NHL.com point projection: 62
Rakell led the Penguins in goals (35) last season and was second in points (70), even-strength points (51) and shots on goal (203) behind Crosby (91 points; 64 even-strength points; 227 shots on goal). He also brings strong hits coverage (116 last season; third on Pittsburgh) and is a potential fantasy draft bargain worth prioritizing anytime around the top 120 overall.
NHL.com point projection: 61
Karlsson frequently plays on the first power play with Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Rust and Rakell, and could see a heavier workload than last season while Kris Letang recovers from heart surgery. He is a five-time 70-point scorer with nine seasons of at least 50 who also has a high ceiling (NHL career-high 101 with San Jose Sharks in 2022-23). The 35-year-old should be considered a fringe top-20 fantasy defenseman option.
NHL.com point projection: 60
Malkin, entering the final season of his contract, is a six-time 30-goal scorer with three seasons of at least 100 points who has bounce-back potential after being held to 50 points (16 goals, 34 assists) in 68 games last season. The 39-year-old, who joins his longtime teammate Crosby among active leaders in points per game (1.11; 10th), could be a late-round steal if the Penguins stay healthy and rookie wing Ville Koivunen sticks on the second line.