McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Dec. 7 – Juuse Saros vs. Brian Elliott

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Thu. Dec. 8, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Saros is well rested: the Predators haven’t played in six days and should have plenty of energy against a surging Lightning team that has won seven of its last 10 games. Brian Elliott gets a start not in a back-to-back situation. It’ll be his first game since Nov. 28.

What to watch for:

It’s been an up-and-down season for Saros. He’s stolen a few games and had some clunkers. But his .909 save percentage is on the rise, and I think he’s been a victim of poor play in front of him more than his own shortcomings. I love watching Saros because he’s such a powerful skater. He has some of the best edge control in the NHL. And when Saros is on, he can single-handedly win games for Nashville. He’s come away victorious in three straight games.

What an odd year for Elliott so far. His traditional numbers are ugly. He’s allowing over 3.5 goals per game and his .886 save percentage isn’t anything to write home about. But Elliott has won five straight. And his only loss was back on Oct. 15 in his first appearance of the season. I think Elliott has done a nice job of modernizing over the course of his career. He’s not a master technician but he has good hands and strong game sense. At 37 years of age, Elliott’s experience is his best quality.

What fantasy owners should do:

Hard to argue Elliott’s 5-1-0 record. And Saros has been a catalyst for Nashville. Neither has eye-catching traditional numbers. My concern with Nashville is defensively – they are missing key ingredients on the blueline. But I’d be comfortable starting either goalie.

Bottom line for Juuse Saros:

Nashville is on the road: find a way to get at least one point. Shutting down a potent Tampa Bay power play is key.

Bottom line for Brian Elliott:

If he can thwart Nashville’s top line, I think Elliott comes away with the victory.