McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Mar. 11 – Connor Hellebuyck vs. Semyon Varlamov

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Fri. Mar. 11, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Connor Hellebuyck and Semyon Varlamov have gotten shelled lately. Each goalie desperately needs a bounce-back game.

What to watch for:

A response. Hellebuyck has allowed 22 goals in his last five starts. The Jets goaltender has managed a 2-2-1 record over that span, but it’s a very concerning trend. It’s been the worst stretch of Hellebuyck’s season. His game is built on positioning, and it’s been hard for Hellebuyck to keep up with an increase in lateral plays within the Jets defensive zone.

Varlamov hasn’t won a game since Jan. 18th when the Islanders beat the Flyers in Philadelphia. He’s gone 0-6-0 since. The first three games of that stretch weren’t much of a concern – Varlamov allowed just seven goals against. But in his last three starts, the Russian netminder has given up 13. Last year’s run to the Eastern Conference Final – where Varlamov posted a .922 save percentage in 14 starts – seems like a very distant memory.

What fantasy owners should do:

Someone has to win and at this point, it’s equal money. The Islanders and Jets are mid-pack in terms of shots against. Neither goaltender has been particularly valuable for fantasy owners this year. If I had to choose, I’d go with Hellebuyck. But Varlamov is due for a win. Tough call today as both goalies have been struggling.

Bottom line for Connor Hellebuyck:

Try to find another gear on lateral plays. He needs to arrive earlier and bring his entire body. Reaching is not a recipe for success in Hellebuyck’s game.

Bottom line for Semyon Varlamov:

Find any way possible to win. Stay in a positive mindset. It’s not about goals against. It’s about feeling good when the game is over and carrying that feeling into his next start.