As the NHL season kicks off, fantasy enthusiasts can dive into a thrilling 10-game slate on April 1, 2025. With teams like Ottawa, Anaheim, and Vegas boasting high implied totals, strategic lineup construction is key. Notable goalie picks include Elvis Merzlikins, showcasing potential for positive regression despite recent struggles, and Adin Hill facing the Edmonton Oilers. Among forwards, Aleksander Barkov and Nikita Kucherov lead the charge with solid recent performances, while Alexander Wennberg offers exceptional value.

For defensemen, Jackson LaCombe is highlighted for his impressive form, making him a valuable asset against the San Jose Sharks. Keep an eye on injury updates and news to make informed decisions, and utilize RotoBaller's tools for enhanced analysis and lineup optimization.

Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning earned the title of NHL's First Star for the week ending March 30, leading the league with 11 points in three games. He propelled the Lightning to a strong standing in the Atlantic Division, showcasing his playmaking skills with multiple assists and a goal in key victories. Roope Hintz of the Dallas Stars was named Second Star, contributing significantly with nine points over four games, helping his team secure a playoff berth. Connor Hellebuyck, the Winnipeg Jets' goaltender, claimed the Third Star, posting a perfect record and impressive save percentages, which solidified the Jets' position at the top of the standings.

Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning has been named one of the NHL's three stars of the week, leading the league with 11 points from three goals and eight assists. This performance helped the Lightning climb to second place in the Atlantic Division, where Kucherov is tied atop the scoring race with Nathan MacKinnon, each with 109 points.

Alongside him, Roope Hintz of the Dallas Stars achieved nine points through two goals and seven assists, contributing to the Stars clinching a playoff berth and maintaining a five-game winning streak. Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets also made headlines, going 3-0-0 with a 1.00 goals-against average and a .961 save percentage, securing one shutout and assisting the Jets in clinching their third consecutive playoff appearance.

Roope Hintz of the Dallas Stars has been named the NHL's second star of the week for his outstanding performance from March 24-30. He racked up an impressive 9 points over four games, including 2 goals and 7 assists, helping the Stars secure their fourth consecutive playoff berth. Hintz's consistent scoring has been pivotal in their five-game winning streak that began on March 22. For the 2024-25 season, he boasts a noteworthy 27 goals and 37 assists, marking his fourth consecutive season with over 60 points.

In the same week, Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning took the first star honor, while Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets was recognized as the third star. This recognition highlights the competitive landscape of the NHL as teams gear up for the playoffs.

Sidney Crosby's latest achievement further solidifies his legacy as he clinched his 20th career point-per-game season, surpassing Wayne Gretzky's record, and extending his point streak to nine games. Meanwhile, Nikita Kucherov spearheaded the Tampa Bay Lightning's impressive eight-goal game, contributing four points and passing Steven Stamkos for a franchise record. Dylan Holloway's two goals helped the St. Louis Blues extend their winning streak, as they vie for playoff positioning alongside the Minnesota Wild, who continue to thrive with standout performances.

As the playoff race intensifies, numerous teams are jostling for position, with the last games of the regular season set to shape the field for the Stanley Cup playoffs. The upcoming debut of Brad Marchand for the Panthers adds another layer of intrigue as the Florida franchise looks to maintain their competitive edge against the likes of Toronto and Ottawa. The stakes could not be higher as teams fight for the postseason.