2025 Dynasty Fantasy Hockey Rankings: Top Strategies to Build Your Team

Welcome to the ultimate guide for long-term fantasy hockey dominance. Unlike redraft leagues where you start fresh each year, dynasty leagues are a marathon, not a sprint. Success hinges on identifying foundational players who blend elite current production with sustained future value. This requires a different analytical lens, one that balances age, potential, contract status, and surrounding team strength.

Our 2025 dynasty fantasy hockey rankings are meticulously crafted to provide you with the insights needed to make those franchise-altering decisions. We move beyond surface-level stats to offer a clear blueprint for constructing a perennial contender. Whether you're navigating a startup draft, evaluating a blockbuster trade offer, or identifying undervalued assets, this list provides the strategic foundation for your success.

We will break down the undisputed cornerstones of the fantasy world, offering actionable advice on who to build around and why their long-term value sets them apart. This analysis is designed to help you construct a roster that not only competes now but is organised to contend for years to come. For managers looking to dive even deeper into player comparisons and advanced metrics, specialized tools can provide the granular data needed to gain that crucial edge in your league. Let's get into the rankings.

1. Connor McDavid - Edmonton Oilers

Topping any list of dynasty fantasy hockey rankings is the undisputed king, Connor McDavid. There is no debate here; McDavid is a generational talent whose on-ice performance translates directly into unparalleled fantasy production. At 27, he is firmly in his prime, blending his breathtaking speed and skill with the experience and hockey IQ of a seasoned veteran. Owning him is like having a cheat code for your fantasy league.

McDavid consistently delivers elite, league-winning offensive numbers across virtually all scoring categories, including goals, assists, points, and power-play points. His value is built on a foundation of historical production and future potential, making him the single most valuable asset a dynasty manager can possess. He is the ultimate cornerstone, a player you build your entire franchise around for the next five to seven years with complete confidence.

The Cornerstone of a Dynasty

The strategic advantage of rostering McDavid cannot be overstated. His presence provides a massive weekly floor and a ceiling that no other player can consistently match. For instance, his incredible 153-point season in 2022-23 single-handedly won fantasy championships. Even in a "down" year for him, he produces at a level that most players can only dream of achieving in their career season.

Key Insight: The primary goal in any dynasty startup draft or trade negotiation should be acquiring a player of McDavid's calibre. His sustained dominance provides a competitive advantage that is nearly impossible to replicate through multiple lesser assets.

This quick reference box summarizes McDavid's recent high-water marks and age, offering a clear snapshot of his dynasty profile.

The data clearly illustrates a player at the peak of his powers with years of elite production still ahead.

Actionable Dynasty Strategy

If you are fortunate enough to have McDavid on your roster, your strategy is simple: hold and build.

• Acquisition: In a startup draft, he is the consensus 1.01 pick. Acquiring him via trade is nearly impossible and requires a massive overpayment, often involving multiple first-round picks and elite young players. Do not hesitate to pay the price.
• Team Building: Surround him with complementary pieces. Consider acquiring other Oilers who share ice time with him, like Leon Draisaitl or Evan Bouchard, to create powerful scoring stacks.
• Trading: The only time to even consider trading McDavid is if your team is in a complete, multi-year rebuild and you receive an offer so substantial it accelerates your timeline significantly. This is a rare, franchise-altering decision that should not be taken lightly.

2. Nathan MacKinnon - Colorado Avalanche

While McDavid sits alone in the top tier, Nathan MacKinnon has firmly established himself as the clear number two in dynasty fantasy hockey rankings. He is a force of nature, blending raw power and explosive speed with an elite offensive skillset that translates into dominant fantasy production. At 28, MacKinnon is in the absolute sweet spot of his prime, evidenced by his career-best 140-point season and Hart Trophy win in 2023-24.

MacKinnon offers a unique combination of high-volume shooting and elite point production, making him a multi-category monster. His value is built on a foundation of consistent top-tier performance, leadership, and a championship pedigree, making him an ideal cornerstone for any fantasy franchise aiming for sustained contention. He is the only player who can realistically challenge McDavid for the top spot in any given season.

The Premier Alternative

Choosing MacKinnon gives your dynasty team a foundational asset with a similar ceiling to McDavid. His presence anchors your weekly matchups with a massive point floor derived from his incredible shot generation and role as the engine of Colorado's potent offence. His 2023-24 campaign, where he recorded 51 goals and 89 assists, showcased his ability to single-handedly carry a fantasy team to a championship.

