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Avalanche’s new assistant coach off to good start, but there’s more work to be done

The Colorado Avalanche are off to a good start with their new power play coach, but the club is hardly out of the woods.

By Nestor Quixtan · Mile High Sticking

Published: Sunday, 18 October 2026 at 3:00 AM

Key Things to Know

The writer argues Colorado's power play improved under new coach Brett MacLean, but still requires significant work.
MacLean's unit went 1-for-4 against the Pittsburgh Penguins, lifting Colorado's power play to 13th in the NHL.
The Avalanche allowed former assistant Dave Hakstol to depart for an opportunity at Arizona State.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Brett MacLean made a positive debut behind the Colorado Avalanche bench, overseeing an improved power-play setup that converted 1-for-4 against the Pittsburgh Penguins. The writer notes that while the goal helped Colorado rise to 13th in the league at 20.7%, there remains considerable work ahead given the roster's high level of talent.

The writer argues that the coaching change from Dave Hakstol to MacLean was a controversy-free win for the Avalanche. Colorado permitted Hakstol to explore an opportunity with Arizona State, cleanly opening the door for MacLean to address Colorado's power-play struggles without unnecessary drama.

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Avalanche’s new assistant coach off to good start, but there’s more work to be done

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