McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Nov. 26 – Spencer Martin vs. Logan Thompson
Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Sat. Nov. 26, 2022:
Why I like this matchup:
It’s two goaltenders that have excelled thus far in their first full-time NHL campaigns.
What to watch for:
When a goaltender starts the season 11-3-0, like Logan Thompson of the Vegas Golden Knights, people pay attention. Already a front-runner for the NHL’s Calder Trophy as rookie of the year, Thompson’s .925 save percentage is the direct result of a desire to keep improving his craft.
Since turning pro, Thompson’s game has evolved. I don’t see him attacking forward on shots as often as the past. And he’s shown a willingness to play a little deeper in his crease, especially when killing penalties. Can that be attributed to Vegas goaltending coach Sean Burke? Maybe. But whatever the case, Thompson has found a rhythm as the Golden Knights’ No. 1 netminder.
How on earth is Spencer Martin 5-1-1 on a Vancouver Canucks team that’s a lowly 7-10-3 on the season? Honestly I’m not sure. For some reason the Canucks have played better in front of Martin than goalie partner Thatcher Demko.
But give Martin credit. Coming to the Vancouver organization reinvigorated his game after bouncing around between several NHL franchises. I like his poise and structure in net. Martin rarely chases the game. Despite allowing three or more goals in six of seven starts, he keeps finding ways to win.
What fantasy owners should do:
Play Thompson. Sit Martin. Even though Thompson allowed four goals against Vancouver just five days ago, he had a really strong outing on Wednesday against the Ottawa Senators.
Bottom line for Spencer Martin:
Playing at T-Mobile Arena in Vegas can be daunting if a team gets down early. Martin needs to keep the Golden Knights off the scoreboard during the first period.
Bottom line for Logan Thompson:
Canucks forward Connor Garland will be around the crease. And Vancouver can score on the rush. Be ready for both.