McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Jan. 5 – Jeremy Swayman vs. Pheonix Copley

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Thu. Jan. 5, 2023:

Why I like this matchup:

Copley has been a revelation for the Kings, and the Bruins are coming off an emotional NHL Winter Classic victory. Can Swayman get it done for Boston after cross-country travel?

What to watch for:

All eyes on Copley, who’s 9-1-0 in his last ten games. The Kings netminder has been a rock for Los Angeles since being recalled from AHL Ontario. He’s given consistent minutes and overtaken franchise legend Jonathan Quick as the team’s top netminder. Copley’s structured game lends itself to stability. Rarely is he out of position or scrambling. And realistically, that’s all the Kings have needed for several seasons.

Swayman has dropped his past two starts (neither in regulation), but I do think his game is trending in the right direction. He’s faced some pretty high-powered offensive teams and shown well, allowed only 10 goals in his last four appearances. Swayman’s .897 save percentage leaves something to be desired, but his 7-3-3 record is respectable. I think the width of Swayman’s stance hurts his mobility at times, and teams have learned how to take advantage of it. I’m curious to see how his game adapts over the remainder of the 2022-23 NHL season.

What fantasy owners should do:

I like Copley in this matchup, but I’d be hesitant to start Swayman. The Kings aren’t an offensive dynamo but the franchise has managed to put up four goals regularly. And Swayan has had a few blow-up games already this year.

Bottom line for Jeremy Swayman:

Playing the next game after the Winter Classic – with a cross-country flight – isn’t easy. Swayman needs a great first period.

Bottom line for Pheonix Copley:

Embrace the role and keep having fun. Last game Copley high-fived actor Will Ferrell through the glass. He’s playing with house money.