McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Oct. 26 – Stuart Skinner vs. Jordan Binnington

Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Wed. Oct. 26, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

I think Skinner is going to play a bigger role this season for the Edmonton Oilers than many people realize. And Jordan Binnington looks like he’s regained the swagger than carried his St. Louis Blues to a Stanley Cup Championship in 2019.

What to watch for:

Skinner is a positionally sound goaltender that relies on mechanics just as much as reads. I don’t think he’s the most explosive goaltender, but he’s got more pop to his game that it appears at first glance. I like that the Oilers have given Skinner time to develop. He hasn’t been rushed into his current No.2 role. Skinner’s consistent skating routes and smart reads have given him success in the minors that should be transferable to the NHL.

Binnington has won all three starts in goal for the Blues thus far during the 2022-23 season. He’s handling the puck at a high level outside the crease. And he looks confident in his reads and positioning. Binnington shifted his mental approach to the game over the summer, abandoning old notions of proving the world wrong. He still plays with a chip on his shoulder, but the aggression seems to be contained. I think he’s done a great job of being patient and getting his feet set before the shot.

What fantasy owners should do:

The Blues and Oilers faced off just four days ago in Edmonton and St. Louis came away with a 2-0 victory. Both teams were solid defensively. But I have a feeling one goaltender is going to get shelled in tonight’s matchup. That said, I’d still start both Skinner and Binnington. But with one eye covered.

Bottom line for Stuart Skinner:

Finish the first period either tied or with the lead. A strong start matters against St. Louis, especially when the Blues are on home ice.

Bottom line for Jordan Binnington:

It’s all about keeping Oilers forwards Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl off the scoresheet.