BREAKING NEWS: The Avalanche Gets Stunning Update Involving Mackenzie Blackwood

Mackenzie Blackwood has brought new energy to the Colorado Avalanche since being acquired in a December trade. Prior to his arrival, the team held a 15-13 record and was struggling with inconsistent goaltending.

Since joining the Avalanche, Blackwood has played 37 games, recording a .913 save percentage and 22 wins—stats he hasn’t reached since 2020, his sophomore season with the New Jersey Devils. Now in his seventh NHL season, Blackwood has yet to appear in a Stanley Cup Playoff game. While playoff hockey brings heightened intensity and pressure, Blackwood remains unfazed by the shift in atmosphere.

“You just go out there and play the game you know. Sure, the stakes are higher and emotions run deeper, but it’s still hockey,” Blackwood said during Wednesday’s Avalanche practice. “I’ve never had a hard time staying calm, so I don’t think I’ll have any trouble managing the emotions.”

Though he didn’t see ice time, Blackwood was part of the Devils’ playoff run in 2023, giving him a sense of the postseason atmosphere.

 

 

 

 

“I have a general idea of what to expect. Things get more intense, but at the core, it’s still the same sport,” he added.

Blackwood will face a tough challenge in the opening round against the Dallas Stars, who finished the regular season with the third-highest goal total (275). The Stars have a deep, offensively talented roster, led by former Avalanche standout Mikko Rantanen.

Blackwood hasn’t played against Dallas yet this season—Scott Wedgewood was in goal for both matchups following Colorado’s goalie reshuffle.

“They play a heavy, physical game,” Blackwood said of the Stars. “They’re a skilled team with a lot of offensive threats, so you have to give them the respect they deserve.”

He’ll also be matched up against elite goaltender Jake Oettinger, who posted a .909 save percentage and 36 wins in the regular season. Oettinger is known for elevating his play in the postseason, including a 64-save effort in a Game 7 against Calgary in 2022. For Colorado to contend for another Stanley Cup, they’ll need Blackwood to rise to a similar level.