New Dynamic Duo? A Momentum Shift in Colorado

There has been a major momentum shift in Mile High City as the Colorado Avalanche shake things up between the pipes. The second round of the “Goalie Swap” was finalized just days ago, dramatically reshaping the team’s goaltending situation.

On December 1st, Colorado traded backup goalie Justus Annunen and a 2025 sixth-round pick to the Nashville Predators for backup goaltender Scott Wedgewood, who had been playing behind Juuse Saros. Then, on December 9th, the Avalanche made an even bigger move, going all in by sending starting goalie Alexandar Georgiev, forward Nikolai Kovalenko, a 2025 fifth-round pick, and a second-round pick to San Jose in exchange for goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood, forward Givani Smith, and a 2027 fifth-round pick.

For quite some time, Avalanche fans have been calling for the front office to clean house at the goalie position—and management has finally answered.

A Much-Needed Goaltending Reset

Alexandar Georgiev struggled significantly in his final stretch with Colorado, though defensive lapses in front of him certainly didn’t help. Justus Annunen showed stronger performances, but it was evident that both goalies needed a fresh start. While fans were disappointed to see forward Nikolai Kovalenko go, big moves require big sacrifices.

One interesting historical note—the last time Colorado traded a “Kovalenko” for a new goalie, they won a Stanley Cup. Could history repeat itself?

The optimism in Colorado has skyrocketed, and locker room morale is on the rise. The new goaltending duo of Scott Wedgewood and Mackenzie Blackwood brings a fresh dynamic, and the two already have a history of success, having played together during the 2016-17 season with the Albany Devils.

Offensive Surge and a Winning Streak

Beyond their goaltending overhaul, Colorado has turned their offensive struggles around, winning three straight games and climbing to fourth place in the Central Division (17-13-0).

This week, 600 has been the magic number:

• Mikko Rantanen reached a career milestone, playing in his 600th NHL game.
• Nathan MacKinnon hit 600 career assists, reinforcing his status as an ultimate team player.

Both milestones were achieved in the same game—a statement win over the Pittsburgh Penguins. Rantanen recorded a hat trick and added two assists, leading Colorado to a dominant 6-2 victory to cap off their road trip.

Next Up: Scott Wedgewood Takes the Net

Colorado looks to keep their momentum rolling, with Scott Wedgewood set to start in net. So far this season, he has posted a 4-3-1 record, a 2.45 goals-against average (GAA), a .908 save percentage, and one shutout. With their new goalie tandem in place, the Avalanche will aim to climb further up the standings and establish themselves as true contenders once again.

• – Dante Robinson | Senior NHL Analyst for TheNSR Network