McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Dec. 20 – Andrei Vasilevskiy vs. Matt Murray

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Tue. Dec. 20, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Seventeen days ago Vasilevskiy and Murray faced one another in Tampa Bay – a game that the Lightning won 4-3 in overtime. Tonight is the rematch, but Toronto has home-ice advantage this time around.

What to watch for:

Murray had an incredible November but has come back down to earth somewhat in December. The Maple Leafs’ goaltender has been tagged for four goals twice during the month. And he lost his last start against the New York Rangers five days ago. I’ve been impressed with Murray’s urgency in goal. But I still think teams are targeting his glove hand. Against Tampa, with snipers like Brayden Point and Steven Stamkos that can shoot in stride, it’s something to keep an eye on.

In seven of his last eight appearances, Vasilevsky has allowed two or fewer goals against. It’s no wonder his record is 6-2-0 over that time frame. As the Lightning have taken off as a team, so has Vasilevskiy between the pipes. Tampa Bay has won five straight and is just three points behind the second-place Maple Leafs in the Atlantic division – with two games in hand. Vasilevskiy would be wise to control the pace of play against Toronto by freezing the puck whenever possible.

What fantasy owners should do:

I’d be comfortable starting both goaltenders. But I do have concerns about Murray against a high-octane offense like Tampa Bay.

Bottom line for Andrei Vasilevskiy:

Toronto is a really strong second-period team at home. A Lightning lead heading into the third period would be ideal.

Bottom line for Matt Murray:

He’s looked human in his past two starts. Time to get back on track with a win against a division rival. Murray will need to keep his hands active.