McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Jan. 25 – Stuart Skinner vs. Joonas Korpisalo
Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Tue. Jan. 25, 2023:
Why I like this matchup:
Stuart Skinner is playing his second game in a row after ceding the Edmonton Oilers crease – due to the birth of his first child, Beau Stuart Skinner – to goaltending partner Jack Campbell for much of January. And Joonas Korpisalo has been stealing points for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
What to watch for:
Skinner was recently named to the Pacific Division All-Star team, which was a little surprising given the goaltending fluidity in Edmonton. But in reality, Skinner has been incredibly stable for the Oilers, and the fan vote is powerful in Edmonton. His .915 save percentage is well above the league average of .905, and his 3.5 goals saved above expected is respectable. I think Skinner’s controlled style is a big reason for his consistency. He’s predictable in his skating routes and positioning. Skinner was solid this past Saturday against the Canucks, when he allowed two goals on 29 shots and led the Oilers to victory.
It’s been a tough year in Columbus, with the team sitting last among all 32 NHL teams with just 31 points. But Korpisalo has been a pleasant surprise. Coming back from off-season surgery, and a couple of underwhelming seasons, the Finnish netminder was a significant question mark for the Blue Jackets. Korpisalo has responded by posting a .908 save percentage in 20 games played. And his 4.5 goals saved above expected is good for 22nd best among NHL goalkeepers. Korpisalo tends to get out of control and chase the game, but he’s been able to counteract that deficiency with pure athleticism.
What fantasy owners should do:
Start Skinner. And start Korpisalo if your team needs saves. The Blue Jackets netminder has faced over 40 shots six times this season.
Bottom line for Stuart Skinner:
He’s only played four games in January: tonight is still about finding his rhythm.
Bottom line for Joonas Korpisalo:
He has to stay patient on his edges against a potent Oilers offense.