McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Mar. 19 – Igor Shesterkin vs. Andrei Vasilevskiy

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Sat. Mar. 19, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Igor Shesterkin might win the Hart trophy as the NHL’s most valuable player. Andrei Vasilevskiy has a chance to win three Stanley Cup championships in a row. Tonight might be the premier goalie matchup of the season.

What to watch for:

Shesterkin and Vasilevskiy have similarities to their respective games. Both employ a high stance when the puck is far away, opting to look over screens rather than around. By staying upright, it also allows them to adjust quickly with small shuffles. Five years ago, not many goaltenders were playing this way.

Another thing to keep an eye on: both Shesterkin and Vasilevskiy are adept at using the goal posts as bumpers. It keeps them centered and in control. They use the posts for spatial awareness and anchor points.

I think Shesterkin is slightly more precise in his movements than Vasilevskiy. The Rangers goaltender gets his feet set early and tracks the puck incredibly well. That’s not to say Vasilevskiy isn’t detailed – he is. But he occasionally gets too wide and low in his stance and it can limit his mobility.

Vasilevskiy is able to get around that slight deficiency because he has a level of mental creativity that allows him to make saves others can’t. He has incredible reach and flexibility. And that’s why Vasilevskiy can never be counted out on making a save.

What fantasy owners should do:

Start them both. Case closed.

Bottom line for Igor Shesterkin:

Have a short memory. Shake off goals against. Staying mentally strong against a team like the Lightning is paramount, as they can score in bunches.

Bottom line for Andrei Vasilevskiy:

Be aware, see the field, and avoid tunnel vision. Especially on the penalty kill. The Rangers are potent on the power play because they move the puck with speed and efficiency.