The dynamic landscape of the NHL continues to evolve, and these changes are sending ripples through the AHL. This interconnectedness showcases how moves made at the top levels of professional hockey can significantly influence lower-tier teams and their performance.

On Monday afternoon, the Colorado Avalanche took a decisive step to revamp their goaltending strategy by acquiring Mackenzie Blackwood, forward Givani Smith, and a 2027 fifth-round draft pick from the San Jose Sharks in exchange for goaltender Alexandar Georgiev, forward Nikolai Kovalenko, a 2026 second-round pick, and a conditional fifth-round pick in 2025. This trade reflects a focused effort by Colorado management to address a goaltending situation that has plagued the team throughout the current season.

This latest transaction is part of a broader strategy by the Avalanche to solidify a position that has faced considerable challenges. Earlier, Colorado secured Scott Wedgewood from the Nashville Predators on November 30, aiming to bolster their backup options following the struggles of Justus Annunen. Additionally, their earlier acquisition of Kaapo Kähkönen from the Winnipeg Jets via waivers on October 11 did not yield the desired results, as Kähkönen managed only one appearance before being returned to the Jets on November 12. This indicates the Avalanche’s ongoing commitment to finding stability in their goaltending lineup.

Despite the challenges faced this season, the Avalanche, only two-and-a-half years removed from their Stanley Cup victory, still possess a competitive core capable of contending for future championships. This potential keeps fans hopeful and engaged as the team works through its current hurdles.

As for the goaltending situation, the Colorado Eagles will continue their partnership with the Trent Minor-Kevin Mandolese duo. Recently, the Eagles faced significant challenges, allowing a staggering 11 goals over two road losses against the Abbotsford Canucks. Notably, three of these goals came during the ten power plays they conceded over those two games, highlighting the need for improvement in their defensive strategies.

Now, turning our attention to the San Jose Sharks and their AHL affiliate, the San Jose Barracuda, we must consider the future of goaltender Yaroslav Askarov. Askarov was a key player in the Sharks’ offseason trade with Nashville and is widely regarded as the future of the team’s netminding position. However, the timeline for his development and readiness to join the NHL remains uncertain. Askarov, picked 11th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, has shown remarkable growth over the past two seasons with the Milwaukee Admirals, and this season, he has taken his game to new heights. His standout performance came last Saturday when he achieved a remarkable 36 saves in a 1-0 victory against the Coachella Valley Firebirds. Following this, Georgi Romanov stepped up in the next game, successfully stopping 32 of 33 shots in a narrow 2-1 win, demonstrating the Barracuda’s resilience against one of the top teams in the Western Conference.

Contractually, the recent trade between Colorado and San Jose does not significantly alter the Sharks’ financial landscape. Both Blackwood and Georgiev are on contracts that will expire at the end of this season. Additionally, Vitek Vanecek, the Sharks’ other goaltender, is in a similar situation.

To date, the Sharks have largely resisted the temptation to elevate Askarov to a full-time role, aside from a brief recall when Vanecek was unavailable. However, Askarov’s impressive league-leading stats, including a .946 save percentage and a 1.75 goals-against average—ranking second in the AHL—along with an 8-3-1 record, may challenge the Sharks’ current strategy as the AHL season progresses.

Keeping Askarov with the Barracuda allows Sharks management to evaluate his development further. The Barracuda currently hold second place in the Pacific Division, boasting a record of 14-6-0-1, including an impressive six-game point streak (5-0-0-1). High expectations were set for the Barracuda this season, following significant improvements to their roster, and their performance thus far has exceeded those expectations.

However, the Barracuda now face a pivotal challenge. Their opponents are no longer underestimating them. This week marks the beginning of an arduous stretch, with eight of the next nine games on the road. If we extend the schedule further, it reveals that they will play 11 of their next 15 games away from home, extending past mid-January. They will face tough competitors like Abbotsford, Coachella Valley, and Ontario—teams vying for top positions in the Pacific Division, adding pressure to the Barracuda’s ambitions.

Rebuilding efforts in hockey are inherently challenging, with success not guaranteed. These processes can become bogged down by various factors: missed draft picks, stalled player development, unexpected coaching decisions, and injuries. While planning for patience is essential when choosing to rebuild, adhering to that patience can be quite another matter, especially when facing a string of losses that can extend across seasons.

The recent trade on Monday illustrates that Sharks general manager Mike Grier and his front office remain committed to their long-term strategy. They have successfully brought in valuable draft picks and acquired an NHL-caliber player in Georgiev, who is on an expiring contract that allows them to assess his performance. Furthermore, they now have a promising 25-year-old forward in Kovalenko, who is expected to take on an expanded role moving forward. Meanwhile, Askarov continues to develop with the Barracuda, where he is poised to lead the team through a challenging upcoming schedule.

While the Sharks are still far from achieving their ultimate goals, their adherence to this strategy is evident.

Stream AHL Games Live on FloHockey for an Unmatched Experience

Experience all the action of the AHL by streaming live games on FloHockey and the FloSports app. Enjoy access to live broadcasts, replays, highlights, and breaking news, ensuring that you stay connected with your favorite teams and players.

Comprehensive NHL Prospect Coverage Available on FloHockey

For dedicated fans of minor league hockey, FloHockey offers the most thorough coverage of NHL prospects and the NHL Draft. Stay up-to-date with the latest prospect guides, rankings, and insights from experts like Chris Peters and the talented FloHockey staff to enhance your understanding of emerging talent.

Watch ECHL, USHL, AHL, and More Live on FloHockey

FloHockey is the premier streaming platform for some of North America’s best hockey leagues, including the ECHL and USHL. Check out the broadcast schedule to catch more exciting hockey action and never miss a moment.

Engage with Fellow Hockey Fans on FloHockey Social Media