Questions and answers

Essential Fantasy Curling Questions Answered

Welcome to the house! This FAQ covers everything for Fantasy Curling. Whether you’re throwing your first virtual stone or you’re a seasoned strategist, we’ve got the answers. Our experts tackle the common questions to help you build a winning fantasy rink.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I manage my roster during a bonspiel/season? A: You’ll typically set your lineup before each game or draw. Use the waiver wire to pick up players who are performing well or whose teams have favorable matchups. Trades can help balance your roster if you’re weak at a certain position.

Q: What’s the best draft strategy? A: Often, drafting elite Skips and Thirds early is wise due to their impact on scoring ends and making clutch shots. Don’t neglect Leads/Seconds known for high draw percentages or sweeping prowess if your league rewards those stats. Consider the strength of the player’s actual team.

Q: Are there points for sweeping? A: Some advanced leagues might incorporate metrics related to sweeping effectiveness (e.g., judging weight, keeping stones straight), but most standard leagues focus scoring on the thrower’s actions and the end result (points scored, shot success).

Q: What stats should I focus on for different positions? A: For Skips/Thirds: Shot percentage (especially on difficult shots like doubles/takeouts), points scored, hammer conversion, steal efficiency. For Leads/Seconds: Draw shot percentage, guard placement accuracy, overall team plus/minus when they are playing.

Q: How do blank ends affect scoring? A: Generally, blank ends result in zero points scored for fantasy purposes, but check your league rules. Some leagues might penalize skips for blanking excessively, while others see it purely as a strategic move that doesn’t impact fantasy scores directly.

Q: What is the waiver wire in fantasy curling? A: Players not drafted or dropped are on the waiver wire. You can claim these players, usually based on waiver priority or a bidding system (FAAB), to replace underperformers or injured players on your roster.

Q: How important is a player’s actual team success? A: It’s quite important. Players on winning teams generally have more opportunities to score points, make high-pressure shots, and play in more games during major events. However, a great player on a weaker team can still put up good fantasy numbers.

Q: What are the fantasy positions and how do they differ? A: Positions mirror a real curling team: Lead (sets up the end, high draw weight focus), Second (clearing guards, setting up), Third/Vice (key setup shots, strategy input, often high difficulty shots), and Skip (calls strategy, throws last stones, high pressure shots). Skips and Thirds generally score more due to shot difficulty and importance, but consistent Leads/Seconds are valuable.

Strategic Tips for Fantasy Curling

Sweep smarter with these insights:

• Consider players on teams known for aggressive strategies if you need steal points.
• Check ice conditions reports if available; some players excel on specific ice types.
• Monitor shot percentages throughout the season, not just points scored.
• Balance your roster across positions; don’t load up on Skips and neglect the front end.
• Prioritize Skips who make clutch final shots and convert hammer frequently.
• Look for Thirds who excel at difficult takeout shots and setups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t hog the errors! Avoid these pitfalls:

• Drafting only famous Skips without considering their supporting cast or recent form.
• Neglecting the waiver wire during key tournaments.
• Overvaluing players based on one great tournament performance.
• Ignoring the consistency of Leads and Seconds.
• Not understanding hammer efficiency vs. steal efficiency scoring nuances.

Fantasy Curling Glossary

Know your curling terms:

Button: The center circle of the house. Steal: Scoring one or more points in an end without having the hammer. Blank End: An end in which no points are scored by either team. Draw: A shot intended to come to rest in a specific location, often the house. Weight: The amount of force/speed given to a thrown stone. Bonspiel: A curling tournament. Hog Line: The line by which a stone must be clearly released by the thrower.

Need Assistance?

Here’s how to get support:

Help Sheet (In-App): Find FAQs, rule explanations, and scoring breakdowns.

Email Support: Contact our team for detailed questions (responses typically 24-48 hours).

Live Chat (During Majors): Get real-time support during major bonspiels.

Still Have Questions?

Our support resources and community are here to help you navigate the fantasy curling season. Good curling!