Except for a six-game stint with the Boston Bruins, Blackburn spent the majority of the early portion of his career with various minor league teams. He was a dominant force with the Quebec Aces of the AHL during the mid-1960s, including a 36-goal performance in 1965–66. He was selected by the Philadelphia Flyers in the NHL expansion draft and was a regular contributor during the first two years of the fledgling team's existence.
Blackburn had a brief period with the Boston Bruins but primarily played for various minor league teams early on. He was exceptionally skilled with the Quebec Aces of the AHL in the mid-1960s, achieving 36 goals in 1965–66. He was selected by the Philadelphia Flyers in the NHL expansion draft and made substantial contributions to the team during its formative years.