Predicting the first round of next year's NHL fantasy draft in standard leagues

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Banger Leagues | Standard Leagues

Here is a glimpse at what the first round of 2017 fantasy hockey drafts will look like in leagues with the following categories:

1. C Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins

Crosby vs. McDavid will be the debate in standard leagues. They'll probably be neck-and-neck for the Art Ross Trophy in the coming seasons, but Crosby's sudden desire to score goals presents more value compared to McDavid, who garners most of his points via assists. Crosby's superior supporting cast puts him over the top.

2. C Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers

McDavid and Crosby are the two players in the NHL who have the best odds of recording 100 points. A 100-point player is more valuable than just about anything else in fantasy hockey. McDavid's age and speed give him a sky-high ceiling. He should improve year after year.

3. D Brent Burns, San Jose Sharks

Even in leagues without hits or blocks, Burns still deserves to be a top-3 selection. A defenseman who can score 30 goals, tally 80 points and lead the league in shots on goal provides so much value and balance to your team.

4. G Braden Holtby, Washington Capitals

In leagues where the goaltending stats account for a higher percentage of the categories, you could make the argument Holtby deserves to go No. 1 overall. Even though they have a few key pending unrestricted free agents, Washington should continue to be a powerhouse and Holtby is in his prime.

5. RW Patrick Kane, Chicago Blackhawks

Kane doesn't have the same amount of upside as Crosby and McDavid, but he still has the ability to rack up 100 points, though he'll probably wind up with somewhere around 90. This type of production from right wing is extremely valuable given the lack of depth compared to center.

6. D Erik Karlsson, Ottawa Senators

Karlsson has averaged less ice time this season than he has since 2011-12. This is due to head coach Guy Boucher making sure his star player has some gas left in the tank down the stretch. While it might help the Senators in reality, it dampers his fantasy appeal ever so slightly. He still has point-per-game potential, but he doesn't have the 30-goal upside of Burns.

7. G Carey Price, Montreal Canadiens

Montreal's aging blue line is a slight cause for concern. Nonetheless, a full season with Claude Julien at the helm will lead to stronger defensive play throughout the lineup, therefore solidifying Price as a first-round pick.

7. G Sergei Bobrovsky, Columbus Blue Jackets

The Blue Jackets are no fluke - and neither is Bobrovsky's spectacular season. The Jackets are a young team with a strong blue line and should only improve with more experience. Shot blocking has always been a staple for John Tortorella-led teams. Goalies such as Henrik Lundqvist and Nikolai Khabibulin enjoyed their best seasons under Tortorella's guidance.

9. RW Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning

Kucherov is the only player from the famed "Triplets" line to not regress. In fact, he has become one of the game's best players. He has carried the Lightning offense all season. With C Steven Stamkos back in the fold next year, Kucherov should shine even brighter.

10. LW Brad Marchand, Boston Bruins

Marchand is one of the best late-bloomers in recent memory. When you watch him play, it's hard to convince yourself this season has been a fluke. Bruins head coach Bruce Cassidy certainly doesn't have the resume of Julien, but the former is more aggressive and offensive-minded. Another point-per-game season - or better - is on the horizon for Marchand in 2017-18.

Just missed the cut: Penguins C Evgeni Malkin, Capitals LW Alex Ovechkin, St. Louis Blues RW Vladimir Tarasenko, Toronto Maple Leafs C Auston Matthews

(Photos courtesy Action Images)