McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Feb. 21 – Jacob Markstrom vs. Connor Hellebuyck

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

Look toward Western Canada, where Jacob Markstom and the Calgary Flames host Connor Hellebuyck and the Winnipeg Jets at 4:00 pm ET.

Markstrom leads NHL goaltenders during the month of February with six wins, although only two of those victories came against teams currently holding a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Flames netminder has been dominant on the season, compiling a 2.09 GAA and a .927 save percentage in 38 games played.

Hellebuyck has been the second busiest goaltender in the NHL, starting 41 games for the Jets so far during the 2021-22 campaign. He is 17-17-7 on the season. But Hellebuyck has been strong in February, posting a 2.29 GAA and .931 Sv%.

Winnipeg last played on Saturday, losing 4-2 to the Edmonton Oilers. Hellebuyck was busy, stopping 36 of 39 shots. Despite his record, Hellebuyck continues to hold high fantasy value based on the high shot volume he faces and ability to steal games.

Markstrom has been nothing short of a fantasy owner’s dream. He has 22 wins this season and his eight shutouts lead the NHL. Tonight is the seventh – and final – game of an extended homestand for the Flames. They’ve won the first six and Markstrom’s excellent goaltending has helped vault Calgary into first place in the Pacific Division.