Avalanche Face Sabres After Contract Extension for Goalie Wedgewood

DENVER, Colo. — The Colorado Avalanche (11-1-5) are set to continue their four-game homestand against the Buffalo Sabres (5-7-4) tonight at 7:08 p.m. MT. The Avalanche are coming off a strong performance following their victory against the second-best team in the NHL.

The Sabres arrive at Ball Arena after experiencing a rough patch, having not won a road game this season with an 0-4-2 record and currently riding a four-game losing streak. They lost 5-2 to the Utah Mammoth last night, which marked their fourth consecutive loss.

The Avalanche, on the other hand, have won four straight games, putting them at the top of the NHL standings. The team has elevated Gavin Brindley to the second line to replace the injured Valeri Nichushkin, who left Tuesday’s game due to a lower-body injury.

Head coach Jared Bednar expressed concern over Nichushkin’s absence, noting that the Avalanche have averaged 121 points per 82 games with him in the lineup, compared to only 88 points when he is out. Center Brock Nelson praised Nichushkin’s impact on the team’s performance, emphasizing his versatility in various game situations.

Samuel Girard is also set to return to the lineup after missing several games due to an injury suffered in the season opener. Girard will be paired with Sam Malinski on the third defense line.

Mackenzie Blackwood will be in goal for the Avalanche, marking his third start of the season and first at home after returning from an offseason injury. He has a 1-0-1 record in two previous games.

In a noteworthy development, Scott Wedgewood, who has made a significant impact for the team, was recently awarded a one-year contract extension valued at $2.5 million. Wedgewood, reflecting on his journey, said it was in the back of his mind during the summer, but his strong performance this season prompted discussions about his future with the team.

Wedgewood’s statistics highlight his exceptional performance, with a record of 23-5-3 since joining the Avalanche, including a 10-1-2 record this season. He leads the league in wins, and coach Bednar acknowledged that with the addition of Wedgewood’s talent, the team could be poised for a successful season.