NHL Defensemen on the Rise: Fantasy Hockey Breakouts for 2025

Breakout performances on the blue line can be subtle compared to forwards, often manifesting through increased ice time, power-play opportunities, and physical stats that translate into fantasy points. Identifying these players early can give you a significant edge in your fantasy hockey draft.

Key Factors for Breakout Defensemen

• Age and Experience: Historical data shows that defensemen typically break out between 22.93 and 26.77 years old, with an average of 257 games played.
• Fantasy Points Per Game (FPPG): A median of 1.89 FPPG is the threshold for a breakout season.
• Opportunity: Increased roles, such as power-play time or top-pairing minutes, are crucial for defensemen to make a fantasy impact.

Top Defensemen to Watch in 2025

1. Bowen Byram, Buffalo Sabres: At 24.2 years old and with 1.48 FPPG in 246 games, Byram has the potential to thrive alongside Rasmus Dahlin.
2. Kevin Bahl, Calgary Flames: With 1.38 FPPG in 221 games, Bahl’s physical play could make him a valuable fantasy asset.
3. Jamie Drysdale, Philadelphia Flyers: Drysdale, 23.4 years old with 1.28 FPPG in 217 games, could become the Flyers' power-play quarterback.
4. Dylan Samberg, Winnipeg Jets: Leading the Jets in blocked shots with 1.69 FPPG in 216 games, Samberg is a late-round sleeper.
5. Rasmus Sandin, Washington Capitals: With 1.4 FPPG in 309 games, Sandin could benefit from increased power-play time.

Players Who Have Already Broken Out

• K'Andre Miller, Carolina Hurricanes: With 1.51 FPPG in 368 games, Miller is a solid fantasy option.
• Alexander Romanov, New York Islanders: Romanov’s 2.06 FPPG in 354 games highlights his fantasy value.
• Alex Vlasic, Chicago Blackhawks: Vlasic’s 1.65 FPPG in 179 games makes him a key player for the Blackhawks.

Potential Sleepers

• J.J. Moser, Tampa Bay Lightning: With 1.11 FPPG in 259 games, Moser could step up with increased opportunities.
• Timothy Liljegren, San Jose Sharks: Liljegren’s 1.43 FPPG in 264 games makes him a player to watch.

Fantasy Hockey Essentials

• League Customization: Create your league with custom rules and scoring.
• Position Tiers: Understand the value of forwards and defensemen.
• Mock Drafts: Test your strategy in the ESPN Mock Draft Lobby.

Sign up for ESPN Fantasy Hockey today and get ready for the 2025 season!