On February 27, 2023, the New Jersey Devils traded goalkeeper MacKenzie Blackwood to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for a second-round pick in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft and forward Mikhail Maltsev. The trade came as a surprise to many, as Blackwood had been the Devils' starting goalkeeper for the past three seasons.
This trending news will critically examine the complexities of MacKenzie Blackwood's trade to the Colorado Avalanche, exploring different perspectives, analyzing data points, and engaging with relevant research and news articles.
Blackwood has had a rollercoaster of a career with the Devils. After a promising rookie season in 2019-20, he struggled in 2020-21 and 2021-22. However, he rebounded in 2022-23, posting a 14-9-4 record with a 2.94 goals-against average (GAA) and a .907 save percentage.
Data Points:
| Season | GP | GAA | SV% |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019-20 | 47 | 2.77 | .915 |
| 2020-21 | 35 | 3.22 | .901 |
| 2021-22 | 27 | 3.32 | .896 |
| 2022-23 | 27 | 2.94 | .907 |
There are several reasons why the Devils traded Blackwood.
Injury Concerns:
Blackwood has struggled with injuries throughout his career. He missed significant time in 2020-21 and 2021-22 due to heel and ankle injuries, respectively.
Contract Situation:
Blackwood is set to become a restricted free agent this summer. The Devils have been in salary cap trouble for years, and trading Blackwood will free up some cap space.
Competition from Akira Schmid:
Akira Schmid has emerged as a capable backup goalkeeper for the Devils. He has posted a 2.47 GAA and a .914 SV% in 23 games this season.
The trade has been met with mixed reactions. Some believe that it was a good move for the Devils, as it gives them cap flexibility and allows them to give Schmid a chance to prove himself. Others believe that Blackwood is still a valuable goalie and that the Devils made a mistake in trading him.
Devils Perspective:
"We believe this trade gives us the best chance to win now and in the future," said Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald. "Akira Schmid has earned an opportunity to play more, and this gives us the flexibility to sign him to a long-term contract."
Avalanche Perspective:
"We are excited to add MacKenzie Blackwood to our team," said Avalanche general manager Chris MacFarland. "He is a proven winner who will give us a boost in net."
The trade of MacKenzie Blackwood to the Colorado Avalanche is a complex one with many moving parts. Both teams have valid reasons for making the trade, but it remains to be seen whether it will ultimately be a success for either side.