Mackenzie Blackwood has been a standout addition to the Colorado Avalanche since being acquired in a December trade. Prior to his arrival, the team was struggling with a 15-13 record, largely due to inconsistent goaltending.
Since joining the Avalanche, Blackwood has started 37 games, earning 22 wins and posting a solid .913 save percentage—his best stats since the 2020 season with the New Jersey Devils. Despite being in the NHL for seven years, he has yet to make an appearance in a Stanley Cup Playoff game.
As the playoffs approach, Blackwood seems unfazed by the high-stakes environment. Speaking at practice Wednesday, he emphasized staying composed and treating it like any other game. “It’s still hockey. The intensity and emotions are higher, but I’ve never had trouble staying calm,” he said.
Although he didn’t see ice time, Blackwood was part of the Devils’ 2023 playoff roster, giving him some experience with the playoff atmosphere. “I know what to expect. It’s still the same game, just with more on the line,” he added.
In the opening round, Blackwood will face a tough challenge against the Dallas Stars, one of the league’s top-scoring teams with 275 goals in the regular season. The Stars feature a deep offensive lineup, including former Avalanche standout Mikko Rantanen.
Blackwood hasn’t yet faced Dallas this season—Scott Wedgewood handled goaltending duties in both matchups following the early-season trade.
“They play a tough, physical game,” Blackwood said of the Stars. “They’re talented, deep, and you have to respect what they bring.”
He’ll also go head-to-head with elite goalie Jake Oettinger, who had a .909 save percentage and notched 36 wins in the regular season. Known for his postseason heroics, including a 64-save Game 7 performance in 2022, Oettinger sets a high bar. For the Avalanche to make a deep playoff run, Blackwood will need to rise to the occasion.
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