Performance Shift of Goalie Mackenzie Blackwood
In Denver, a marked shift has occurred regarding the performance of goalie Mackenzie Blackwood. Just two weeks prior, Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar addressed Blackwood’s struggles after a tough outing against the Buffalo Sabres on November 13, where Colorado secured a 6-3 victory but saw Blackwood concede two quick goals. The first goal was from ex-Avalanche player Bowen Byram, who capitalized on a defensive mishap, and the second was a result of a breakdown in team defense, allowing Jordan Greenway to score after outpacing defenders.
Blackwood’s Response and Team Dynamics
Following that game, Blackwood expressed a desire for more time on the ice to regain his top form. Bednar’s response was firm yet fair, stating it was ultimately Blackwood’s responsibility to address his slump.
“I don’t want to sound harsh, but that’s a Blackwood issue now,”
Bednar commented. He emphasized his trust in Blackwood while also recognizing the impressive performances of Scott Wedgewood, who was stepping up in Blackwood’s absence due to an offseason injury recovery. Bednar made it clear that although Blackwood would eventually get more playing time, for now, the priority was to field the goalie capable of delivering results, which was Wedgewood, who had been performing exceptionally well.
Blackwood himself acknowledged Bednar’s perspective, accepting that the onus was on him to improve. Since that challenging moment, Blackwood has indeed turned things around dramatically. On a recent road trip, the Avalanche managed to secure victories against the Nashville Predators and the Chicago Blackhawks. During the Nashville game, Blackwood rose to the occasion, achieving a remarkable 35-save shutout to lead the team to a 3-0 win.
Recent Achievements and Team Success
Meanwhile, Wedgewood also continued his excellent form, contributing with a shutout in a nail-biting 1-0 win against the Blackhawks. If there were doubts lingering about Blackwood’s resurgence, he quashed them convincingly with another outstanding performance against his old team, the San Jose Sharks, earning yet another shutout during a dominant 6-0 victory. After these back-to-back stellar outings, Bednar expressed his admiration for Blackwood’s quick recovery from his earlier struggles.
“I’m genuinely impressed,”
he noted, highlighting the high level at which Blackwood has returned to play and reaffirming the organization’s confidence in him.
Looking Ahead
As of now, the Avalanche are on fire, riding a ten-game winning streak and boasting a perfect 9-0-2 record at home this season. The dynamic between Blackwood and Wedgewood presents a luxury for the Avalanche, who, after initially facing concerns with injuries at the start of the season, have found both goalies in exceptional form. Bednar remarked on Blackwood’s bevy of practices and time spent refining his skills, which have paid off now that he’s fully recovered.
Looking ahead, the situation could present an interesting dynamic for Team Canada as potential Olympic selections come into play, with both goalies featuring in the conversation. The Avalanche’s powerhouse roster, already bolstered by two top-performing goalies, presents a rare advantage in the league. Blackwood’s recent achievements put him in the company of Avalanche greats like Patrick Roy, as he became the third goaltender in franchise history to record consecutive shutouts, joining an elite group that signifies his return to form. With Blackwood shaking off the rust, the Avalanche are a formidable force to be reckoned with in the NHL.
