McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Apr. 4 – Tristan Jarry vs. Vitek Vanecek

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Tue. Apr. 4, 2023:

Why I like this matchup:

Jarry and the Penguins are fighting for their Stanley Cup playoff lives, just one point ahead of the Florida Panthers. Meanwhile, Vanecek looks to get back in the win column. He’s dropped four of his last five starts for the Devils.

What to watch for:

The key question facing Jarry is his health. The Penguins netminder has been playing through injury, and at times it’s been noticeable in his play. His movements have looked laborious. But Jarry has won two of his last three starts during the most critical time of the season. Playing hurt isn’t easy. But I can’t help but admire the willingness to endure physical pain for the greater good of the team. Jarry is doing everything he can to help the Penguins make the Stanley Cup playoffs.

Vanecek’s numbers are fine, even during his latest slide. He’s only allowed 12 goals in his past five starts. And Vanecek’s .908 save percentage is mid-pack among NHL goaltenders. But I don’t think the eye test has been strong lately. Vanecek has been beaten cleanly too often for my tastes. New Jersey has given up the fourth-least shots per game in the NHL, and it feels like Vanecek loses his rhythm occasionally. Whatever the case, a statement game against Pittsburgh would be reassuring.

What fantasy owners should do:

The Devils should be hungry to bounce back after getting trounced by the Winnipeg Jets this past Sunday. I don’t have a good feeling about Jarry in this game. But I think Vanecek should be fine for fantasy owners. The Penguins, despite pushing hard to make the Stanley Cup playoffs, don’t have the potent offense of years past.

Bottom line for Tristan Jarry:

He’s in a tough spot with his health status. But he can’t let it be an excuse.

Bottom line for Vitek Vanecek:

He needs to start winning games again.