Mike Hoffman has been on a red-hot run, and he gets another quality matchup versus Detroit. Who else should be on our radar for NHL DFS?

STEVES PICKS- DRAFT KINGS( Writeup coming later) C Derick Brassard, NYR C Evgeni Kuznetsov, Was W Mike Hoffman, Ott W Patrick Kane, Chi W James Neal, Nas D Keith Yandle, NYR D Viktor Svedberg, Chi G Henrik Lundqvist, NYR U TJ Oshie, Was

Here is a brief insight on which players you should be targeting off the final-week waiver wire: Instead of naming a few players that could help out, it's better to think of which teams should you target. In the Eastern Conference, Boston and Ottawa are two teams playing meaningful hockey this upcoming week with plenty of playoff implications, and for both, a few contributors can be had on the waiver wire The Bruins have key veterans like Bergeron and Krejci who are must starts this week, but Milan Lucic has been playing with two youngsters who should be on your fantasy radar if available-Ryan Spooner and David Pastrnak. The future looks bright for Boston with these two developing quicker then expected thanks to key forward injuries this season. Keep in mind that if the B's clinch a playoff berth earlier in the week, bot Spooner and Pastrnak will get s few extra minutes while some vets will be rested. Regardless of how the scenario play out, either young gun makes for a strong start this week. Forwards Mark Stone and Mike Hoffman have been key cogs to a balanced offensive attack that has propelled the Senators into the playoff mix. The recent resurgence of center Mika Zibenajad also makes him a a decent candidate for a spot start. Their SO loss to Toronto basically puts them in a must-win situation the rest of the way, so look for these possible waiver targets to contribute to the scoring column. On defense, Patrice Wiercioch has been finishing the season strong so he could be a serviceable fantasy option if you desperate on the blue-line. In the Western Conference, Sean Monahan still might be available while "Johnny Hockey" Gaudreau is probably off the board. The Flames are surging and these two along with veteran Jiri Hudler are a huge reason why. Do not forget defenseman Kris Russell if still on the waiver-wire, as he has essentially replaced Mark Giordano's offensive production. Another team fighting for it's postseason life, Winnipeg, had Matthieu Perreault back from injury and based on his three assist effort against Vancouver, he might pay huge dividends as a last week starter. Mark Scheifele had been heating up as well latest acquisition Drew Stafford. If you are in need of defense, Tyler Myers could be a huge steal given that the suspended Dustin Byfuglien and injured Tobias Enstrom will miss a few games.  These are just a few thoughts, but plenty of more luck will be required. Give it your best shot folks,and hope you end up on top.

Hammond keeps hitting right notes, Kings keeping the heat on, Wild & Jets win again! Ottawa continues their amazing run with a 5-2 win over the San Jose Sharks catapulting them into the last wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, wresting it away from the Boston Bruins.  Senators Goaltender Andrew Hammond (14-0-1) is just having an incredible run as he still hasn’t lost in regulation.  Simply remarkable!...Mika Zibanejad (2G). Bobby Ryan (3A) and Mike Hoffman (G, 2A) were the offensive providers tonight as the whole roster takes turns being involved in the offense.  Now that they have risen so high, can they maintain the intensity for the last 10 game?... A couple of 3-1 contests last night as LA defeated the New Jersey Devils and the Chicago Blackhawks bested the Carolina Hurricanes.  For LA, Anze Kopitar (G, 2A) and Marian Gaborik (2A) seem to be heating up as they try to climb into playoff position as the season is winding down.  For Kopitar, that’s 5 points in last 3 and 9 points overall in 11 March games.  With just 57 points in 69 games, Kopitar should bounce back to his usual 70-points next season.  Gaborik isn’t built for the rigors of an 82-game NHL season, so don’t expect him to return to his glory days as 70+ point player anymore.  He does have 41 points in 59 games played but won’t get near a point-per-game pace anymore…The Blackhawks jumped out to a 2-0 lead early in the first period and made it stick as Corey Crawford turned aside 43 of 44 SOG for his 30th win on the season.  That’s 4 seasons of 30+ wins on last 5 which includes the shortened 48-game Lockout season where he was on pace for 30+ wins if it was a regular full season…. Devan Dubnyk continues to play large in net as he keeps on winning with a 2-1 win over Toronto.  Surging Thomas Vanek had a hand in both Minnesota goals, an assist on the first goal and the game-winner in the 3rd.  Dubnyk’s bid for a shutout was spoiled by Jake Gardiner (his 4th) with just under 7 minutes to play in regulation…. Jamie Benn (2G, 1A) had a night and it was sorely needed as the Buffalo Sabres gave the Dallas Stars all they could handle last night but the Stars prevailed in the end, 4-3. Sabres’ goalie Anders Lindback (35/39 SV) returned to his former team and did all he could but fell short at the end.  Dallas is still in the hunt for that last playoff spot but time is running out… Calgary helped their cause with a solid 3-2 win over the Colorado Avalanche keeping the Kings 2 points behind them ...

