McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Mar. 14 – Scott Wedgewood vs. Filip Gustavsson

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Mon. Mar. 14, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

With only one game on the NHL docket today, it’s the only matchup! But I like how Scott Wedgewood has battled his way back to the NHL. And Filip Gustavsson is auditioning for an NHL roster spot next season with the Senators.

What to watch for:

Wedgewood can be aggressive and free-flowing in his movements. I consider him a “feel” goaltender – when he’s tracking the puck well, things are good. But his lack of precision can also lead to inconsistency and the occasional blowup game. Since the NHL All-Star break, Wedgewood has a .927 save percentage and he’s won five of seven starts.

Gustavsson has been a human yo-yo the past several seasons, shuttling back and forth between the Senators and their farm club in Belleville, Ontario. I don’t think it’s been good for his development, but Gustavsson does have a one-way contract in place for next season. He has nice fundamentals. But Gustavsson sometimes lacks urgency. He needs to develop a killer instinct.

What fantasy owners should do:

Gustavsson hasn’t played in the NHL since Feb. 20, and the Senators are currently 28th in the standings. I would leave him on the bench. Wedgewood has been winning and facing 35-40 shots per game. Fantasy owners should consider starting him.

Bottom line for Scott Wedgewood:

Play as restrained as possible. Ottawa’s high-end talent can occasionally catch aggressive goaltenders off guard. 

Bottom line for Filip Gustavsson:

Don’t overthink it. Arizona averages just over 26 shots per game – the lowest in the NHL. Make one save at a time and control rebounds.