Fantasy hockey is dynamic in the sense that you have to adjust your drafting and acquisition strategies based on the statistical categories that your league has. There are certain managers that try and test the skills of those in their leagues by adding in categories that aren’t found in standard fantasy hockey formats.

For those fantasy hockey managers who are leagues that have some specialty categories, there are players hanging out on the waiver wire that could be of some use to you.

This article looks at the category of shots on goal and who in the league could offer you the most bang for your buck. We’ll break it down by league size and even look at a group of wingers who could offer you relief in the face-off circle.

While we won’t make light of the the obvious choices with respect to players who shoot a ton (Ovechkin, Parise, Crosby, Nash, etc.), we can certainly give you some waiver wire options depending on the size of your league.

Players to Consider in Shallow Fantasy Hockey Leagues

• Brian Gionta – Certainly a decent number 2 right winger, Gionta is top ten in shots on goal this season.
• Mikko Koivu – We saw him on the face-off list and we see him here. He is quite the “hired gun” in shallow fantasy hockey leagues.
• Brad Richards – It’s still surprising to see Richards un-owned in 20-25% of leagues in major services.
• Jason Blake – Blake is such a streaky player, but if it’s shots on goal you’re in the market for, he could definitely be a decent stopgap option that won’t completely waste a spot on your roster.
• Patrick Sharp – Another player that shouldn’t be as unowned as he is. He has been one of the best players on the ice for Chicago, so scoop him up if he’s laying around in your league.

Players to Consider in Moderate Fantasy Hockey Leagues

• Kyle Okposo – He’s battling the swine right now, but when he returns, he’ll be back to firing on all cylinders. He’s becoming a decent option for keeper leagues as well.
• Ryan Kesler – He’s about a point per game right now; make the add if he’s just lying around.
• Patrick O’Sullivan – The points aren’t exactly there right now, but certainly an opportunity to buy low as he should pick up his game.
• Matt Moulson – Is finally getting a chance to do what he wasnn’t able to do in Los Angeles: strut his stuff. May be a “sell high” candidate as well.
• Brooks Laich – Who needs AO when you have Brooks Laich?

Players to Consider in Deeper Fantasy Hockey Leagues

• Patric Hornqvist – Hornqvist was a pretty trendy pickup in the first couple weeks of the season. He has since cooled off, but in deeper fantasy leagues, he certainly won’t do your roster any harm.
• Radim Vrbata – Vrbata has cooled off immensely, but the situation is ripe for a low buy as he has shown us he plays his best hockey in Phoenix.
• Lee Stempniak – He’s quietly having a decent season in lowly Toronto. Worth a look.
• Rostislav Olesz – If you’re sitting pretty and are just looking for a quick pick-me-up with respect to shots on goal, Olesz may be able to provide some relief. If you do decide to make the add, just remember that his role will diminish significantly when David Booth returns from his concussion.
• Nicklas Bergfors – A great sleeper option right now. He’s shooting a ton and starting to get power play time. Pull the trigger if he’s available. You won’t be disappointed.