The Colorado Avalanche made waves by signing goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood to a five-year deal, a move that could ripple through the NHL, particularly affecting teams like the Vancouver Canucks and goaltender Kevin Lankinen.
Blackwood’s Impact
Blackwood’s long-term deal solidifies the Avalanche’s goaltending situation, signaling their commitment to a stable future between the pipes. Known for his strong performances with the New Jersey Devils, Blackwood has shown the ability to steal games when healthy. This move is significant for a team like Colorado, which is determined to remain a Stanley Cup contender.
Implications for the Canucks
For the Vancouver Canucks, Blackwood’s deal raises the stakes in the competitive goaltending market. The Canucks currently have Thatcher Demko as their clear starter, but with Demko’s injury history and the team’s aspirations to return to playoff contention, goaltending depth remains a priority.
Blackwood’s contract could set a precedent for goaltenders of similar stature, which could influence future deals for Vancouver’s goaltenders or potential targets. Additionally, the Canucks must ensure they have a solid backup plan behind Demko, as other teams strengthen their crease with moves like Colorado’s.
What It Means for Kevin Lankinen
Kevin Lankinen, a reliable backup for the Nashville Predators, might see his market value rise as a result of Blackwood’s signing. Lankinen is set to be an unrestricted free agent and has proven himself capable of stepping into larger roles when needed.
With Blackwood off the market, teams seeking affordable and dependable goaltending options could turn their attention to Lankinen. The Canucks could potentially explore Lankinen as an option to bolster their depth behind Demko. His experience as both a starter and backup, coupled with his consistent play, makes him an attractive target for teams in need of a 1B goaltender.
A Broader Trend
The Blackwood deal highlights a broader trend in the NHL, where teams are increasingly prioritizing stability in net. With goaltenders playing a pivotal role in both the regular season and playoffs, securing long-term commitments to capable netminders has become a key strategy for competitive teams.
For the Canucks, the signing underscores the need to evaluate their own goaltending depth and long-term plans. As teams like Colorado and others secure their goaltending futures, Vancouver must ensure they’re not left behind in this critical area.
Final Thoughts
Mackenzie Blackwood’s five-year contract with the Avalanche not only impacts Colorado but also sends ripples across the league. For the Canucks, it serves as a reminder to solidify their goaltending depth and prepare for the challenges of a competitive market. For Kevin Lankinen, it presents an opportunity to leverage his value as teams seek to strengthen their goaltending positions.
As the offseason progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Canucks and other teams respond to this evolving goaltending landscape.
