The Colorado Avalanche have solidified their goaltending future, signing Mackenzie Blackwood to a five-year contract extension on Friday. The deal, worth $5.25 million per season, keeps the 28-year-old netminder with the team through the 2029-30 NHL season. Blackwood was acquired from the San Jose Sharks on December 9, marking his 28th birthday, as part of a multi-player trade aimed at rejuvenation after early-season challenges.
Since joining the Avalanche, Blackwood has made a notable impact, posting a record of 3-1-0 with a commendable .931 save percentage. During his four games with the Avalanche, he has allowed only two goals per game, showcasing his skills and providing the team much-needed confidence. Colorado's decision to extend Blackwood reflects their intention to establish stability at the goaltender position, particularly following the inconsistent performances of previous starter Alexandar Georgiev.
Chris MacFarland, the Avalanche’s General Manager, expressed enthusiasm about Blackwood's future with the team. “When we acquired Mackenzie, we wanted to let him get to Denver, get acclimated to his new team and city, and then we’d reach out to him and his representatives,” MacFarland stated. “We are thrilled to get this deal done now and have Mackenzie under contract for the next six years.” His praise for Blackwood was underscored by remarks about his growth as a player: “We feel like Mackenzie has just gotten more experienced and successful every year. He’s still young and growing as a goaltender.”
The contract signifies more than just Blackwood’s performance; it also mirrors the Avalanche’s shift in strategy toward prioritizing investments at the goaltending position. Historically, Colorado has sought lower-cost, promising backups to manage their goaltending needs, but the current situation with star players like Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen reaching contract renewals necessitated change.
Previously, Colorado had relied on less expensive options, acquiring Georgiev and Justus Annunen before trading both, but Blackwood’s early success prompted the front office to change gears. This new strategy marks their first long-term commitment to a goaltender since Semyon Varlamov signed his five-year deal back in January 2014.
Financially, Blackwood’s new contract adds complexity. The Avalanche are projected to spend $6.75 million on goalies next season, up from the $4.23 million paid for their opening night tandem of Georgiev and Annunen this year. With salary cap constraints, particularly with impending negotiations for players like Rantanen, each financial decision becomes pivotal, pushing the team to adjust elsewhere.
“It feels like we are taking risks, but it’s important for us to find stability at this position,” MacFarland continued during the announcement of the extension. “If we get this deal right, it will be beneficial not just for now but for our long-term aspirations.” Blackwood has yet to experience playoff action, with his overall NHL record standing at 84 wins against 92 losses during his time with the New Jersey Devils before his stint with the Sharks.
The Avalanche are expecting Blackwood to be the cornerstone for their goaltending as they move forward, especially since previous season struggles highlighted the need for improvement. The team's first stretch of games saw the Avalanche ranking low at 32nd and 31st in save percentage at various points, showcasing how serious the goaltending situation has been. Blackwood’s inclusion signals not just performance but also enhanced team morale. “There’s more confidence among the group with these new acquisitions,” noted forward Ross Colton, reflecting on the changes within the locker room since Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood joined the team.
Blackwood’s rise has not been without challenges. His previous seasons with the Devils were impacted by injuries and declining stats, leading to his acquisition by the Sharks for developmental potential. He entered the NHL draft as the second goalie selected and exhibited glimpses of his talent over time, but the Avalanche’s current commitment signifies their belief he can fulfill expectations at the league level as they look toward playoff success.
Regarding Blackwood’s integration, he himself credited his experience with San Jose for paving the way for this new opportunity. “When I got healthy, I had people who believed in me and gave me the chance to play. It’s been transformative,” he shared. The optimism for Blackwood extends beyond just individual performance; it aligns with the Avalanche’s hope for playoff contention as the season progresses.
The Avalanche currently hold the third position in the Central Division, demonstrating recovery and significant improvement since integrating Blackwood. The team is now poised to build on their recent success and have faith Blackwood will deliver consistent goaltending as they approach the tougher stretch leading up to the postseason.
With the new contract signed, Mackenzie Blackwood appears to have secured his place as the future backbone of the Avalanche’s netminding efforts, following years of instability at the position.
