There are just three weeks before the NHL hits the pause button on the season due to the 2026 Olympics, and with the fantasy hockey playoffs on the horizon, managers can’t afford to roster underperformers. Listed below are three players whose managers should part ways with them before their poor play ruins their chances at a championship run.
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Fantasy Hockey Cold List
Morgan Reilly – Toronto Maple Leafs
Despite the Toronto Maple Leafs being nearly undefeated in their last 10 games, Morgan Reilly has struggled to find himself on the scoresheet. Over the last month, the 31-year-old has only picked up 3 points and is currently sitting at a -10 on the season. Additionally, Reilly is not a physical defenseman, having provided little to no value when it comes to hits or blocks. Going forward, managers should drop Reilly for a defenseman who contributes to the offense more consistently and isn’t afraid to throw the body.
Nazem Kadri – Calgary Flames
After being one of the more reliable forwards on the Calgary Flames’ roster, Nazem Kadri is currently going through his coldest stretch of the season. So far, he’s failed to record a point in the new year and has only logged 1 assist since the holiday season. Outside of face-offs, Kadri’s fantasy hockey value has significantly decreased, having also been a -16 on a struggling Calgary team. Although Kadri is still playing over 15 minutes a night, there are likely other options on the waiver wire who can win draws and score on a consistent basis.
Lukas Dostal – Anaheim Ducks
Despite impressing at the beginning of the 2025-26 campaign, Lukas Dostal’s numbers have plummeted with the Anaheim Ducks being winless since December 20th. Throughout the new year, Dostal’s save percentage currently sits at .877, while he’s allowed 4 or more goals against in his last 6 starts. With the Ducks showing no signs of turning it around anytime soon, Dostal is no longer a reliable goaltending option and should hit the waiver wire before he begins to cost managers the most important weeks of the season.
Although the trade deadline is approaching in many fantasy hockey leagues, it’s best to drop players like Reilly, Kadri, and Dostal rather than try to convince other managers to take a chance on them for little in return. Make sure to tune in next week for another edition of the Cold List.
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