Denver, Colorado – April 5, 2025
In a dramatic and unexpected coaching shake-up that has stunned the NHL world, the Colorado Avalanche have parted ways with longtime head coach Jared Bednar and appointed veteran bench boss Marc Crawford as his replacement. The news, first reported by the BBC early this morning, sent ripples through the hockey community — not just for the timing of the decision, but for the return of a familiar face to the Avalanche organization. Crawford, now 63, famously led the Avalanche to their first Stanley Cup victory in 1996 and now returns with a bold statement: “I want to make history again.”
A Surprising End to an Era
Jared Bednar’s dismissal marks the end of one of the most successful coaching tenures in Avalanche history. Since taking over the reins in 2016, Bednar amassed a record of 343-213-54, highlighted by a Stanley Cup championship in 2022. Under his leadership, the Avalanche developed into one of the league’s most dynamic and feared teams, known for their speed, precision, and relentless offense.
Despite consistent playoff appearances, the Avalanche’s recent postseason exits have frustrated both management and fans alike. The 2024-25 season was marred by inconsistency, injuries, and a perceived lack of direction. Rumors of locker room discontent and philosophical differences between Bednar and the front office began to surface in recent weeks.
General Manager Chris MacFarland addressed the media on Saturday morning, confirming the organization’s decision to move in a new direction.
“Jared has been an incredible leader and will always be a significant part of Avalanche history,” MacFarland stated. “But we felt it was time for a change. We are incredibly excited to welcome Marc Crawford back to Denver — a coach who understands the legacy of this franchise and has the fire to push us forward.”
The Return of a Legend
Marc Crawford is no stranger to the Avalanche or to pressure. He coached the team during its inaugural season in Colorado after the franchise relocated from Quebec in 1995. In just one season, Crawford led a star-studded Avalanche roster — including Joe Sakic, Peter Forsberg, and Patrick Roy — to a Stanley Cup championship. At 35 years old, he became the third-youngest coach in NHL history to win the Cup.
Crawford’s coaching resume spans over three decades and includes stints with the Vancouver Canucks, Los Angeles Kings, Dallas Stars, Ottawa Senators, and most recently as an associate coach with the Chicago Blackhawks. Known for his fiery demeanor, tactical acumen, and ability to motivate star players, Crawford is eager to build on the foundation Bednar laid.
“Coming back to Colorado is a dream,” Crawford said in his introductory press conference. “This city, this team — it’s where I made my mark. Now, I want to finish what I started. I want to make history again.”
Crawford didn’t shy away from acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead but emphasized that his return is fueled by unfinished business and a deep belief in the current roster’s potential.
“This is not a rebuild. This is a reload,” Crawford said. “We have world-class talent in Cale Makar, Nathan MacKinnon, and Mikko Rantanen. I’ve seen what this group can do, and I believe we can reach the summit again — sooner rather than later.”
Fan Reaction: Shock, Nostalgia, and Hope
The Avalanche fanbase, still processing the abrupt departure of Bednar, reacted to the news with a mixture of surprise and nostalgia. Social media platforms exploded with highlights from the 1996 Stanley Cup run, rekindling memories of the team’s golden era. For many younger fans, Crawford is a name from Avalanche lore, while veteran supporters remember his fiery leadership and championship pedigree.
Local sports radio stations lit up with calls from emotional fans.
“It feels like we’re coming full circle,” said Denver native and longtime Avalanche season ticket holder Lisa Karpinski. “I love Bednar, but Crawford brings a swagger that this team has been missing.”
Not everyone is convinced, however. Critics point to Crawford’s mixed results in recent coaching roles and question whether he can adapt to the modern NHL, which has evolved significantly since his last head coaching stint in 2011.
“Hockey has changed,” said ESPN analyst Kevin Weekes. “It’ll be fascinating to see how Crawford adjusts. But you can’t deny his passion, and maybe that’s exactly what this team needs right now.”
Looking Ahead: What Crawford Faces
Crawford inherits a team loaded with talent but facing several pressing issues:
- Injury Management: The Avalanche have dealt with a string of injuries to key players. Maintaining roster health will be crucial.
- Goaltending Stability: With Alexandar Georgiev showing signs of inconsistency, Crawford must either stabilize the current situation or push for a trade.
- Reviving the Power Play: Once lethal, the Avalanche power play has grown stagnant. Crawford will need to reimagine the special teams’ identity.
- Reigniting the Locker Room: Reports suggested that Bednar’s voice may have grown stale in the dressing room. Crawford’s intense style could provide a much-needed jolt — or, if mismanaged, risk alienating players.
Crawford has already begun assembling a new coaching staff, reportedly reaching out to former NHL assistant Dave Lowry and longtime collaborator Jacques Martin.
The Bigger Picture
Marc Crawford’s return signals a deeper ambition within the Avalanche organization — a desire not just to remain competitive, but to dominate again. With the core of the 2022 Stanley Cup team still intact and several young prospects waiting in the wings, Colorado remains one of the NHL’s most promising squads. The front office clearly believes Crawford is the man to harness that potential and turn it into silverware.
For Crawford, this is not just a coaching job. It’s a legacy-defining opportunity.
“1996 was special,” he said, pausing as his voice caught with emotion. “But imagine doing it again — nearly 30 years later. That’s the kind of history I’m chasing.”
As the Avalanche prepare for the remainder of the 2025 season under their new — yet familiar — leader, the hockey world will be watching closely. One thing is certain: with Marc Crawford back behind the bench in Denver, the Avalanche are once again a team to watch, and possibly, a team destined for another unforgettable chapter in their storied history.
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