Mon, Dec 9, 2024 at 3:15pm

AVS, SHARKS SWAP GOALIES IN 4-PLAYER DEAL

The Colorado Avalanche acquired goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood, winger Givani Smith and a fifth-round draft pick in 2027 from the San Jose Sharks for goaltender Alexandar Georgiev, winger Nikolai Kovalenko, a fifth-round draft pick in 2025 and a second-round draft pick in 2026.

What does it give the Colorado Avalanche
With this trade, the Avalanche address a major weakness: goaltending. Blackwood is their new starter after he performed well the past few seasons despite playing behind a shaky Sharks defense. He should be an immediate upgrade on Georgiev, whose struggles continued this season. Along with draft picks, the Avs also parted with Kovalenko, the intriguing rookie who had managed eight points in 28 games. But they do have plenty of forward depth, and Smith will add to that. The latter could skate on the fourth line or serve as depth in the minors. He provides plenty of toughness.

What does it give the San Jose Sharks
The Sharks continue to rebuild. They may give Georgiev a chance to find his game again, but he is unlikely to have much of a future in San Jose. With top prospect Yaroslav Askarov nearly ready for the NHL, Georgiev could soon be dealt again for more assets. On the other hand, Kovalenko should now get a better opportunity to prove himself. He had been a scorer in the KHL, and could earn a long-term role if he can become a point producer. San Jose also did well in this deal by upgrading in the draft. Blackwood had been solid for them, but they are far from contending this season.

Fantasy impact
Blackwood gets the biggest boost from this trade, as he should pick up more wins. Get him if he is available. Meanwhile, Georgiev's stock will plummet, as his role on a struggling Sharks team (with Askarov waiting in the wings) is uncertain. As for Kovalenko, he is worth adding in deeper leagues. He has upside but will need to stand out among San Jose's other young wingers in order to become a major fantasy factor.