Avalanche sign Bednar to 3-year extension

The reigning Stanley Cup-winning head coach isn't going anywhere.

Jared Bednar signed a three-year contract extension to remain with the Colorado Avalanche through 2026-27, the team announced Tuesday.

"On behalf of the Kroenke family and the entire organization, we are thrilled to announce a long-term commitment to our head coach," Avalanche president of hockey operations Joe Sakic said in a press release. "Jared has done a tremendous job behind the bench and certainly deserves this extension and to continue as the leader of our team."

Bednar has a 281-190-52 record with the Avalanche. He's the winningest coach in the franchise's history, having surpassed the Quebec Nordiques' Michel Bergeron in January.

"Being able to lead this team over the last seven years has been a privilege," Bednar said. "I am grateful and excited to have the opportunity to continue building on what we've accomplished so far.

"Colorado has become home to me and my family, and I can't thank our ownership enough - Stan and Josh Kroenke - as well as Joe Sakic and (Avalanche general manager) Chris MacFarland, my coaching staff, and all of our players for their hard work and dedication. I look forward to continuing this process with them."

The 51-year-old was already under contract through the 2023-24 campaign.

Colorado is second in the Central Division with a 41-22-6 record. The Avalanche are one point behind the Dallas Stars for the division lead and have a game in hand.

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