Goaltending Shake-Up: Avalanche Bet on Blackwood, Sharks Reap Returns

Can Mackenzie Blackwood solidify Colorado’s goaltending and propel the Avalanche toward playoff success? Or did San Jose make the smarter move by cashing in on Blackwood’s rising value?

Colorado Gambles on Blackwood to Stabilize the Crease

The Colorado Avalanche have made a decisive move to address their goaltending struggles, acquiring Mackenzie Blackwood from the San Jose Sharks alongside forward Givani Smith and a 2027 fifth-round pick. In exchange, the Avalanche sent struggling netminder Alexandar Georgiev, forward Nikolai Kovalenko, and two draft picks (a 2025 fifth-round and a 2026 second-round) to San Jose.

Mackenzie Blackwood’s arrival marks a significant upgrade for Colorado’s crease. Despite his potential inconsistencies, Blackwood has shown flashes of brilliance, saving 6.4 goals above expected this season while backstopping a defensively weak Sharks team. Paired with Scott Wedgewood, who has performed admirably since joining the Avalanche, Blackwood provides a much-needed boost for a team with Stanley Cup aspirations. While neither goalie has postseason experience, the Avalanche hope their combined talent can steady the ship heading into the playoffs.

The departure of Alexandar Georgiev, one of the league’s weakest starters this season, was a case of addition by subtraction for Colorado. Georgiev’s inconsistencies forced the Avalanche to rely on outscoring their defensive lapses, a strategy that proved unsustainable in high-stakes games.

San Jose Cashes In on Blackwood’s Rising Value

The Sharks capitalized on Blackwood’s rejuvenated form to secure a strong return. GM Mike Grier acted swiftly, moving Blackwood ahead of a crowded goalie trade market as the deadline approaches. The inclusion of Alexandar Georgiev provides a short-term stopgap in net, while the addition of Nikolai Kovalenko and a second-round pick addresses San Jose’s long-term rebuilding strategy.

Kovalenko, a physical forward with bottom-six NHL potential, will benefit from more significant opportunities in San Jose. The Sharks’ less-pressured environment allows him to develop his game and potentially contribute on special teams. With Blackwood’s contract off the books, the Sharks gain additional flexibility to continue shaping their roster for the future.

Conclusion

This trade represents a strategic reshuffling for both teams. Colorado shores up its goaltending while opening the door for a playoff push, albeit with some risks given Blackwood’s inexperience in high-stakes scenarios. Meanwhile, San Jose maximizes Blackwood’s value, acquiring assets to further their rebuild. Time will tell if Colorado’s bet pays off or if the Sharks come out on top with their well-rounded return.