On January 8, 2026, the NHL presents an exciting lineup of twelve games. Among the standout opportunities for daily fantasy sports (DFS) players are key stacks, value plays, and goalie targets.
Top Stack of the Day
The Colorado Avalanche Power Play 1 featuring Valeri Nichushkin, Brock Nelson, Martin Necas, Nathan MacKinnon, and Cale Makar is the top stack to focus on. They are matched against the Ottawa Senators, whose goaltender situation has become precarious. Mads Sogaard, currently at the AHL level, will be stepping in, increasing the Avalanche’s chances for success.
Top Value Stack of the Day
For value, consider the Boston Bruins players excluding David Pastrnak. Currently, Pastrnak holds a high projected ownership of around 22% due to a favorable matchup. However, given his salary of $8,800 on DraftKings, other Bruins players may offer better value. Keep an eye on shifting line combinations, but players like Fraser Minten and Elias Lindholm, priced at $2,800 and $4,400 respectively, may produce solid returns.
Key Players to Watch
- Evan Rodrigues, Florida Panthers ($3,800 DK): Rodrigues has recently found himself back on the top power play, making him a suitable boom/bust option.
- Freddy Gaudreau, Seattle Kraken ($3,000 DK): Gaudreau faces his former team, the Minnesota Wild, and has been a reliable contributor in a top-six role.
- Sam Malinski, Colorado Avalanche ($2,900 DK): A low-cost defenseman with significant offensive upside, Malinski could benefit from increased playtime due to injuries on the team.
- Connor Hellebuyck, Winnipeg Jets ($7,200 DK): Hellebuyck is at a bargain price for a top-tier goalie, facing the Edmonton Oilers in a pick’em matchup.
Matchup Insights
Tonight’s games are set against varying levels of competition. With the Avalanche favored heavily against Ottawa, they present one of the best opportunities for scoring.
In contrast, the Bruins’ uncertain line combinations may lead to unexpected contributions from lesser-known players, making them an intriguing option. Meanwhile, the Jets are looking to bounce back and should not be overlooked in goalie selections.
With these insights, draft your fantasy lineups wisely for an action-packed NHL slate. Focus on stacking effectively, leveraging solid value options, and considering goalies who can turn potential into points.
