The Colorado Avalanche are gearing up for the 2026-27 NHL season, and fantasy hockey managers are already scouring the latest projections to gain an edge. With a roster brimming with elite talent and a few intriguing question marks, the Avs offer a mix of safe high-floor picks and high-upside sleepers. Here's a breakdown of the key fantasy storylines and player projections for the upcoming campaign, based on the latest data from NHL.com.

Elite Core: MacKinnon and Makar Remain Cornerstones

At the heart of any Avalanche fantasy draft strategy are the two superstars: Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar. MacKinnon, a perennial Hart Trophy contender, continues to be a fantasy force, driving shots, goals, and assists at an elite rate. His combination of power-play production and even-strength dominance makes him a top-three pick in virtually every format.

Makar, meanwhile, is arguably the most valuable defenseman in fantasy hockey. His ability to contribute in every category — goals, assists, power-play points, shots, and plus/minus — sets him apart. With the Avalanche likely to lean heavily on him again, expect another 70-plus point season, with the potential for even more if the power play clicks from day one.

Projected Stat Lines for the Stars

  • Nathan MacKinnon: 115+ points, 40+ goals, 350+ shots
  • Cale Makar: 75+ points, 20+ goals, 250+ shots

These projections are in line with their recent production and assume good health. If either misses significant time, the ripple effect on the entire lineup will be substantial.

Secondary Scoring: Who Steps Up Behind the Big Two?

While MacKinnon and Makar will anchor most fantasy rosters, the Avalanche's secondary scorers could provide excellent value in the middle rounds. Mikko Rantanen remains a premier winger, though his role may shift slightly depending on line combinations. Still, expect another 90-point pace, with heavy usage on the top power-play unit.

Beyond Rantanen, the picture is less certain. Players like Artturi Lehkonen and Valeri Nichushkin (if he returns) offer physical play and scoring touch, but their fantasy value hinges on deployment. Lehkonen, in particular, could be a sneaky pick if he lands on MacKinnon's wing, as he did during the Stanley Cup run.

Breakout Candidates to Watch

  • Casey Mittelstadt: After a full season in Colorado, he could finally hit 60 points if he centering a scoring line.
  • Ross Colton: A solid dual-threat option who may see increased power-play time.
  • Rookie Defenseman: Keep an eye on any young blueliner competing for a top-four role, as Makar's presence opens up opportunities.

Fantasy managers should also monitor the goaltending situation. With Alexandar Georgiev expected to be the starter, his workload will be heavy, but his ratios may suffer if the team's defensive play slips. A backup like Justus Annunen could be a deep-league sleeper if he earns more starts.

Power Play and Deployment: The Key to Value

One of the most crucial factors in Avalanche fantasy value is power-play usage. The top unit will likely feature MacKinnon, Rantanen, Makar, and possibly Lehkonen or another winger. Players who crack this unit will see a massive boost in production. Keep an eye on training camp battles — a surprise addition to PP1 could become a fantasy steal.

Even-strength deployment matters too. Head coach Jared Bednar tends to roll four lines, but he leans heavily on his stars in tight games. That means MacKinnon and Makar will see 22+ minutes per night, while third-liners may see less consistent ice time. For depth players, target those who kill penalties or win faceoffs, as they may offer peripheral stats.

Risk Factors and Sleepers

Injury history is a concern for several Avalanche players. MacKinnon has been durable lately, but Makar has missed time in the past. Rantanen has also had occasional lower-body issues. Fantasy managers should factor in the possibility of load management, especially if the team secures a playoff spot early.

Among sleepers, Ivan Ivan (if he makes the roster) could be a late-round flier, given his offensive instincts. Similarly, Miles Wood might offer hits and shots if he stays healthy. But the most intriguing sleeper is Nikolai Kovalenko, a Russian winger who has impressed in limited action — he could be a waiver-wire gem.

Key Takeaways

  • Draft MacKinnon and Makar early — they are the foundation of any championship-caliber fantasy team.
  • Target Rantanen in the second round if he falls, as he provides elite winger stats.
  • Monitor the power-play units during training camp to identify value picks.
  • Be cautious with Avalanche goaltending — Georgiev is a volume play, not a ratio stabilizer.
  • Watch for breakout candidates like Mittelstadt and Kovalenko in deeper leagues.

The Avalanche are poised for another strong season, and their fantasy projections reflect that. By understanding the team's dynamics and targeting the right players, you can build a winning roster. For more detailed projections, check out the original report from NHL.com.