McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Oct. 15 – Dan Vladar vs. Jack Campbell
Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Sat. Oct. 15, 2022:
Why I like this matchup:
I think Edmonton and Calgary are the strongest clubs in the Pacific division. And goaltending could determine each team’s seed in the Stanley Cup playoffs – assuming they both qualify for the postseason. Which I fully expect.
What to watch for:
Vladar broke onto the NHL scene last season with the Flames and performed admirably, winning 15 of 24 starts. What I like about Vladar, and the Flames for that matter, is that he plays a similar style to his goalie partner, Jacob Markstrom. That predictability is important for teammates. Vladar stands 6-foot-5 inches tall and effectively utilizes his big frame. Another strong year for the Czech goaltender could earn him a starting job down the road.
The Oilers have a different look in the crease this year, as Jack Campbell takes over. His first game started rough: Campbell allowed three goals in the first 21 minutes of action against the Vancouver Canucks. But he recovered with an incredible second period, stopping 13 of 14 shots. Many of which were high danger chances. Campbell’s game will always be somewhat freeform. He’s not the most precise goalie. But when Campbell is reading the play well, he’s one of the best in the game.
What fantasy owners should do:
Owners of Vladar and Campbell should be starting them at every opportunity. Calgary and Edmonton are bound to win a lot of hockey games. Vladar was solid last season in a secondary role behind No.1 goaltender Jacob Markstrom. And the Oilers still aren’t great defensively. Campbell will likely face plenty of rubber this year.
Bottom line for Dan Vladar:
Games against Edmonton set the tone for the playoffs. Could this be a sign that Vladar will start more games this year than he did in 2021-22? He’s due for a new contract after this season.
Bottom line for Jack Campbell:
It’s only his second game in an Oilers uniform, so it’s still about learning the tendencies of his teammates. But he’s also expected to beat the Flames. Time to make good on it.