2023 NHL free agency - Fantasy impact, outlooks, more - ESPN

Following the initial flurry of free-agent signings to launch Summer 2023, here's an ultra-preliminary look at how some prominent fantasy performers predictively fit in with their new squads.

Blake Wheeler, RW, New York Rangers: If the veteran winger earns the opportunity to skate on a top line with Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider, as anticipated, he should easily re-visit his 0.92 point/game pace from 2021-22. A gig on a second unit with center Vincent Trocheck doesn't strike as too lousy either. Settling into his ideal landing spot — with a contender on the east coast — Wheeler now needs to prove last season's substandard output was the product of a broken relationship in Winnipeg and not personal decline. Signed to a single year, his next contract depends on it. The 36-year-old should be drafted as an incentivized No. 2 RW in all fantasy redraft leagues of reasonable size. In net, new backup Jonathan Quick sports limited fantasy value behind No. 1 Igor Shesterkin, who projects to be one of the league's busier netminders in 2023-24.

Ryan O'Reilly, C, Nashville Predators: As it stands, the former Stanley Cup Champ/Conn Smythe winner is set to center a top line and power play with Filip Forsberg. Not a bad gig. O'Reilly was nearly a point/game performer only three short years ago in St. Louis, and could be again, competing within coach Andrew Brunette's fresh offense-driven system in Nashville. Especially if Forsberg can stay healthy. O'Reilly offers real value as a No. 2/3 fantasy center in all but the most shallow of fantasy leagues.

For more on 2023 NHL Free Agency: Signings Tracker | Trade Tracker | Grades | Draft winners and losers

Matt Duchene, C, Dallas Stars: At first glance, Duchene appears destined to slide