The Avalanche have hired Jared Bednar as the seventh coach in the team's history in Denver, replacing Patrick Roy.
Kevin Dineen, head coach of the Panthers from 2011-13, and Bob Boughner were among the other reported finalists. Bednar, who coached the 2015-16 AHL champs, was the choice.
“After profiling the type of coach I wanted for our team and going through an interview process with several good candidates, I believe that Jared Bednar is the best person to lead this team behind the bench,” executive VP and GM Joe Sakic said in a statement. “Jared’s track record of success as a head coach in the American Hockey League speaks for itself, and he is considered to be one of the top up-and-coming coaches in our business.