Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar sent shockwaves across NHL Community that left analysts, Coaches, and fans questioning the future of the…
​In a recent game against the Buffalo Sabres on January 2, 2025, Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar expressed significant frustration over an officiating decision that left the NHL community buzzing. The incident occurred in the third period when Avalanche goaltender Scott Wedgewood was injured during play. Sabres forward Zach Benson, after being bumped by Avalanche center Parker Kelly, collided with Wedgewood, causing the goaltender to go down in visible pain. Despite Wedgewood’s apparent injury and inability to continue play, the referees allowed the game to proceed, culminating in a goal for the Sabres.​
Bednar did not mince words during the post-game press conference, criticizing the officials for not stopping play to address Wedgewood’s injury. He emphasized the importance of player safety, stating, “If he’s hurt and he’s not getting up, and they can evaluate that, and they’re standing right there looking at it, the whistle should go. It’s just that simple. For them to just let it go and then allow the goal is insanity to me.” ​
The crux of Bednar’s argument centered on the inconsistency in officiating when it comes to player injuries. He pointed out that officials often stop play for injured skaters but seemed reluctant to do the same for goaltenders unless the opposing team gains possession of the puck. Bednar challenged the goal for goaltender interference, acknowledging the slim chances of overturning the call but hoping it would prompt officials to reconsider their decision. He remarked, “It gives them another chance to do the right thing. The goal shouldn’t have counted, and so, yeah, I was mad. So we just did it.” ​
This incident has sparked a broader debate within the NHL community regarding the protocols for handling on-ice injuries, especially those involving goaltenders. Analysts and fans alike are questioning whether current rules adequately protect players and if officials should have more discretion to halt play in such situations. The NHL rulebook stipulates that play should continue until the offending team gains possession of the puck, but Bednar’s comments highlight a perceived inconsistency in the application of this rule.​
The situation was further intensified by the impact on the Avalanche’s goaltending roster. Wedgewood had to be assisted off the ice and was replaced by Mackenzie Blackwood. Bednar later confirmed that Wedgewood would undergo further evaluation and was expected to miss some time due to the injury. This development raises concerns about the team’s depth in the goaltending position and how it might affect their performance in upcoming games.​
The Avalanche’s resilience was on display as they overcame a three-goal deficit to secure a 6-5 overtime victory, with Jonathan Drouin scoring late in regulation to tie the game and Devon Toews netting the game-winner in overtime. However, the controversy surrounding the non-call overshadowed the triumph, prompting discussions about potential changes to officiating protocols to prioritize player safety more effectively.​
In the aftermath, Bednar anticipated further communication with the league regarding the incident, stating, “After this presser, I’m sure I’ll get a call from the league. I don’t care. When the goalie’s hurt, you blow the whistle.” This incident serves as a catalyst for the NHL to re-examine its policies on in-game injuries and the responsibilities of officials to ensure the well-being of all players on the ice.​As the Avalanche prepare for their upcoming games, including matchups against the Detroit Red Wings on March 25 and the Los Angeles Kings on March 27, the team will need to adapt to the potential absence of Wedgewood and address any lingering concerns stemming from this officiating controversy.