This article is part of our DraftKings NHL series.
GOALIE
Tuukka Rask, BOS vs. COL ($8,300): While the veteran netminder will receive a huge boost if Patrice Bergeron (lower body) returns to the lineup, this still checks out as a solid spot for Rask regardless of Bergeron's status. The Avalanche will be playing their third road game to start the season, and the Bruins were stronger at TD Garden allowing just 2.42 goals per game last season. Just note that Rask is the most expensive option in the goalie pool, but spending up for a safe option in a small slate is a sound starting point.
CENTER
Jack Eichel, BUF vs. NJD ($7,100): Until Eichel is priced like the superstar he is, the 20-year-old pivot is worth a nightly look. The high-volume shooter receives an added boost in small slates, too. He's registered a goal, two helpers and six shots while averaging 5:13 of power-play time through the first two games of the season, and there is nothing scary about a matchup with the Devils.
Nico Hischier, NJD at BUF ($4,300): The No. 1 pick from the 2017 draft was silky smooth throughout Saturday's debut and registered six shots on net. At this salary, Hischier is worth slotting in blindly because of his offensive upside. He's also receiving power-play time, and Buffalo is coming off a 6-3 loss to the Islanders, so the rookie is in a good spot to register his first career point.
WING
Vladimir Tarasenko, STL at NYI ($7,500): The 25-year-old sniper is the only NHLer with at least 35 goals, 70 points and 260 shots in each of the past three seasons, so he offers a high floor-ceiling combo. While Tarasenko is off to a modest start with a goal, an assist and three shots through two games, he lands in a prime matchup against the Islanders. New York has surrendered eight goals through its first two games of the season.
Chris Kreider, NYR vs. MON ($5,900): After collecting a pair of helpers against Toronto on Satruday, look for Kreider to turn in another strong fantasy showing Sunday. He's locked into a top-line role and receiving power-play time with the top unit, so Kreider is also in position to succeed. While past results aren't predictive of future outcomes, it's worth noting that the 26-year-old winger has had some success against the Habs in the past with a respectable six goals and 15 points through 26 career games, including the postseason.
Anders Bjork, BOS vs. COL ($4,400): The rookie offers cap relief and upside in a cushy matchup against the Avalanche. Bjork skated with David Krejci and Jake DeBrusk Opening Night, and the 21-year-old forward projects to remain in the top six for Monday's contest. After allowing the most goals per game in the league last season, Colorado has surrendered six tallies and the most high-danger scoring chances per 60 minutes (17.5) through its first two games of 2017-18.
DEFENSE
Alex Pietrangelo, STL at NYI ($5,800): With Kevin Shattenkirk out of the mix, Pietrangelo registered five goals, 22 points and 84 shots while logging 27:10 of ice time (3:18 with the man advantage) through the final 31 contests of last season, including the playoffs. Pietrangelo has kick-started this year in similar form with consecutive multi-point showings, in addition to huge supporting numbers (11 shots and five blocked shots). He's a strong lean until his price matches his production and upside.
Will Butcher, NJD at BUF ($2,700): The Hobby Baker winner kick-started his NHL career is style with a three-assist showing on Saturday. He passed the eye test and displayed excellent poise and calmness with the puck. Butcher is receiving power-play time and started 75 percent of his shifts in the offensive zone in his debut, so he checks out as an excellent source of cap relief.
