Cale Makar

The time is now for Makar, as the offseason departure of Tyson Barrie has fully paved the way for Colorado's 2017 fourth overall pick to emerge as a full-time NHLer. Lauded for his high hockey IQ and supreme awareness from the blue line, Makar deposited 21 goals and 49 assists between 75 games with UMass-Amherst over the last two seasons. The Avalanche figured he'd provide an offensive spark in the playoffs, so the Calgary native signed on the dotted line on a three-year, entry-level contract and proceeded to record six points through 10 postseason games, including the unforgettable achievement of becoming the first defenseman in history to score a playoff goal in his NHL debut. Naturally, there is a lot of hype surrounding Makar, and it's simply a race against time to acquire him at a reasonable price in the fantasy arena.

Makar has yet to sign his entry-level contract despite being selected fourth overall by the Avalanche in the 2017 NHL Entry Draft, instead electing to return to UMass-Amherst after posting 21 points -- five goals and 16 assists -- and a plus-9 rating over 34 games last season. It wouldn't be a big surprise if he inks his professional contract immediately following the 2018-19 collegiate season, allowing him to get a small taste of professional hockey before the season concludes, but he mainly holds value in dynasty formats this season.