The Denver Post is reporting that Patrick Roy has received an offer to coach the Colorado Avalanche -- and don't worry that his delay in accepting a deal that's been widely rumored for the better part of a week means he won't sign up. In all likelihood, this pause is meant to build enthusiasm for the signing -- and it undoubtedly will, even though the announcement's timing (smack dab in the middle of the Nuggets' improbable playoff run) isn't exactly ideal. The Avalanche, a key part of the town's sports landscape, had all but fallen off the average fan's radar by the end of last season, the franchise's worst since moving here in the mid-'90s. That's unacceptable to team president Pierre Lacroix, a spotlight-lover if ever there was one -- and a man willing to spend what's necessary to get what he wants. And right now, he wants Roy.
Of course, superstar players don't always translate into winning coaches. Note that Wayne Gretzky's record with the Phoenix Coyotes is a less-than-sparkling 143 wins, 161 losses in four seasons. But at this point, the Avs need a good dose of excitement every bit as much as they need a instructional visionary. Which means, in all likelihood, that Lacroix will be re-introducing Roy to the Colorado faithful before the week is out.
