McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Nov. 11 – James Reimer vs. Jake Oettinger

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Fri. Nov. 11, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Tonight is the first game for Oettinger after missing several weeks due to injury. I want to see how he responds. And I’m keeping my eye on Reimer. He’s had such a consistent career that I wonder what his trade value is. San Jose won’t make the Stanley Cup playoffs, so expect Reimer’s name to come up often.

What to watch for:

Two technically sound goaltenders that rely on outstanding positioning. Reimer is a better skater than most people realize – mostly because his routes are so short. But he’s usually crisp and efficient. Big, explosive saves aren’t the norm for Reimer but he gets the job done because he protects the middle of the net as well as anyone.

Take what I just said about Reimer, add in some intangibles, and you have Oettinger. The 23-year-old from Minnesota is a few inches taller than Reimer and has better hands.

One thing that Oettinger does really well is handle traffic. And that’ll be a big test for him coming off injury. Replicating traffic can’t happen in practice. So Oettinger will need to find sight windows right away. Thankfully, due to his 6-foot-5 frame, the Stars goalie is usually able to see over screens in front of his crease.

What fantasy owners should do:

Get Oettinger off the fantasy IR as quickly as possible and put him back in the lineup. Reimer has had a tough go lately: he’s allowed 15 goals in his past four appearances. And Dallas can score. I’d leave Reimer on the bench tonight.

Bottom line for James Reimer:

Dallas has some fast players that can shoot in stride. His movements need to be crisp to stay on angle.

Bottom line for Jake Oettinger:

Get back into a rhythm early. Win the first period.