Elliotte Friedman speculates struggling Colorado Avalanche's growing interest in $2.35M Sharks goalie 

By Abhishek Dilta

Modified Oct 21, 2024 07:12 GMT

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The Colorado Avalanche have had a challenging start to the season, but they seem to be gaining traction after winning two consecutive games, the latest being a 4-1 victory against the San Jose Sharks.

However, despite the positive results, there are ongoing concerns regarding their goaltending situation with Alex Georgiev, particularly amid injuries. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman suggested the Avalanche might be interested in Mackenzie Blackwood, the Sharks goaltender. Blackwood is currently in the final year of a two-year, $2.35 million contract with the Sharks.

On a recent episode of the "32 Thoughts" podcast, Friedman speculated that it would not be surprising if the Avalanche were considering Blackwood as a potential solution to their goaltending woes (quotes via NHL Trade Rumors):

"I wouldn’t be surprised if (Mackenzie) Blackwood is the kind of guy they’re at least saying, ‘Okay, if we do decide to go this route, could he solve our problem?’ Friedman said.

He pointed out that it seems unlikely that the Avs aren't at least looking into this option, highlighting the team's need to evaluate their choices as they aim to enhance their performance between the pipes throughout the season.

"I find it impossible to believe they’re not at least looking at it, whether or not they actually do it," he added.

Mackenzie Blackwood is winless with a .875 SV% and a 4.88 GAA over three games with the struggling Sharks. On the flip side, Alex Georgiev has one win, but his stats are also concerning, with a GAA of 4.99 and an SV% of .811.

Both netminders have yet to reach the .900 save percentage mark and they were notably absent during Sunday's game. It's interesting to consider that there might be something brewing between the two clubs regarding a potential trade.

Ross Colton continues his impressive form with Colorado Avalanche

Ross Colton was one of the stars in Avalanche's emphatic 4-1 win over the Sharks. He accumulated two goals in the matchup on four shots.

Colton netted his first goal, a one-timer, on the powerplay at 6:23 into the first period. His goal came at 16:37 to put the Colorado Avalanche up 2-0 against the Sharks. The 28-year-old has been a top performer for the Avs this season, accumulating six goals in as many games.

Meanwhile, the Colorado Avalanche will be up against the Seattle Kraken on Tuesday. The puck drops at 8:30 p.m. ET.