The Avalanche announced today that the organization has reached an agreement in principle with Patrick Roy to become the franchise’s Head Coach/VP of Hockey Operations.  Due to the Memorial Day weekend, the Avalanche will hold a press conference next week in Denver to formally introduce Roy.

Roy, 47, becomes the sixth head coach in Avalanche history and the 14th in franchise history.  In addition to his head coaching duties, Roy will also work with Executive VP of Hockey Operations Joe Sakic in all player personnel decisions.

“This is a very exciting day for our fans and a significant moment in our organization’s history,” said Avalanche President Josh Kroenke.  “Patrick’s passion for the game of hockey both as a player and as a coach defines who he is as a person.  He is a winner and is coming back to Denver where he created numerous special moments on and off the ice while helping lead us to two Stanley Cup championships.”