Mackenzie Blackwood and Alexandar Georgiev faced off as goaltenders for the Colorado Avalanche and San Jose Sharks, respectively, after being traded for each other last week. Blackwood led the Avalanche to a 4-2 victory, making 32 saves, while Georgiev stopped 27 shots for the Sharks.
Blackwood reflected on his time with the Sharks, crediting general manager Mike Grier for reviving his career after injuries hampered his performance with the New Jersey Devils. He expressed a strong bond with his former teammates despite the short tenure.
Georgiev acknowledged the unique challenge of playing against familiar faces, aiming to maintain a normal game mindset. Avalanche coach Jared Bednar praised Blackwood's contributions, noting the positive change in team dynamics since the trades.