Daylan Kuefler

It’s also worth noting that Bridgeport currently has just one true center, Matthew Highmore, which has opened the door for Kuefler to step up down the middle. He’s embraced the role, earning more ice time and carving out opportunities on the penalty kill.

While roster spots with the New York Islanders are hard to come by, Kuefler projects as a strong future fit in their bottom-six. He’s likely about a year away from being NHL-ready, but the progress he has made under Bridgeport’s new coaching staff has been impressive.

Kuefler is the type of player coaches love: hard-nosed, physical, and completely selfless. He’s never shy about taking a hit to make a play, and he consistently puts his body on the line for his teammates. He has the hands to make the occasional highlight-reel pass, but he thrives along the boards, in the dirty areas, and in front of the net. His offensive ceiling is limited, but his willingness to block shots, finish checks, and handle tough minutes makes him an ideal fourth-line call-up if his development continues.

From a fantasy perspective, Kuefler isn’t a player to target this season; he’s unlikely to see NHL time. But in deep dynasty leagues that reward hits and blocks, he’s worth monitoring. With the right opportunity, he could become a sneaky long-term asset. Kenny Kaminsky