McKenna’s Matchup of the Day: Mar. 31 – Cal Petersen vs. Jacob Markstrom

Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Thurs. Mar. 31, 2022:

Why I like this matchup:

The Kings are playing games on back-to-back nights, while the Flames haven’t played since Tuesday. Calgary goaltender Jacob Markstrom is fresh. But so is Kings netminder Cal Petersen, who backed up Jonathan Quick last night when L.A. lost 4-3 in a shootout to the Edmonton Oilers. The Kings are in a tight playoff race in the Pacific Division. Every point matters. They need Petersen’s best tonight.

What to watch for:

Which goaltender cracks first. Calgary has played strong defense all season and Jacob Markstrom has played a huge role. His nine shutouts pace the NHL this season and Markstrom has become a respected leader in the locker room. The Flames have been involved in a few high-scoring games during the month of March – exactly what Markstrom would like to avoid against the Kings. He’s so good technically that he’s rarely out of position. And even when he is, Markstrom’s big 6-foot-6 frame can bail him out of trouble.

Petersen went on a really strong run during January and February, compiling a 9-2-0 record over an 11-game span. But he’s gone 4-4-0 during March, which isn’t surprising considering the Kings have endured a rash of injuries. Petersen’s performance has mirrored his record: Petersen allowed fewer than two goals against in each of his wins during March. But he allowed more than four in every loss. Consistency has proven elusive during his young NHL career, and I think it can be attributed to his tendency to chase the play.

What fantasy owners should do:

Markstrom is a lock to start every game for fantasy owners. Shutouts and wins have been plentiful. Starting Petersen tonight would be a gamble. He doesn’t face many shots, and Calgary is one of the best teams in the NHL.

Bottom line for Cal Petersen:

The first period is so important any time a team plays back to back. Petersen will need to be sharp early. And he needs to remain patient against the Flames’ top line of Johnny Gaudreau, Elias Lindholm and Matthew Tkachuk.

Bottom line for Jacob Markstrom:

Control the pace of play and keep emotions in check. Markstrom’s fiery competitiveness has been on display recently, but he can’t let it become a distraction.