2025 NHL Fantasy Rankings Goalies: Top 8 Picks

Welcome to your essential guide for dominating the most volatile position in fantasy hockey. Choosing the right netminder can be the difference between a championship title and a season of frustration. A top-tier goalie provides a stable foundation, consistently racking up points through wins, shutouts, and stellar save percentages. However, a poor choice can single-handedly sink your weekly matchups, making your draft-day decision absolutely critical.

This year, we're diving deeper than ever, moving beyond simple win-loss records to provide a truly analytical edge. Our rankings are meticulously built on a foundation of advanced data, including team defensive structures, expected goals against, and high-danger save percentages. We'll leverage unique PuckNStick metrics to offer a comprehensive breakdown of the league's best, providing a clear picture of both performance and situational context.

This 2025 NHL fantasy rankings goalies list is crafted to give you a distinct advantage in your league. We've analysed the crucial factors, including expected workload and historical consistency, to help you understand not just who to draft, but why they are a superior choice. Prepare to build your fantasy dynasty from the net out and secure the most important position on your roster with confidence.

1. Igor Shesterkin (New York Rangers)

When constructing your nhl fantasy rankings goalies draft board, Igor Shesterkin sits firmly at the top. The New York Rangers' netminder represents the gold standard for fantasy hockey goaltending, offering a near-perfect combination of individual skill and team strength. Shesterkin's value comes from his ability to contribute elite numbers across all major fantasy categories: wins, save percentage, and goals-against average.

The 2021-22 Vezina Trophy winner has consistently demonstrated his ability to steal games and put up stellar performances, even on nights when his team isn't at its best. Backed by a solid defensive corps and a potent Rangers offence, Shesterkin is a reliable source for a high volume of wins, making him a cornerstone for any championship-calibre fantasy team. His blend of high-end talent and a favourable team environment provides an unmatched floor and an incredibly high ceiling.

Shesterkin's Elite Fantasy Profile

For fantasy managers, drafting Shesterkin means securing a goalie who can single-handedly win you weekly matchups. His technical prowess and calm demeanour translate into remarkably consistent statistics, which are often the hardest to find at the goaltender position. He is a true "set it and forget it" option on most nights.

To provide a quick reference on his consistent, high-level production, the summary box below visualizes the key performance metrics that solidify his top-tier status.

This data highlights Shesterkin's capacity to handle a heavy workload while maintaining elite ratios, a rare and valuable combination in fantasy hockey.

Strategic Draft Considerations

Given his premier status, acquiring Shesterkin requires a significant draft investment.

• Draft Timing: Be prepared to use a first or early second-round pick. He is typically the first goalie off the board, often initiating a run at the position.
• Workload Management: The Rangers rely on him heavily, but it's wise to monitor his starts, especially heading into the fantasy playoffs, to avoid fatigue-related slumps.
• Handcuff Strategy: Pairing him with the Rangers' backup, while not essential, can be a savvy move to secure starts on off-nights or during back-to-back situations.

For a deeper dive into the statistical measures that define elite goaltending, you can explore how save percentage impacts fantasy value and see why Shesterkin consistently ranks at the top.

2. Connor Hellebuyck (Winnipeg Jets)

When searching for a workhorse to anchor your nhl fantasy rankings goalies strategy, Connor Hellebuyck stands out as a premier option. The Winnipeg Jets' undisputed number one goalie provides immense value through sheer volume, consistently ranking among the league leaders in games played, shots faced, and total saves. Hellebuyck’s fantasy appeal is built on this durability, which translates directly into a high floor for counting stats.

The 2019-20 Vezina Trophy winner has proven his ability to handle one of the heaviest workloads in the NHL year after year. While the Jets' defensive structure can sometimes be inconsistent, this often works in Hellebuyck's favour from a fantasy perspective, as it leads to a high volume of shots and, consequently, a massive number of saves. For managers in leagues that reward saves, Hellebuyck is a gold-tier asset who can win that category on his own.

Hellebuyck's High-Volume Fantasy Profile

Drafting Hellebuyck provides a reliable foundation of starts and saves that few other goalies can match. His presence ensures you won't be scrambling for goaltender appearances, a common frustration in fantasy hockey. He is the definition of a high-floor goalie who can consistently contribute to your team's weekly totals, even if his ratios aren't always in the league's top five.

