McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Nov. 12 – Erik Kallgren vs. Spencer Martin

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Sat. Nov. 12, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Any time two underdogs face off against one another I find it exciting. And to me, Kallgren and Martin are a perfect representation of that dynamic.

What to watch for:

Martin’s 3.45 goals-against average may not be impressive, but the fact that he’s won three of four starts for the Canucks is eye-catching considering how loose that team has been defensively. I love that at 27 years old, and after being in several organizations, Martin has found a way to become a full-time NHL goaltender. Big credit to goalie coach Ian Clark: Martin has gained a solid technical base under his tutelage. As a member of the Canucks, Martin is undefeated in regulation with a 6-0-4 record.

With an .888 career save percentage in 21 NHL games, Kallgren is still searching for saves. But right now, the 26-year old from Sweden is the best option in goal for the Maple Leafs. Kallgren has started six games for Toronto this year and won just once in regulation. He’s lost three in overtime. But Kallgren has gotten points and recently showed well against the Carolina Hurricanes when he stopped 30 of 31 shots and earned the victory. I think Kallgren is pretty well-oiled in his movements. But his reflexes and puck tracking are areas of concern.

What fantasy owners should do:

I don’t like either goalie tonight for fantasy owners. Toronto is loaded offensively, Vancouver is terrible on defense, and Kallgren played last night. I’d put the over-under at eight. But if you had to choose a goalie, I’d go with Martin.

Bottom line for Erik Kallgren:

For a goaltender, playing on back-to-back nights is all about keeping things simple and conserving energy. Kallgren can’t be passive but he needs to avoid chasing the game.

Bottom line for Spencer Martin:

Skating is everything against Auston Matthews and the Leafs. Martin will need his feet set early. And he’ll need to make small lateral adjustments in order to stay square.