Colorado Avalanche Acquire Scott Wedgewood from Nashville Predators in Goaltending Shake-Up

The Colorado Avalanche have made a decisive move to address their inconsistent goaltending, acquiring veteran Scott Wedgewood from the Nashville Predators. In return, Colorado sends 24-year-old Justus Annunen and a 2025 6th round draft pick to Nashville. The trade highlights the contrasting directions of the two franchises, with Colorado looking to stabilize their goals against and maintain their status as contenders, while Nashville appears to be taking early steps toward a rebuild.

Colorado’s Goaltending Woes

The Avalanche’s goaltending struggles have been a glaring issue this season. With 89 goals against through their first 24 games, the team has the 3rd worst total goals against in the NHL, averaging 3.70 goals-against per game. These numbers have put significant pressure on their offense to compensate, resulting in a lack of consistency despite their potent attack.

Starting goaltender Alexandar Georgiev, who was expected to carry the majority of Colorado’s starts this season, has had a rocky start. His 3.33 goals-against average (GAA) and .872 save percentage (SV%) are well below expectations for a team with championship aspirations. Georgiev’s struggles, combined with a lack of reliable depth in net, prompted the Avalanche to seek immediate help.

Enter Scott Wedgewood, a seasoned 32-year-old backup known for his composure and ability to provide steady performances. Wedgewood signed a two-year deal with Nashville in the offseason, carrying a $1.5 million annual average value (AAV). Despite limited action this season, his reputation as a dependable veteran makes him an ideal fit for Colorado, where he will be tasked with easing the burden on Georgiev and helping stabilize a leaky crease.

What the Avalanche Gain

Wedgewood’s value extends beyond his on ice performance. As a veteran, he brings poise and leadership to a position often subjected to intense scrutiny. His presence could have a calming effect on Georgiev, allowing the starter to regain confidence and form.

Moreover, Wedgewood’s consistent track record as a backup provides the Avalanche with the flexibility to manage Georgiev’s workload. In a season where every point matters, having a reliable second option in net can make the difference between securing home-ice advantage or battling for a playoff spot.

The acquisition also reflects Colorado’s win-now mentality. By addressing one of their most pressing needs, the Avalanche reaffirm their commitment to contending for another Stanley Cup and plugging holes as the season continues.

Nashville’s Rebuild Possibly Begins

For the Predators, this trade marks a potential turning point in their organizational direction. Sitting at 7-12-5 and 2nd last in the league, Nashville is facing the harsh reality of a transitional phase.

Moving Wedgewood allows the Predators to shed a small amount of cap space while acquiring a younger, higher-upside goaltender in Justus Annunen. At 24 years old, Annunen carries a $837,500 cap hit through the 2024-25 season, making him a cost-effective option for a team looking to change direction.

Annunen has shown flashes of potential in limited NHL action but remains unproven at the highest level. However, Nashville’s history of developing goaltenders—most notably Pekka Rinne and Juuse Saros—bodes well for his future. If Annunen can reach his potential, the Predators may have found a valuable future asset.

The inclusion of a 2025 6th round pick further signals Nashville’s focus on the future. While a late round pick may not guarantee a star player, it provides additional flexibility and depth in their draft arsenal.

Strategic Implications

This trade underscores the contrasting priorities of the two teams. For Colorado, the move is about addressing an immediate need to strengthen their season. The Avalanche’s potent offense can only take them so far without reliable goaltending, and Wedgewood’s acquisition offers a chance to restore balance.

For Nashville, the deal is a small but meaningful step in a longer term strategy. The Predators are betting on their ability to develop Annunen into a legitimate NHL goaltender while adding another draft asset to their rebuild.

It’s also worth noting the broader implications for Nashville. Moving Wedgewood, a player signed just months ago, could signal a willingness to part with other veterans as they embrace a youth movement. Players like Ryan O’Reilly, Jonathan Marchessault, or even Steven Stamkos, may find themselves in trade rumors if the Predators commit to a full-scale rebuild.

What’s Next for Colorado and Nashville

The immediate success of this trade will hinge on how well Wedgewood adapts to Colorado and the long-term success will depend on whether Annunen develops into an NHL regular. For Colorado, the hope is that Wedgewood’s presence will help stabilize their goaltending tandem and alleviate the pressure on Georgiev.

For Nashville, the focus will be on nurturing Annunen’s growth and maximizing their future draft capital. While the 6th round pick may not generate immediate excitement, Nashville’s front office has shown a knack for finding value in later rounds, adding another layer of intrigue to this deal.

Final Thoughts

In the short term, this trade appears to benefit both teams. Colorado gains a proven veteran to help in their pursuit of another Stanley Cup, while Nashville adds youth and flexibility as they possibly chart a new course.

While only time will tell how this move shapes each franchise’s trajectory, it’s a calculated risk that addresses the current needs and goals of both organizations. For Colorado, the journey to stabilize their crease begins now. For Nashville, this trade could be the start of a larger transformation as they embrace the future.