NHL Fantasy Picks: Best Starts, Sits & Value Plays — 2026-05-21

Welcome back, DFS fanatics! It’s another pivotal week on the NHL slate, and your friends at SportsPulse.com are here to cut through the noise and deliver the actionable picks you need to dominate your DraftKings and FanDuel contests. Forget the chalk, let’s talk strategy.

Top 3 Players to START This Week

1. Nathan MacKinnon (Colorado Avalanche): MacKinnon is an absolute must-start. He's been on a tear, averaging over 5 shots per game and racking up 10 points in his last five outings. Facing several teams with bottom-tier penalty kills and suspect goaltending this week, MacKinnon's elite shot volume, power-play prowess, and consistent multi-point upside make him the safest high-ceiling play available. Lock him in. 2. Cale Makar (Colorado Avalanche): Double down on the Avs! Makar continues to be a fantasy cheat code from the blue line. He's recorded points in four of his last five games, including two multi-point efforts, while consistently delivering blocks and shots on goal. As the quarterback of one of the league's most potent power plays, his floor is incredibly high, and his ceiling rivals top-tier forwards. 3. David Pastrnak (Boston Bruins): Pasta is cooking. He’s scored in three of his last four games, firing an astonishing 23 shots over that span. His high volume shooting is a DFS dream, especially when he’s converting at this rate. With the Bruins facing a couple of teams prone to giving up high-danger chances and power-play opportunities, Pastrnak is primed for another massive week.

Top 2 Players to SIT/BENCH This Week

1. Tage Thompson (Buffalo Sabres): Despite his pedigree, Thompson has been struggling to find his rhythm. He has just one point in his last four games, and his shot volume has dipped significantly, failing to register more than two shots in three of those contests. With a tough schedule ahead, his high salary and current cold streak make him a significant risk relative to his potential output. 2. Jack Hughes (New Jersey Devils): Hughes is undoubtedly talented, but his recent production hasn't matched his premium price tag. He has only one goal and three assists in his last six games, and the Devils' offense has been inconsistent. Facing a couple of stingy defensive teams this week, Hughes carries a high ownership percentage but a lower ceiling than usual, making him a fade in favor of more reliable options.

Two Value/Bargain Plays Under Salary Cap

1. Cole Caufield (Montreal Canadiens): Caufield is starting to heat up, evidenced by his recent goal against Buffalo and his consistent shot volume. He’s often overlooked due to Montreal’s overall struggles, but he plays top-line minutes and sees significant power-play time. At his current salary, his potential for goals and shots makes him an excellent value target. 2. Alex Killorn (Anaheim Ducks): Killorn is a sneaky value play. Despite playing on a rebuilding Ducks team, he's seeing significant minutes on the top line and power play. He’s tallied points in three of his last five games and consistently provides decent shot volume. Against teams that often allow plenty

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