In a thrilling overtime showdown, Tim Stutzle found the back of the net just 46 seconds into the extra period, securing a 4-3 victory for the Ottawa Senators against the Chicago Blackhawks. Stutzle's decisive goal came on a deflected shot off his skate after a swift rush into the zone. Captain Brady Tkachuk opened the scoring for Ottawa with his 24th goal of the season, while David Perron and Josh Norris also contributed goals. For Chicago, Ryan Donato scored his 100th career goal and is currently on a scoring streak, marking his fourth goal in three games. Teuvo Teravainen and Craig Smith added to the Blackhawks' tally. Ottawa dominated faceoffs, winning 57.8%, and will face the New York Rangers next, while Chicago prepares to host Utah.

As NHL DFS action heats up on March 5, 2025, key players are positioned to make a significant impact in both GPP and cash-game contests. Goaltender Jordan Binnington (CHI) offers great value at $7.4K on DraftKings, especially against the struggling Los Angeles Kings. Fellow goalie Spencer Knight (CHI) also stands out at $7.2K, providing a dual opportunity for fantasy managers. At center, Ryan Donato (CHI) is noted for his recent scoring streak, boasting 22 goals this season, enhancing his appeal against the Ottawa Senators.

Meanwhile, Connor McMichael (WSH) is a must-pick at wing, capitalizing on a significant pricing discrepancy on DraftKings. Defenseman Philip Broberg (CHI), who showcases solid performance metrics, is another strong addition to lineups. This slate also includes various stacks and optimal plays designed to bolster fantasy success. Analyze matchups and lineup configurations carefully to maximize returns this evening.

Ryan Donato has emerged as a key player for the Chicago Blackhawks, showcasing versatility and impressive performance with 22 goals and 45 points in just 59 games, alongside a notable five-game point streak. His consistent contributions have garnered interest from multiple teams as the trade deadline approaches. At 28, Donato is expected to be dealt as a rental player, likely fetching a second-round draft pick due to his low salary cap hit of $2 million, making him an appealing option for playoff contenders seeking depth.

Despite his pending unrestricted free agency after this season, his current form suggests he could significantly impact any team willing to invest in him. As Chicago weighs their options, the focus remains on maximizing his value before the deadline while acknowledging his career-high stats this season.

As the NHL regular season winds down, savvy fantasy managers are eyeing the playoff push and ways to maximize their rosters. With many teams inactive at times, identifying the most active squads can provide a tactical edge. The New Jersey Devils lead the charge with seven games in March when others are off, making their players highly valuable.

The Minnesota Wild, Anaheim Ducks, and Toronto Maple Leafs also show promise with six games each. For those looking to bolster their rosters, players like Logan Cooley and Barrett Hayton from the Utah Hockey Club and Ryan Donato from the Chicago Blackhawks offer intriguing options for scoring boosts. As the season intensifies, even underperforming players like Stefan Noesen from the Devils can regain form with increased ice time.

The Detroit Red Wings are facing a significant setback with Andrew Copp's season-ending surgery, complicating their playoff hopes for the first time since the 2015-16 season. To compensate for Copp's absence, Detroit is considering a trade for Chicago Blackhawks' Ryan Donato as they look for an affordable replacement.

While Donato's role will differ from Copp's, he could provide valuable contributions to the Red Wings' playoff push. The Blackhawks may seek a third-round pick for Donato, but if he doesn't secure a new contract, they must act before the trade deadline to maximize his value. This scenario creates an interesting dynamic for both teams as they navigate their rosters amidst playoff aspirations and rebuilding efforts.