Three must-add forwards heading into the NHL fantasy playoffs

For many, the NHL fantasy playoffs are set to begin this week, with waiver wire additions becoming more and more important. A perfectly timed free-agent pickup can be the difference between an NHL fantasy title or another failed season.

While most teams heading into the playoffs will likely have their lineup established, roster flexibility is one of the keys to finishing the season with a title. Last season, waiver wire adds such as Ivan Barbashev could have been enough to help teams advance in the NHL fantasy playoffs.

"TWO GOALS FOR IVAN BARBASHEV. LET'S ABSOLUTELY GO" - Vegas Golden Knights

Here is a look at three must-add forwards as your fantasy playoffs are set to begin. On an important note, ownership percentages will be in relation to leagues hosted on ESPN.

Dawson Mercer could be a league-winner during the NHL fantasy playoffs - ESPN roster percentage: 50.7%

The New Jersey Devils have been one of the most surprising teams this season, and are currently sitting second in the Metropolitan Division with a 44-16-6 record.

While the team has enjoyed sensational seasons from the likes of Nico Hishier, Jack Hughes, and Dougie Hamilton, the latest surge from Dawson Mercer has helped the team continue its momentum.

"We've said it once and we'll say it again: Dawson Mercer is really, REALLY good at hockey." - NHL

The 21-year-old sophomore is coming off a 12-game point streak, pushing his season totals to 22 goals and 27 assists. Depending on your league, the New Jersey Devils forward should be eligible as a C/W, which is invaluable during an NHL fantasy playoff run.

Jason Zucker - ESPN roster percentage: 28.4%

Sometimes in fantasy sports, it's beneficial to add players who are surrounded by superstars. While Jason Zucker is a talented forward, the fact that he plays alongside Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Jake Guentzel makes him an intriguing addition during the playoffs.

"Jason Zucker in his last 8 games: 9 Goals, 0 Assists, 9 Points, 9 EV Goals, 2 GW Goals. Rockstar. #LetsGoPens" - Nathan "Grav"

The 31-year-old veteran has been hot for the Pittsburgh Penguins lately, racking up 5 goals in the past 4 games. He could be an even more valuable addition if you are playing against a team that rosters the player mentioned above, as he may be able to offset their points.

Nino Niederreiter - ESPN roster percentage: 41.4%

One of the biggest beneficiaries of being moved at the trade deadline was Nino Niederreiter. The 30-year-old veteran has recorded six points in his first seven games with the Winnipeg Jets after being traded by the Nashville Predators.

The talented forward has now scored up to 21 goals and 13 assists this season, with those numbers expected to continually grow after joining a talented Winnipeg Jets roster.

Playing alongside Kyle Connor has given the forward a jolt, making him one of the most intriguing waiver wire additions for teams during the NHL fantasy playoffs.