NHL DFS: Top DraftKings Picks and Strategy for February 4
The NHL’s Olympic break is just around the corner, and the upcoming matchups create an exciting opportunity for daily fantasy sports (DFS) enthusiasts. A total of ten games will take place on February 4, starting at 7 p.m. ET, making it a vibrant night for NHL DFS contests. Here’s a look at the lineup recommendations for this busy slate.
NHL DFS Slate Overview
For this slate, three teams are entering game two of a back-to-back situation. The Columbus Blue Jackets will face the Chicago Blackhawks at home. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers go head-to-head with the Calgary Flames in a fierce Battle of Alberta. Lastly, the Seattle Kraken will take on the Los Angeles Kings during their back-to-back matchup.
Top Goalie Picks
- Mackenzie Blackwood, COL vs. SAN ($8,300): After a rough start, Blackwood’s last four games show a .953 save percentage. The Sharks struggle offensively, averaging just 25.5 shots on goal per game.
- Jake Oettinger, DAL vs. STL ($8,200): Oettinger has a 2.49 goals-against average across eight starts, securing six wins. The St. Louis Blues rank last in both goals and shots on net per game, bolstering Oettinger’s chances for success.
- Darcy Kuemper, LOS vs. SEA ($8,000): With a .902 save percentage and facing a Seattle team that is low in shot volume, Kuemper is likely to find himself with a lighter workload on this busy night.
Value Plays and One-Offs
- Kevin Fiala, LOS vs. SEA ($5,000): Fiala has accumulated 15 power-play points this season, making him a key player against Seattle’s struggling penalty kill.
- Tyler Bertuzzi, CHI at CLM ($4,800): Playing on the top line alongside Connor Bedard, Bertuzzi has recorded three assists in his past two games. The Blue Jackets’ defense gives him a promising matchup.
- Matthew Coronato, CGY vs. EDM ($4,400): Coronato has been firing shots, with 19 over the last four games. The Oilers’ inconsistent goaltending presents an opportunity for him to score.
Forward Line Stacks to Consider
Golden Knights vs. Canucks
- Mitch Marner, Mark Stone, Pavel Dorofeyev: With the Canucks allowing 3.63 goals per game and struggling on the penalty kill, this stacked line offers great potential. Marner is on a three-game scoring streak, while Stone leads in power-play points.
Stars vs. Blues
- Roope Hintz, Jason Robertson, Mavrik Bourque: This trio benefits from playing together on the top power-play unit. Hintz is on pace for another strong season, and Robertson has already reached 30 goals this year.
Defensemen to Watch
- Rasmus Andersson, VGK vs. VAN ($5,500): Andersson has managed three points and 12 blocked shots in six games. His role should increase against the Canucks’ weak defense.
- Brandt Clarke, LOS vs. SEA ($4,400): Clarke has been solid, with four of his eight points coming on the power play. His success against the Canucks’ poor penalty kill makes him a valuable asset.
- Josh Manson, COL vs. SAN ($3,700): Manson has 23 points this season and is well-positioned to capitalize against the Sharks, who allow 30.4 shots on goal per game and face a high goals-against average of 3.48.
This slate presents ample opportunities for players looking to capitalize on favorable matchups. As NHL DFS contests heat up, making informed picks can lead to a successful night.
