McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Jan. 3 – Juuse Saros vs. Samuel Montembeault

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Tue. Jan. 3, 2023:

Why I like this matchup:

Saros has been red hot in goal for the Predators. And Montembeault has stolen several wins for Montreal.

What to watch for:

In his last nine appearances, Saros hasn’t posted a save percentage below 90 percent. For me, he’s been the most consistent goaltender in the NHL dating back to American Thanksgiving. I’m a huge fan of Saros’ skating ability. And right now I think he’s tracking the puck extremely well. Saros is finding lanes through traffic and anticipating plays. Sadly, the Predators are wasting too many of his outstanding efforts in goal. Saros is 3-3-3 in his last nine starts – a testament to Nashville’s lack of offense.

I can’t say I envy Montembeault’s job for the Canadiens. There’s been nights where he’s been the sacrificial lamb playing behind an extremely young lineup. But Montembeault has won a few games this year almost single-handedly. At 26 years old, he finally looks comfortable. Don’t let his .904 save percentage fool you: Montembeault is 31st moneypuck.com’s goals saved above expected rankings, just two spots behind goalie partner Jake Allen. Sure, Montembeault was dinged for seven goals in his last start. But in nine of 12 appearances, the Habs netminder has kept the opposition to three goals or fewer.

What fantasy owners should do:

Montembeault is a big gamble considering he’s had a few blowup games this year. But he is crushing it for fantasy owners in the saves department. I’d start him if you need that category. Saros should always start.

Bottom line for Juuse Saros:

Consistency is great. But if the Predators are going to make the Stanley Cup playoffs, Saros will have to start posting shutouts.

Bottom line for Samuel Montembeault:

Just keep grinding. Montembeault has proven to be a solid NHL goaltender. And he keeps improving.