Marchand on fire; plenty of Senators to consider; Zidlicky back on fantasy map: Brad Marchand RW, Boston- The pesky winger has been on quite the goal-scoring streak for the Bruins, scoring five goals over the last four games. While the B's rely on a four line approach, Marchand has heated up since the loss of a David Krejci and looks poised for another strong week ahead. With four games on the upcoming slate, take advantage of him while on his scoring binge.  Mark Stone RW, Ottawa- It's no coincidence that many Senators have surged up the fantasy rankings during the teams torrid winning stretch, but the young winger has found his scoring touch lately. With 2 multiple point outings in his last three, Stone has clicked with Kyle Turris on the second line. He is worth adding while the duo keeps racking up the points.  Mike Hoffman LW, Ottawa- We recommended Hoffman last week and he responded with 3 points in four games. His ownership is quickly rising, but he could still had in most leagues. The young sharp-shooter is definitely worth a shot, especially with how well the Senator's offense has been producing. Marek Zidlicky D, Detroit- The veteran rearguard has been penciled in a power play specialist for the Wings, which given that their have the best unit in NHL, is not bad for fantasy purposes. He already has made his mark with two power-play goals this week, including the overtime game winner over the Rangers. Zidlicky still has game left, so take advantage of his new digs and pick him up if you still can. Andrew Hammond G, Ottawa- I am sticking the "Hamburglar" here, as his stat-line reads as following during his unreal NHL stint so far: 7-0-1, 1.43 GAA, and .954 SP. Craig Anderson had his turn last night and although he made 42 saves, he did give up four goals. In other words, it's Hammond or bust for now in Ottawa. Use him while he is absolutely lights-out.

A pair of streaking Senators, MDZ keeps scoring, A "hot" Smith in Boston, and more: Mike Hoffman LW, Ottawa- With points in eight of  his last nine games, the 25-year old is arguably the hottest rookie forward as we speak and should be considered on most fantasy rosters. The Senstors are surging and the offense had begun to roll as well. Hoffman showed legit upside in the AHL and his scoring ability is translating into NHL success.We like him for rest of the season, but absolutely love his sleeper value for 2015-16.  Reilly Smith LW, Boston- the Bruin's winger has been hot and cold all year so long do be very wary of his latest four-game point streak (2G/3A). Having said that, Smith could easily be productive for the short term as Boston is coping with loss of David Krejci. Just know his production can come to a halt rather abruptly but he is worth fantasy consideration at this point... Brendan Gallagher RW, Montreal- The 22-year old has been flying late along with the whole team as he collected eight points over his last five games. He has shown more promise in Year 3 as he should easily surpass his career mark of 41 points set last season. 50+ points should be in the cards for BG so take a chance on him and ride his strong finish the rest of the way... Michael del Zotto D, Philadelphia- The talented defender is enjoying his most productive offensive stretch in a few years and with the trade of Kimmo Timonen to Chicago, MDZ should continue to get more minutes and play a huge role in the offense. His power-play minutes has also been on the upswing, so sky's the limit for him. Take advantage of his offensive renaissance.. Andrew Hammond G, Ottawa - Last time we spoke of the 27-year old rookie, he started his NHL career with 2 impressive wins. Yet not enough to be convinced yet. Now after completing a three game road sweep in west coast, it's time to take Hammond seriously as the Senators are making a serious splash and he has been the main reason why. Grab him ASAP if he is still available..

Josh Bailey LW, New York Islanders: The former overall ninth pick in 2008 has yet to pan out offensively, but he has been clicking on the top line alongside John Tavares with seven points over the last five games. If he can indeed stick there, he should easily surpass his career-high of 38 points and flirt with the 50-point mark. The long-term injury to Kyle Okposo should hinder the top unit's overall offensive production, but Bailey is defintely starteable if he becomes JT's main "partner in crime" over the next 5-8 weeks. Mikhail Grabovski, New York Islanders: Ok, so "Grabo" hasn't exactly gone off in his first year on Long Island but he will get first crack at replacing Okposo on the top line. We doubt he can remain consistent over the long haul, but he can certainly be a solid short-term option if he clicks with JT. It's all about opportunity in fantasy, so he deserves a strong look over the next week while the Isles begin their life without Okposo. Andre Burakovsky RW, Washington: Heading into the All-Star Break, the 19-year old posted a two-game point streak while playing on the top line with Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom. He is tied for sixth amongst rookies with 18 points but he could certainly double that production if he continues to get time with the top guns. We still expect many "ups and downs" for the youngster, but his lomg-term upside is quite substantial. His value is one-year leagues should be strictly viewd as short-term, but he is worth watching. Mark Stone RW, Ottawa: Speaking of under the radar, Ottawa's top-liner will be resuming quite possibly the NHL's quietest seven-game point streak as the games get started this week. The 22-year old has scored at every level and now has begun to showcase his talents for a Senator team desperately in need of a go-to sniper (No disrespect to Bobby Ryan, but he hasn't been consistent enough). It's looking like Stone and Mike Hoffman could have plenty of fantasy value for years to come as they should be primary offensive contributors moving forward. Anton Forsberg G, Columbus: While everybody is running out to pick up Curtis McElhinney as the long-term replacement for the injured Sergei Bobrovsky, we think you look elsewhere. 22-year old Anton Forsberg has been recalled from the AHL, where he has put up great numbers since his North Anerican debut late last season (4-2-0, 1.69 GAA, .940 SP), He should get a legit shot to carry the Columbus workload in the crease over the next month or so, ...

