Kevin Weekes Names Mackenzie Blackwood Potential Target After Shesterkin Injury

The New York Rangers face an immediate crisis after losing star goaltender Igor Shesterkin for the season due to a severe leg injury sustained against the Washington Capitals, with ESPN’s Kevin Weekes naming Colorado Avalanche netminder MacKenzie Blackwood a potential trade target.

Shesterkin Injury Leaves Rangers Without Primary Goaltenders

Shesterkin suffered his season-ending injury during the recent matchup against Washington. After sliding back into position to make a save, he awkwardly jammed his leg into the goalpost, forcing him to exit the ice with assistance. On Saturday, the Rangers officially confirmed that the superstar goaltender is sidelined for the remainder of the year.

The loss deals a severe blow to New York, particularly given that backup Joonas Korpisalo is already sidelined for the next four weeks. With both primary netminders out of commission, the organization finds itself scrambling to stabilize the crease. The team must now evaluate external options to salvage a promising start to the campaign.

Evaluating Trade Targets in Goal

In response to the goaltending emergency, hockey insider Kevin Weekes pointed to several potential acquisitions on social media, highlighting Colorado Avalanche netminder Mackenzie Blackwood as an intriguing option. Weekes also floated names such as Helleybucyk, Gustavsson, Petr Mrazek, Reimer, and a potential return to playing for Jonathan Quick.

Blackwood has posted a 2-1-0 record through three appearances this season, accompanied by a 2.68 goals-against average and an .895 save percentage. Those numbers follow a solid 2025-26 campaign in which he registered a 23-10-2 record, a 2.51 goals-against average, a .904 save percentage, and three shutouts across 39 games for Colorado.

Obstacles Facing a Potential Deal with Colorado

Despite the statistical appeal, acquiring Blackwood presents significant hurdles for New York’s front office. The 29-year-old goaltender carries a $5.25 million cap hit and is signed through the 2029-30 season. Taking on a long-term contract conflicts with the team’s long-term structure, especially with Shesterkin already locked up through the 2032-33 campaign.

The Avalanche have little incentive to dismantle their own goaltending depth. Colorado remains a top contender, and their current tandem of Blackwood and Wedgewood has functioned smoothly. Breaking up that partnership would weaken a major contender, making a trade partner difficult to convince as the season unfolds.