McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Mar. 20 – Connor Hellebuyck vs. Marc-Andre Fleury

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Sun. Mar. 20, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

The chaos factor. Marc-Andre Fleury could be traded tomorrow. He could be traded mid-game and pulled from action. Anything could happen!

What to watch for:

Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson on his phone or hurriedly running around the press box. But for the actual game – watch how different Hellebuyck and Fleury are. Hellebuyck likes to stay close to home and minimize movements, while Fleury is much more dynamic and acrobatic within his crease.

Fleury is 3-1-1 in his last five starts, and he owns 19 of 22 Blackhawks wins this season. His save percentage of .909 is deceiving. Fleury has stolen wins for Chicago. The NHL trade deadline is tomorrow. It’s a little surprising that Fleury is slated to start this evening.

Hellebuyck hasn’t allowed less than three goals against in his last nine starts. Yet he’s 4-4-1 during that span. The Jets have been scoring but their team defense has been lacking. Hellebuyck’s .909 save percentage has slipped considerably over the past month.

What fantasy owners should do:

Fleury has a knack for big games and tonight might be his last as a member of the Blackhawks. My gut instinct says he’ll have a special night. And he’s played well recently. I’d gamble and start Fleury.

Hellebuyck, on the other hand, concerns me for fantasy owners. He’s allowed so many goals lately. But Hellebuyck typically sees a lot of shots. So if you need that category, I’d consider playing him.

Bottom line for Marc-Andre Fleury:

Enjoy the moment. It might be his last in the Windy City. And have a suitcase packed for after the game.

Bottom line for Connor Hellebuyck:

Stick to the basics and keep the Hawks from scoring more than two goals.