Fantasy Hockey Dynasty Rankings: The Top 10 Under-25 Players for Long-Term Leagues

September 11, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

In keeper and dynasty fantasy hockey leagues, youth isn't just potential, it's currency. Whether you're rebuilding or trying to stay ahead of the curve, locking in elite talent under 25 can define your roster for years. NHL.com’s Fantasy team has compiled a list of the top young players based on projected long-term value, factoring in skill, opportunity, team context, and age. Here are the top 10 dynasty fantasy hockey assets under age 25 for the 2025–26 season, ranked for their long-term impact.

10. Cole Caufield – Forward, Montreal Canadiens

Caufield has emerged as Montreal’s top goal scorer, and the chemistry he’s building with Nick Suzuki makes him a fantasy mainstay. Injuries slowed his progress early in his career, but he now projects as a 35+ goal winger with top-line minutes and power-play deployment, the perfect mix for dynasty leagues.

9. Tim Stützle – Forward, Ottawa Senators

Dynamic and still improving, Stützle took another leap last season as Ottawa’s offensive catalyst. With his elite skating and creativity, he’s already producing at a point-per-game pace. As the Sens continue to mature, Stützle’s upside as a multi-category fantasy contributor is enormous.

8. Matvei Michkov – Forward, Philadelphia Flyers

The wait may finally be over. Michkov is set to debut in North America and brings superstar potential. Often compared to Artemi Panarin, the young Russian has an elite scoring touch and vision. If he clicks early in Philly, his value in dynasty formats could skyrocket.

7. Wyatt Johnston – Forward, Dallas Stars

Johnston continues to outperform expectations. Already a reliable top-six center, he plays a mature, all-around game. With elite finishers around him in Dallas and increasing special teams minutes, he has both a high floor and an enticing ceiling for long-term fantasy managers.

6. Jack Hughes – Forward, New Jersey Devils

Already among the league's most exciting offensive players, Hughes has blossomed into a franchise cornerstone. His combination of speed, hands, and hockey IQ makes him a threat every time he's on the ice. He’s locked into a top-line role and will be a fantasy stud for years to come.

5. Lane Hutson – Defenseman, Montreal Canadiens

Lane Hutson might just be the next elite fantasy blueliner. His offensive instincts are off the charts, and he's slated to quarterback Montreal’s power play in the near future. Few defensemen under 25 have his long-term upside, and he could become a game-changer in keeper formats.

4. Quinn Hughes – Defenseman, Vancouver Canucks

Already a proven force on the back end, Hughes is among the NHL's top point-producing defensemen. His skating and puck movement are elite, and his role in Vancouver is locked in for years. In dynasty leagues, he’s arguably the safest under-25 defenseman on the board.

3. Brady Tkachuk – Forward, Ottawa Senators

If your dynasty league rewards hits and PIMs, Brady is a goldmine. A volume shooter who racks up power-play points, penalty minutes, and even the occasional fight, Tkachuk offers multi-category value that few others can match. He’s a fantasy unicorn, and still only 25.

2. Connor Bedard – Forward, Chicago Blackhawks

The hype was real, and Bedard delivered. After a stellar rookie campaign, he’s now the centerpiece of Chicago’s rebuild. With elite shooting, vision, and offensive zone dominance, Bedard is already a top-10 fantasy player with room to grow. He’s the real deal.

1. Macklin Celebrini – Forward, San Jose Sharks

Celebrini hasn’t played an NHL game yet, but he still tops the list. Why? Because he combines elite skill with an expected franchise role on a rebuilding Sharks team where he'll be handed top minutes from day one. His long-term upside as a 100-point player is real. Betting on Celebrini now could pay dynasty dividends for a decade.