My first order of business in passing along any words of waiver wire wisdom is the following: pick up Johnny Boychuk ASAP if he is somehow still available. The window is rapidly closing as the Islander's recently acquired defenseman has set the world on fire with one goal and four assists in two games. Having inherited the position of power-play quarterback on a unit that features John Tavares and Kyle Okposo, Boychuk is breaking out right before our eyes. On to a more realistic list of waiver-wire candidates that should be available and should help you get off to a quick start: Brock Nelson C, New York Islanders: Speaking of hot starts, Boychuk can only be outdone by the prolific Nelson, who has begun the year as the Isle's second-line center and the down-low presence on their primary power-play unit. In two games against lowly Carolina, he managed three goals and three assists, benefiting greatly from a hot NYI unit on the man-advantage. If he can stay in the top-six and continues to rack up top power-play minutes, the 22-year old can be an early-season steal. Cam Atkinson RW, Columbus: With a myriad of injuries to key Columbus forwards, the speedy winger will continue to get a boatload of front-end minutes on the top line and power-play. With three goals in two games, Atkinson is off and running toward what should be a true breakout season for him. Maybe he actually catches up to Ryan Johansen in terms of scoring potential. If he is available, grab him immediately. Tyler Bozak C, Toronto: Not a sexy name in fantasy circles, but you need to get plenty of fantasy consideration when you are flanked by Phil Kessel and James van Riemsdyk on your line. The underrated Bozak has started the season in grand style, scoring three goals and adding a helper in three games despite Kessel not playing great yet. When Kessel starts to roll, you know Bozak will rack up plenty of assists and remain a decent 4th-5th fantasy forward. Antoine Vermette C, Arizona: Coming off a 24-goal season, the talented pivot finds himself in a solid position as the top-line center to be among the Coyote's premier offensive contributors. With a goal and an assist against Los Angeles on Saturday night, he could get on a serious roll. While we doubt he challenges his career-high of 65 points set five years ago as a member of the Blue Jackets, he can get close to the 50-55 point mark. There is some decent value here as he has quickly supplanted Sam Gagner as the no.one center in the 'Desert. Darcy Kuemper G, Minnesota/ Alex Stalock G, San Jose: I list both because in my mind, if you are in need of serious goalie help.. these are your guys- in that order. Kuemper is playing 'lights out' for the Wild, posting two straight shutouts. With Josh Harding out and Niklas Backstrom past his prime, Darcy is the top dog on an emerging and solid defensive club. However, he is probably not available anymore so turn your attention to Stalock. While Antti Niemi remains the Shark's starting goalie, the youngster will continue to push for playing time with exceptional efforts like his 30-save shutout against Winnipeg. Its worth it just to stash him away on the bench as any injury or cold streak by Niemi could make him a top starting option in all fantasy formats.