The goal in GPP contests is simple: finish first. To achieve that, your lineup must be highly correlated and built around players capable of explosive performances. Success in NHL GPPs relies on maximizing upside through stacking, exploiting leverage, and maintaining lineup uniqueness.
4/3/1 Stacks:
The most dominant approach across slates is the 4/3/1 stack, which combines a center (C), two wingers (W), and a defenseman (D) from the same team. This captures all available scoring correlation when that team performs well. On FanDuel, you can also consider a 4/4 stack if two strong C/W/W/D combinations fit your build.
3/3/X Stacks:
The 3/3/X configuration is the second most effective stacking structure, with “X” representing one or two unrelated players used as value fillers or mini-stacks. This setup excels on larger slates with five or more games, balancing correlation and flexibility.
DraftKings Exclusive Stacks:
For smaller slates, DraftKings users can experiment with 5/2/1 or 6/1/1 stack combinations. While less common, these builds can be highly rewarding when one team dominates a game. They’re especially effective when targeting matchups where a single offense has the potential to score five or more goals.
Defensemen are generally the best one-off options in NHL GPPs. They offer consistent floor points through blocked shots and shooting volume, while still carrying upside through power play involvement. Elite defensemen who play heavy minutes and are deployed in offensive zone situations are ideal choices. Identify defensemen gaining additional opportunities from injuries or recent power play promotions.
Target teams with strong power play units facing opponents with weak penalty kills. Power play correlation is one of the most important factors in GPP success. At the same time, be mindful of line matching—teams that consistently deploy shutdown lines against top scorers can limit your stack’s upside. Favor teams with favorable matchups where top lines will face weaker competition.
Whenever possible, align your goalie with one of your offensive stacks to maximize win equity. If salary constraints prevent that, select your goalie last, prioritizing low-owned options or underdogs capable of high save totals. On DraftKings, goalies who face more shots benefit from bonus potential tied to save volume and shutouts, providing added upside even in close games.
Stacking is common in NHL GPPs, so finding unique lineup constructions is critical. Avoid overly popular team stacks that the majority of the field is playing. On larger slates, consider leaving a few hundred—or even over $1,000—of salary on the table to reduce duplication and create a more unique lineup structure.
Let your stack dictate your salary allocation. Don’t force every dollar of the cap to be used; lineups that leave unused salary can still be highly competitive. High-upside combinations matter more than full salary utilization.
For players entering multiple lineups, focus on a concentrated team pool. Select 3–6 teams to build around using top-line and power play-correlated stacks. Keep your center pool limited and use wingers more freely across lineups. Diversify goalie selections, but never roster skaters against your own goaltender, as that directly reduces your lineup’s scoring ceiling.
By following these principles—stacking intelligently, targeting power play opportunities, and maintaining lineup uniqueness—you can maximize upside and position your NHL DFS GPP lineups to compete for the top of the leaderboard.