McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Apr. 12 – Casey DeSmith vs. Ilya Sorokin

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Tue. Apr 12., 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

There’s tension bubbling just below the surface in Pittsburgh: starting goaltender Tristan Jarry has lost five straight games, while backup Casey DeSmith has won twice in a row. That’s juicy. And Ilya Sorokin of the New York Islanders has been lights out this season.

What to watch for:

Urgency from the Penguins – and DeSmith. Pittsburgh is 3-6-1 in its last 10 games and the Washington Capitals are catching them in the NHL standings. Last time out, DeSmith and the Penguins defeated the Nashville Predators 3-2 in overtime. That win has earned the former University of New Hampshire goaltender a second start in a row. Despite a rough beginning to the season, DeSmith has been more than serviceable thus far in 2022.

At six-foot, DeSmith is on the smaller side for an NHL goaltender. He’s quick and plays compact. But DeSmith can also overchallenge at times. When he attacks shots, he tends to lock up. When DeSmith lets the play come to him, his game simplifies.

If Sorokin could get any goal support, he’d be a Vezina trophy finalist this season. Despite a .927 save percentage and 2.27 goals against average, he’s only recorded 23 wins in 44 starts. That’s maddening from a goaltender’s perspective. But Sorokin has continued to improve during his second full season in North America. With Semyon Varlamov in Long Island, the Russian duo are a formidable tandem capable of stealing victories.

Keep an eye on Sorokin’s footwork. He’s incredibly detailed and disciplined in his movements. Sorokin has very little wasted energy. He rotates well and remains compact. I think Sorokin has flown under the radar long enough: he’s one of the best goaltenders in the NHL.

What fantasy owners should do:

Sorokin may not earn your team a win, but he brings value to every other statistical category. DeSmith has played well lately, and the Islanders aren’t the most offensive team. Both goalies are safe bets tonight for fantasy owners.

Bottom line for Casey DeSmith:

He needs to keep his game simple. With DeSmith, less is more.

Bottom line for Ilya Sorokin:

Facing a talented Penguins offense full of playmaking forwards, patience on his edges will be key.