IT IS OVER: Colorado Avalanche Head Coach Jared Bednar Has submitted his Resignation letter to the…. See more

In a stunning development that has left the hockey world reeling, Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar has officially submitted his resignation letter to the Avalanche organization, marking the end of an extraordinary era in Denver. The news, confirmed late Wednesday night, comes as a complete surprise to fans, players, and analysts alike—especially given Bednar’s remarkable success and legacy with the franchise.

According to multiple team sources, Bednar informed Avalanche General Manager Chris MacFarland of his decision earlier this week, citing “personal reasons and organizational differences” as the primary factors behind his departure. The resignation was made official after a closed-door meeting with the front office, ending one of the most successful coaching tenures in franchise history.

Bednar, who took over as head coach in 2016, guided the Avalanche through one of the most dramatic rebuilds and turnarounds in NHL history. Under his leadership, Colorado evolved from a struggling team at the bottom of the standings to a consistent Stanley Cup contender. His crowning achievement came in 2022, when he led the Avalanche to a Stanley Cup Championship, cementing his place as one of the league’s most respected coaches.

However, reports indicate that recent internal friction between Bednar and team management may have contributed to his decision to step down. Differences over player development strategies, trade decisions, and the team’s future direction reportedly led to growing tension. While neither Bednar nor the Avalanche organization has publicly detailed these issues, insiders close to the situation describe the split as “mutually respectful but inevitable.”

In a brief statement released early Thursday morning, the Colorado Avalanche expressed gratitude for Bednar’s years of service and leadership.

“The Colorado Avalanche organization has accepted the resignation of Head Coach Jared Bednar,” the team announced. “Jared has been a cornerstone of our success and an invaluable part of this franchise. We wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”

Players across the Avalanche roster were reportedly stunned by the news. Star forward Nathan MacKinnon and captain Gabriel Landeskog have long credited Bednar for shaping the team’s culture, discipline, and identity. “He’s more than a coach—he’s a mentor,” one Avalanche player said privately. “This one hurts. He brought belief and structure to this locker room.”

The timing of Bednar’s departure raises serious questions about the team’s future, as the Avalanche were preparing for a challenging stretch of the NHL season. Assistant coach Nolan Pratt is expected to assume interim head coaching duties while the organization begins its search for a long-term replacement.

Fans across Colorado and the broader NHL community took to social media to express disbelief and gratitude. “He’s the best coach we’ve ever had,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “No matter what happens next, Bednar will always be part of Avalanche history.”

As speculation grows about Bednar’s next move—whether he will take time off or consider another NHL opportunity—one thing is certain: his resignation marks the end of an unforgettable chapter in Avalanche history. Jared Bednar’s steady leadership, championship vision, and unshakable commitment to excellence transformed the Colorado Avalanche