The Toronto Maple Leafs came out flat against an Ottawa Senators team that had played a tough match against the New York Rangers the night before.  The Leafs fought back in the third period but Ottawa defenseman Erik Karlsson showed his All-Star form with 2 goals, including the game-winner. Karlsson proved once again why he is the top-rated defenseman in the NHL. The Senators are fighting for a playoff spot so look for good second halves from the likes of Bobby Ryan, Mike Hoffman, Mika Zibanejad and goalie Craig Anderson. Anderson has rebounded from a poor 2013-2014 and is putting up good metrics despite his record....the Leafs have been struggling on offense of late but with talent like Phil Kessel, James van Riemsdyk, Tyler Bozak and company you just know that Toronto will break out in a big way soon, so keep them in your lineup or perhaps "buy low" opportunities await.... Pittsburgh was missing Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang in their matchup against the Chicago Blackhawks but managed to play them tough in a 3-2 shootout loss. The pair were injured in the Philly game the night before and with the long All-Star break, perhaps it was wise to be cautious with two of their top talents... Michael Hutchinson blanked the Columbus Blue Jackets 4-0 heading into the break as the Winnipeg Jets continue to solidify a hold on a playoff spot. Hutchinson has put up some impressive numbers in his short stint in the NHL, so look for the Jets to ride Hutchinson for the majority of starts from here on out.  Evander Kane looks like he is picking up steam with his fourth goal in 7 January games, so if you need some goals and he's on the wire, he might be worth the pickup.... Colorado continues to climb their way back into playoff contention with a 3-2 shootout win over a surging Boston Bruin team. Avs goalie Semyon Varlamov is poised for a big second half and speaking of second halves, Jarome Iginla must feel good to score against his former team. Look for Iginla to be a big part of Colorado's climb going forward.... San Jose helped themselves with a 4-2 win over Los Angeles putting a little distance between the two teams. Logan Couture was the main cog for the Sharks and he should be able to consistently score with this lineup. Expect a point-per-game pace from the 25-year old as he has 11 in 10 January games.  He has the talent to be the top dog in terms of scoring so don't be surprised if he raises his game to the next level.

Mike Hoffman LW, Ottawa: Let's begin with a true "dark-horse" pick that has lit up opposing goalies lately with six goals in the last five games. I am high on this kid given that he has displayed big-time offensive talent in the juniors, but the question remains whether it could translate full-time in the NHL. So far so good for the 24-year old, who is starting to earn more minutes because of his recent production. It's hard to predict whether Hoffman will permanently jump into the Senator's top-six, but ask yourself who is his biggest competition- Clarke MacArthur? I would keep an eye on this guy. Jori Lehtera C, St Louis: I repeat: Pick him up ASAP! The 27 year old was an unknown commodity before his recent hot streak upon his NHL arrival. What was known is that he had exhibited huge chemistry in KHL with Vladimir Tarasenko, so the duo have continued where they have left off. Don't wait much longer, as the window of opportunity is almost shut. Nick Foligno W, Columbus:- Here is a perfect example of riding the "hot hand" while a player is streaky but being prepared to release him when the scoring comes to halt. The winger is tearing it up for a struggling Columbus squad, collecting 9 goals and 18 points in 15 games. However, before you consider him a long term savior, take note that his career high is 49 pts and 18 goals. Tread with caution but enjoy the immediate rewards. Jared Spurgeon D, Minnesota: The talented d-man is back after missing 5 games due to injury, responding immediately with a goal against Buffalo. With 7 points in 10 games, the youngster is emerging offensively at the right time for a depleted Minny squad. He gave fantasy owners a taste last season with 26 pts in 67 games but he is now ready to put up career numbers in 14-15. Jake Muzzin D, Los Angeles: If there was ever a time to use Muzzin, it's definitely now with Alec Martinez and Slave Voynov out of the immediate picture. The overload of offensive defensemen in LA makes it difficult to gauge future performance, but Muzzin is the clear no 2 after Drew Doughty for the near future. His 5 points in last 4 games is a good sign for the normally streaky defender. Don't think this pace will last very long, but he should be an adequate lower end starting option while getting a boost in quality minutes.

Hoffman was held off of the scoresheet in three games with the Senators during his first recall, but he has lit up the AHL with 30 goals and 37 assists (67 points) in 51 games this season. His 67 points sits second in league scoring, three points behind Travis Morin (Stars prospect).