Avalanche Coach Jared Bednar Hit by Puck, Taken to Hospital

Incident raises concerns about safety of coaches in close proximity to high-speed hockey action.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:51pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, with angular shapes and planes representing the players, coach, and puck on the ice, conveying the intensity and unpredictability of the sport.An abstract, cubist depiction of the moment a puck struck the Avalanche coach, highlighting the inherent risks faced by staff in close proximity to the high-speed action of professional hockey.Las Vegas Today

Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar was struck in the head by a puck during a game against the Vegas Golden Knights, prompting his immediate medical evaluation and transport to a local hospital. The freak accident has sparked discussions about the inherent risks faced by coaches positioned close to the ice.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the fine line between the excitement of hockey and the potential dangers faced by coaches and staff who are in close proximity to the high-speed action. It raises important questions about safety measures and the need for comprehensive medical support in professional sports.

The details

During a routine play, Golden Knights forward Keegan Kolesar attempted to bank the puck off the boards, but it took an unexpected trajectory and struck Coach Bednar on the side of the head. Bednar was fully alert and conscious, but the impact was severe enough to warrant a CT scan at a nearby hospital.

  • The incident occurred during the Avalanche's game against the Golden Knights on April 12, 2026.

The players

Jared Bednar

The head coach of the Colorado Avalanche hockey team.

Keegan Kolesar

A forward for the Vegas Golden Knights hockey team.

Nolan Pratt

An assistant coach for the Colorado Avalanche.

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What they’re saying

“It's just an unfortunate night for us.”

— Nolan Pratt, Assistant Coach, Colorado Avalanche

What’s next

The Avalanche's medical staff will continue to monitor Coach Bednar's condition, and the team will provide updates on his status in the coming days.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for enhanced safety measures and comprehensive medical support for coaches and staff in high-speed sports like hockey, where the risks of unexpected injuries are ever-present.