Colorado Avalanche Bring Back Stanley Cup-Winning Coach Marc Crawford on Three-Year Contract

Colorado Avalanche Bring Back Stanley Cup-Winning Coach Marc Crawford on Three-Year Contract

The Colorado Avalanche have officially announced the return of Marc Crawford as their head coach, signing him to a three-year contract. This marks a homecoming for Crawford, who previously coached the team from 1995 to 1998 and led them to their first Stanley Cup championship in 1996.

Crawford, 63, brings a wealth of experience and a winning pedigree back to Denver. With over three decades of coaching experience in the NHL and internationally, he has built a reputation as a disciplined, high-intensity leader. His previous tenure with the Avalanche was marked by an immediate impact, guiding the franchise to championship glory in their inaugural season after relocating from Quebec.

“We are thrilled to welcome Marc back to the Avalanche,” said Joe Sakic, the team’s president of hockey operations. “His familiarity with our organization, his championship experience, and his ability to develop talent make him the perfect fit for our team’s future.”

Since his initial stint with Colorado, Crawford has held coaching positions with the Vancouver Canucks, Los Angeles Kings, Dallas Stars, and Ottawa Senators, along with a tenure in the Swiss National League. His return is expected to bring a structured, fast-paced style to a talented Avalanche roster that has remained a perennial Stanley Cup contender.

Crawford replaces former head coach Jared Bednar, who led the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 2022 but was relieved of his duties following a disappointing 2024 playoff exit. The Avalanche front office believes Crawford’s leadership will help the team regain its championship form.

“I’m honored to be back,” Crawford said in a team statement. “This organization and city hold a special place in my heart, and I’m excited to lead this team to even greater success.”