Colorado Avalanche Announce Patrick Roy’s Iconic Return as Head Coach, Replacing Jared Bednar
Colorado Avalanche Announce Patrick Roy’s Iconic Return as Head Coach, Replacing Jared Bednar
Denver, CO – In a groundbreaking move that has sent shockwaves through the hockey world, the Colorado Avalanche have officially announced that legendary goaltender Patrick Roy will return to the team as head coach. This announcement, made earlier today by the team’s upper management, marks the end of Jared Bednar’s tenure as the Avalanche’s head coach after a string of underwhelming performances in recent seasons. Roy, whose legendary career in net earned him a spot in the Hockey Hall of Fame, will now look to bring the same level of excellence and leadership that he displayed on the ice to behind the bench.
Patrick Roy, widely regarded as one of the greatest goaltenders of all time, previously served as the Avalanche’s head coach from 2013 to 2016. During his first stint with the team, Roy helped lead Colorado to the playoffs in his inaugural season, where he was named a finalist for the Jack Adams Award for Coach of the Year. However, a strained relationship with the front office and several frustrating seasons led to his departure from the organization after the 2015-2016 campaign. Now, after nearly a decade away, Roy’s return to the team has been met with both excitement and curiosity from fans, analysts, and players alike.
According to Avalanche general manager Joe Sakic, Roy’s return comes at a time when the team is looking to reinvigorate itself and bring back a winning culture to the organization. “Patrick is not only one of the best players to ever wear an Avalanche sweater, but he also embodies the drive and intensity we need to take this team to the next level,” Sakic said in a statement. “His leadership on and off the ice is unparalleled, and we believe that he is the right person to lead our team back to championship contention.”
Roy’s return is seen by many as a full-circle moment for the franchise. After all, it was Roy’s unforgettable performances and fiery leadership that helped the Avalanche win two Stanley Cups in their early years in Denver, and his passion for the game was a major factor in the team’s rise to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s. During his playing career, Roy became known for his mental toughness, ability to rise to the occasion, and no-nonsense approach to the game—traits that the franchise hopes will now translate into the coaching world.
The departure of Jared Bednar, who served as the Avalanche’s head coach since 2016, was a difficult one. Under Bednar, the team saw substantial success, including a Stanley Cup championship in 2022. However, the past couple of seasons have been marked by inconsistency, particularly in the areas of defensive play and goaltending. Bednar’s dismissal comes after the team failed to regain its championship form in 2023 and 2024, culminating in an early playoff exit this past spring.
“I’m grateful for everything Jared has done for this organization. He helped lead us to a championship, and his contributions are deeply appreciated,” Sakic added. “But we felt the team needed a fresh approach. Patrick brings an edge and a winning mentality that will challenge our players and push them to new heights.”
Roy, who has spent the last few years coaching in the QMJHL with the Quebec Remparts, expressed his excitement to return to the Avalanche. “This is a special place for me, and I’m honored to be back. I’ve always believed in this team’s potential, and I can’t wait to work with the players and help them reach their fullest potential. We have the talent here to be a contender again, and I plan to bring that same fire and determination that defined my career.”
As Roy takes over behind the bench, the Avalanche’s future has never seemed more uncertain yet promising. The franchise is hoping that the return of their iconic leader will re-ignite their championship aspirations and bring a new era of success to Denver. Fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be an exciting new chapter in the team’s storied history.