The Colorado Avalanche have added to their coaching staff today, hiring former Av Nolan Pratt as an assistant coach. Pratt had been coaching as an assistant with the Blue Jackets’ affiliate, and was part of the Calder Cup winning staff last season.
A former NHL defenseman, Pratt was part of the 2000-01 Stanley Cup Champion Avalanche, though he didn’t suit up in the playoffs. He also won a Cup in 2003-04 as a member of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Pratt played in 592 games in the NHL, logging just 65 points but spending 537 minutes in the penalty box. A hard-nosed player, he’ll return to the Avalanche organization looking to instill some toughness in their defense corps.
He’ll join a staff that includes former teammate Patrick Roy, along with fellow assistants Tim Army and Dave Farrish. Colorado had a disappointing year in 2015-16, finishing an even 39-39-4, five points out of a playoff spot.