Former NHL netminder Mike McKenna provides his Daily Faceoff Starting Goalie Matchup of the Day for Wed. Feb. 22, 2023:

Why I like this matchup:

Sorokin and Hellebuyck have been two of the top goaltenders in the NHL this season. Each could be nominated for the Vezina Trophy. Watching them go head-to-head is a dream matchup.

What to watch for:

Guess what team is back in a Stanley Cup playoff spot? No, not the Tallahassee Warthogs. It’s the New York Islanders, and goaltender Ilya Sorokin is leading the way. Sure, Bo Horvat has made a difference since coming to Long Island, but make no mistake; Sorokin’s play is the most significant reason the Islanders have 65 points. I think he’s one of the best goalie skaters in the world and his body control is first-class. He’s never out of position. Sorokin has stopped 84 of 90 shots in his last two games – and won both. He has a .924 save percentage this season.

When Hellebuyck starts tonight, it will be his third game in four days as the Jets play their final match of a week-long road trip to the East Coast. He’s been a rock for Winnipeg, having featured in 43 contests and maintaining a .926 save percentage. Where Sorokin excels in skating, Hellebuyck makes his mark through smart reads and positional play. I like how busy his hands have been this season. And more than anything, Hellebuyck seems to have his mojo back after a tough 2021-22 NHL season.

What fantasy owners should do:

Start both Hellebuyck and Sorokin. Neither the Jets or the Islanders are offensive dynamos.

Bottom line for Connor Hellebuyck:

Find the energy. Playing three games in four nights is a tall task, even for an NHL netminder like Hellebuyck who thrives on being in the cage as often as possible.

Bottom line for Ilya Sorokin:

With the Jets at the end of a lengthy road trip, it’s critical for Sorokin to keep Winnipeg off the board in the early going.