It’s a little early to bank on players to keep up their early season pace, but the NHL has had a few guys who are absolute locks to continue.  The names that are at or near the top of the heap on right and left wing are familiar to anyone that follows hockey.

There are certainly players that have fallen short of expectations but there are plenty of other options to replace any dead weight you might be carrying. Make no mistake, these guys aren’t out there for the taking, and they probably won’t be available for a trade either.

If you have the opportunity to acquire any of the following five, go for it. Each player has proven in the past to be an above average to all-star caliber player, and should be expected to maintain or expand their current status

5. Marian Hossa-The big Hoss has recovered nicely from his frightening injury during last year’s playoffs. Hossa is a huge reason why Chicago is still undefeated after six games.

4. Thomas Vanek-Injury concerns have always been an issue for the Austrian winger, but he jumped out to a fast start with the improved Buffalo Sabres.

3. Martin St. Louis-Mighty mouse is getting up in years but has shown no signs of slowing down. The 37-year old right wing is tied for the lead in scoring for Tampa Bay after six games.

2. Zach Parise-The Minnesota Wild wing is proving that he might actually be worth the buckets of money that he signed for last summer. Through the first five games, Parise has five goals and four assists.

1. Joe Pavelski-San Jose has been on fire from the start and joe Pavelski has been right in the middle of it. The Shark’s winger/center can be slotted on the wing or at center and he is currently scoring at a pace of two points per game.