McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Oct. 20 – Scott Wedgewood vs. Ilya Samsonov

Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Thu. Oct. 20, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

Can Wedgewood make it four wins in a row for Dallas under new head coach Pete DeBoer? Jake Oettinger has carried the mail so far. The Stars are one of only three NHL teams remaining with a perfect record.

Samsonov has made two starts for the Maple Leafs and won both times. He’s been strong so far, turning in a .926 save percentage. Toronto has yet to win a game without Samsonov in net.

What to watch for:

From a positional standpoint, Wedgewood has historically been more aggressive than Samsonov. The Stars goalie isn’t afraid to put his heels at the top of the blue paint and challenge shooters. And in recent years, the structural side of Wedgewood’s game has grown. I like how he handles net drives with the overlap technique. And he has active hands.

Before this season, I felt that Samsonov lacked crispness and detail to his game. He flowed between save selections and didn’t always get his feet set before the shot. So far this year, in a limited sample size, he’s been arriving early and waiting on the shot. With most goaltenders, that leads to consistency. Something Samsonov has lacked over the course of his career.

What fantasy owners should do:

Dallas has played well, but Oettinger has been a difference-maker. I’m not as sold on Wedgewood being able to replicate the early results of his goalie partner, but I would still start him. Samsonov might have his hands full against a talented Dallas squad. Usually, I’d say start any Maple Leafs goalie strictly for the win column. But starting Samsonov might be a gamble tonight. Dallas has only averaged 26.7 shots per game yet is averaging over four goals per outing.

Bottom line for Scott Wedgewood:

Keep Toronto’s big dogs off the score sheet.

Bottom line for Samsonov:

Get set early on rush chances because Dallas’ young talent comes fast through the neutral zone.