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 Winnipeg Jets faced off against the Philadelphia Flyers and concluded the game in a shootout, with a final score of 2-1 in favor of the Flyers. Despite the loss, Jets' head coach Scott Arniel commended his team's effort, acknowledging the impressive performance of Flyers' goaltender Ivan Fedotov, who made 29 saves. The Jets, holding the NHL's best record at 42-15-3, were unable to capitalize on numerous opportunities, reflecting their struggles on power plays, now 0-for-16 in the last six games. Mark Scheifele managed to score for Winnipeg, but rookie Matvei Michkov's decisive backhand shot in the shootout sealed the Jets' fate. This loss followed another narrow defeat against the Nashville Predators, thus ending Winnipeg's franchise-record winning streak.

Rookie Matvei Michkov's decisive backhand shot in the shootout sealed a 2-1 victory for the Philadelphia Flyers over the Winnipeg Jets. This win not only marked the Flyers' fifth consecutive game with points but also highlighted Jamie Drysdale's equalizing goal early in the second period. Ivan Fedotov showcased his skills with 30 saves, while Connor Hellebuyck made 31 stops for the Jets, who struggled to capitalize on several scoring opportunities. Mark Scheifele scored the lone goal for Winnipeg, but despite their efforts, including a power play advantage late in the game, they fell short. This result extends the Jets' winless streak against the Flyers to four games.

Rookie Matvei Michkov clinched a thrilling 2-1 shootout victory for the Philadelphia Flyers against the Winnipeg Jets, scoring the decisive backhand shot past Connor Hellebuyck. This win extends the Flyers' point streak to five games, showcasing their recent resurgence. Jamie Drysdale tied the game with a high shot that hit both posts and went in during the second period. The Jets, despite leading initially with Mark Scheifele's 34th goal of the season, could not capitalize on several chances, including missed breakaways. Ivan Fedotov was stellar for the Flyers, stopping 30 shots, while Hellebuyck recorded 31 saves.