Sharks' Mackenzie Blackwood to Start Against Devils
Blackwood will face his former team for the first time since he was traded in June.
Feb 19, 2024; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Sharks goalie Mackenzie Blackwood (29) makes a save against the Vegas Golden Knights during the third period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports - Sharks' Mackenzie Blackwood to Start Against DevilsSAN JOSE, C.A. -- San Jose Sharks head coach David Quinn confirmed Mackenzie Blackwood would be in net against his former team, the New Jersey Devils, on Tuesday night.
Blackwood was drafted by the Devils 42nd overall in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. He started 143 games over five seasons for New Jersey, finishing his tenure with a .906 save percentage and 2.97 goals-against average.
On Monday, the 27-year-old goaltender was asked what starting against his former club would mean.
"One of 82. Honestly, it is just another game," he said to Max Miller of The Hockey News. "Obviously, there's a lot of guys that I know, so it is a little bit different. You're going to have guys talking to you the whole time, and they want to score on you. It adds another dynamic to the game."
The Thunder Bay, Ontario native has played 34 games entering tonight's contest. He has earned a .898 save percentage and a 3.51 goals-against average. San Jose is eighth in the Pacific Division and 31st in the league with 35 points.
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