Mackenzie Blackwood’s impressive performance this season has been hampered by an unfortunate injury. The Colorado Avalanche announced on Friday that the goaltender has been placed on injured reserve due to a lower-body injury. In his absence, the team has recalled forward Taylor Makar and goalie Trent Miner from the AHL to fill the gaps as they prepare for an upcoming three-game road trip.
Details on when Blackwood sustained the injury are currently unclear. He was notably absent from practice on Thursday, raising concerns about his availability, especially following his last game on Wednesday, where he helped lead the Avalanche to a decisive 6-1 victory against the St. Louis Blues.
This season, Blackwood has been a standout player, boasting an impressive record of 13 wins, 1 loss, and 1 overtime loss in 16 games, along with a solid 2.07 goals-against average (GAA) and a .924 save percentage. His performance alongside Scott Wedgewood has established one of the NHL’s top goaltending tandems, significantly contributing to the Avalanche’s remarkable 30-2-7 start.
Miner steps in for Blackwood for the second time this season after previously filling in while Blackwood began the year on injured reserve. In his two prior appearances, Miner managed to stop 40 of the 44 shots he faced. Currently, he holds a GAA of 2.40 and a .907 save percentage through 10 games with the Colorado Eagles in the AHL.
Taylor Makar, who has had a fluctuating season, will also join the roster after previously going without a point in his last three outings with the Avalanche. The team will be looking for contributions from both Makar and Miner during this critical time.
The Avalanche, known for their strong teamwork and discipline, will undoubtedly rally together to overcome this setback and continue their pursuit of success in the NHL.