Latest report reveals shocking news concerning Colorado Avalanche starting goaltender
Photo credit: AP Photo / David Zalubowski
Colorado Avalanche goaltender MacKenzie Blackwood earns a solid passing grade following a strong debut season with the team.
Blackwood was brought in mid-season by the Colorado Avalanche via a trade with the Sharks, aiming to stabilize a goaltending situation that had been a persistent issue for the team in the first half of the year.
Recent report reveals shocking update on Avalanche star goaltender.
Sean McKenna from Mile High Sticking writes that following Blackwood's arrival, the Avalanche went on a strong stretch of play, ultimately finishing third in their division. However, their season ended in disappointing with an early playoff exit, leaving fans frustrated.
"The Thunder Bay, Ontario native was dealt for on December 9, 2024 and immediately made an impact in net. He and backup Scott Wedgewood, also acquired in a trade this past season, became a quality tandem and provided what the Avalanche needed to be more consistent." -McKenna
In 37 appearances for the Avs, Blackwood compiled a 22-12-3 record with an impressive .913 save percentage and a 2.33 GAA. He notched three shutouts and recorded a goals saved above average of 12.7, the second-best mark of his career.
Blackwood delivered 24 quality starts, defined as games with a save percentage above 88.5% and 20 or fewer shots faced. He also limited poor performances, registering just three "really bad starts," where his save percentage dipped below 85%.
"Without Blackwood's command of the crease, the Avalanche would not have gotten as far as they did. His goalie point share (number of points contributed by a player due to his play in goal) was 7.2 while he was a member of the Avalanche. They were a wildcard team prior to his arrival and solidified their playoff positioning with him on the roster." -McKenna
Once the playoffs began, Blackwood's performance noticeably shifted. Making his first appearance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, it was evident he wasn't fully adjusted to the heightened intensity and different pace of postseason hockey.
"He finished 3-4 across seven games, with a .892 save percentage and a 2.71 goals against average. He posted one shutout. Blackwood had 3 quality starts out of 7 games for a .429 quality start percentage- far lower than the 66% rate during the regular season." -McKenna
The entire team fell short against the Stars, and the blame can't rest solely on Blackwood. Still, Avalanche fans have to hope this experience was a wake-up call for him, that playoff hockey demands a higher level of intensity and focus. If Blackwood can internalize that lesson, it could be a major step forward in his development as a true postseason performer.
"Blackwood's season can't be defined by a lack of success in the playoffs. Were it not for his play during the regular season, the team may not have even had a chance to get into those playoffs. He's got some improvements to be made, but the future is bright in goal for the burgundy and blue." -McKenna
A full season with this current goalie tandem is definitely something to look forward to.
Source:
Mile High Sticking
Colorado Avalanche Player Grades: MacKenzie Blackwood provides hope for future in goal
Mile High Sticking
Colorado Avalanche Player Grades: MacKenzie Blackwood provides hope for future in goal
| POLL | ||
MAI 31 | 37 ANSWERS Latest report reveals shocking news concerning Colorado Avalanche starting goaltender Do you think the Avalanche's goalie tandem of Blackwood and Wedgewood is among the best in the NHL? | ||
| yes | 23 | 62.2 % |
| no | 14 | 37.8 % |
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