Jared Bednar knows he still has to prove himself as the Avalanche’s head coach

One of the biggest stories heading into the 2026-27 season for the Colorado Avalanche is the future of their head coach. Jared Bednar is entering his 11th season behind the team’s bench, but there are questions about whether or not there will be a 12th.

Bednar has led the Avs to the playoffs in each of the last nine seasons. He also guided the franchise to their third Stanley Cup, hoisting the trophy at the end of the 2021-22 campaign. But he still finds himself in a position most coaches hate – heading into the final year of his contract.

In sports terms, he’s a “lame duck.” There’s no guarantee that he’s coming back next year, which theoretically weakens the stability of the team.

But the Avalanche aren’t ready to make another long-term commitment to their head coach. That’s obvious, based on the fact that media day arrived on Wednesday and Bednar still hasn’t received a contract extension.

Why? Well, the argument can be made that Bednar has underperformed.

Despite having a team loaded with talent, the head coach has watched his team get bounced in the first round of the playoffs three times, the second round four times and swept in the Western Conference Finals once, falling last year to Vegas.

That’s not good enough. Not when Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar are on the roster. And Bednar knows it.

Jared Bednar mentions proving himself a couple of times when asked more about his contract situation. Also, will adjust his coaching style a little bit. Really interesting and thorough answer. pic.twitter.com/pxBLsMFPdc

— Will Petersen (@PetersenWill) September 16, 2026

Despite a 10-year run of success, Bednar is still proving himself as a head coach. It’s why he doesn’t have a contract beyond this season.

He also knows that he has to evolve. That’s why he talks about changing his approach. He’s going to worry more about his team than the opponent.

Is that fair? An argument can be made for both sides of that question. But it’s the reality. And it creates a situation where Bednar is having to earn his next contract.

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