In a surprising turn of events that has the NHL community buzzing, Patrick Roy, the legendary goaltender and former head coach of the Colorado Avalanche
, has made headlines once again—this time from behind the microphone.
Now serving as an on-air contributor and brand ambassador for Good Karma Brands’ ESPN Madison (WTLX), Roy used his new platform to deliver a stunning and direct message to current Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar.
During a live segment on Tuesday morning, Roy addressed what he described as a “worrying trend” in the Avalanche’s recent gameplay, focusing particularly on defensive inconsistencies and leadership concerns in the locker room.
“I’ve worn that jersey, I’ve lifted that Cup, and I know what it takes to win in Colorado,” Roy said passionately. “What I’m seeing now from this team — especially how they’ve handled pressure games — is not Avalanche hockey. And I think Coach Bednar needs to take a long look at how he’s managing key moments.”
Sources close to Roy say the comments were not scripted and came from a place of deep emotional investment in the franchise where he solidified his legacy as both a player and later a head coach (2013–2016).
Roy also touched on the Avalanche’s recent roster moves and their impact on the team’s chemistry:
“You can have all the talent in the world, but if the locker room isn’t tight, if leadership isn’t strong, you’re not winning in April or May — let alone June. That’s on the coach.”
The message has sparked immediate reactions from fans, analysts, and former players across social media, with some praising Roy for his candor, while others criticized the timing of his remarks, especially with the season just weeks away from beginning.
The Colorado Avalanche organization has yet to officially respond to Roy’s comments, but insiders believe a statement may be forthcoming.
Coach Jared Bednar, who led the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 2022 and remains one of the NHL’s most respected bench bosses, has previously stated that he values input from former players and alumni—but it remains to be seen how he’ll take public criticism from one of the franchise’s most iconic figures.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Colorado — not just for their on-ice performance, but for how the internal dynamics of leadership and legacy continue to unfold.
