Scott Wedgewood's Olympic surprise could throw the Avalanche's season into chaos

Wedgewood, 33, is 13-1-2 in 17 games this season, sporting a .918 save percentage and roughly a 2.09 goals-against average. That level of play pushed him onto Canada's extended pool of candidates for the 2026 Winter Games.

Nestor Quixtan from Mile High Sticking writes that those numbers would have made for a remarkable backup-to-starter rise even without Olympic implications. But with the possibility of international duty looming, the Avalanche face a risk: losing prime netminding depth at a critical stretch.

Wedgewood is ready if Canada calls. He admitted recently that he didn't even know he was on the list when he spoke publicly, then learned after the fact. That uncertainty leaves the door open for disruption.

If Wedgewood leaves for the Olympics, the Avalanche might have to lean heavily on Mackenzie Blackwood for a long stretch, or roll with goalie games more frequently. That scenario could inflate Blackwood's workload and increase fatigue risk, not ideal when Colorado sits atop the standings.

The club's front office will have to juggle rest, performance, and risk. The Olympic break in early 2026 arrives at a terrible time given the Avs' packed schedule before and after the break. On one hand Wedgewood leaving would give Blackwood and other netminders a breather. On the other hand, it could expose the team if injuries or inconsistent goaltending strike.

For fans, it's a double-edged sword. You want Wedgewood to wear the maple leaf, but you don't want the Avalanche creased by scheduling stress or goalie wear. Colorado's push for a deep playoff run just became a little more fragile.