McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Mar. 29 – Petr Mrazek vs. Jeremy Swayman

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Tue. Mar. 29, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Boston Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman has been on fire, winning 10 of his past 11 starts. Petr Mrazek played well on Sunday night against the NHL-leading Florida Panthers, making 34 saves in a 5-2 victory for the Maple Leafs. Tonight’s game has playoff implications: there is a very real possibility that Boston and Toronto face off against each other in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.

What to watch for:

The stark difference in the way Mrazek and Swayman play. While Mrazek has appeared slightly more in control lately, he still has a tendency to chase the play and lose his crease. Swayman started his NHL career playing similarly but has since made adjustments. He’s usually in the blue paint unless he feels there’s a chance to be aggressive.

The confidence Swayman is riding can’t be overlooked. Since being recalled in February from a stint in the AHL, he’s played with considerable swagger. Swayman has a great working relationship with goalie partner Linus Ullmark, which is best exemplified in their post-game celebrations. The pair of Bruins have pushed one another this season.

The Bruins are now 14-2-1 in their last 17 games. pic.twitter.com/spNyfPTNXt

— Conor Ryan (@ConorRyan_93) March 26, 2022

Mrazek has long been a goaltender that relies on game feel and puck tracking. When he’s in the zone, Mrazek can steal wins. But over the course of his career, consistency has eluded the Czech netminder. Prior to the NHL trade deadline, the Maple Leafs put Mrazek on waivers, where he went unclaimed. Maybe it was a wakeup call: Mrazek has won two straight games, stopping 54 of 58 shots.

What fantasy owners should do:

Swayman has been a fantastic value for fantasy owners – he was a late round pick in many drafts. Mrazek on the other hand has been a massive disappointment. With Boston being the hottest team in the Eastern Conference, and with Mrazek’s play being unpredictable, I would look elsewhere for a starter tonight.

Bottom line for Petr Mrazek:

Be steady and predictable. The more time he spends in the blue paint, the better the chance Toronto wins.

Bottom line for Jeremy Swayman:

Thrive under pressure. He has big wins against the Colorado Avalanche and Tampa Bay Lightning already this season. Stay in the moment and focus on one save at a time.