McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Oct. 13 – Jake Oettinger vs. Juuse Saros

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Thu. Oct. 13, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Despite having personally picked the Stars to finish second in the Central division, I don’t think Dallas is a sure bet to make the Stanley Cup playoffs. And neither is Nashville. Both Oettinger and Saros weigh heavily towards the success of each team.

What to watch for:

Oettinger made a name for himself last season with a phenomenal Stanley Cup playoff performance against the Calgary Flames. He allowed just 13 goals on 272 shots and nearly stole the series. But watchful eyes know that it’s been a slow build for the Minnesota native. The Stars were patient in his development and it shows. Oettinger plays with precision and detail. He’s a good skater that can rely on mechanics as much as instincts.

Standing under six feet tall, Saros is an outlier in today’s NHL. He might be the shortest goalie in the league, but he makes up for it with his exceptional skating. Saros consistently arrives before the shot comes, and on the proper angle. That’s a credit to his footwork and game sense. I think Saros processes the game incredibly well. His reads are just as good as his movements.

What fantasy owners should do:

Saros is a lock for most games, and I think Oettinger should be, too. But I would be wary of both goaltenders against the top teams in the league until after the first month or two of the season.

Bottom line for Jake Oettinger:

Keep improving. With a career .913 save percentage in 77 games, there’s room for growth. His career arc is still on the upswing.

Bottom line for Juuse Saros:

Stay healthy. As shown during the 2021-22 Stanley Cup playoffs, the Predators aren’t the same team without the talented Finn between the pipes.