McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Dec. 1 – Jacob Markstrom vs. Jake Allen

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Thu. Dec. 1, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

I love watching Allen battle. And Markstrom needs a statement game.

What to watch for:

Markstrom entered the 2022-23 season as the Flames’ unquestioned No.1 goaltender. And while he’s played the bulk of games for Calgary, understudy Dan Vladar has started the last two outings. The pressure is real for Markstrom. His .889 save percentage hasn’t been good enough. But Markstrom’s saving grace is the win column: he has an 8-5-2 record on the season. The Flames have scored more with Markstrom in net.

My eye test on Markstrom tells me he’s sliding too often, and it’s causing him to lose his net. I’d like to see him rely more on skating and staying upright whenever possible. A patient and balanced Markstrom is what the Flames need.

I feel for Allen. Montreal is so young throughout the lineup. Especially on the blueline. Players are learning on the fly. And I think it’s finally caught up to Allen. Last season he somehow managed to stop over 90 percent of shots faced. This year, his save percentage is down to .890, which is surprising considering his goalie partner, Samuel Montembeault, has posted a .924 thus far. Allen has six wins and eight losses.

What fantasy owners should do:

Calgary is at home, where the team has performed better than on the road. So I’d start Markstrom. But I wouldn’t play Allen unless your team needs saves. He’s allowed 22 goals in his past five outings.

Bottom line for Jacob Markstrom:

Get the win without allowing any weak goals. Vladar is pushing for playing time. Markstrom needs to get on a roll.

Bottom line for Jake Allen:

Keep grinding. And try to take a lead into the third period. If Allen allows three goals or fewer, I like Montreal’s chance at victory.