Sportsnet Fantasy Playoffs Pool Strategy

By Tyler Hinds; not afraid to pick a sleeper 1^st overall (@THinds3)

Do you love playoff hockey, fantasy sports, & cash prizes? Perfect, keep reading. Sportsnet Fantasy Playoffs Pool is back to kick-off the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs with amazing cash and Samsung prizes. Register your team today!

How Do I play?

Begin by registering on Sportsnet.ca. Verify your email, create your profile, and you’re good to go!

The playoffs have been split into three Segments; Round 1, Round 2, and Rounds 3 & 4 combined. Contestants will put together a 12 player team that will score the most fantasy points during each segment according to the scoring system. Prior to the beginning of Segment 2 and Segment 3, you can re-select your roster for the next Segment. After Segment 3, your roster is set for the remainder of the playoffs.

Pick Deadlines – Segment 1: April 13^th, 7pm EST; Segment 2: TBD; Segment 3: TBD

Roster – Every fantasy roster must include three forwards, two defencemen, and a goalie from each conference.

Cap – Contestants are looking to earn the most fantasy points each Segment while staying under the cap based on the value (1 to 4) assigned to each player.

Three Stars – Participants will designate three stars (one forward, one defencemen, & one goalie) who will earn double points that segment. Choose wisely.

What Can I Win?

The grand prize will be awarded to the 1^st place finished at the end of the playoffs and includes $50,000 in cash plus $5,000 in Samsung product.

Additionally, there will be 10 secondary prizes of $1,500 in Samsung product plus a $100 Sportsnet Prize Pack awarded to participants that meet the following categories:

• 2^nd through 5^th place finishers overall at the end of the playoffs
• 1^st and 2^nd place finishers in Segment 1
• 1^st and 2^nd place finishers in Segment 2, regardless of overall standing
• 1^st and 2^nd place finishers in Segment 3, regardless of overall standing

What’s the Best Strategy?

There are many different ways to approach this playoff pool due to it’s unconventional format. Since you have the opportunity to select three different lineups throughout the playoffs, there are different options you need to consider. 

First, Segments 1 & 2 actually encourages participants to diversify their lineup with players from multiple different teams. This is a time to select players that you think will thrive in their playoff series matchup that aren’t necessarily Stanley Cup contenders. It’s also never a bad idea to select players in a tight matched series that has the potential to go 7 games. More games equals more opportunity to accumulate points.

Second, Segment 3 would be a time to shift your mindset and load up with players on your eastern/western conference rosters that you deem as a potential cup hoister. You’ve got a 50-50 chance for each conference roster so go for it!

Finally, the NHL playoffs are a different beast. We often see unlikely heroes arise because the physical nature better suits their style. Consider who’s been hot going into the playoffs, they might just carry over that streaky confidence. Let’s not forget about what Bryan Bickell did during the Chicago Blackhawks 2013 playoff run. 

Good luck! 

Create your team for free to receive weekly divisional newsletters including a practice plan, skill video, animated drill, timely blog, & ProTip.