The final week of the NHL regular season is upon us, and with only five games slated for lighter days, fantasy managers must be strategic with their lineups. Key teams to monitor include the Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, San Jose Sharks, and Tampa Bay Lightning, which could yield valuable players still available on the waiver wire.

Several lesser-rostered skaters have begun to shine recently. Andrei Kuzmenko of the Los Angeles Kings has found a rhythm alongside Anze Kopitar and Adrian Kempe, generating five goals and six assists in his last ten games. Viktor Arvidsson of the Edmonton Oilers is ramping up production, contributing to the team amid injuries to Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Ryan McLeod from Buffalo is also on fire, averaging better than a point per game. Meanwhile, young talents like Will Smith of the San Jose Sharks and Rutger McGroarty of the Pittsburgh Penguins are stepping up as possible streamers for fantasy teams.

As playoffs approach, expect veteran players on contending teams to rest, while younger players get more ice time. This dynamic is crucial for fantasy managers who need to balance star power with active performers. Keeping an eye on these shifts will be key in maximizing your fantasy roster as the season winds down.