As the NHL regular season winds down, savvy fantasy managers are eyeing the playoff push and ways to maximize their rosters. With many teams inactive at times, identifying the most active squads can provide a tactical edge. The New Jersey Devils lead the charge with seven games in March when others are off, making their players highly valuable.

The Minnesota Wild, Anaheim Ducks, and Toronto Maple Leafs also show promise with six games each. For those looking to bolster their rosters, players like Logan Cooley and Barrett Hayton from the Utah Hockey Club and Ryan Donato from the Chicago Blackhawks offer intriguing options for scoring boosts. As the season intensifies, even underperforming players like Stefan Noesen from the Devils can regain form with increased ice time.

As the March 7 NHL trade deadline approaches, teams are evaluating their rosters, with many seeking to trade veterans for future assets while others look to enhance their playoff chances. Among the notable pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs) likely to be moved before the deadline are Brock Nelson of the New York Islanders, David Savard from the Montreal Canadiens, and Nick Bjugstad of the Utah Hockey Club. Each player brings a unique skill set and playoff experience that could significantly impact a contending team.

Brock Nelson, with a $6 million cap hit, has been an integral part of the Islanders' lineup and boasts a respectable 36 points this season. David Savard, despite a lower point total, offers invaluable playoff experience, particularly from his time helping the Tampa Bay Lightning secure the Stanley Cup. Meanwhile, Nick Bjugstad has proven himself in the postseason, making him an appealing trade target for teams looking to bolster their forward depth. Other UFAs like Brock Boeser and Jake Evans are also generating trade interest due to their offensive capabilities and strong two-way play, respectively.

The Chicago Blackhawks continue to struggle this season, sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference's Central Division with 17 wins and 41 points. They face off against the Utah Hockey Club, which is hovering around .500 in its inaugural season. Hockey fans looking to place wagers can take advantage of the BetMGM Illinois bonus code ROTOSPORTS, offering a first-bet promotion of up to $1,500. This opportunity is particularly appealing with the NHL draft lottery looming for the Blackhawks, who are likely to be in contention for top prospects like Conor Bedard, currently on pace for a remarkable first season. With a month and a half left in the NHL regular season, the action heats up for bettors looking to capitalize on upcoming games.

The Utah Hockey Club is gearing up for the March 7 NHL trade deadline with a determined mindset. General Manager Bill Armstrong indicates that the team has already made significant trades earlier in the season, and their current focus is on assessing the team's performance as they continue to compete. According to head coach Andre Tourigny, the objective is to secure wins leading up to the deadline. If the team is positioned within striking distance of a playoff spot, it opens the door for potential moves.

On the other hand, the St. Louis Blues are assessing their roster as they prepare for the same deadline. Analyst Jeremy Rutherford highlights players deemed untouchable, such as Robert Thomas and Colton Parayko, and evaluates others who could be traded depending on the right deal. The Blues' stability hinges on their ability to navigate the market effectively while considering their long-term goals.