3 Teams Linked to Free-Agent Goalie Mackenzie Blackwood

The New Jersey Devils decided it was time to move on from goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood. The 26-year-old netminder did not receive a qualifying offer from the team and heads into the summer as an unrestricted free agent. While the move surprised some, it was expected Blackwood would be playing elsewhere in 2023-24. Here's a few teams who will have heavy interest this offseason:

San Jose Sharks

The Sharks need a goalie and adding a 'project' like Blackwood could be perfect. San Jose is rebuilding and isn't expected to win many games next season. This gives Blackwood a chance to find his game with limited pressure and he'd be working in a tandem with Kaapo Kahkonen and likely see 35-45 games of action. A perfect situation really.

Detroit Red Wings

Another team looking for help in their crease, the Red Wings will be in the market to sign or acquire a goalie this summer. Blackwood would give Detroit a partner for Ville Husso and at just 26 years old, could become a forever home should the former second-round pick get his game back to where he knows it can be. There was a time Blackwood was considered one of the best young goalies in the game and if he's able to get back on track, doing so with the up-and-coming Red Wings could be fun to watch in Motown.

Pittsburgh Penguins

A wildcard team in the Blackwood sweepstakes, the Penguins will certainly kick some tires here. President Kyle Dubas has a big decision to make on Tristan Jarry, however don't expect to see Blackwood giving the starting duties in Pittsburgh. He'd be brought in to replace backup Casey DeSmith and work in tandem. The Pens are a long shot here, but will certainly check in on what kind of contract Blackwood's looking for.