Avalanche Announce Jared Bednar Injury Update After Facial Fractures
The Colorado Avalanche have adjusted their coaching plans after head coach Jared Bednar suffered facial fractures from a puck strike on April 11. The incident forced the team to act ahead of a crucial road trip.
Bednar was hit during the third period against the Vegas Golden Knights. A deflected puck from Keegan Kolesar flew over the boards and struck him on the right cheek. He left the bench immediately and went to the locker room with medical staff.
Assistant coach Dave Hakstol took over during the game, which Colorado lost 3-2 in overtime. The situation unsettled players and staff, but the team regrouped to finish the game.
Here's an alternate angle of Jared Bednar's injury, where he took a puck to the face. Ouch. #goavsgopic.twitter.com/DXdfV7NZrT
— Rachel Strand (@MileHighRachel) April 12, 2026
Medical tests later confirmed Bednar sustained facial fractures and a corneal abrasion. He remained alert and did not require surgery. The team expects him to make a full recovery, which eased early concerns around the injury.
Colorado confirmed Bednar will not travel for games against the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames. Assistants Nolan Pratt and Hakstol will lead the bench during this stretch.
"Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar will not accompany the team on their upcoming two-game road trip due to facial fractures and a corneal abrasion," Bednar said. "He will not require surgery at this time and is expected to make a full recovery. Avalanche assistant coaches Nolan Pratt and Dave Hakstol will coach the team in Edmonton and Calgary."
Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar will not accompany the team on their upcoming two-game road trip due to facial fractures and a corneal abrasion. He will not require surgery at this time and is expected to make a full recovery.
— P - Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) April 12, 2026
Avalanche assistant coaches Nolan Pratt and… pic.twitter.com/6VupeAD82E
The decision ensures Bednar gets proper recovery time before the playoffs.
Despite the setback, Colorado remains a strong contender. They finished the regular season with 115 points and secured the top seed. Led by Nathan MacKinnon, who has 126 points, the Avalanche built one of the league's most balanced squads.
The coaching change is temporary, but it comes at a crucial moment. Colorado will aim to maintain rhythm before the postseason begins.
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This story was originally published April 12, 2026 at 2:57 PM.