The Hockey News has released its latest evaluation of the ten best fantasy right wingers for the 2026‑27 NHL season, a list that hinges on a blend of historic performance, current trajectory and the unique demands of the position.
Nikita Kucherov sits at the top of the rankings, his three Art Ross Trophy victories underscoring a career defined by elite playmaking, and his per‑game assists and points outpace even Connor McDavid, cementing his status as the most valuable right winger in fantasy circles.
David Pastrnak, meanwhile, is praised for his relentless scoring consistency, having posted at least 100 points in four straight seasons, a feat that persists despite a noticeable dip in shot volume that suggests opposing defenses are increasingly focused on limiting his opportunities.
Mikko Rantanen’s fantasy outlook is tempered by the depth of the Dallas Stars, where multiple star forwards compete for ice time, meaning his contributions are often diluted by the team’s crowded offensive landscape.
Martin Necas benefits from a generous share of minutes on the Minnesota Wild, a situation that is amplified by Nathan MacKinnon’s offensive drive, giving Necas a clearer path to elevated production.
Quinn Hughes’ command of the Dallas Stars’ power play, coupled with projected upgrades at center, is expected to lift the fantasy stock of Erik Guenther, whose underlying numbers already hint at a breakout potential.
Auston Nylander remains a steady presence in the top five, his 57‑goal campaign in 2022‑23 and a 24.5% shooting percentage illustrating why he continues to rank highly among right wingers despite fluctuating linemate changes.
Carter Reinhart is projected to deliver around 30 goals and 80 points, a projection that rests on his heavy ice time and durability, with Aleksander Barkov serving as a constant catalyst in all situations.
Matthew Tkachuk’s fantasy value is less certain; while he has logged three 100‑point seasons, his performance is marked by variable hit counts and recent health setbacks that could curb his output.
Auston Marner, despite his reputation, faces a ceiling capped by limited shot volume and the depth of the Vegas Golden Knights, making him a less compelling elite asset in fantasy formats.
Erik Guenther, still under 23, shows the most upside among the group, his track record of 40‑plus goals and strong underlying statistics positioning him to ascend into the tier‑two conversation as the season progresses.
Positional Context
The right wing position remains notably thin compared to other categories, a scarcity that intensifies the importance of ice time and primary offensive roles in determining fantasy worth, and it explains why players like Kucherov and Pastrnak dominate the conversation while others fight for marginal gains.