Scott Wedgewood: A Goaltender’s Journey
DENVER (AP) — Throughout his career, NHL goalie Scott Wedgewood has cultivated an acute awareness of everything around him, whether he is navigating through traffic, exploring an airport, or simply spending time with his family. His intense focus might stem from his position as a goaltender, where being vigilant is essential.
“My mind is always on,” Wedgewood remarked, an acknowledgment of the constant awareness required in his role.
Emerging as a Key Player
This season, Wedgewood has emerged as a key stabilizing presence for the Colorado Avalanche, showcasing his skills in a remarkable manner. Boasting a goals-against average of 2.02 and a save percentage of .921, he led all NHL goaltenders in these categories. Avalanche coach Jared Bednar decided to make Wedgewood the starting goalie during the first round of the playoffs, moving away from a shared duty with Mackenzie Blackwood. In his playoff debut, Wedgewood helped propel the Avalanche to an unblemished sweep against the Los Angeles Kings, allowing just five goals. The team is now poised to face off against the winner of the Minnesota-Dallas series, currently in favor of the Wild, who lead 3-2.
From Childhood to the NHL
Wedgewood’s journey to elite goaltender began in his childhood in Ontario, where he became a goalie at the urging of his two older brothers. A significant moment in his early career occurred when he ran home with a cut requiring stitches during a game, reminding everyone that, despite their fun, hockey can be risky. Initially, he played as a defenseman before taking on the goaltending role, where he developed a true passion. He fondly recalls a 3-on-3 youth match where he faced an astonishing 46 shots, leaving the ice exhilarated despite the score.
Career Development and Achievements
Drafted in the third round by the New Jersey Devils in 2010, Wedgewood found his playing time constrained as he often played second fiddle to the likes of Blackwood. Despite the competitive atmosphere, the two established a strong and supportive friendship over time. This season, both goalies contributed to the Avalanche’s impressive defense, sharing the William M. Jennings Trophy awarded to the goaltender(s) with the fewest goals allowed, with Wedgewood finishing with a record of 31-6-6 in 45 games.
Fan Favorite and Team Dynamics
Inside the Ball Arena, Wedgewood has become a fan favorite, inspiring chants in his honor with each exceptional save. Teammate Nathan MacKinnon praised his contributions, stating,
“He’s stopping the puck,”
and acknowledged the special connection Wedgewood has formed with both the team and the fans.
Reflection and Future Aspirations
Reflecting on his relationship with Blackwood, Wedgewood indicated that their dynamic has matured since their early days in New Jersey. After returning to the Devils following several seasons elsewhere, he gained a fresh perspective and ultimately came to appreciate Blackwood’s growth as a top goalie. This camaraderie led to their reunion on the Avalanche, where Wedgewood was welcomed following a trade from Nashville just before Colorado acquired Blackwood.
With Blackwood sidelined at the beginning of the season, Wedgewood seized the opportunity to make his mark, recording a promising 5-0-2 record early in the season. His nickname on social media, “Wedgewall,” aptly reflects his role as a reliable barrier against opposing shots as the Avalanche solidify their playoff aspirations.
Life Beyond Hockey
Outside the rink, Wedgewood enjoys reading and has recently engaged with fans through a book event. He humorously reminisced about his childhood aspirations of playing defense, expressing intrigue about how vastly different his career might have been had that dream materialized.
“That’d be one of my genie wishes… to see what would have happened,”
he said, though he was quick to modestly dismiss any comparisons to NHL star Cale Makar, while still admitting,
“But I’d have to say I was pretty good.”