His value is particularly pronounced in formats that heavily weigh save totals or award points for saves. He provides a steady stream of fantasy points through his consistent activity between the pipes, making him a reliable, high-usage starter.

Strategic Draft Considerations

Hellebuyck’s unique profile requires a slightly different draft approach compared to goalies on defensively dominant teams.

• Draft Timing: He typically falls into the third or fourth-round range, making him a strong value pick after the initial run on elite goalies has concluded.
• League Settings: His value skyrockets in categories or points leagues where saves are a scored stat. Prioritize him heavily in these formats.
• Team Performance: Monitor the Jets' defensive play early in the season. An improved defensive system could boost his ratios (GAA, SV%) but potentially lower his save totals, slightly altering his overall fantasy impact.

For fantasy managers seeking to understand how a goalie's workload contributes to their overall value, you can review advanced goalie metrics to see why Hellebuyck's high-volume style is so coveted.

3. Frederik Andersen (Carolina Hurricanes)

Frederik Andersen is a fascinating case study in how team context can redefine a goalie's value in nhl fantasy rankings goalies. Since joining the Carolina Hurricanes, Andersen has revitalized his career, leveraging the team's elite defensive system to post stellar numbers. He offers a high-win ceiling backed by a structured, shot-suppressing team, making him a dependable source of fantasy production when healthy.

The former Leafs netminder has demonstrated a career renaissance in Carolina, highlighted by his incredible 2021-22 season and strong playoff performances. Playing behind one of the league's stingiest defences significantly raises his floor, ensuring his goals-against average remains low and his win totals high. This symbiotic relationship between Andersen's skill and the Hurricanes' system makes him an attractive fantasy asset, capable of providing elite production without the top-round draft cost.

Andersen's System-Driven Profile

For fantasy managers, Andersen represents a calculated investment in one of the NHL's premier defensive teams. His value is tied less to sheer volume and more to the quality of his starts. He benefits from a system that limits high-danger chances, allowing him to deliver excellent ratios and accumulate wins efficiently. This makes him a strong G2 with the upside of a G1.

While he may not face the same shot volume as other goalies ranked higher, his situation is optimized for fantasy success. His performance in Carolina proves that a goaltender's environment is just as crucial as their individual talent, a key factor for managers to consider when building their roster.

Strategic Draft Considerations

Acquiring Andersen doesn't require a top-tier pick, but it does demand a smart draft strategy that accounts for his unique situation.

• Draft Timing: Andersen is an excellent target in the middle rounds, often available after the initial run on elite goalies. He provides fantastic value as a reliable starter you can secure without overspending.
• Injury History: His primary risk factor is durability. It is crucial to monitor injury reports closely throughout the season, as he has missed significant time in the past.
• Handcuff Strategy: Pairing Andersen with a durable backup, whether it's Carolina's tandem partner or another team's reliable #2, is a highly recommended strategy to mitigate the risk of injury.

Considering Andersen's age and contract status, understanding his long-term outlook is valuable, especially in keeper formats. For a deeper analysis of players' future potential, you can explore our dynasty fantasy hockey rankings to see how he projects over multiple seasons.

4. Ilya Sorokin (New York Islanders)

When evaluating the top tier of nhl fantasy rankings goalies, Ilya Sorokin of the New York Islanders stands out as a pure talent who can single-handedly elevate a fantasy roster. Sorokin represents the epitome of a goalie whose individual brilliance can overcome team limitations, making him an elite asset in categories that reward save percentage and goals-against average. His value is rooted in his remarkable athleticism and technical skill, which consistently place him among the league leaders in ratio-based stats.

Sorokin’s ability to post elite numbers, even behind a defensively structured but often offensively-challenged Islanders team, is a testament to his calibre. As a Vezina Trophy finalist in 2022-23, he has already proven he can deliver top-tier fantasy production. For managers willing to bet on raw talent, Sorokin offers a ceiling that few other netminders can match, capable of winning weekly matchups with his incredible save-making abilities alone.

Sorokin's Elite Fantasy Profile

Drafting Sorokin means acquiring a goaltender whose primary value comes from his stellar ratios. While win totals can be less predictable due to the Islanders' system, his consistent .920+ save percentage potential provides a stable, high-value floor. He is the type of goalie who can face a high volume of shots and still post a shutout, making him a game-changer in head-to-head formats.

His consistent excellence makes him a coveted fantasy asset, particularly for those who prioritize elite goaltending early in their drafts. Sorokin is less dependent on team performance for his fantasy value than many of his peers, which insulates him from potential team slumps.

