McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Apr. 1 – Antti Raanta vs. Samuel Montembeault

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Sat. Apr. 1, 2023:

Why I like this matchup:

Raanta is back in goal for the Hurricanes after missing over three weeks of action due to injury, and none too soon. Although Frederik Andersen has been the No.1 goalie for Carolina when available, he’s lost three straight games and the eye test hasn’t been great. Could Raanta grab the crease? And more importantly, can he stay healthy?

What to watch for:

Montembeault has started a career-high 34 games this season and boasts a .904 save percentage – the highest of his career. Playing for the rebuilding Canadiens hasn’t made life easy, but Montembeault has shown the form that led to him being a third-round draft pick by the Florida Panthers in 2015. To me, Montembeault has looked more confident in his movements and save selections than at any point in his career, and it’s led to a newfound consistency.

Raanta’s record – 16-2-3 – speaks for itself. But he’s only been available to start 22 games this season. And his .907 save percentage is well below the .918 Raanta has in 249 career NHL regular season games. He has three shutouts this season.

What fantasy owners should do:

With Raanta’s record it would be next to impossible not to start him. It’s smart money. But you never know what you’ll get with the Canadiens, except a good chance at a lot of shots faced. Montembeault should probably stay on the fantasy bench until Montreal improves.

Bottom line for Antti Raanta:

I don’t like beating a goalie up for being hurt all the time, but that’s the reality with Raanta. I’m not sure the Hurricanes can depend on him given his injury history.

Bottom line for Samuel Montembeault:

This season has been a major step forward.