TOUCH DOWN FEW MINUTES AGO: Colorado Avalanche Former Head Coach Patrick Roy Returns as General Manager — NHL and Fans Overwhelmed with Joy
Just moments ago, history was made at Denver International Airport as Patrick Roy, the legendary former head coach and Hall of Fame goaltender, officially touched down to begin his new chapter as the General Manager of the Colorado Avalanche.
The announcement, which had been the subject of swirling rumors for weeks, was confirmed by the organization earlier today, sending shockwaves of excitement throughout the National Hockey League (NHL) community. Roy, who previously coached the Avalanche from 2013 to 2016, is now back — not behind the bench, but in the front office, tasked with leading the team into its next era of championship contention.
A Hero’s Welcome in Denver
As Roy stepped off the plane, he was greeted by a crowd of fans, former players, media personnel, and Avalanche staff. Chants of “ROY! ROY! ROY!” echoed through the terminal, with many waving jerseys, banners, and even replicas of the Stanley Cup.
The Colorado Avalanche community wasted no time declaring September 24th as “Patrick Roy Day,” a symbolic gesture recognizing the monumental return of one of the franchise’s most iconic figures. Local businesses displayed digital billboards welcoming him home, and the team store sold out of Roy merchandise within hours.
“It Feels Like I Never Left” — Roy’s First Words
In a brief press statement upon arrival, Roy said:
“It feels like I never left. Colorado has always been home for me. I’m honored and thrilled to return, not just to this team, but to this incredible community. I look forward to building something special here again — and yes, our goal is the Stanley Cup.”
The Avalanche organization, led by team President Joe Sakic — Roy’s former teammate and longtime friend — expressed full confidence in Roy’s leadership.
“Patrick is a fierce competitor, a brilliant hockey mind, and someone who understands the Avalanche culture better than anyone,” Sakic said. “There’s nobody more passionate about winning, and we’re proud to have him back.”
A New Era for the Avalanche
Roy’s return comes at a pivotal time for the franchise. With a talented core led by stars like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, the team is poised to contend — but also faces challenges with contracts, prospect development, and maintaining competitive depth.
As GM, Roy will oversee player acquisitions, trades, drafts, and the overall strategic vision of the team. His fiery style and competitive nature, which once made headlines behind the bench, are now expected to fuel a bold and aggressive front-office approach.
NHL Reacts with Excitement
Across the league, reactions poured in from fans, analysts, and former players. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman released a statement calling Roy’s return “a great moment for the sport and for a franchise with a proud legacy.”
Social media erupted with hashtags like #RoyReturns, #AvsLegend, and #GeneralRoy, trending within minutes of the news breaking.
What’s Next?
Roy is expected to meet with the coaching staff and players over the coming days, with a formal press conference scheduled for later this week at Ball Arena. Rumors are already swirling about potential roster moves, with insiders suggesting Roy may shake things up before the season opener.
One thing is certain: Patrick Roy is back in the Mile High City, and the Avalanche — and the NHL — just got a whole lot more interesting.
