NHL Preseason Wrap: Fantasy Prep, Injuries

The NHL preseason is wrapping up ahead of the Oct. 7 regular-season opener, with analysts warning of widespread regression after many players fell off in 2024–25 and shooting-percentage variance likely driving several double-digit drops in goals or points. Washington projects a 1A/1B goalie split between Logan Thompson and Charlie Lindgren, with Lindgren having signed a three-year deal and positioned as a reliable backup if Thompson falters. Alex Ovechkin is expected to top 30 goals again though not replicate peak totals, and Colorado’s prospect pipeline is thinner after trades and late draft slots, though prospects Curran and newly drafted defenseman Linus Funck are ones to monitor. Patrick Kane’s season could be defined by milestone goals and a possible U.S. Olympic bid, while Florida’s bid for a three‑peat has been dented by key injuries. Fantasy draft resources from NHL.com, The Athletic and Yahoo are being promoted for draft prep, and college hockey headlines include Western Michigan defending its title and Michigan State adjusting to the loss of Isaac Howard.