McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Dec. 31 – Connor Hellebuyck vs. Jack Campbell

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Sat. Dec. 31, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Hellebuyck has allowed three goals or less in his past five outings. Campbell has allowed three or more in his last seven starts. Which one breaks the trend tonight?

What to watch for:

I’ve been so impressed with Hellebuyck this season. The Jets netminder has a .926 save percentage in 27 games played – second most in the NHL. And the numbers don’t lie. Hellebuyck has flat-out dominated at times, and so much of that has to do with his puck tracking. I thought last season he occasionally struggled with it. But this year Hellebuyck looks intensely focused. He’s battling to make athletic saves when necessary. And using his mechanics to be in position early.

With Stuart Skinner eating up time in the Oilers crease, Campbell has been relegated to a support role despite his $5 million-a-year cap hit. He’s only played three games during December, with mixed results. Campbell is 1-1-1 during the month and has allowed 12 goals. His .876 save percentage is the lowest in the NHL among goaltenders that have played a minimum of 15 games. Yet Campbell is 8-6-1 on the season – a testament to Edmonton’s scoring ability. Campbell has yet to find the level of patience he showed early last season with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

What fantasy owners should do:

I would follow the numbers. Even against the potent offense of the Oilers, I would start Hellebuyck. And unless your team is desperate for a win, I would leave Campbell on the bench.

Bottom line for Connor Hellebuyck:

The first game of the year against the Oilers. Find a way to shut down Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

Bottom line for Jack Campbell:

Allow two or less, get the win, and set the table for 2023.