Avalanche Turn to McLean to Fix Power Play
Dave Hakstol has departed Colorado’s coaching staff, and Brett McLean is now running the Avalanche power play. Colorado’s man advantage has managed one goal in its last 15 chances and ranks in the bottom ten. The article assesses whether McLean can improve a unit that has underperformed despite strong personnel.
Hakstol left Colorado after Arizona State sought permission to interview him while Greg Powers was moved away from the Sun Devils’ head-coaching duties. Hakstol had spent 15 seasons at North Dakota and won four national championships there; Colorado’s power play converted 17% last season, under the league average.
McLean returns to Colorado, where he played from 2005 to 2007, after eight years in Minnesota’s system and a Vancouver assistant role. The Canucks’ power play ended last season at 21.8%, 14th overall, while Colorado has four man-advantage goals and leads the NHL with 32 total goals.
For Avalanche players and fans, the coaching change could affect confidence in special teams and game outcomes, while the broader hockey audience may watch whether McLean’s prior power-play work translates. The story may also influence how assistant coaches are evaluated, since a short scoring slump could shape reputations and job prospects. Its social impact is likely limited to sports communities, but it could affect local fan engagement and discussion around team management.