Aaron Ekblad

2017 Fantasy Hockey Draft Prep: Kevin Fiala, Jussi Jokinen have sleeper appeal in new roles

As the 2017-18 fantasy hockey season looms, you may find yourself lining up marquee players to imagine as the core of your virtual squad. However, once the McDavid's, Crosby's and Burns' of the world have passed by, it's all about filling your roster with depth and hoping to get the most bang for your buck. This is where sleepers come into play. Sleepers, in this case, constitute players on the verge of realizing their full potential; or a class ready to climb out of the woodwork on the heels of a down year. Coaching changes, positive injury developments, an improved supporting cast -- there's a vast array of influences that could transform your next breakout star. With that in mind, here are

Thursday ‘Waul: Panthers Offseason Open Forum

The Edmonton OIlers have signed restricted free agent forward Leon Draisaitl to an eight-year, $68 million contract. Draisaitl finished eighth in the NHL in scoring last season with 77 points (29G/48A). The 21-year-old added 16 points in 13 postseason games. Unrestricted free agent Matt Cullen just said no to retirement and inked a one-year deal with the Minnesota Wild. The Minnesota native’s base salary will be $1 million with the potential for another $700K in bonuses. The Colorado Avalanche signed University of Minnesota-Duluth center Dominic Toninato to a two-year, entry-level contract. Toninato was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the fifth round of the 2012 Entry Draft, but never signed

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  Of course Oilers overpaid Leon Draisaitl, and that's quite OK (Trending Topics)

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  Draisaitl on signing with Oilers: ‘We have something really special’

  NBC Sports