Key Insight: While McDavid is the consensus 1.01, MacKinnon is the undisputed 1.02. The gap between him and the third-ranked player is significant, placing him in a tier of his own as a foundational dynasty asset.

His production is not just elite; it's reliable. You can confidently project MacKinnon for 110-plus points for the next several seasons, a level of security that is incredibly rare and valuable in a dynasty format. His performance is backed by a strong team context, as you can see by diving into the grades of his draft-year peers, further cementing his long-term value.

Actionable Dynasty Strategy

If you own MacKinnon, you have a legitimate franchise-defining player. The strategy revolves around building a contender around his elite production.

• Acquisition: In a startup draft, he is the locked-in second overall pick. Any trade to acquire him will require a "king's ransom" similar to a McDavid deal, typically involving a top-five young player plus multiple first-round picks.
• Team Building: Stacking MacKinnon with other Avalanche power-play mainstays like Cale Makar or Mikko Rantanen creates one of the most powerful and reliable scoring combinations in all of fantasy hockey.
• Trading: You do not trade MacKinnon unless you are entering a full-scale, multi-year rebuild. Even then, the return must be so overwhelmingly massive that it completely reshapes and accelerates your franchise's future. This is a move to be considered only in the most extreme circumstances.

3. Connor Bedard - Chicago Blackhawks

Hot on the heels of the established elite is the player widely seen as the future face of the NHL, Connor Bedard. Hailed as a generational talent since his early teens, Bedard entered the league with immense hype and immediately proved it was justified. At just 18, he demonstrated the offensive toolkit and on-ice intelligence that make him a foundational piece for any dynasty fantasy hockey team looking toward long-term dominance.

Bedard’s rookie season on a rebuilding Chicago Blackhawks team showcased his incredible skill, as he produced at a near point-per-game pace despite a limited supporting cast and a mid-season injury. His value is rooted in his astronomical ceiling; he possesses an elite shot, visionary playmaking, and the drive to be the offensive engine of his team for the next 15 years. He is the premier asset for any rebuilding or forward-thinking dynasty manager.

The Cornerstone of a Rebuild

The strategic value of rostering Bedard is in securing a future top-three fantasy player before he fully reaches his peak. His production as a teenager was already impressive, and as the Blackhawks improve around him, his point totals are expected to skyrocket. Owning him provides a direct path to contention, turning a rebuilding team into a future powerhouse. His performance at the World Junior Championships, where he shattered records, was a clear preview of the offensive dominance he will bring to the NHL.

Key Insight: Acquiring Bedard is an investment in future championships. His value will only increase as he develops and his team improves, making his current acquisition cost the lowest it will likely ever be. He is the perfect centrepiece for a long-term strategy.

This video highlights the elite shot and offensive instincts that make Bedard a generational prospect.

The raw talent on display is undeniable and forms the basis of his top-tier ranking.

Actionable Dynasty Strategy

If you are managing a rebuilding team, your entire focus should be on acquiring Bedard. For contending teams, he represents a chance to extend your championship window for another decade.

• Acquisition: In a startup draft, he is a consensus top-five pick, often going as high as third overall. To get him via trade, you must be prepared to part with established veterans and high draft capital. The price is steep, but the long-term payoff is immense. Learning more about this approach is a key part of our fantasy hockey draft strategies.
• Team Building: Be patient. Surround him with other young, high-upside players whose development timelines align with his. As Chicago adds more talent, their players will become valuable fantasy assets simply by playing alongside Bedard.
• Trading: Do not trade Bedard unless you are receiving a top-two established player in return (like McDavid or MacKinnon). He is the type of asset that defines a dynasty, and moving him for anything less than a king's ransom would be a franchise-altering mistake.

4. Auston Matthews - Toronto Maple Leafs

Sliding into the fourth spot in our dynasty fantasy hockey rankings is the premier goal-scorer of his generation, Auston Matthews. The Toronto Maple Leafs' centre is an offensive juggernaut whose value is anchored by his unparalleled ability to find the back of the net. At 26, Matthews is in the absolute sweet spot of his prime, combining his lethal wrist shot and hockey sense to deliver elite fantasy production year after year. Owning him provides a massive advantage in any league that values goals.

