McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Feb. 17 – Jake Oettinger vs. Filip Gustavsson
Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Fri. Feb. 17, 2023:
Why I like this matchup:
Gustavsson has been outstanding for the Wild this season, yet head coach Dean Evason has been hesitant to give him the keys to the Minnesota crease. The Wild’s situation is the complete opposite of what’s going on with the Dallas Stars, where Jake Oettinger has firmly established himself as a No.1 NHL goaltender and has played the lionshare of games.
What to watch for:
The hard part for Gustavsson is that, despite outstanding numbers, he’s dropped three of his past four starts for the Wild. He only allowed 10 goals combined during those games, but his team is struggling to score goals. In his first full NHL season, Gustavsson’s 12-8-2 record is admirable. What’s impressed me is his structure and consistency. Gustavsson has allowed three or less goals in 16 of his 21 starts. He’s a very cerebral goalie that thinks the game well. And he’s rarely out of position.
Oettinger has gone 23-7-8 this season in goal for Dallas. He owns a .925 save percentage and is flirting with a Vezina Trophy nomination. The Stars netminder has been incredible so far in 2023, with a .935 save percentage in 13 games. But the one area that must be driving him crazy is overtime. Oettinger has dropped eight games during extra time, including five since the New Year. I don’t see it as a problem looking towards the postseason. And it does show how efficient Oettinger is at even strength. But if there’s anything his game lacks – and there isn’t much – it’s pure athleticism. And during 3-on-3 play, sometimes it shows up.
What fantasy owners should do:
Gus has been a value pickup for fantasy owners, and Oettinger has been a workhorse. Start them both and expect a 3-2 game.
Bottom line for Jake Oettinger:
Being tidy with rebounds is critical against Minnesota, a team that lacks top-end skill.
Bottom line for Filip Gustavsson:
He might need to steal this one. Numbers are great, but what matters most is wins.