As the fantasy hockey season approaches, players are looking for strategies to maximize their rosters. One of the most critical roles in this pursuit is the goaltender position, specifically identifying top goaltending timeshares.
Understanding Goaltending Timeshares in Fantasy Hockey
Goaltending tandems, where two goalies share the starting position, have become increasingly common in the NHL. This shift has significantly impacted fantasy hockey statistics and strategies. In contrast to earlier seasons, the trend showcases a decline in heavy workload goaltenders. Analyzing data from recent seasons reveals noteworthy changes.
Crease Share Statistics Over Time
A historical comparison shows a downward trend in crease share among leading fantasy goalies. The following data summarizes the number of goalies and their crease share over two distinct periods:
| Season Period | Average Crease Share (%) | Average Wins | Average Fantasy Points | % of Goalies with 75%+ Crease Share | % of Goalies with 65%+ Crease Share |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009-10 to 2016-17 | 74.1 | 35.2 | 215.7 | 25 | 54.2 |
| 2017-18 to 2024-25 | 65.0 | 32.6 | 181.2 | 7.9 | 33.3 |
Notably, the average crease share of a top-12 fantasy goalie decreased from 74.1% to 65.0% post-expansion. This change indicates a more diverse distribution of goalie usage among teams.
Key Goaltending Performers
Among the goalies showcasing classic No. 1 performance, Connor Hellebuyck and Andrei Vasilevskiy stand out, each achieving over 75% crease share multiple times in recent seasons. Their reliability positions them as top choices in fantasy drafts:
- Connor Hellebuyck – 2024-25: Elite performance in wins and fantasy points.
- Andrei Vasilevskiy – Consistent high crease share, making him a coveted pick.
- Juuse Saros and Carey Price also demonstrate strong potential as frequent starters.
Evaluating Future Goaltending Options
As the new season looms, several goaltenders are likely to share responsibilities. It’s important to assess their recent performances for better fantasy choices:
- Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen: 64.8% crease share and noted upside, pending team competitiveness.
- Elvis Merzlikins: 64.3% crease share, strong potential but faces increased competition.
- Adin Hill: 59.7% crease share, showing promise in Vegas with limited competition.
Moreover, the effectiveness of these goaltenders in fantasy leagues depends on their teams and how they adapt to the increasingly prevalent timeshare model. Monitoring preseason performance and health status will be crucial for fantasy managers identifying potential breakout stars.
Conclusion
As fantasy hockey leagues unfold, understanding goaltending timeshares will be vital. Identifying goaltenders who will shoulder the workload can lead to significant advantages. Stay informed, analyze trends, and position your fantasy roster for success this season with El-Balad’s comprehensive coverage.
