McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Mar. 13 – Logan Thompson vs. Elvis Merzlikins

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Sunday, Mar. 13, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

This is a great opportunity for Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Logan Thompson with Robin Lehner out. He’s shown well in limited NHL action and ripped up the minors. Elvis Merzlikins has battled through some incredibly difficult games yet continues to bounce back and earn wins for the Columbus Blue Jackets.

What to watch for:

Thompson may only have two NHL starts under his belt, but he’s the reigning AHL goalie of the year. Thompson is also armed with a new 3-year contract that kicks in after the current season. I think he has incredible natural ability and reads the play well. But Thompson tends to be all “arms and legs” – reaching and attacking shots rather than accepting them. Rebounds can be plentiful. Thompson has rapidly worked his way up the hockey ladder. He went undrafted while playing for the WHL’s Brandon Wheat Kings.

I really admire the season Elvis Merzlikins has put together in Columbus. The Latvian goaltender has been dinged six times for five or more goals against. Yet Merzlikins has managed to post a .903 save percentage along with two shutouts. That takes serious mental strength – something that was missing early in Merzlikins’ NHL career. The Blue Jackets have had some defensively abysmal games. If they win, Merzlikins is almost always a star of the game.

What fantasy owners should do:

Vegas has lost three straight games and are desperate for a win. If your team picked up Thompson, tonight would be a good chance to start him. Merzlikins will provide fantasy owners saves and the chance of a win. He’s faced more than 30 shots in his last nine starts.

Bottom line for Logan Thompson:

Slow the game down by taking whistles and play within the blue paint. Find the patience and control necessary at the NHL level.

Bottom line for Elvis Merzlikins:

Stay active against the Golden Knights’ potent rush, and be prepared to find pucks through traffic.