Strategic Draft Considerations

Given his elite status and high upside, securing Sorokin requires a specific draft strategy.

• Draft Timing: Sorokin is typically drafted in the second or early third round, often as the third or fourth goalie off the board. His high ceiling makes him a priority target.
• Team Context: His win totals may not always match other top-tier goalies, so it's wise to pair him with a solid second goalie who plays for a high-scoring team to balance your wins category.
• Keeper League Value: In keeper and dynasty leagues, Sorokin's age and skill set make him an incredibly valuable long-term asset. He should be considered a foundational piece to build a team around for years to come.

5. Jacob Markstrom (Calgary Flames)

When filling out your nhl fantasy rankings goalies list, Jacob Markstrom presents a compelling case as a high-volume, reliable netminder. The Calgary Flames' starting goalie offers a fantastic blend of durability and proven performance, making him a valuable asset in nearly any fantasy format. Markstrom’s value is rooted in his ability to handle a massive workload while posting respectable numbers, particularly in the wins and saves categories.

The former Vezina Trophy runner-up has consistently shown he can be a top-tier fantasy option, evidenced by his strong seasons in both Vancouver and Calgary. While the Flames' team performance can fluctuate, Markstrom’s sheer volume of starts provides a high floor for counting stats. For managers who prioritize a workhorse goalie capable of starting 60-plus games, he is an ideal target who can anchor a fantasy crease with his consistent presence.

Markstrom's Workhorse Fantasy Profile

For fantasy managers, drafting Markstrom means securing a goalie who will almost always be in the net, accumulating saves and giving you a chance to win every week. His large frame and sound positional play allow him to post solid ratios, and his team's reliance on him ensures he will be a key contributor to your fantasy roster’s success through sheer volume. He is a dependable option you can count on for a heavy schedule.

He has demonstrated the capacity to be a top-five fantasy goalie, and even in down years, his workload keeps him relevant. This combination of a high ceiling and a safe floor due to his deployment makes him a coveted player at his position.

Strategic Draft Considerations

Markstrom offers excellent value as he can often be drafted after the top-tier goalies are off the board, yet he has the potential to produce similar results.

• Draft Timing: Target Markstrom in the middle rounds (typically rounds 4-6) as a high-end second goalie or a dependable, high-volume primary netminder.
• Team Performance: His fantasy value is closely tied to Calgary's success. If the Flames are playing well defensively, his ratios will soar, elevating him into elite territory.
• Streaming Value: Even if you don't own him, his consistent starts make the Flames' backup a prime streaming candidate on the second night of back-to-backs.

For more analysis on how team defence impacts goaltender statistics, you can review key defensive metrics for fantasy hockey to better project Markstrom's potential performance.

6. Juuse Saros (Nashville Predators)

When evaluating the nhl fantasy rankings goalies, Juuse Saros consistently emerges as a high-volume workhorse who can anchor a fantasy roster. Despite his smaller stature, the Nashville Predators' number one netminder is a technical marvel, relying on exceptional positioning, athleticism, and quick reflexes to shut down opponents. His fantasy value is rooted in his undeniable role as the team's starter and his proven ability to steal games with spectacular, high-save performances.

For years, Saros has been the backbone of the Predators, and he remains one of the few goalies in the league virtually guaranteed to see an immense workload. This high volume of starts translates directly into fantasy production, offering managers a reliable source of saves and a strong chance at accumulating wins. Even on a Nashville team that can be inconsistent, Saros’s individual talent provides a high floor, making him a dependable weekly starter.

Saros's Elite Fantasy Profile

Drafting Saros means securing a goalie who can single-handedly win you the saves category week after week while maintaining strong ratios. His capacity to face a barrage of shots and still post a respectable save percentage is a rare and valuable asset. He has proven his durability and consistency, with multiple 35+ win seasons on his resume, showcasing his ability to deliver elite production.

His quick, acrobatic style makes for highlight-reel saves and solidifies his standing as a top-tier fantasy option. The video below showcases the athleticism and determination that make him such a formidable presence in the crease.

This level of play demonstrates why he can handle one of the heaviest workloads in the NHL and still perform at an elite level.

Strategic Draft Considerations

Saros represents excellent value as he can often be drafted after the first wave of goalies is off the board.

