McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Mar. 24 – Alexander Georgiev vs. Karel Vejmelka

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Fri. Mar. 24, 2023:

Why I like this matchup:

Georgiev has won six of seven for the Avalanche and is ramping up for his first stab at the Stanley Cup as a No. 1 goalie. And Vejmelka has had a sneaky good season once again for the Coyotes. Georgiev is 27 years old and Vejmelka is 26. They’re right in the prime of their careers.

What to watch for:

I’m a big fan of Vejmelka’s feel for the game. He came across from Europe with no experience in North America and went straight to the NHL. No minors. That says something. Vejmelka has been a quick study. His athleticism is top notch but I also think Vejmelka is a better skater than first glance warrants. He’s fairly precise in his movements. Vejmelka has a .904 save percentage in 45 games this season despite seeing a heavy workload.

Georgiev has been nothing short of impressive this season for the Avalanche. He had to prove that he could be a No. 1 NHL goaltender, and so far, he’s made good on Colorado’s bet to bring him in from the New York Rangers during this past offseason. Georgiev has a .919 save percentage in 52 games. And he’s won 32 times. I do think Georgiev can let his emotions get the best of him at times, but this season has been a major step forward.

What fantasy owners should do:

Georgiev is a lock, but Vejmelka can fill objectives for fantasy owners, especially in the saves column. He faces a lot of rubber. But with Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar in the lineup, it’s probably best to sit Vejmelka.

Bottom line for Alexandar Georgiev:

He’s earned the starting gig in Colorado.

Bottom line for Karel Vejmelka:

He’s one of the most under-appreciated goalies in the NHL.