Matthews is a consistent source of high-end offensive numbers, particularly in the goals category, but he also contributes significantly in points, shots on goal, and power-play points. While he may not possess the same assist totals as the players ranked above him, his goal-scoring prowess is a rare and highly coveted commodity. He is a franchise-defining asset you can confidently build around for the next half-decade.

The Cornerstone of a Dynasty

The strategic advantage of rostering Matthews comes from his elite production in the most valuable and difficult-to-find fantasy category: goals. His 2021-22 season, where he potted 60 goals in just 73 games on his way to a Hart Trophy, is a prime example of his ability to single-handedly win you a category week after week. Even when he isn't hitting 60, his floor is still a 40-goal pace, a mark many top players never reach.

Key Insight: In dynasty leagues with goals as a heavily weighted category, Matthews' value rivals that of any player in the NHL. His consistent, high-volume goal scoring provides a stable foundation for championship contention that is incredibly difficult to acquire elsewhere.

His production remains elite, and his ability to dominate the scoresheet ensures he will be a top-tier fantasy asset for years to come.

Actionable Dynasty Strategy

If you have Matthews on your roster, your strategy should be tailored to maximize his unique strengths.

• Acquisition: In a startup draft, Matthews is a locked-in top-five pick. To acquire him via trade, you must be prepared to offer a package centred around a young, elite player and significant draft capital. His name recognition and scoring prowess keep his trade value exceptionally high.
• Team Building: Surround him with high-volume shooters and skilled playmakers. Adding his linemates, like Mitch Marner, creates a powerful weekly stack. Prioritize acquiring players who excel in assists to balance your roster's scoring profile.
• Trading: Trading Matthews should only be considered if you are entering a deep rebuild. Because of his age and elite status, he can command a foundational return of young talent and high draft picks that can kickstart your team's next competitive cycle.

5. Leon Draisaitl - Edmonton Oilers

Often playing in the shadow of his legendary teammate, Leon Draisaitl has firmly established himself as an elite fantasy asset and a perennial contender for the top spot in dynasty fantasy hockey rankings. Draisaitl is far more than just McDavid’s sidekick; he is a dominant force in his own right, possessing a unique blend of size, skill, and one of the most lethal shots in the league. At 28, he remains squarely in his prime, consistently producing seasons that would make him the undisputed top player on almost any other NHL team.

The German superstar is a multi-category monster, delivering elite totals in goals, assists, points, and especially power-play points, where he is arguably the most dangerous player in the NHL. His dual-centre and wing eligibility in many leagues adds a layer of roster flexibility that further boosts his immense value. Owning Draisaitl provides a championship-calibre foundation, giving managers a consistent source of top-tier production year after year.

The Ultimate Power Play Weapon

Draisaitl's strategic value is most evident on the man advantage, where his incredible one-timer and net-front presence are virtually unstoppable. His production is not solely dependent on McDavid, as evidenced by his 2019-20 Hart Trophy-winning season where he led the league with 110 points. He has proven he can drive his own line and carry the offensive load, making him an incredibly safe and high-upside dynasty cornerstone.

Key Insight: While the McDavid-Draisaitl stack is the holy grail of fantasy hockey, Draisaitl's individual value is immense. His production floor is among the highest in the league, and his goal-scoring prowess gives him a unique ceiling that few can match, making him an essential piece for any contending dynasty team.

His ability to consistently produce at such a high level has a massive positive impact on his team's success, a value that can be partially understood by advanced metrics like wins above replacement.

Actionable Dynasty Strategy

If you have Draisaitl, you possess one of the most valuable and reliable assets in fantasy hockey.

• Acquisition: In startup drafts, Draisaitl is a consensus top-five pick. Trading for him requires a significant package, typically involving a top-10 dynasty player plus high-end prospects or first-round picks. He is worth the investment for any team looking to win now.
• Team Building: The dream scenario is to pair him with Connor McDavid for a nearly unbeatable offensive stack. If that isn't possible, focus on acquiring other top-tier offensive players to create a balanced, high-scoring roster that can compete for a championship.
• Trading: Similar to other elite assets, you should only consider trading Draisaitl if you are entering a deep, multi-year rebuild. The return must be a foundational package of young, elite talent and multiple first-round picks to justify moving a player of his calibre.

