Mackenzie Blackwood: Rising Star in the NHL
Mackenzie Blackwood is rapidly making a name for himself as one of the premier goaltenders in the NHL, with recent accolades stemming from former goaltender and NHL analyst Kevin Weekes, who commended him during a segment on NHL Tonight this past Monday.
Early Career and Development
At 28 years old, Blackwood’s journey began when he was drafted 42nd overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. He showcased his potential in the league notably during the 2019-20 season, ending with a record of 22 wins, 14 losses, and 8 ties, while maintaining a goals-against average of 2.77 and a solid .915 save percentage.
“Mackenzie Blackwood has always had the right tools,” Weekes explained. “He has both the physical stature and the necessary skills. I appreciated his game when he was with the Devils, but he has truly developed since moving out West.”
Transition to San Jose Sharks
This past June, Blackwood transitioned to the San Jose Sharks, traded in exchange for a sixth-round pick while entering restricted free agency. He quickly secured a two-year contract with the team. Blackwood made his Sharks debut on October 14 during the current season, where he tallied impressive 51 saves in a closely contested 2-1 shootout loss to the Colorado Avalanche.
Weekes suggested that Blackwood’s time in San Jose has been pivotal for his development, allowing him to refine his game and shine under pressure. His performance in a recent match against the Flyers, along with another against the Rangers, drew particular praise from Weekes, who noted Blackwood’s familiarity with the arenas from his time in New Jersey might have played a role in his stellar displays.
Overcoming Challenges and Current Performance
However, Blackwood’s season did not start off without challenges. He had to recover from lower-body surgery, which delayed his training and served as a setback, forcing him to miss most of the preseason. Nevertheless, since the season’s start, Blackwood has bounced back remarkably, posting an impressive record of 8 wins, 1 loss, and 1 overtime loss, coupled with a standout goals-against average of 2.21 and a save percentage of .920.
While many may attribute his success to the strength of his team, Blackwood’s individual performance—especially during a recent close win over the Flyers—has underscored his critical role on the ice. He made several key stops that ultimately maintained his team’s lead. Weekes emphasized Blackwood’s evolution into a comprehensive goalie, noting his considerable growth and maturity through the years.
Over the weekend, Blackwood showcased his skill by making 25 saves against the Rangers, leading to an exhilarating 3-2 OT win, capped off by Nathan MacKinnon’s game-winning goal. The following day, he held firm against the Flyers, contributing 23 saves toward another 3-2 victory.
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