McKenna Match of the Day: February 25 – Kevin Lankinen vs. Jon Gillies

Former NHL goaltender Mike McKenna offers his daily starting goaltender game of the day for Thursday. February 25, 2022:

Why I love this game:

Both keepers have something to prove.

Last season was good for Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Kevin Lankinen. He established himself as an NHL regular, posting a .909 Sv% in 37 games played. This year has not been so kind for the 26-year-old Finn. His numbers took a hit and he won just two games in 11 starts.

For Gillies, this season has been a lifeline to his once-promising career. The Maine native was once considered the goaltender of the future for the Calgary Flames, but was edged out by David Rittich in that organization. Gillies has played for five teams so far this season, including a stint in the ECHL. He is 3-8-0 with the Devils.

What fantasy owners should do:

Proceed with caution starting with either goalkeeper. The Devils and Blackhawks have been porous defensively. Gillies and Lankinen have allowed three or more goals in all but two starts this season.

Conclusion for Lankinen:

His name keeps popping up in trade rumors. Teams believe Lankinen has more to offer and he needs to show it.

Conclusion for Gillies:

It’s make it or break it. This may be the last shot Gillies gets at the NHL level.