Mackenzie Blackwood was not with the New Jersey Devils as they returned from the All-Star Break because he was playing in the AHL All-Star Game. He was representing the North with teammate John Quenneville.
They ended up winning the entire tournament, just like Kyle Palmieri did representing the Devils in the NHL All-Star Game (although, I don’t think they get a share of $1 million). It could only work to help his confidence going into the next phase of the season.
After the tournament was over, Blackwood is expected to come right to the New Jersey Devils.