This article is part of our DraftKings NHL series.
FLEX
Logan Couture, SJ vs. COL ($10,600): He's been one of the most clutch players this postseason and he's shouldered a lot more of the offensive load with Joe Pavelski out of the lineup. Even if Pavelski plays, who knows how effective he'll be coming off an injury and missing the previous six games. Couture has two assists in his past three games and contributes in nearly all categories, giving him a high floor.
Tomas Hertl, SJ vs. COL ($10,100): Like Couture, Hertl's doing it all for the Sharks: scoring, shooting and winning a lot of faceoffs. Because the Sharks run a 1A-1B option down the middle, the difference in production between Couture and Hertl isn't that big, and a $500 difference could mean the difference between picking Matt Nieto and Alexander Kerfoot. Hertl and Couture are the only Sharks forwards to score double-digit points this playoffs.
Martin Jones, SJ vs. COL ($8,100): His last game could've been better, but as the series shifts to San Jose, Jones should have the upper hand against Philipp Grubauer ($7,700). Anything could happen, but the Sharks have the experience and home-ice advantage, and Jones has been very good at home this postseason winning five of seven games. Game 6 didn't produce the desired result, but if the Avs dress 11 forwards again with Matt Calvert sitting, that should make Jones' job easier, if only slightly.
Gustav Nyquist, SJ vs. COL ($6,000): He's been rather quiet but collected two assists playing with Couture on the top line, reaping the benefits of the lineup void left by Pavelski. He is the third wheel on the top line and won't get many chances to shoot, but at least he gets to showcase his playmaking abilities. His ice time has increased over the past two games and for the most part Peter DeBoer has stopped juggling and kept Nyquist on Couture's wing, so he's not in real danger of losing that spot.
Tyson Jost, COL at SJ ($5,100): He's unreliable because he's a young player, but the upside is undeniable, especially when playing with Kerfoot. The former first-round pick has scored a goal in two straight games and played 15 minutes in Game 6, a playoff-high. If the Avs play with an 11-forward roster, it gives Jost the opportunity to play a few more shifts and potentially unlock his upside.
Cale Makar, COL at SJ ($4,600): He played 18 minutes for the second straight game and collected an assist and two shots on goal. Jared Bednar hasn't been shy about playing Makar, but having seven defensemen does give him the ability to be more selective in how he deploys him. Makar's offensive upside is undeniable and it's unlikely the Avs will be able to defend their way to a win. The Avs win games by scoring goals, and Makar could be a big part of that.
