The Colorado Avalanche entered the 2024-25 season with Stanley Cup aspirations, but early struggles in the crease have cast a shadow over their championship hopes. Alexandar Georgiev’s shaky start has ignited a firestorm of speculation, with many fans and analysts pointing to a potential reunion with former Avs netminder Philipp Grubauer.
Georgiev, acquired from the New York Rangers in 2022, has yet to replicate the consistency he displayed in his first season with Colorado. He’s been pulled early in two of the Avs’ first few games, raising serious concerns about his ability to steal games and provide the backbone needed for a deep playoff run. This inconsistency, coupled with a lack of a proven backup, has left the Avalanche vulnerable.
Georgiev’s Struggles Spark Calls for Change in Colorado
The frustration is palpable amongst the Avalanche faithful. Social media is buzzing with calls for a change between the pipes, and the pressure is mounting on General Manager Chris MacFarland to address the situation. With a high-powered offense led by Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Mikko Rantanen, the Avs championship window is wide open, but goaltending could be their Achilles’ heel.
Enter Philip Grubauer. The Seattle Kraken recently signed goaltender Joey Daccord to a three-year contract extension, potentially making Grubauer expendable. Grubauer, who backstopped the Washington Capitals to a Stanley Cup in 2018, had a stellar 2020-21 season with the Avalanche, finishing as a Vezina Trophy finalist. A return to Colorado could be a mutually beneficial move, providing Grubauer with a chance to compete for a Stanley Cup and the Avalanche with a much-needed upgrade in goal.
Of course, any potential trade would involve significant roster maneuvering and salary cap considerations. The Kraken would likely seek a a roster player for Grubauer, and the Avalanche would need to create cap space to accommodate his contract. However, if MacFarland believes Grubauer is the missing piece to another Stanley Cup puzzle, he may be willing to pay the price.
The Avalanche’s goaltending situation is a developing story, and the coming weeks could be crucial in determining their direction. Will they stick with Georgiev and hope he finds his form? Will they explore the trade market for a veteran like Grubauer? Or will they turn to young prospect Justus Annunen to provide a spark? One thing is certain: the Avalanche’s Stanley Cup aspirations hinge on finding a solution to their goaltending woes.
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