McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Feb. 18 – Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen vs. Kaapo Kahkonen

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Sat. Feb. 18, 2023:

Why I like this matchup:

Tonight’s game features two Finnish netminders at different stages of their careers. Luukkonen is in the process of establishing himself as an NHL regular with the Buffalo Sabres, while Kahkonen is rebuilding his game with San Jose Sharks. And both are coming off a loss.

What to watch for:

Luukkonen has been consistent for the Sabres in the past five weeks, allowing three goals in five of his last nine starts. But Luukkonen was tagged for seven a week ago against the Calgary Flames, one more than his previous high water-mark of six against. Those types of blowup games are inevitable with a team like Buffalo that’s growing into its own identity. But it’s something Luukkonen needs to avoid in the future. I think he does an amazing job of covering the lower half of the net. But the Sabres goaltender is extremely vulnerable high glove side. And tends to get spread on lateral plays.

I’ve been critical of Kahkonen’s technique in the past. I thought he played too wide and low. And his depth was too aggressive. All of which prevented him from rotating efficiently while causing the Sharks netminder to chase the game. He was able to get away with it as a member of the Minnesota Wild. But with the Sharks, he was exposed. Kahkonen owns a .883 save percentage this year, but there has been a difference in his game lately. He’s playing deeper and more upright.

Since the All-Star break, Kahkonen has a .938 save percentage in four games. Credit due: it takes dedication and desire to make significant changes mid-season. Kahkonen is in the process of retooling his game, and it’s starting to pay off. He made 36 saves on 38 shots and looked like a completely different goaltender in his last outing against the Vegas Golden Knights just two nights ago.

What fantasy owners should do:

Tough call on this game. Both teams make me nervous defensively. I wouldn’t be thrilled to start either goaltender.

Bottom line for Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen:

He has to cut down on goals to the glove side.

Bottom line for Kaapo Kahkonen:

There will be bumps along the road for a goaltender who is in the midst of a technical overhaul. But the early returns have been positive.