Goalie Scott Wedgewood has signed a one-year contract with the Colorado Avalanche, effective next season. The deal was announced on Thursday, but financial details remain undisclosed.
Wedgewood, 33, is completing his final season of a two-year contract with the Nashville Predators, signed on July 1, 2022. He was poised to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season. Wedgewood expressed his excitement following the conclusion of the negotiations, stating, “I think it’s awesome.” He noted that discussions took place during the summer and intensified after a promising start to the current season.
Wedgewood’s Impressive Performance
This season, Wedgewood has established himself as a standout goalie in the NHL. His current record is 10 wins, 1 loss, and 2 overtime losses. He ranks third in goals-against average at 2.26 among goalies who have played at least ten games this season and has compiled a .913 save percentage across 14 appearances.
- Season Opening Streak: His 5-0-2 record at the season’s start marked the third-longest stretch without a regulation loss in Avalanche history.
- Current Streak: Wedgewood has a five-game winning streak dating from October 28, equaling his personal best in the NHL.
The Avalanche’s regular starter, Mackenzie Blackwood, has been recovering from a lower-body injury sustained during the offseason. Blackwood returned on November 1, making 20 saves in a tight 3-2 overtime loss against the San Jose Sharks.
Coach’s Praise and Team Dynamics
Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar has lauded Wedgewood’s efforts and commitment, indicating that his performance has been crucial during Blackwood’s absence. He stated, “It’s well deserved,” noting the importance of securing a player who integrates well with the team’s culture and consistently delivers on the ice.
Wedgewood’s NHL Career Stats
Since joining the Avalanche in a trade from the Predators on November 30, 2024, Wedgewood’s statistics underscore his value:
- Record: 23 wins, 5 losses, and 5 overtime losses.
- Goals-Against Average (GAA): 2.11
- Save Percentage: .915
- Shutouts: 2 shutouts in 33 games (32 starts).
Drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the third round (84th overall) of the 2010 NHL Draft, Wedgewood has played for several teams, including the Arizona Coyotes, Dallas Stars, and Predators. He has accumulated 72 wins, 55 losses, and 26 overtime losses with a GAA of 2.82 and a save percentage of .907 over his nine-season NHL career, which includes four appearances in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Avalanche’s Current Standing
As of now, the Colorado Avalanche boasts an impressive record of 11 wins, 1 loss, and 5 overtime losses, placing them first in the NHL. They have also allowed the second-fewest goals against per game, averaging 2.41. The team will face off against the Buffalo Sabres at Ball Arena on Thursday at 9 p.m. ET.
