McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Dec. 13 – Charlie Lindgren vs. Petr Mrazek

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Tues. Dec. 13, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Lindgren has won four straight for the Capitals and has them back in the Stanley Cup playoff hunt. Can he make it five in a row?

What to watch for:

During the offseason, the Capitals raised eyebrows when they signed Lindgren to a three-year, one-way contract despite him playing only five NHL games the previous season with the St. Louis Blues. So far the gamble has paid off. Lindgren has a record of 6-3-2 and he’s carried the mail with No.1 goaltender Darcy Kuemper out with an injury. I’ve been really impressed with the poise ‘Chucky Sideburns’ has played with. At 28 years old and with plenty of professional experience under his belt, I think Lindgren was completely prepared for the moment.

Mrazek is back from his second injury of the season. Can he finish the game? That question may seem morbid, but given Mrazek’s history of ailments, I think it’s worth asking. If he’s able to play the full 60, can Mrazek improve on a dreary start to the season? He’s allowed more than four goals per game on average and only won twice in nine starts. Granted, the Blackhawks aren’t very good. But Mrazek still has the same technical problems that have plagued him for years. Watch his feet to see if they’re square to the shooter: he often plays with one well in front of the other, which causes imbalance.

What fantasy owners should do:

Leave Mrazek on the bench. The Blackhawks have struggled and Mrazek is a wild card. I’d start Lindgren. And be thankful that my team picked him up. Lindgren has been one of the best value players from this season’s fantasy drafts.

Bottom line for Charlie Lindgren:

Keep it rolling.

Bottom line for Petr Mrazek:

Finish the game.