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HC Jared Bednar makes his stance on Avalanche goalie Alexandar Georgiev's struggling form very clear
During a media press conference, Colorado Avalanche coach Jared Bednar defended goaltender Alexandar Georgiev after a tough start to the season. Following a 6-4 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday, where Georgiev allowed three goals on nine shots, Bednar expressed confidence in his ability to bounce back.
Avalanche fans wonder if Georgiev would be pulled from the game again with the team's record now at 0-2-0. Bednar recognizes the frustration but insists that Georgiev remains the team’s starting goalie.
“I get that there's a level of frustration, but [Georgiev], he's our guy. He's our starter. “I have full faith that he has the ability, the talent, the work ethic to bounce back and win us hockey games. It's a mental game right now," Bednar said (via NHL.com).
He pointed out that Alexandar Georgiev needs mental support and that the coaching staff will help him through this tough time. Bednar reminded everyone that it’s early days in the season, so the team must focus on getting better instead of looking back.
In the season opener against the Vegas Golden Knights, Georgiev allowed five goals on 16 shots in an 8-4 loss. Justus Annunen came in as relief, stopping two of four shots but couldn't change the outcome.
On Saturday, Annunen again replaced Georgiev and stopped most shots he faced. Still, Bednar believes pulling Georgiev is not the answer and that the team needs to come together to address their issues.
Frustration was clear, especially for star player Nathan MacKinnon. Late in the game, he smashed his stick against the bench after the Blue Jackets had scored an empty-netter. The Avalanche now aim to regroup and improve while keeping faith in their core players, including Alexandar Georgiev.
Alexandar Georgiev's performance is key to Colorado Avalanche's recovery
The Colorado Avalanche are at the bottom of the Central Division with two losses. Utah leads the division with three wins, while Dallas and Winnipeg have two wins each.
Goaltender Alexandar Georgiev needs to improve for the Avalanche to get back on track. He has a save percentage of .680 and allows 7.5 goals per game. Last season, he had a .897 save percentage and a 3.02 goals-against average.
Coach Jared Bednar said that it’s frustrating to have a slow start, but it’s a long season.
“You don't want to be digging holes and then trying to climb out of them, but it's a long year." Bednar said, per NHL.com. "Everyone wants to come out, put on a good show, play to their best ability in front of our fans."
If Georgiev and the team improve, they will fancy their chances of climbing back up the standings.
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