McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Nov. 30 – Ilya Samsonov vs. Aaron Dell

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Wed. Nov. 30, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

It’s Samsonov’s first game back with the Maple Leafs since a knee injury sidelined him more than three weeks ago. And Dell returns to the Sharks crease for the first time since 2020.

What to watch for:

After Toronto practiced Tuesday, Samsonov told reporters that he is no longer experiencing any knee pain. That’s great news for the Leafs. A healthy tandem of Matt Murray and Samsonov is a necessity for prolonged success. But how will Samsonov’s knee hold up under game conditions? That’s impossible to judge without watching tonight’s game. The biggest test will be how Samsonov’s knee stands up to high-torque post integrations. The Russian netminder has won six of eight starts for the Maple Leafs.

Dell has only played 19 NHL games over the past two seasons, so I’m curious to see if there’s been any updates to his game. Standing an even six-foot, Dell isn’t the biggest goaltender. But he’s always played relatively structured. In seven appearances with the Sharks AHL-affiliate San Jose Barracuda, Dell has a .904 save percentage.

What fantasy owners should do:

Samsonov is a risk due to his recent injury, but I think the Leafs have played so well recently that he’ll be fine. Start him. As for Dell, leave him on the bench. The odds aren’t in his favor against Toronto. Or for his fantasy owners.

Bottom line for Ilya Samsonov:

This game isn’t as much about the result as it is regaining timing and confidence.

Bottom line for Aaron Dell:

He’ll need to make one or two saves that he shouldn’t for the Sharks to have a chance at victory.