McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Apr. 16 – Casey DeSmith vs. Jeremy Swayman

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Sati. Apr 16., 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Casey DeSmith takes over in Pittsburgh now that Tristan Jarry is sidelined with an injury. He’s had a strong second half to the season, and I’m eager to see how DeSmith matches up against Boston. The Bruins have lost three games in a row and should be hungry. That includes goaltender Jeremy Swayman, who hasn’t won since Apr. 2 against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

What to watch for:

When DeSmith is in control with his feet set before the shot, it’s a good sign that he’s on top of his game. Early this year he was pushing into the shot – attacking it – and it cost him. The Penguins goaltender would end up off his angle and struggle to retreat back to the net for rebounds. DeSmith’s forward motion was causing him to lock up. He was getting beat clean because he couldn’t react. But in the second half of the season, DeSmith has cleaned up a lot of bad habits. Since Jan. 28, his record is 5-1-4 with a .921 save percentage.

I don’t think Swayman has played poorly over his three-game losing streak. Boston hasn’t defended middle ice well enough in front of him. But Swayman could also be more patient on his edges and track the puck better. Boston has eight games left in the regular season, and with Linus Ullmark now injured – all eyes are on Swayman.

What fantasy owners should do:

Of late, both the Penguins and the Bruins have been leaky defensively. Swayman hasn’t seen as much rubber as DeSmith, so there’s a risk in all categories for the Bruins netminder. DeSmith has been trending in the right direction but still gives up almost three goals per game. This game could be a track meet. Picking a winner is a toss-up. DeSmith has seen a lot of shots – I’d start him. But starting Swayman would make me nervous.

Bottom line for Casey DeSmith:

Be assertive and communicate. It’s his net for the time being in Pittsburgh. His Penguins teammates need to know it.

Bottom line for Jeremy Swayman:

It’s time for a statement game. He’s allowed 19 goals in his last six outings.