McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Jan. 24 – Darcy Kuemper vs. Alexandar Georgiev

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Tue. Jan. 24, 2023:

Why I like this matchup:

Darcy Kuemper returns to Colorado, where he won the Stanley Cup with the Avalanche last season. When Kuemper cashed in on a five-year deal with the Washington Capitals this past offseason, Georgiev was brought in via trade with the New York Rangers to be his replacement in the Colorado crease.

What to watch for:

Kuemper was pulled in his last outing against the Vegas Golden Knights, so I’m curious how he responds playing against his old team in Colorado. And it won’t be easy. The Avalanche are on a tear, winners of their past five games. Kuemper has had an undercover solid year for the Capitals, even if his 14-12-4 record may not show it. He has a .917 save percentage and five shutouts. Consistency has been something of an issue for Kuemper, which makes sense with how he plays. He’s very read-oriented. Kuemper has to track the puck well to be successful.

I think there was tangible worry about Georgiev after the NHL Holiday Break. The Avalanche backstop went 1-5-1 after Christmas. But he’s gotten it back on track lately, winning three of his last four games. Georgiev has allowed one goal in each of his last two games. But what I just described has been a problem with Georgiev – he tends to ride the roller coaster in terms of performance. When he’s feeling it, Georgiev is tough to beat. But when he loses his confidence, it can be ugly.

What fantasy owners should do:

I like Georgiev in this game, especially considering Washington has cooled off a bit lately. Kuemper I think bounces back from his last outing. I expect him to play well, but I’m not sure his fantasy numbers will be strong.

Bottom line for Darcy Kuemper:

Nothing is more satisfying than beating your own team.

Bottom line for Alexandar Georgiev:

Nothing is more satisfying than beating the guy you replaced.