Questions and answers

Your Fantasy Curling Questions Answered: On the Button!

Understanding the nuances of fantasy curling is key to sweeping the competition. We’ve compiled the most important questions from the fantasy curling community and provided expert answers. Need more? Our support team is always in the hack, ready to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

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: How do I get started with fantasy curling? A: It’s easy! Sign up, join a league, and get ready for your draft. You’ll draft individual curlers to fill positions: Lead, Second, Third (Vice-Skip), and Skip. Check out our mock drafts and player rankings to understand player values before you start.

Q: How does scoring work in fantasy curling? A: Scoring typically rewards points for successful shots (draws close to the button, hit-and-rolls, doubles/triples), high shot percentages, points scored in an end (more for steals than with hammer), ends won, and game wins. Negative points might apply for major misses or burned stones. Check your league’s specific settings for details.

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: 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.

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: 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).

Strategic Tips for Fantasy Curling

Sweep smarter with these insights:

• Look for Thirds who excel at difficult takeout shots and setups.
• Monitor shot percentages throughout the season, not just points scored.
• Consider players on teams known for aggressive strategies if you need steal points.
• Pay attention to major bonspiel schedules – players in more events have more scoring chances.
• Check ice conditions reports if available; some players excel on specific ice types.
• Prioritize Skips who make clutch final shots and convert hammer frequently.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t hog the errors! Avoid these pitfalls:

• Neglecting the waiver wire during key tournaments.
• Not understanding hammer efficiency vs. steal efficiency scoring nuances.
• Not checking lineups before each draw – teams sometimes rotate players.
• Overvaluing players based on one great tournament performance.
• Holding onto underperforming players based on reputation alone.

Fantasy Curling Glossary

Know your curling terms:

Weight: The amount of force/speed given to a thrown stone. House: The series of concentric circles at each end of the sheet where points are scored. Hammer: The advantage of throwing the last stone in an end. Steal: Scoring one or more points in an end without having the hammer. Hog Line: The line by which a stone must be clearly released by the thrower. Takeout: A shot intended to remove an opponent’s stone from play. Draw: A shot intended to come to rest in a specific location, often the house.

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).

Community Broomstack: Chat with fellow fantasy curling managers, discuss strategy, and ask questions.

Still Have Questions?

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