McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Mar. 26 – Marc-Andre Fleury vs. Elvis Merzlikins
Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Sat. Mar. 26, 2022:
Why I like this matchup:
The reigning Vezina trophy winner as the NHL’s best goaltender, Marc-Andre Fleury, debuts in goal for the Minnesota Wild. All eyes are on ‘Flower.’
What to watch for:
History. Fleury is playing for his third team in less than a calendar year. Despite Fleury being promised by Vegas owner Bill Foley that he would finish his career as a Golden Knight, the team sent him packing last off-season to the Chicago Blackhawks. The three-time Stanley Cup winner reported to the Windy City and produced 19 of the first 22 wins of the season for the Blackhawks, four of which were shutouts. He beat the Wild in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup First Round last year: now he joins Minnesota to chase a fourth Stanley Cup. Fleury has the ability to steal games singlehandedly with a smile on his face.
I can’t remember the last time an NHL goaltender had a winning record with a goals against average of 3.40, but Elvis Merzlikins continues to defy the odds in goal for the Columbus Blue Jackets. He’s 22-15-4 this season behind an incredibly loose defense. Columbus gives up 35.4 shots against per game – the highest in the NHL. I think Merzlikins has matured greatly since he debuted in 2019: big emotional swings have largely been eliminated.
What fantasy owners should do:
Fleury has a knack for big games and the Wild have been trending in the right direction lately. Fantasy owners should start Fleury. Columbus lost 4-3 in overtime to the Winnipeg Jets last night. The Blue Jackets give up a ton of shots. If your team needs that category, start Merzlikins. Otherwise, leave him on the bench.
Bottom line for Marc-Andre Fleury:
Usually first impressions are so important. But everyone in the hockey world knows what ‘Flower’ is capable of. Go out there and have fun.
Bottom line for Elvis Merzlikins:
It’s the second game of a back-to-back with travel – Merzlikins needs to get his team through the first period either tied or leading. This game could get away from the Blue Jackets quickly if the Wild score early.