McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Apr. 8 – Cam Talbot vs. Ville Husso
Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Fri. Apr 8., 2022:
Why I like this matchup:
The Minnesota Wild and St. Louis Blues are separated by one point in the NHL’s Central Division standings. Minnesota leads St. Louis, but a regulation win by the Blues would vault the 2019 Stanley Cup Champions into second place. A big performance by Cam Talbot or Ville Husso could be the catalyst either team needs tonight.
What to watch for:
Two positionally sound goaltenders that excel when their games look calm. Talbot is 6’4”. Husso is 6’3”. But if you watch closely, you’ll notice that Husso plays much narrower than Talbot – at least in their basic stances. Husso has built that into his game the past several seasons in an effort to stay agile on his edges. Interestingly, despite his wide foundation, Talbot isn’t hindered by it. He’s still able to rotate and push effectively. And the Wild goalie presents big – you can see the logo on his jersey at all times.
Talbot boasts a .912 save percentage on the season as well as 28 wins in 42 starts. Husso has 21 wins in 32 starts and a .924 save percentage. But only recently has Husso cleared goalie partner Jordan Binnington to become the starting goaltender for the Blues. The next few weeks will be critical in preparing for the Stanley Cup playoffs.
What fantasy owners should do:
Tonight is easy for fantasy owners. Talbot and Husso have both been excellent in fantasy this season. But one word of caution: Talbot allowed six goals against the Blues on Jan. 1 during the NHL Winter Classic. However, I would still start him. It’s been ten games since Talbot lost in regulation.
Bottom line for Cam Talbot:
Be as patient as possible, especially when the Blues are attacking in transition. Blues forward Robert Thomas can make goalies look foolish if they commit early.
Bottom line for Ville Husso:
Be aware and battle. Minnesota’s top line can zip the puck laterally in an instant. And their depth forwards love to drive the net.