1 hour ago … … Jared Bednar to a four-year extension … Jared Bednar as he enters the final year of his contract? Is Bednar’s …
Well, folks, it looks like the Colorado Avalanche have decided to keep their head coach, Jared Bednar, around for a little while longer. That’s right, Bednar has just signed a four-year contract extension that will keep him at the helm through the 2030-31 season. I mean, who wouldn’t want to stay in a job for that long, especially when it involves coaching a group of highly skilled athletes who can skate faster than I can run? And trust me, that’s not saying much.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate just how impressive Bednar’s resume is. At 54 years old, he’s already racked up a record that would make most coaches weep with envy: 445 wins, 262 losses, and 75 ties in regular-season games. And don’t even get me started on his postseason record—60 wins against just 41 losses, including a shiny Stanley Cup win in 2022. You’d think he’d be charging admission just to watch him coach at this point.
The announcement came just hours before Bednar was set to kick off his 11th season with the Avalanche against the Los Angeles Kings. Talk about timing! I can only imagine the pressure of having to focus on the game while also negotiating a contract extension. “Hey, coach, could you please focus on the game and not the contract?” It’s like trying to eat a hotdog while simultaneously watching a fireworks show—lots of distractions.
Joe Sakic, the president of hockey operations and general manager, had some lovely words to say about Bednar. He called him the best coach for the team, and let’s be honest, if he didn’t believe that, he wouldn’t be extending the contract. Sakic noted that Bednar has the players’ full confidence. That’s right, folks, he’s not just a coach; he’s a player whisperer. I can almost picture him in a room full of players, confidently commanding their attention, while they sit in awe, hanging on his every word. “And then, when you’re on the ice, remember to skate and avoid the other team…” Genius!
Last season, the Avalanche hit a franchise record with 121 points, which is just a few points shy of a perfect season—if only they had thought to let me coach for a game or two. They also claimed the Presidents’ Trophy and made it all the way to the Western Conference final. So, yeah, Bednar has definitely been doing something right.
In his own words, Bednar expressed his gratitude, saying he’s extremely happy to continue leading the team. He also thanked the Kroenke family and Sakic for their support. It’s nice to see a coach who appreciates his employers. You don’t always see that in sports; sometimes it feels like coaches are just one bad game away from throwing their employers under the bus. But not Bednar. No, he’s all about teamwork, family, and, of course, winning.
Now, Bednar is not just any old coach; he’s got the second-longest tenure among active head coaches, only behind Jon Cooper of the Tampa Bay Lightning. That’s some serious commitment. It’s like being in a long-term relationship, except instead of romantic dinners, you’re dealing with sweaty players and broken sticks.
So, here’s to Jared Bednar—may your next four years be filled with more wins, fewer injuries, and perhaps a few more Stanley Cups. And if you ever need someone to help with strategy, I’m just a phone call away. I can bring snacks, too. After all, coaching is hard work, and everyone knows that snacks make everything better.
Inspired by: “Bednar, Avalanche agree to 4-year contract extension” (r/Local)