To maximize your return on investment in NHL DFS, focus on single-entry 50/50s and head-to-head contests. Seek matchups with less experienced players in head-to-heads and small-field double-ups to increase your chances of winning.
The goal of a cash lineup is to create a stable foundation by selecting players who offer consistent performance and predictable production.
Prioritize High-Volume Shooters
High-volume shooters are crucial on both FanDuel and DraftKings, especially on DraftKings where shot bonuses add extra value. Players who frequently fire on net not only earn points for each attempt but also raise their odds of scoring goals or generating assists off rebounds. When deciding between players, consider ownership, position scarcity—particularly at center—Vegas totals, and overall goal potential.
Center Position is Key
Center is one of the most important positions in cash contests because player quality drops quickly after the top options. Focus on centers with secure ice time, consistent shot volume, and strong floor potential to anchor your lineup.
Evaluate Ownership
While ownership isn’t as impactful in NHL DFS as in NFL, it’s still a useful reference point. Use projected ownership as a tiebreaker when deciding between similarly projected players, especially in close matchups.
Value on Defense
On DraftKings, where salary management is more restrictive, value defensemen are critical. Target lower-cost blueliners with high ice time and strong block rates. Defensemen priced under $3,500 on DraftKings or under $4,500 on FanDuel can deliver excellent returns. High ice time directly correlates with opportunity for shots, assists, and blocked-shot bonuses.
Vegas Totals and Blocked Shots
Use Vegas totals to identify favorable offensive environments. Defensemen in high-total games are more likely to contribute assists and secondary scoring. Additionally, shot-blocking defensemen provide a reliable floor and have the potential to hit DraftKings’ three-block bonus for extra stability.
Flex Utility with Wingers
Wingers typically offer the best combination of floor and ceiling, as they take the most shots. On DraftKings, consider “double bonus” players—those capable of earning both the shot and blocked-shot bonuses. However, don’t overspend on defensemen at the expense of elite wingers or top centers, as offensive positions drive most cash scoring.
To Stack or Not to Stack
Stacking isn’t required for cash contests, but it can occasionally be beneficial—especially on smaller slates. On DraftKings, target players who can earn shot or block bonuses. On FanDuel, where those bonuses don’t exist, focus on players involved in power plays who can pick up assists and goal contributions from special-teams production.
Power Play Participation
Prioritize players who log significant power play minutes. Power play exposure increases both floor and ceiling potential, especially for high-volume shooters already central to their team’s offense.
Choosing a Goalie
Select goalies from teams heavily favored to win, ideally with positive Vegas odds and solid defensive support. Goalies facing a moderate number of shots while being likely to earn a win provide the most balanced cash-game profile.
Salary Utilization
Spend your salary wisely—DFS pricing models are generally efficient. Aim to use your full salary cap, leaving no more than $500 unspent, to maximize your lineup’s scoring potential without sacrificing stability.
By following these principles—prioritizing shooting volume, focusing on reliable positions, and managing salary efficiently—you can consistently build low-risk NHL DFS lineups that produce steady returns and long-term profitability.
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