6. David Pastrnak - Boston Bruins

David Pastrnak stands as one of the most dynamic and reliable goal-scorers in the NHL, making him a premier asset in dynasty fantasy hockey rankings. The elite right winger combines a lethal shot with high-volume shooting, consistently delivering top-tier fantasy production. At 28, he is squarely in his prime, offering dynasty managers a perfect blend of immediate, league-tilting output and several more years of elite performance.

Pastrnak's value is anchored by his remarkable consistency and goal-scoring prowess, a rare commodity in today's NHL. He has proven his ability to produce at an exceptional level, regardless of his centre, as evidenced by his continued dominance following the retirements of Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci. This adaptability makes him a foundational piece for any team aiming to compete for a championship now and in the near future.

The Cornerstone of a Dynasty

The strategic advantage of rostering an elite winger like Pastrnak is immense, especially given the relative scarcity of high-end talent at the right wing position. His presence guarantees a massive contribution to goals, shots on goal, and power-play points, providing a high weekly floor for your fantasy matchup. His incredible 61-goal, 113-point season in 2022-23 is a clear example of his ability to single-handedly carry a fantasy team.

Key Insight: In dynasty formats, securing a player who is a perennial threat to score 50 goals provides a sustainable competitive edge. Pastrnak’s shot volume and scoring talent make him one of the safest and most valuable offensive building blocks available.

Even as the Bruins navigate a transitional period, Pastrnak remains the undisputed focal point of their offence, ensuring he will continue to see premium ice time and power-play deployment for years to come.

Actionable Dynasty Strategy

If you have Pastrnak on your roster, he is a core piece you build around for immediate contention. His value is at its peak for teams in their championship window.

• Acquisition: In a startup draft, Pastrnak is a locked-in first-round pick, typically falling in the 5-8 range. Trading for him requires a significant package, likely centered around a younger, high-upside forward and a first-round pick, but he is worth the price for a contending team.
• Team Building: Pair him with a high-end centre to maximize his assist potential. Given Boston's offensive structure, he is a powerful one-man wrecking crew, so stacking him is not as critical as it is for other stars.
• Trading: Only consider moving Pastrnak if your team is entering a deep, multi-year rebuild. In that scenario, you should seek a return that includes a top-15 dynasty prospect, a young roster player with top-line potential, and a future first-round draft pick.

7. Mikko Rantanen - Colorado Avalanche

Often playing alongside Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen has carved out his own identity as a premier offensive force and a top-tier asset in dynasty fantasy hockey rankings. He is the complete package for a winger, combining immense size, elite skill, and remarkable consistency on one of the league’s most potent offences. At 27, Rantanen is operating at the peak of his powers, making him a foundational piece for any contending dynasty roster.

Rantanen reliably produces elite numbers across the board, particularly in goals, assists, and power-play points, where he is a fixture on Colorado's top unit. His value is solidified by his proven track record of high-end production, including a monstrous 105-point season in 2022-23. He offers a safe, high floor with a ceiling that can win you weekly matchups, cementing his status as a cornerstone RW1.

The Power Wing Dynamo

Rantanen’s strategic value lies in his durable, multi-category production from the right-wing position, a spot that can sometimes lack true elite depth. His size allows him to be a force around the net, while his high-end playmaking skills make him a dual threat as both a scorer and a distributor. This well-rounded game provides a stable and projectable source of elite fantasy points for years to come.

Key Insight: While often linked to MacKinnon, Rantanen is an offensive driver in his own right. His combination of size, shot volume, and power-play prowess gives him a fantasy profile that is incredibly difficult to replace at the winger position.

His consistent point-per-game-plus pace and prime age make him a safe and powerful investment for any dynasty manager.

The data confirms Rantanen is a consistent, elite producer firmly in his prime offensive years.

Actionable Dynasty Strategy

With Rantanen, you possess a top-end winger who elevates your entire forward corps. Your strategy should centre on leveraging his elite, stable production.

• Acquisition: Rantanen is a locked-in first-round pick in dynasty startups. To acquire him via trade, expect to pay a premium, likely involving a top prospect, a first-round pick, and a quality roster player. He is worth the cost for a team looking to contend.
• Team Building: The most obvious and effective strategy is to create a "super stack" by pairing him with Nathan MacKinnon. This duo can carry your fantasy team for weeks at a time. Also, consider acquiring defenceman Cale Makar to corner the market on Colorado’s top power-play unit.
• Trading: You should only consider moving Rantanen if your team is entering a deep rebuild. In that scenario, his value can bring back a haul of high-end prospects and draft capital to accelerate your franchise’s turnaround. For a contending or competitive team, he is a firm hold.

