Avalanche, posting impressive stats while skating alongside Nathan MacKinnon. Boone Jenner is also on a scoring streak for the Columbus Blue Jackets, proving his worth as a solid contributor. Adding active players like Matt Coronato from the Calgary Flames or Taylor Hall from the Hurricanes can make a decisive difference in your lineup's performance over the coming days.

In a commanding performance, the Carolina Hurricanes defeated the struggling Montreal Canadiens 4-1, marking their tenth win in 12 games. Taylor Hall and Sebastian Aho each scored crucial goals in the second period, with Hall netting his 17th of the season and Aho following shortly after to extend the lead. Andrei Svechnikov, returning from injury, added an empty-net goal to seal the game. The Canadiens, who started strong with a goal from Josh Anderson, could not maintain momentum and have now lost five consecutive games.

Carolina's consistent play has given them solid footing for home-ice advantage in the playoffs, while Montreal clings to the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, tied with the Columbus Blue Jackets. The game also featured a noteworthy return, as defenseman Kaiden Guhle came back after a lengthy injury absence. With the Hurricanes hosting the New York Islanders next, they'll look to continue their winning streak.

The Carolina Hurricanes continue to solidify their roster, with discussions for an extension with Taylor Hall gaining momentum. Hall's contributions have integrated well into the Canes' structure, bringing a dynamic offensive presence. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers face a potential goaltending dilemma, as Ivan Fedotov struggles to maintain his position amid concerns about his readiness for NHL play. With a less-than-stellar record and cap implications, GM Daniel Briere might explore external options for a reliable netminder. The offseason could also see the Canucks' Thatcher Demko seeking a lucrative extension, mirroring Linus Ullmark's recent deal.

The Philadelphia Flyers concluded a disappointing seven-game homestand with a 5-0 defeat at the hands of the Carolina Hurricanes, marking their sixth shutout of the season. Prior to this loss, the Flyers managed to avoid a complete sweep with a narrow 4-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning, finishing the homestand with a 1-6-0 record. The team now sits at 16-19-1 at home.

Carolina opened the scoring with a goal from Sebastian Aho, who capitalized on a misplay by Travis Konecny. Despite a challenge for goaltender interference, the Flyers were unable to overturn the call. The Hurricanes extended their lead with goals from Taylor Hall and Mark Jankowski, and capped off their scoring with a late goal from Scott Morrow.

In a thrilling matchup, the Carolina Hurricanes secured their sixth consecutive victory, defeating the Detroit Red Wings 4-2. Jack Roslovic played a pivotal role, contributing a goal and an assist, while Taylor Hall and Jalen Chatfield also found the back of the net.

Jesperi Kotkaniemi was instrumental with two assists, and goaltender Frederik Andersen made 24 crucial saves to maintain the lead. Despite the loss, Alex DeBrincat and Michael Rasmussen scored for the Red Wings, whose struggles continued with a seventh loss in eight games.