• Draft Timing: Target Saros in the middle rounds (typically rounds 3-5) as a high-end number one goalie without the premium cost of the absolute top tier.
• Team Context: Keep an eye on Nashville's offseason additions. Any improvements to their offensive output or defensive structure will only boost Saros's win totals and overall value.
• Category Value: He is an ideal target in leagues that heavily weight saves and save percentage, as his high shot volume almost guarantees elite numbers in those categories.

Integrating a goalie like Saros into your roster is a key part of building a balanced team. You can explore more about where to select goalies and other positions by reviewing various fantasy hockey draft strategies to optimize your team construction.

7. Jeremy Swayman (Boston Bruins)

Jeremy Swayman's ascent into the Boston Bruins' number one role makes him a compelling figure in any discussion of nhl fantasy rankings goalies. He offers a unique blend of youthful upside and proven performance, backed by one of the league's most consistent defensive structures. Swayman’s value stems from his strong individual metrics and the high win potential that comes with playing for a perennial contender.

The young netminder seized the starting job with authority, particularly during a stellar playoff run that showcased his ability to handle high-pressure situations. Playing behind Boston’s veteran defensive corps provides a stable environment, insulating him from high-danger chances and boosting his goals-against average and save percentage. For fantasy managers, Swayman represents a high-ceiling option who is stepping into a full-time starter's workload on an elite team.

Swayman's Ascending Fantasy Profile

Drafting Swayman is a bet on continued development and a significant workload. He has demonstrated consistent improvement in his key statistics and has the poise of a seasoned veteran. As he fully transitions from a tandem situation, his win totals are expected to climb, making him a potential league-winner if he reaches his ceiling.

His strong individual talent combined with Boston's team-first defensive system creates a high floor for fantasy production. Swayman is no longer just a prospect; he is a foundational piece you can build a fantasy goaltending corps around, especially in keeper and dynasty formats where his long-term value is immense.

Strategic Draft Considerations

Given his breakout potential, knowing when and how to draft Swayman is key to maximizing value.

• Draft Timing: Swayman is an excellent target in the middle rounds, often available after the first tier of elite goalies is gone. He presents an opportunity to secure a potential top-10 goalie without a first or second-round price tag.
• Upside Potential: He is an ideal G1 for managers who prioritize skaters early and a fantastic G2 for those who draft an elite goalie in the first couple of rounds. His upside makes him particularly valuable in deeper leagues.
• Keeper League Value: In keeper or dynasty formats, Swayman should be a high-priority target. His age and team situation project long-term, high-end production at the position.

8. Sergei Bobrovsky (Florida Panthers)

After a few turbulent seasons, Sergei Bobrovsky has firmly re-established himself as a high-end fantasy goaltender, making him a compelling option in your nhl fantasy rankings goalies evaluation. The Florida Panthers' veteran netminder has recaptured the form that won him two Vezina Trophies, blending his immense experience with the strength of the team playing in front of him. Bobrovsky’s value is anchored in his ability to secure a high volume of wins behind one of the league’s top teams.

His recent playoff heroics and consistent regular season performance demonstrate a return to the elite level fantasy managers once counted on. Backed by a defensively responsible Panthers squad, Bobrovsky is in a prime position to post strong numbers across the board. While he may not boast the pristine ratios of the top-tier goalies, his win potential alone makes him a valuable asset for any fantasy roster.

Bobrovsky's Veteran Fantasy Profile

For fantasy managers, drafting Bobrovsky is a bet on proven talent in an excellent team environment. He has shown he can handle a significant workload and perform on the biggest stages, offering a reliable source of the all-important wins category. His resurgence makes him one of the more dependable, if slightly less spectacular, starting goalies available in the middle rounds.

While he may be prone to the occasional inconsistent stretch, his overall body of work with a championship-calibre team provides a solid floor. His ability to bounce back and deliver strong performances makes him a worthy starting option for your fantasy squad.

Strategic Draft Considerations

Given his veteran status and team context, Bobrovsky presents a unique strategic opportunity in drafts.

• Draft Timing: He typically falls into the third or fourth tier of goalies, making him an excellent target after the initial run on elite netminders has passed.
• Monitor Performance: Keep a close eye on his early-season numbers. While his position as the starter is secure, his performance will dictate whether he is a set-and-forget option or a matchup-dependent play.
• Playoff Pedigree: His proven ability to elevate his game in high-pressure situations provides extra confidence for fantasy managers heading into their own playoffs.

