When building a championship-caliber dynasty fantasy hockey roster, securing elite young forwards with superstar potential is essential. These five players combine age, talent, opportunity, and long-term upside, making them the premier building blocks for dynasty managers. While rankings will always vary by league format, this is my current top five for long-term fantasy value.
1. Macklin Celebrini (Centre, 20 years old)
Celebrini earns the top spot thanks to his elite offensive ceiling, NHL-ready skill set, and franchise-player potential. His combination of skating, hockey IQ, playmaking, and finishing ability gives him the highest long-term fantasy upside among young forwards. He projects as a perennial point-per-game player who can anchor a dynasty roster for the next decade. Considering that Celebrini is going ahead of McDavid in dynasty startup drafts more often that not, his value is currently unmatched.
2. Connor Bedard (Centre, 21 years old)
Despite a slower start to his NHL career than some expected, Bedard remains one of hockey's most gifted offensive talents. His elite shot, vision, and ability to drive offense make him a future fantasy superstar. As Chicago continues to improve its supporting cast, Bedard's production should climb into the NHL's elite tier. Bedard’s value is particularly enticing in leagues that emphasize goal scoring, as his shot is top tier.
3. Ivan Demidov (Right Wing, 20 years old)
Demidov possesses some of the most dynamic offensive skill outside of the NHL's established stars. His creativity, puck handling, and scoring instincts give him legitimate game-breaking upside. While there may be a brief adjustment period, his long-term ceiling is among the highest of any forward prospect in hockey. While Demidov is known for his flashy stickhandling and creative playmaking, his defensive instincts and tenacity away from the puck are highly underrated, making him an excellent pick in category-based leagues.
4. Leo Carlsson (Centre, 21 years old)
Carlsson has quietly developed into one of the NHL's most complete young centers. Standing at 6-foot-3 with exceptional vision and puck protection, he projects as a consistent top-line producer capable of posting strong point totals while contributing across multiple fantasy categories. His combination of floor and ceiling makes him an outstanding dynasty asset. The fact that he is now the highest-paid player in the entire league only further cements the confidence managers should already have in him.
5. Adam Fantilli (Centre, 21 years old)
Perhaps one of the more underrated young superstars in the league, Fantilli rounds out the top five thanks to his blend of size, speed, and power-forward skill. He has all the tools to become a dominant top-line center who scores 40-plus goals while adding value through shots, physical play, and special teams production. As his game continues to mature, his fantasy stock should only continue to rise.
Final Thoughts
These five forwards represent the best long-term investments for dynasty fantasy hockey managers. Celebrini and Bedard offer franchise-altering offensive upside, Demidov brings elite skill and creativity, Carlsson provides an exceptional two-way foundation, and Fantilli rounds out the group with his rare blend of power and scoring ability. Any of these players can become the cornerstone of a dynasty roster for years to come.