Three must-add defensemen heading into the NHL fantasy playoffs

For many, the NHL fantasy playoffs are set to begin this week, with waiver wire pickups becoming more and more important.

A perfectly timed free-agent pickup can be the difference between an NHL fantasy title or another failed season.

Depending on your league's scoring, defensemen can be a cheat code and an instrumental part of any championship team. At the end of last season, additions such as Hampus Lindholm and Jaccob Slavin could have helped teams claim their league's throne.

"#FlyTogether McTavish has six points (1G, 5A) in his past five games & the Anaheim Ducks are 4-1-2 in their past seven. #DFS players to watch in key stat categories and latest podcasts:" - NHL Fantasy on Ice

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

Dmitry Orlov could be a league-winner during the NHL fantasy playoffs - ESPN roster percentage: 44.5%

Since being acquired from the Washington Capitals by the Boston Bruins, the veteran defenseman has been a force for the league leaders. Through eight games with the Bruins, Orlov has recorded three goals and seven assists, causing some fans to dub him "Bobby Orrlov."

"Bruins’ Bobby Orrlov, er Dmitry Orlov, named NHL’s First Star of the Week after trade from Capitals" - RMNB

Joining one of the top offenses in the NHL has helped Orlov become one of the top-producing blueliners in the league. Playing behind the likes of David Pastrnak and Brad Marchand has some benefits.

Rasmus Sandin has thrived after a change of scenery - ESPN roster percentage: 16.8%

After trading Dmitry Orlov to the Bruins, the Washington Capitals were able to land young defenseman Rasmus Sandin from the Toronto Maple Leafs. This was in exchange for Erik Gustafsson and a 2023 first-round pick.

The change of scenery has greatly benefitted the 22-year-old, as he has posted eight points in four games with his new club.

“Sandin was never ever going to get this type of opportunity in Toronto with the guys that were ahead of him… this is a massive overreaction for the way people are reacting to his success” @CarloColaiacovo on Rasmus Sandin's success since landing with Washington #LeafsForever" - First Up

Based on Sandin's low roster percentage, he could be a sneaky good addition that may help you will your NHL fantasy playoffs.

Cam Fowler is an underrated asset on a bad team - ESPN roster percentage: 22.2%

While he has enjoyed a rollercoaster NHL fantasy career, Anaheim Ducks veteran Cam Fowler has been hot lately. The 31-year-old defenseman has racked up seven points in his past six games, making him one of the most-added blueliners on the waiver wire.

"Cam Fowler Hands Out Three Assists Against Nashville" - Line Star NHL DFS

Despite playing on one of the worst teams in the NHL, Fowler has enjoyed a productive season, scoring 9 goals and 32 assists in 67 games this season.