The Colorado Avalanche breezed past the Dallas Stars in their dominant 5-1 playoff opener in Dallas, but despite MacKinnon, Makar, and the usual suspects showing their playoff class is still intact, it was playoff debutant, and star goalie Mackenzie Blackwood who showed if there is any weakness for the Avs, it definitely isn't at the goalie position.
Heading into the playoffs, on paper the Avs looked like they had barely any flaws, the biggest concern being the lack of playoff experience for new goalie Blackwood. The 28 year old goalie who was acquired in a trade with the San Jose Sharks back in December has had no previous playoff experience whatsoever, and was the Avs biggest concern heading into their bout with the Stars. But after a stellar performance with no signs of pressure of nerves, Blackwood has proved to everyone that if there is anything to pick apart from the Avs locker room, it certainly isn't the goaltending.
Blackwood came to Colorado during a rough patch of goaltending, with Georgiev’s form falling, Blackwood brought a fresh energy to the Avs goaltending room, and could play a pivotal part in their promising playoff run. Since joining the Avs, he has put up some great numbers, and played a big part in turning the Avs season around, getting them back to much needed winning ways. Since joining Colorado, Blackwood has had just above a 2 GAA, and has set a .913 save percentage, a massive upgrade from how Georgiev was handling the heat in front of the net. But even though his regular season form was a light at the end of the tunnel for Colorado, his playoff experience was a worry. At least until after game one.
Blackwood took no time in proving he shouldn't be talked about as a weakness. Facing shots from elite forwards and defensemen like Mikko Rantanen, Roope Hintz, Thomas Harley, and Wyatt Johnston, the former second round pick put up an astonishing .958 save percentage, and made 23 saves against some of the best shooters in the league, limiting a relentless Stars team to only one lucky goal. Blackwood showcased his desire and ability to move swiftly from post to post, his ability to find use in every area of his body to save pucks, and even showed confidence and great stick work when handling the puck.
The Avs are sure to have a great playoff run, and with all momentum on their side they could make a convincing push for the cup. With no weaknesses at all on the offensive or defensive sides of the puck, the doubts over Blackwoods ability to thrive under the massive playoff pressure, and whether he could be the rock the Avs need in between the sticks has been silenced, and had the Avs make a solid playoff push, game one and Blackwoods promising outlook for the rest of the campaign will not be forgotten.
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