Mackenzie Blackwood could be facing an extended absence after latest development
Photo credit: Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images
Colorado Avalanche star goalie Mackenzie Blackwood could face a lengthy absence after shocking new details about his injury have emerged, raising questions about the team's plans moving forward.
Blackwood is currently recovering from an offseason injury. Since the team hasn't placed him on injured reserve, his return could be imminent.
No set return date yet for Avalanche starting goalie Mackenzie Blackwood.
Conor Lively from Mile High Sticking writes that the Avalanche are off to a strong 2-0 start to the 2025-26 season, thanks in large part to stellar goaltending.
Backup Scott Wedgewood has stepped up, delivering excellent performances in both games, particularly against the Utah Mammoth, where he stole the win as Colorado's offence struggled to find its footing.
"Blackwood's injury stems from a surgery he had after last season ended. However, the timetable for his return is unknown. Blackwood has been at practice taking shots, so he's close to returning, but there's been no announcement or word from the team as to when. Blackwood didn't travel with the team to Los Angeles for the season opener against the Kings to continue rehab and recovery." -Lively
The Avalanche haven't placed him on injured reserve, meaning they're carrying three goaltenders: Blackwood, Wedgewood, and Trent Miner.
Under NHL rules, a player on injured reserve must sit out at least seven days.
Had the Avalanche placed Blackwood on IR to start the season, he would have missed the first four games, including tomorrow's highly anticipated matchup against the Dallas Stars and the following game in Buffalo.
"Putting Blackwood on IR doesn't really help the Avalanche in any way. While it frees a roster spot, it doesn't free any cap space. Blackwood made the opening roster because they have roster space. If the team put him on IR, they could fill that roster spot with a call-up from the Colorado Eagles, but that wouldn't help either." -Lively
My guess is that Blackwood will return within the next 10 games or so. The Avalanche's early schedule is packed with travel and a heavy workload, so it makes sense not to rush him back, especially with how outstanding Wedgewood has been so far.
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