McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Dec. 7 – Marc-Andre Fleury vs. Dan Vladar

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Wed. Dec. 7, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Any time two goaltenders that are different stylistically face off, I’m intrigued. Fleury is active and acrobatic. Vladar is strong positionally and uses his size well. They’re a fun contrast to one another.

What to watch for:

Both goalies are riding three-game win streaks, but they’ve gone about it in different ways. Vladar has allowed six goals during that span to Fleury’s 11. The Flames netminder has provided stability in goal and continues to grow his game at the NHL level.

This will be his third start in a row for Calgary head coach Darryl Sutter. Keep an eye on that as the season progresses. Vladar, who owns a .914 save percentage, is stealing ice time from would-be No.1 Jacob Markstrom.

Fleury’s numbers aren’t stellar this year. His save percentage is below 90 percent (.895) and his goals against is above 3.00. He’s allowed at least three goals in his past four starts. But Fleury continues to come up in big moments for the Wild and post victories.

When Fleury stays in the blue paint, he’s at his best. And that means having his feet set early. He’s an amazing skater. The only time I think Fleury gets in trouble is when he tries to do too much. He’s a passionate person and player, a character trait that will carry him to the Hall of Fame.

What fantasy owners should do:

It’s crazy to think, but Fleury isn’t a lock for fantasy owners. He’s been getting wins, but the other categories haven’t been great. And the Flames can be dangerous. I’d think hard on starting him tonight. 

Vladar has been rocksteady and a great value for many fantasy owners that picked him up late in the draft or through free agency.

Bottom line for Marc-Andre Fleury:

Stay in control.

Bottom line for Dan Vladar:

Four wins in a row would be a big statement, wouldn’t it?