Colorado Avalanche coach Jared Bednar enters final contract year

Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar enters the upcoming season in the final year of his contract. Despite leading the franchise to a Stanley Cup in 2022 and securing nine consecutive playoff appearances, Bednar has yet to receive a contract extension from the organization.

While the Avalanche remain considered heavy Stanley Cup favorites, questions remain regarding coaching stability. Critics point to recent playoff exits, including being swept in the Western Conference Finals last season, as reasons for the team's hesitation to commit to a long-term deal. Bednar has indicated a desire to evolve his coaching approach to better support the roster.

The team enters the season with significant talent, including center Nathan MacKinnon and defenseman Cale Makar, who recently signed an eight-year, $163.2 million contract. Following the departure of GM Chris MacFarland, Joe Sakic has returned to the general manager role to oversee hockey operations.