It’s been a whirlwind 10 days for Mackenzie Blackwood and Givani Smith, two young hockey players who found themselves on the move after a trade that sent them from the San Jose Sharks to the Colorado Avalanche. But now, just over a week later, they’re back in San Jose, ready to face their former team for the first time since the trade.
For Blackwood and Smith, the trade was a shock. Both players had been with the Sharks organization since they were drafted in 2015 and 2016 respectively. They had grown comfortable with their teammates and the city of San Jose, and the thought of leaving it all behind was daunting. But as professional athletes, they knew that trades were a part of the business and they were ready to embrace the challenge of a new team.
And what a challenge it has been. The Avalanche are currently sitting at the top of the Central Division, with a record of 24-13-4. Blackwood and Smith have had to quickly adapt to a new system, new teammates, and a new city. But they have taken it all in stride, determined to make an impact on their new team.
In just 10 days, Blackwood and Smith have already made their presence known in Colorado. Blackwood, a 23-year-old goaltender, has been solid between the pipes, posting a 2-1 record with a .920 save percentage. His performance has earned him the trust of his new teammates and the coaching staff, who have praised his work ethic and determination.
Smith, a 22-year-old forward, has also made an impact on the ice. In his first game with the Avalanche, he scored a goal and added an assist, helping his team to a 4-1 victory over the Arizona Coyotes. His physicality and scoring touch have been a welcome addition to the Avalanche’s already potent offense.
But it’s not just on the ice where Blackwood and Smith have made an impact. They have quickly integrated themselves into the Avalanche’s tight-knit locker room, forming bonds with their new teammates and showing a willingness to learn and improve. Their positive attitudes and work ethic have not gone unnoticed, and they have earned the respect of their new teammates in a short amount of time.
Now, as they face their former team, Blackwood and Smith are excited for the opportunity to show the Sharks what they are capable of. While they may have mixed emotions about returning to San Jose so soon after the trade, they are focused on helping their new team come out on top.
And the Sharks should be prepared for a tough battle. Blackwood and Smith are determined to prove that the trade was not a mistake, and that they have what it takes to be successful in Colorado. They have a point to prove, and they will be giving it their all on the ice.
But despite the competitive nature of the game, there is no bad blood between Blackwood, Smith, and their former teammates. They have nothing but respect for the Sharks organization and the city of San Jose, and they are grateful for the opportunities they were given during their time there.
As they step onto the ice at the SAP Center, Blackwood and Smith will undoubtedly feel a mix of emotions. But one thing is for sure, they are ready to make their mark in Colorado and show the Sharks that they are not to be underestimated.
So, as we welcome back Mackenzie Blackwood and Givani Smith to San Jose, let’s wish them the best of luck in their new journey with the Colorado Avalanche. They may have left the Sharks, but their determination and positive attitude will continue to inspire us all.
