Fantasy Hockey Mailbag: It's time to talk about Joe Pavelski's stellar season

Thirty-seven-year-old Joe Pavelski has 48 points in 40 games, let’s start talking about it!

Quite frankly, it’s a conversation that’s long overdue. Notwithstanding his first season with Dallas, the American forward has been the model of consistency over his distinguished career.

It’s just not really talked about much. And that’s okay. Bottom line, you can’t win a fantasy championship without some unsung heroes like Little Joe.

Meanwhile, players like Pavelski are just as crucial to roster in the Sportsnet Fantasy Hockey Pool. In a 30-point cap system, the key is to find the perfect combination of value and production. Essentially, you’re looking for the best bang for your buck.

Now to your questions:

@felixapoitevin asks: Should I target Pavelski? Is his pace sustainable?

Unequivocally, considering everything I just wrote about him, the answer is yes.

For many years now, the vet has flown completely under the radar in the fantasy world. I mean, he’s coming off a season where he potted 25 goals and 51 points in 56 games. The man is getting better with age, like a fine wine.

Furthermore, I’m intrigued to see what that next contract looks like. Clearly, I’m a huge believer, and you should be, too.

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@darwinadam2 ask: Ullmark or Rask ?

For me, this is a tricky one to answer, at least right now.

Personally, the slow start was expected, so I will continue to give Rask the benefit of the doubt over the next little while as he continues to get back into game shape. After all, he’s coming off a pretty serious surgery.

Despite the fact that he’s been downright dreadful so far, I still like Rask over Ullmark for rest-of-season purposes. I mean, there’s a reason why they brought him back and elected to demote the great Jeremy Swayman, right?

@UnderTheSun2021 asks: Should I keep Hornqvist or Dadanov?

I prefer the former.

Regardless of where he plays in that stacked Panthers lineup, Hornqvist always seems to provide a little something something for his fantasy owners. I love how versatile he is. As for Dadonov, he’s only really fantasy relevant when he’s skating in the top-six. Long-term, assuming Vegas returns to full health in the coming weeks, the Russian winger figures to settle back into a tertiary role. He could even be dealt; who knows.

Give me Hornqvist.

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@MilyVanilly asks: Can Vejmelka get traded to a contender? Need him on a good team. How about to my Washington Capitals?

At this point, I’d say it’s highly unlikely that he’ll be on the move between now and the trade deadline. In fact, recent reports around the league suggest that the Coyotes have actually opened up contract extension talks with Vejmelka’s camp. What a story.

@VTecOverseer asks: Hoping to grab Husso or Spurgeon. But which one to scoop?? Not a fan of carrying three goalies though, I have Sorokin and Saros (Not dropping either)

The only play here that makes sense is to carry three goalies and pick up Husso. End of story.

@MrRedWings1991 asks: Is it time to pick up and stash Vrana ? Whats the latest buzz around the league you’ve heard about his return

If you have the roster room, I’d definitely consider doing it.

That being said, I expect the Red Wings to exercise patience with Vrana’s recovery. They’re not making the playoffs this season, so there’s no point in rushing him back.

Once he’s able to return, though, I’m intrigued to see what he can bring to the table. I would love to see Vrana with the likes of Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond. Can’t wait!

@ribs_x asks: Toffoli or Seguin? For the 2nd half of the season. Both had slow starts.

Even though he’s been a massive anchor so far this season, I’d still be inclined to side with Seguin. Slowly but surely, the 29-year-old has shown signs of breaking out lately with six points in his past five games. Baby steps, right?

As for Montreal, I just have no clue what to expect from them on a nightly basis. They’re about to start selling, which undoubtedly won’t help anyone’s stock on that roster moving forward.

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@itsBeckz asks: Severson has been a plug and play with Dougie gone, how much value do you think he’ll retain when Dougie comes back?

Unfortunately, I think the writing is on the wall for Severson once Hamilton is ready to return. After all, there’s a reason why the Devils paid him the big bucks in the off-season. For now, just ride the hot hand while it lasts.

@jps5976 asks: Looking for your opinion here please…goalies are Bob, Campbell, Talbot, Binnington and Rask – would you drop either Talbot or Rask to pick up Husso and secure the STL tandem?

Truthfully, I think you’re pretty set in goal. If you’re steadfast on adding Husso, however, I’d feel moderately comfortable dropping Rask for him. He’s on a tear.

@BostonDiGiorgio asks: Understand it depends on team’s needs but. Rust for Dahlin. Who wins? Dynasty league.

For me, it’s the Dahlin side. He’s 21, Rust is 29. On top of that, it’s hard to find consistent contributors on the back end these days. When it comes to dynasty leagues, the age factor should weigh heavily on any decision you’re tasked with making. Youth is the name of the game.

@StopHenryTime asks: Is Ivan Barbashev still worth rostering? Or was his success a flash in the pan? Should I drop him and hit the wire?

I’d give it a couple more games before pulling the trigger, this could just be a cold spell. Monitor closely.

@PatatLFPress asks: Darcy Kuemper – keep long-term or cash out now?

Hold onto Kuemper. The way I see it, his fantasy value can only go upward from here. If you elect to trade him, I’m not sure you’ll be able to get the value you deserve, especially considering where you likely drafted him.

For what it’s worth, I expect Kuemper to have a monster second half and pull away from Pavel Francouz when it comes to the number-one goalie debate.

Be patient.