Full Breakdown
Colorado Avalanche Extend Goaltender Scott Wedgewood
11/14/2025, 1:40:47 PM
Contract Details and Performance Highlights
The Colorado Avalanche have signed goaltender Scott Wedgewood to a one-year contract extension worth $2.5 million, keeping him with the team through the 2026-27 season. This decision comes after Wedgewood's impressive performance as the starting goalie, stepping in for Mackenzie Blackwood, who is recovering from a lower-body injury. As of the announcement, Wedgewood holds a record of 10-1-2 this season, leading the NHL in wins, with a .913 save percentage and a 2.26 goals-against average.
Wedgewood's journey with the Avalanche began when he was acquired from the Nashville Predators on November 30, 2024. Since joining Colorado, he has posted a 23-5-3 record, a 2.11 goals-against average, and a .915 save percentage over 33 games. His current five-game winning streak ties the longest of his career, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Background and Context
Wedgewood, 33, was initially brought in as a backup but has excelled in the starting role due to Blackwood's injury. His performance has been pivotal in the Avalanche's strong start to the season, where they currently boast an 11-1-5 record, ranking first in the NHL. The team has allowed the second-fewest goals against per game, highlighting the effectiveness of their goaltending.
Official Statements & Responses
Avalanche coach Jared Bednar expressed confidence in Wedgewood's abilities, stating, "I think it's well deserved... the importance of him being solid in the net for us to this part in the season with [Blackwood] out is obviously key." Wedgewood himself noted, "It was in the back of my mind... conversations were had... I'm really excited about it."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite Wedgewood's strong performance, some analysts suggest that his success is partly due to the Avalanche's overall team strength, which has limited the number of high-danger chances he faces. Critics argue that while he has performed well, the team’s defensive capabilities have played a significant role in his statistics.
What's Next
Looking ahead, Wedgewood's extension solidifies the Avalanche's goaltending situation as they aim for a deeper playoff run. The team also has prospect Ilya Nabokov, who is currently in the KHL, adding another layer of complexity to their goaltending dynamics. Balancing the development of Nabokov while maximizing Wedgewood's contributions will be crucial as the season progresses.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think my game’s developed. I’ve gotten a lot smarter,” — Scott Wedgewood
- “When you get a guy that wants to be here and fits in your room and fits in your culture and then performs like this on the ice, I think the natural progression is trying to get them locked up.” — Jared Bednar
Wedgewood's extension reflects the Avalanche's commitment to maintaining a strong goaltending duo as they pursue their championship aspirations.
