McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Dec. 21 – Alexandar Georgiev vs. Jake Allen

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Wed. Dec. 21, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Georgiev has gotten his game back on track recently, while Jake Allen is looking to rebound after a couple tough outings.

What to watch for:

Can Allen backstop the Canadiens to victory while playing at mile-high elevation in Colorado? Given the relative youth of the Montreal team in front of him, it’s difficult to predict what tonight might bring for the veteran goaltender from New Brunswick. But Allen has had several monster outings this season, including a 2-1 shootout victory over the Calgary Flames just over a week ago. Allen has a career. 928 save percentage against Colorado. He’ll need to rely on that experience tonight.

There was a two-week span not long ago when I started to become concerned about Georgiev. He was pushing into shots and losing his angle more often than I like to see. But he’s allowed just five goals in his past four outings. Georgiev’s effectiveness seems to come in waves. When he’s hot, it can be for extended periods. And vice versa. The goal is to minimize those swings as the Avalanche get closer to the Stanley Cup playoffs – should they qualify.

What fantasy owners should do:

I have a bad feeling about this game for both goaltenders. With the matchup happening so close to the holiday break, and all the injuries Colorado is dealing with, I think tonight’s matchup could be high-scoring. Georgiev is the safer bet. But Allen’s career numbers against the Avalanche give some hope for his fantasy owners.

Bottom line for Alexandar Georgiev:

Arrive on time and square for every Cole Caufield shot.

Bottom line for Jake Allen:

Keep Cale Makar off the scoresheet.