NHL Fantasy Picks: Best Starts, Sits & Value Plays — 2026-05-24

Welcome back to the SportsPulse.com DFS Zone, where we give you the edge you need to dominate your DraftKings and FanDuel lineups. After another exciting week of NHL action, including Carolina's tight 3-2 win over Montreal, it's time to identify the players who will make or break your fantasy week. Let's dive into the picks!

Top 3 Players to START This Week

1. Nathan MacKinnon (Colorado Avalanche, F): MacKinnon is an absolute force right now, and you simply cannot fade him. He's riding a 6-game point streak, racking up 12 points (5G, 7A) in that span, with a staggering average of 6 shots per game. His ice time is consistently over 20 minutes, and he quarterbacks the league's most dangerous power play. With a favorable schedule featuring teams prone to giving up high-danger chances, MacKinnon is a must-start on both platforms. 2. Roman Josi (Nashville Predators, D): The veteran blueliner is heating up, reminding everyone why he's an elite fantasy defenseman. Josi has notched 8 points in his last 5 games, including 5 assists on the power play. He's averaging over 25 minutes of ice time and consistently provides a high floor with 3+ shots and 2+ blocked shots per contest. His offensive surge and secure role on the Predators' top unit make him a high-upside play against several middle-of-the-road defensive teams this week. 3. Connor Hellebuyck (Winnipeg Jets, G): Hellebuyck continues to be one of the most reliable goaltenders in the league, and this week's matchups align perfectly. He boasts a sparkling 2.05 GAA and a .925 SV% over his last five starts, securing three wins and a shutout. The Jets play teams that tend to generate a decent volume of shots, giving Hellebuyck ample opportunities for high save totals, which is crucial for DFS scoring. Lock

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