Ray Bennett has been a pivotal figure behind the bench for the Colorado Avalanche. Over the past eight seasons, his expertise has played a substantial role in shaping one of the NHL's most dynamic power plays. With recent changes in the Avalanche coaching staff, it's a fitting moment to reflect on Bennett's influence and the path forward for the team.

Ray Bennett's Journey with the Avalanche

When Ray Bennett joined the Colorado Avalanche, he brought a wealth of coaching knowledge and a detailed understanding of offensive systems. His main responsibility was guiding the forwards and developing the team's power play. Under Bennett's stewardship, Colorado's power play earned top-ten rankings in multiple seasons. His strategies contributed to a consistent postseason presence for the club, including their Stanley Cup triumph in 2022.

Joe Sakic, the team's President of Hockey Operations, acknowledged Bennett's positive impact during challenging and successful times. Sakic emphasized that, for most of Bennett's tenure, the Avalanche had one of the league's most effective power plays. During their 2025 postseason exit, he noted, “Our power play’s been [in the] top 10 over the last few years, but we feel the way things ended, maybe a different voice going into next year could help that.” This sentiment was echoed in this thorough analysis by NHL.com detailing the coaching transition.

The Decisive 2025 Playoff Run

Following a disappointing first-round playoff ouster, the Avalanche front office conducted a detailed review of the season. Despite trading for high-impact players and maintaining a 100-point campaign, the team struggled on the power play against the Dallas Stars. This was a crucial factor in their early exit, as the Stars' penalty kill outperformed one of Colorado's key strengths. Bennett's dismissal was addressed as a difficult but necessary change to reinvigorate the special teams unit.

As The Denver Post observed, Colorado's power play excelled during the regular season but failed to produce in critical playoff moments. The article highlights that Bennett's departure is seen more as a search for fresh perspective rather than a reflection of his tenure. Sakic added, “It just ran dry at the wrong time. It's tough to make a change. You don’t like to do that.”

Team Response and Leadership Stability

While Ray Bennett's chapter with Colorado closed, the Avalanche affirmed their faith in head coach Jared Bednar. General Manager Chris MacFarland expressed full support, stating, “One hundred percent confident. Jared is our head coach.” This assurance is reinforced in a detailed ESPN report on the franchise's leadership decisions following their playoff defeat.

The organization remains focused on rebuilding for another Stanley Cup run. With core players like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar still under contract, the Avalanche aim to remain competitive and build on the foundation established by Bennett and his colleagues. The front office is evaluating roster moves and coaching strategies to return to peak form next season.

Ray Bennett's Legacy and the Avalanche's Next Steps

Ray Bennett leaves a legacy defined by commitment, professionalism, and a relentless pursuit of improvement. His coaching acumen elevated Colorado’s offensive schemes and helped cement their status as perennial contenders. As the Avalanche look ahead, they do so with gratitude for Bennett’s contributions and optimism for new leadership on their special teams.

In summary, Ray Bennett’s time with the Avalanche has undeniably shaped the team’s identity. His departure marks both an end and a new beginning as the organization seeks renewed success. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how the Avalanche power play evolves and whether the changes will return the team to the top of the NHL hierarchy.