Must-Have Week 5 Fantasy Hockey Pickups for Every Category

Fantasy hockey managers seeking to optimize their rosters this week have several potential pickups across different categories. By focusing on specific performance metrics, teams can enhance their competitive edge. Here are the top recommendations for Week 5 fantasy hockey pickups.
Top Week 5 Fantasy Hockey Pickups
1. Travis Sanheim – Defenseman, Philadelphia Flyers
- Rostered: 30%
- Stats: 1 goal, 3 assists, 6 shots, 12 blocks, 4 hits
- Ice Time: Career-high 27:16 per game
- This Week’s Games: 3, including 2 at home
Sanheim has started the season strong, contributing in multiple categories. Despite a modest point streak coming to an end, his all-around performance remains valuable.
2. Jake Neighbours – Left Wing/Right Wing, St. Louis Blues
- Rostered: 29%
- Stats: 4 goals, 1 assist, 8 shots, 15 hits
- Previous Seasons: 27 goals in 2023-24, 24 assists in 2024-25
- This Week’s Games: 3
Neighbours has had a positive impact on the Blues’ offense, showcasing his scoring ability and physical play. He is expected to maintain a significant role this week.
3. Jake Allen – Goalie, New Jersey Devils
- Rostered: 23%
- Stats: 2-0-0 record, 1.87 GAA, .934 save percentage
- Upcoming: Likely to be the No. 1 goalie with Markstrom injured
Allen has stepped up in the absence of Jacob Markstrom and should see considerable playing time this week, making him a worthwhile acquisition for fantasy teams.
4. Conor Garland – Right Wing, Vancouver Canucks
- Rostered: 17%
- Stats: 1 goal, 4 assists, 19 shots, 5 hits
- Previous Achievements: Reached 50 points last season
Garland is on a scoring streak and plays significant minutes in key situations, indicating he could surpass his last season’s points tally.
5. Zach Benson – Left Wing, Buffalo Sabres
- Rostered: 14%
- Stats: 4 assists, 4 shots, 2 power-play assists
- This Week’s Games: 4
Benson has quickly become a vital part of the Sabres offense, especially following his return from injury. He has breakout potential this week.
6. Jakub Dobes – Goalie, Montreal Canadiens
- Rostered: 13%
- Stats: 2-0-0 record, 1.46 GAA, .940 save percentage
- This Week’s Games: 4
Dobes has proven to be reliable, especially during a demanding schedule. His performance could make him a strategic pickup for this week.
7. Dawson Mercer – Center/Right Wing, New Jersey Devils
- Rostered: 11%
- Stats: 3 goals, 2 assists, 8 blocks
- Recent Performance: 4-game point streak
Mercer’s scoring ability complements his physical play, positioning him as a valuable addition during New Jersey’s busy week.
8. Shane Wright – Center, Seattle Kraken
- Rostered: 6%
- Stats: 2 goals, 2 assists
- Upcoming: 4 games this week
Wright has shown improvement in ice time and scoring. He has the potential to further elevate his contributions this week.
9. Emmitt Finnie – Center/Left Wing, Detroit Red Wings
- Rostered: 3%
- Stats: 2 goals, 1 assist, 4 hits
The rookie has made a significant impact already, especially on a line with established players. He could be a hidden gem this week.
10. Jeff Skinner – Left Wing, San Jose Sharks
- Rostered: 2%
- Stats: 3 goals, 1 assist, 13 shots
Skinner has started strong this season and has the potential to be a valuable addition with a favorable schedule ahead.
In conclusion, reviewing specific categories can help fantasy managers find invaluable players for their rosters. By targeting these recommended pickups, teams can strategically enhance their performance in the coming week.