Dynasty Fantasy Hockey Rankings Comparison

Player	Implementation Complexity 🔄	Resource Requirements ⚡	Expected Outcomes 📊	Ideal Use Cases 💡	Key Advantages ⭐
Connor McDavid - Edmonton Oilers	High (cornerstone asset, costly trade)	High (build around him, durable)	Elite multi-category 100+ point seasons	Dynasty cornerstone, long-term build	Highest ceiling, multi-category dominance
Nathan MacKinnon - Colorado Avalanche	Moderate (strong but slightly older)	Moderate (needs good supporting cast)	Consistent 90+ points, playoff success	McDavid alternative, stacking with teammates	Proven winner, explosive speed
Connor Bedard - Chicago Blackhawks	High (rookie with development needed)	Moderate (acquire early, patient holding)	Massive upside, long career projection	Rebuilding teams, long-term dynasty core	Youngest elite talent, huge potential
Auston Matthews - Toronto Maple Leafs	Moderate (goal-scoring specialist)	Moderate (monitor injuries, contract)	Consistent 40+ goal seasons	Goals-heavy scoring formats	Elite scorer, strong market presence
Leon Draisaitl - Edmonton Oilers	Moderate (linked to McDavid's presence)	Moderate (stack with McDavid preferred)	Consistent 100+ points, playoff performer	Paired asset with McDavid	Multi-category, durable, proven excellence
David Pastrnak - Boston Bruins	Moderate (prime winger with system ties)	Moderate (prime age, durable)	High-end goal-scoring, consistent output	Win-now teams, RW position scarcity	Position premium, playoff performer
Mikko Rantanen - Colorado Avalanche	Moderate (solid all-round RW)	Moderate (stack with MacKinnon)	Consistent 90+ points, playoff winner	RW scarcity, stacking with top line	Multi-category, large frame, proven winner

Securing Your Fantasy Future

Navigating the landscape of a dynasty league is a marathon, not a sprint. The 2025 dynasty fantasy hockey rankings presented in this article offer more than just a list; they provide a strategic blueprint for long-term success. From the unparalleled generational talent of Connor McDavid and the explosive potential of Connor Bedard to the sustained prime excellence of Nathan MacKinnon and Auston Matthews, each player represents a cornerstone upon which a championship-calibre team can be built.

These rankings underscore a fundamental dynasty principle: value is a dynamic concept. It is a calculated blend of current point production, age, positional scarcity, and future projection. The players we've analyzed are not just statistical powerhouses; they are assets whose value is projected to endure, making them the safest and most impactful investments for your fantasy franchise.

Actionable Takeaways for Your Dynasty Team

To translate these rankings into tangible results, you must actively manage your roster with a forward-thinking mindset. Use this analysis as a catalyst for critical team evaluation and strategic action.

• Conduct a Roster Audit: Compare your current core players against our top-tier benchmarks. Identify where your team excels and where you have significant gaps. Are you heavily reliant on aging veterans, or do you have a healthy mix of prime talent and ascending youth?
• Identify Your Competitive Window: Be honest about your team's position. If you have foundational pieces like McDavid or MacKinnon, your window to win is now. If you're in a rebuild, acquiring a player like Bedard should be your primary objective, even if it means sacrificing immediate production.
• Target Tiers, Not Just Players: Don't get fixated on acquiring one specific player. Instead, focus on acquiring assets within a particular tier. If you can't land Matthews, perhaps a package for a player like Leon Draisaitl or David Pastrnak is more achievable and provides similar elite production.
• Leverage Market Inefficiencies: Your league-mates may overvalue short-term success. Use these dynasty fantasy hockey rankings to your advantage. Capitalize on opportunities to trade a veteran forward who is having a career year for a younger, higher-ranked asset with a more secure long-term outlook.

Key Insight: The most successful dynasty managers are proactive, not reactive. They anticipate shifts in player value and make bold moves before the rest of the league catches on. These rankings are your tool to stay one step ahead of the competition.

Building a true dynasty requires dedication, foresight, and the courage to make difficult decisions. The journey from a mid-pack team to a perennial contender is forged through shrewd trades, astute draft selections, and a relentless pursuit of long-term value. Let this guide be your compass as you navigate the seasons ahead, making the informed choices that will solidify your legacy and keep your team at the pinnacle of your league for years to come.

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