Besides goaltender, center is the most important position in fantasy hockey, which makes sense as it’s probably the second-most important position on the real-life ice as well. The top four scorers last season were all centers, and it looks like an especially deep position this season. After the top few, truly elite players, there might be 15 or 20 guys who can be counted on for at least 65 points over the course of 2014-15. With opening day rapidly approaching, here’s a glance at the top five fantasy hockey centers.

5. Ryan Getzlaf, Anaheim

Maybe a slight reach at number 5, but the Ducks’ center scored 31 goals last season and 87 points total. Some might say that his 2013-14 campaign was a surprise after a few down years, but Getzlaf scored 91 points in 2008-09. With the addition of Dany Heatley at LW, Getzlaf might see his goals dip, but he should more than make up for it with assists. If you don’t like Getzlaf, consider Anze Kopitar of the Kings or Tyler Sequin in Dallas. Both are potential big number guys in what is a very deep field of NHL centers.
 
4. John Tavares, New York Islanders

Tavares got hurt last year, tearing up his knee 59 games into the season. To that point though, he’d scored 66 points, including 24 goals. The Islanders’ center has not had quite the production to vault himself into the ranks of the elite, but he’s consistent, averaging right around one point per game since 2011-12. And, at only 23, he’s got upside that a lot of the older guys don’t have. Watch for his power play numbers get just a little better as he really comes into his own this season.
 
3. Claude Giroux, Philadelphia

The loss of Scott Hartnell will no doubt have an effect on the Flyers’ offense, but Giroux should get his numbers one way or another. He started slow and still managed 86 points last season. Watch for him to have an even higher output if the offense leans more heavily on him this year. The Flyers’ power play should be excellent, and Giroux knows how to quarterback it.
 
2. Steven Stamkos, Tampa Bay

Stamkos was hurt not even halfway through last season, but that’s no reason to shy away from him. Since 2009-10, the Lightning center has averaged well-above one point per game every season. He’s not yet broken the 100-point barrier, but he’s almost as solid as it gets at a position where consistent production is key. And this may be the year he finally breaks 100; Tampa Bay is going to score a lot of points and may be the best team in the Atlantic Division.
 
1. Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh

 

No surprise that Sid the Kid tops the top five. He’s coming off of a 36 goal, 104 point effort in 2013-14, and he’s probably the best player in the world right now. If he stays healthy, Crosby is all but certain to score 100 points again. He’s done it in every season of his career that he’s played at least 77 games. The Penguins have shuffled a few things, with a new head coach and new personnel, but Crosby is still the right choice if you’re picking first in the draft. Heads-up: The Penguins second-line center, Evgeni Malkin, might be a top ten pick too.