Colorado Avalanche GM Sakic Confirms Bednar Will Return Next Season

The Colorado Avalanche will retain head coach Jared Bednar and his coaching staff for the 2026-27 NHL season, according to general manager Joe Sakic. Sakic emphasized that there are no plans to make any changes, stating, "We feel he's the best coach for our team." The Avalanche had an impressive regular season, winning the President's Trophy with a record of 55-16-11, but faced a disappointing end in the Western Conference Finals against the Vegas Golden Knights, who swept them. Injuries to key players like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar during the playoffs raised concerns about Bednar's future, but Sakic's decision to keep him reflects confidence in the team's potential. Next season will mark the final year of Bednar's current contract, but Sakic reassured that contract discussions will happen at the appropriate time. Sakic, who recently took over as GM, is focused on building a contender and believes the current roster is capable of a multi-year run at the Stanley Cup. He noted that the team's performance over the season was commendable, despite the playoff setback, and aims to give them another chance to succeed.