McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Oct. 19 – Jordan Binnington vs. Martin Jones
Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Wed. Oct. 19, 2022:
Why I like this matchup:
I have something of a macabre fascination with tonight’s game. Seattle has been terrible defensively since joining the NHL at the start of the 2021-22 season. And I’m not sure there’s a goalkeeper that can change the Kraken’s fortunes. For Binnington, it’s his first game against Seattle. I’m curious to see how he fares against former teammate and Stanley Cup champion Jaden Schwartz.
What to watch for:
Jones and goalie partner Philip Grubauer has already given up 16 goals in just four games for the Kraken. The team’s only win came with Jones in the crease. Sadly, Seattle’s 2022-23 season already looks similar to the team’s inaugural campaign.
The Kraken have given up a dizzying number of cross-ice passes in their defensive zone. And I think you’ll see Jones respond accordingly by trying to stay close to home in the blue paint. I thought he did an admirable job last season with the Philadelphia Flyers as Carter Hart’s sidekick. Jones posted a .900 save percentage in 35 outings.
Binnington returns to the Blues crease this year as the undisputed No.1 goaltender. Despite an up-and-down 2021-22 regular season, Binnington was excellent during the Stanley Cup playoffs until a collision with Colorado Avalanche forward Nazem Kadri ended his year prematurely. He played well in the Blues’ season opener against the Columbus Blue Jackets, stopping 23 of 25 shots.
What fantasy owners should do:
If your team has Binnington, play him. But I can’t see any reason to start Jones. Seattle isn’t even giving up that many shots. Owners are unlikely to see a return in that category. Or any others until Seattle improves.
Bottom line for Jordan Binnington:
Every rink has its quirks. He’ll need to learn the nuances of Climate Pledge Arena in advance of tonight’s game.
Bottom line for Martin Jones:
Keep grinding. It’s going to be a long year.