McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Mar. 18 – Martin Jones vs. Anton Forsberg

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Fri. Mar. 18, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Both Martin Jones and Anton Forsberg are potential trade bait. I think it’s more likely the Senators goaltender is moved before the NHL trade deadline passes on Monday, but Jones could also be in play. Even though the Flyers played last night, this is still a showcase game in my eyes.

What to watch for:

I expected Jones to regain form in Philadelphia, largely because he reunited with goaltending coach Kim Dillabaugh, whom he’d previously worked with in the L.A. Kings organization. Jones skated into a challenging setting in Philadelphia this season. The Flyers aren’t as good as they’d hoped. But I think he’s done a nice job of getting his game back on track. Jones hasn’t set the league on fire but he’s proven to at least be a dependable backup. He’s gone 7-11-3 with a .900 save percentage.

Forsberg continues to play above the level of his team in Ottawa. In 11 of his last 12 games, the Swedish netminder has posted a save percentage above .900. That’s remarkable consistency – and a reason why his name is circling in trade rumors. What Forsberg lacks is a big name. He’s not the flashy free agent available. But he could immediately improve the goaltending of several NHL teams with Stanley Cup aspirations. He’s been the best goaltender in the NHL this season against rush attempts. Forsberg has a winning record of 13-12-2 while playing for one of the worst teams in the NHL.

What fantasy owners should do:

Philadelphia is playing back-to-back games with travel – never an ideal start for a goaltender. Jones is 1-7-2 in his last 10 games. He’s facing Ottawa, who’s lost three straight games. That makes a start for Jones more palatable for fantasy owners. But I would be very wary of playing him. Forsberg has been sneaky good for fantasy owners. He sees a ton of rubber and steals wins. Against a team like the Flyers, starting Forsberg is a must.

Bottom line for Martin Jones:

Ottawa isn’t the best offensive team, but its power play is serviceable. Jones needs to find lanes through traffic and be ready for quick plays cross-ice.

Bottom line for Anton Forsberg:

Make one last strong impression before the trade deadline. He’s a pending UFA. Every quality game earns him dollars on his next contract.