McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Feb. 23 – Pavel Francouz vs. Thomas Greiss

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Wed. Feb. 23, 2022:

Thomas Greiss goes against Pavel Francouz in Detroit when the Red Wings take on the league-leading Colorado Avalanche.

Francouz is looking to bounce back after dropping his last start against the Dallas Stars on Feb. 15. He’s 7-2-0 on the season with a .921 Sv%. The full-right goaltender from the Czech Republic has provided quality secondary goaltending for the Avalanche behind starter Darcy Kuemper.

It’s been six days since Greiss and the Red Wings last played – a shootout win against the Rangers in New York. The Avalanche are coming off a loss in regulation to the Bruins on Mon. Feb. 21.

Over his last five starts, Greiss is 3-1-1. It was rocky start to the season for the veteran NHL netminder, but strong play of late has seen Greiss earn more playing time.

Fantasy owners should have no hesitation starting Francouz. But it’s worth considering starting Greiss. He’s 7-2-1 against the Avalanche over his career with a .929 Sv%. The German goaltender has plenty of motivation: he’s a pending UFA. Teams will likely be interested in his services at the trade deadline.