As the NHL trade deadline approaches, many teams are assessing their rosters, but certain players are emerging as key contributors that are likely to stay put. Matvei Michkov of the Philadelphia Flyers has formed a dynamic line with Owen Tippett and Sean Couturier, leading the league in shot attempts and demonstrating solid offensive capabilities since returning from the 4 Nations break.

Quinton Byfield, playing alongside Kevin Fiala for the Los Angeles Kings, is making waves as well, contributing to impressive goal-scoring while maintaining strong shot attempt rates. In Seattle, Shane Wright's line has been equally effective, with him racking up 14 points in the last 12 games. Meanwhile, Adam Fantilli for the Columbus Blue Jackets is showcasing significant growth on the ice while navigating potential lineup changes with Sean Monahan’s impending return.

In goalie news, Pyotr Kochetkov and Frederik Andersen are sharing duties for the Carolina Hurricanes, with Kochetkov emerging as a more valuable fantasy option. Elvis Merzlikins is surprisingly among the top 23 goaltenders in fantasy points for the Blue Jackets, while teams like the Chicago Blackhawks and New Jersey Devils are looking at their netminders’ performances as the season progresses.

As the NHL season progresses, fantasy managers should keep a keen eye on rising talents available on the waiver wire. Matvei Michkov of the Philadelphia Flyers is making headlines with 10 points in his last six games, showcasing his potential as a Calder Trophy contender. Meanwhile, Valeri Nichushkin has re-entered the fantasy conversation with a strong performance since his return to the Colorado Avalanche, commanding attention after scoring in his first game back.

Adam Fantilli continues to be a valuable asset for the Columbus Blue Jackets, delivering consistent point production with seven goals and seven assists over his last 13 games, while Shane Wright of the Seattle Kraken is proving his worth with a solid offensive run, leading his team in scoring over the last month.

On the blue line, Alex Vlasic of the Chicago Blackhawks is stepping up significantly, anchoring the top power play unit and contributing offensively. Boston's Mason Lohrei is also worth a grab, thriving on the power play while Charlie McAvoy is sidelined.

In goal, Anthony Stolarz could see increased playing time for the Toronto Maple Leafs, especially with Joseph Woll's recent struggles. Karel Vejmelka is also a name to consider as he keeps his team competitive on a push for the playoffs.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have not engaged in serious trade discussions with the Vancouver Canucks regarding star players Elias Pettersson or J.T. Miller. Despite some initial conversations, the Blue Jackets are focused on developing their young centers, including Adam Fantilli, Cole Sillinger, and promising prospect Cayden Lindstrom.

With the NHL salary cap projected to rise significantly by 2027, players like Dylan Cozens may become more attractive trade targets due to their cost certainty. The Canucks have Carson Soucy available, with speculation surrounding potential interest from teams like the Calgary Flames, who are keen on assessing Ilya Solovyov's performance.

Further, the trade landscape is shifting, with various teams like the New Jersey Devils and Toronto Maple Leafs exploring options to bolster their rosters ahead of significant contract negotiations.

Tony DeAngelo scored just 33 seconds into overtime, securing a thrilling 3-2 victory for the New York Islanders against the Tampa Bay Lightning. This win marked the Islanders' impressive seventh consecutive victory. Kyle Palmieri and Adam Boqvist also found the net for New York, while goaltender Ilya Sorokin made 28 saves to maintain the lead. The Lightning's Nikita Kucherov equalized with less than a minute left in regulation, after Jake Guentzel had opened the scoring earlier in the game. Guentzel's strong performance continues as he collects his 26th goal of the season.

Guentzel's initial goal came from a tip-in following Erik Cernak's shot. Boqvist, making his debut with the Islanders after being claimed off waivers, tied the game late in the second period with a follow-up after a breakaway attempt by Mat Barzal. Palmieri's goal in the third had put New York ahead, but Kucherov's late equalizer forced overtime. The Islanders continue their strong season as they prepare for their next matchup against the Florida Panthers.

Cole Sillinger returned to the lineup after an upper-body injury to score the game-winning goal just 52 seconds into overtime, leading the Columbus Blue Jackets to a 2-1 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights. Adam Fantilli, in his 100th NHL game, also scored for Columbus, while Elvis Merzlikins made 25 saves. Tomas Hertl netted his 20th goal of the season for Vegas, extending his point streak to 11 games. Despite a strong start from the Golden Knights, Columbus held strong defensively and secured a crucial win, maintaining their competitive edge with points in 10 of their last 12 games.

The Golden Knights and the Edmonton Oilers are now tied for first place in the Pacific Division with 68 points. Meanwhile, Merzlikins' victory marked his 87th career win, tying him with Joonas Korpisalo for third-most in Blue Jackets history. Columbus now prepares to face Utah, while Vegas heads to New York to take on the Rangers.