An analysis of roster trends among fantasy hockey teams that qualified for the playoffs reveals that 92 NHL players appeared on at least 40% of these rosters.

Of these players, 60 were already on at least 80% of fantasy rosters at the start of the season, indicating strong initial drafting strategies.

The roster composition includes 55 forwards, 26 defensemen, and 11 goalies, which aligns with typical roster requirements for fantasy teams.

Tom Wilson of the Washington Capitals has seen a remarkable rise in his roster rate to 69%, up from 26.9% at the season's start, thanks to his first 30-goal season and his contribution to the team's success.

Mackenzie Blackwood's trade to the Colorado Avalanche has dramatically increased his roster percentage from 0.9% to 67%, making him the most rostered goaltender among playoff teams.

Jake Walman, now with the Edmonton Oilers, has also experienced a significant jump in roster percentages, moving from 10.3% to 68% as he emerged as a valuable fantasy asset.

Other key players who gained significant roster percentages mid-season include Pierre-Luc Dubois, Dylan Holloway, Jackson LaCombe, Darcy Kuemper, and Mackenzie Blackwood.

In contrast, Petr Mrazek is the least rostered player on playoff teams, appearing on only 6%, while Matthew Tkachuk, despite high overall roster rates, was only on 24% of playoff-bound teams due to injury issues.

Gabriel Vilardi stands out as the most rostered player on ESPN fantasy hockey teams heading into the playoffs, boasting a 72% roster rate, although he is currently sidelined with an upper-body injury.

As the fantasy playoffs approach, the article emphasizes the importance of player availability and performance trends, highlighting the necessity for managers to adapt their rosters accordingly.