Avalanche hire Brett McLean as assistant coach
Colorado chose McLean to fill the vacancy left by Dave Hakstol’s departure for Arizona State.
Brett McLean is returning to Colorado as an assistant coach. The Avalanche announced his hiring on Thursday, Oct. 15, to replace Dave Hakstol, who is leaving for the head coaching job at Arizona State.
McLean joins Jared Bednar’s staff alongside assistant Nolan Pratt, goaltending coach Jussi Parkkila and assistant/video coach Brett Heimlich.
He worked as a Vancouver assistant in 2025-26, with responsibility for the power play. His previous coaching positions include assistant duties with Minnesota and leading the AHL’s Iowa Wild.
Avalanche general manager Joe Sakic said McLean’s coaching experience and familiarity with Colorado made him a fit for the vacancy. McLean, who played for Colorado in 2005-06 and 2006-07, said he hoped to settle in quickly and keep the team’s work moving.
