CBS Sports releases 2026-27 fantasy hockey rankings as McDavid retains top spot
Connor McDavid leads the top 100 list, while Macklin Celebrini’s 115-point season elevates him to elite status in the latest assessment from CBS Sports.
CBS Sports has published its comprehensive top 100 fantasy hockey rankings for the 2026-27 season, establishing Connor McDavid as the premier asset for fantasy managers. The release comes as leagues prepare for structural changes to the upcoming schedule, specifically shorter training camps and an extended regular-season fixture list, which may influence player availability and performance metrics.
The forward category is defined by a consolidated group of elite producers. Alongside McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Nikita Kucherov, and Leon Draisaitl are projected to consistently surpass the 100-point threshold. Macklin Celebrini has secured the fifth overall position, rising to elite status following a 115-point performance in his sophomore campaign with the San Jose Sharks. His rapid ascent suggests he will be a high-priority selection in most draft formats.
Defensive valuations remain anchored by Cale Makar, who retains the number one spot among blueliners. The rankings identify Evan Bouchard, Zach Werenski, and Quinn Hughes as capable of elite offensive output, with Bouchard noted for being the only defenceman to exceed 90 points in the 2025-26 regular season. Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders is also highlighted at number 68, having won the Calder Trophy after scoring 23 goals and 36 assists in his rookie year.
Goalie rankings are headlined by Andrei Vasilevskiy, who is positioned as the first netminder off the board. Vasilevskiy led the league with 39 wins in the previous season and secured his second Vezina Trophy. The report suggests that while workhorse options like Vasilevskiy, Logan Thompson, and Connor Hellebuyck are safe early picks, managers in specific league formats may find value in tandem options or starters on fringe teams.
Injury histories and recovery timelines have significantly impacted the mid-to-lower tiers of the rankings. Connor Bedard, ranked 47th, underwent offseason shoulder surgery and may not be available until mid-November, though he remains a potential stash option. Aleksander Barkov, ranked 56th, missed the entire 2025-26 season due to knee surgery but demonstrated fitness at the 2026 IIHF World Championship. Meanwhile, Auston Matthews is identified as a bounce-back candidate at number 17, with projections suggesting he could outperform his current ranking if he returns to top-line goal-scoring form.
