Avalanche Coach Jared Bednar Hit by Puck During Game vs. Golden Knights

The incident raises concerns about safety for coaches and bench staff in the NHL.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:10am

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In a recent NHL game between the Colorado Avalanche and the Vegas Golden Knights, Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar was struck in the head by a puck that flew into the bench during play. Bednar was immediately attended to by medical staff and taken to the hospital for evaluation, though he was reported to be alert and conscious. The incident highlights the inherent risks faced by coaches and bench personnel in the fast-paced world of professional hockey, sparking discussions about potential safety improvements to protect those on the sidelines.

Why it matters

This incident serves as a stark reminder that even experienced individuals in the sport are not immune to the game's inherent risks. While players on the ice are equipped with protective gear, those on the sidelines are more exposed, raising questions about whether additional safety measures should be considered for bench personnel.

The details

During a routine play, Keegan Kolesar of the Vegas Golden Knights attempted to bank the puck off the boards, but it took an unexpected trajectory and flew into the Avalanche bench, striking Bednar on the right cheek. The impact was significant enough to warrant immediate medical attention, and Bednar was escorted to the dressing room with a towel pressed to his head before being taken to the hospital for further evaluation.

  • The incident occurred during a recent NHL game between the Colorado Avalanche and the Vegas Golden Knights.

The players

Jared Bednar

The head coach of the Colorado Avalanche who was struck in the head by a puck during the game.

Keegan Kolesar

A player for the Vegas Golden Knights who attempted the play that led to the puck striking Bednar.

Nolan Pratt

The assistant coach of the Colorado Avalanche who commented on the unsettling experience of having pucks fly into the bench area.

Josh Manson

A defenseman for the Colorado Avalanche who also suffered an upper-body injury during the game.

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What they’re saying

“We must consider additional safety measures for bench personnel to protect them from the inherent risks of the game.”

— Nolan Pratt, Assistant Coach, Colorado Avalanche

What’s next

The NHL will likely review the incident and consider potential rule changes or technological innovations to enhance safety for coaches and bench staff.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for ongoing discussions about player and personnel safety in the NHL, as the sport's inherent risks can impact even the most experienced individuals on the sidelines.