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Tension rises between Blackwood and Wedgewood as the goaltending battle in Colorado intensifies
Photo credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
The goaltending battle between Mackenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood is a win for the Avalanche, as it pushes both to perform at their best to earn playing time.
Both goaltenders are playing like a true number one, and if they are improving through their competition, their dominance will only continue.
Blackwood and Wedgewood continue to battle it out for the number one spot in Colorado.
Deepanjan Mitra of Breakaway On Si reported on the growing tension between the Avalanche goaltenders.
There's no animosity between the two, but they're clearly competing for the starting goalie spot. Blackwood got off to a slow start after returning from injury, but he's since regained his form.
"The difference has been noticeable. Blackwood's movements have been sharper, his puck tracking has improved, and he looks like a goalie who trusts his positioning again. That kind of confidence is contagious, and it's shown in Colorado's defensive results." -Mitra
Before Blackwood's return, Wedgewood was playing the best hockey of his career, helping lead the Avalanche to first place in the NHL.
Together, they form arguably the league's top goaltending tandem, allowing Colorado to play their fast-paced, high-risk style of hockey.
Here's what Blackwood had to say about his ongoing competition Wedgewood.
"When he plays a great game like he did in Minnesota, I'm the first one in there just to say freaking rights dude, that was awesome. But I think having two guys playing well, it pushes you to try and play a little bit better. You don't want to be slouchy when you're up. You want to keep it rolling for the team." -Blackwood
The Avalanche will need both goaltenders this season, given a grueling schedule that includes the Olympics. With more back-to-back games than usual, Colorado will rely heavily on both Blackwood and Wedgewood.
If they keep up their current form, the Avalanche are poised to continue dominating the NHL.
Previously on Colorado Hockey Daily
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