NHL Fantasy Goalies: Top 8 Rankings Comparison

Goalie	Implementation Complexity 🔄	Resource Requirements ⚡	Expected Outcomes 📊	Ideal Use Cases 💡	Key Advantages ⭐
Igor Shesterkin (New York Rangers)	Moderate - requires early draft pick	High draft cost, must manage workload	Consistent elite performance, strong wins & ratios	Best for top-tier fantasy teams aiming for stability	Elite save %, high win potential, durable
Connor Hellebuyck (Winnipeg Jets)	Low to Moderate - mid-round pick	Durable, high volume of games	High saves and wins, slightly inconsistent ratios	Volume-based leagues, great mid-round value	Exceptional durability, high shot volume
Frederik Andersen (Carolina Hurricanes)	Moderate - mid-round pick	Moderate draft cost, monitor health	Strong win potential with team support	Value pick with solid ratios, middle rounds	Elite team defense boost, cost-effective
Ilya Sorokin (New York Islanders)	Moderate - higher upside, younger	Needs patience for full breakout	High save % with upside, younger talent	Keeper leagues, high upside options	Elite save %, clutch performer, young
Jacob Markstrom (Calgary Flames)	Low - solid second goalie option	Moderate draft position, steady play	Reliable ratios and wins, good streaming option	Deep leagues, secondary goalie roles	Large size, consistent stats, durable
Juuse Saros (Nashville Predators)	Moderate - mid-round pick	Good value, monitor team offense	Elite save %, solid starter role	Ratio-heavy leagues, value picks	Elite positioning, unquestioned starter, affordable
Jeremy Swayman (Boston Bruins)	Moderate - developmental curve	Lower cost with upside potential	Growing upside, playoff success	Keeper leagues, long-term investment	Young with high ceiling, strong team support
Sergei Bobrovsky (Florida Panthers)	Moderate - veteran with risk	Monitor consistency and health	Potential strong performance, streaky	Bounceback candidate, matchup streaming	Proven elite pedigree, playoff experience

Final Thoughts: Building Your Championship Tandem

Navigating the fantasy hockey goalie market is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding, aspects of building a championship-calibre team. As our detailed breakdown of the top netminders illustrates, the landscape is defined by tiers. Elite, high-volume starters like Igor Shesterkin and Connor Hellebuyck offer a reliable foundation, but they come at a significant draft cost. Mastering your draft requires understanding when to invest in this stability versus seeking value later on.

The 2024-2025 nhl fantasy rankings goalies reveal a clear strategic choice: secure a top-five anchor early or construct a high-performing tandem from the next tier. Goalies like Juuse Saros and Jacob Markstrom, despite being on less dominant teams, provide immense value through sheer volume of saves, a crucial category in many leagues. Conversely, a tandem like Jeremy Swayman and his partner in Boston, or Frederik Andersen in Carolina's stingy system, can deliver elite ratios and wins without the same individual workload.

Key Strategic Takeaways

Your draft strategy should be fluid, adapting to your league's specific settings and how the draft board falls. Here are the core principles to guide your decisions:

• Know Your Scoring System: Is your league heavily weighted towards wins? Target goalies on top-tier teams. Does it reward save percentage and goals-against average? A netminder on a structured, defensive team like the Islanders' Ilya Sorokin becomes a prime asset. Do you get points for total saves? High-volume starters on mid-tier teams are your secret weapon.
• The Tandem Approach: Don't fixate on drafting just one "set it and forget it" goalie. Securing two solid starters, or pairing an elite goalie with a high-upside backup who could earn more starts, provides a crucial safety net. This strategy protects you from injuries, slumps, and unexpected team performance dips.
• Leverage Advanced Metrics: Move beyond simple wins and save percentage. Our PuckNStick metrics, such as Goals Saved Above Expected (GSAx), provide a deeper look into a goalie's true performance. A goalie with a consistently high GSAx is demonstrating elite skill, making them a reliable fantasy asset even if their team's defensive structure falters.

Ultimately, your success hinges on identifying value and building a goalie corps that consistently accumulates points across multiple categories. The drop-off after the top 10-12 goalies can be steep, so having a clear plan for addressing the position is non-negotiable. Use these rankings as your guide, but trust your research to make the final call. A well-constructed goalie tandem doesn't just win you a few weeks; it provides the stable foundation needed to dominate your league from start to finish.

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