In a memorable and nearly karmic efficiency, Mackenzie Blackwood delivered a 44-save shutout to steer the San Jose Sharks to a 1-0 victory over his former group, the New Jersey Devils. Blackwood’s stellar effort set a brand new franchise report for probably the most saves in a shutout win for the Sharks, making historical past within the course of.
The 27-year-old goaltender, who was traded from New Jersey to San Jose on June 27, 2023, recorded his fourth profession 40-save shutout, turning into solely the seventeenth goalie in NHL historical past to realize this feat. When requested about his efficiency, Blackwood remarked, “It’s simply a kind of nights the place it feels simple. I don’t know why generally that occurs and generally it doesn’t, however generally pucks simply look like they’re coming in gradual.”
This shutout marked Blackwood’s first of the season and eleventh of his profession, together with his final shutout approaching March 30, 2024, towards the St. Louis Blues. The victory was a much-needed enhance for the Sharks and it was solely becoming that it occurred towards the Devils.
A Blackwood Shutout Nearly Felt Predictable
Devils followers couldn’t assist however level out the irony of Blackwood’s dominant recreation towards his former group. Many joked earlier than the night time began that this is likely to be a contest that he exhibits up in contemplating he wasn’t fantastic when part of the Devils’ roster. After all he needed to present up and make his former group look foolish for giving up on him.
It was a memorable night time for the netminder, as he proved his value (a minimum of for one night time) with a historic, game-stealing efficiency.
Subsequent: Avalanche Set to Welcome Again Close to-30-Purpose Scorer into Lineup
