Former Avalanche center's new role ahead of 2026 Olympics raises eyebrows
Photo credit: Colorado Hockey Now
Former Colorado Avalanche center Pierre-Edouard Bellemare's unexpected new role as captain of Team France ahead of the 2026 Olympics is raising eyebrows across the hockey world.
About this time last year, Bellemare was gearing up for a professional tryout with the Avalanche, a bid that ultimately didn't result in a contract.
Pierre-Edouard Bellemare named captain for France at the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics.
Aarif Deen from Colorado Hockey Now writes that now 40 years old, Bellemare put in a strong effort during training camp but ultimately couldn't secure a spot of the Avalanche roster. Instead, he spent the 2024-25 season playing in Europe and recently competed in his 12th IIHF world Championship with Team France.
"With France solidifying a spot at the upcoming Milano Cortina games, Bellemare, who will captain the team, has an opportunity to realize a dream he thought was dead in 2022. He gets to play at the Winter Olympics." -Deen
France hasn't qualified for the Olympics since 2002, just before Bellemare began his professional hockey career. Now, he stands as the first known captain of the 12 participating nations for the upcoming games.
"This couldn't happen to a better guy. Bellemare was a stand-up personality when he played for the Avs from 2019-2021. He was also a key piece of the Tampa Bay Lightning's veteran fourth line alongside Corey Perry and Patrick Maroon in 2022 when they lost to Colorado in the Stanley Cup Final." -Deen
Last year, Bellemare didn't crack the Avalanche roster out of training camp, though, in hindsight, he probably should have. He couldn't provided valuable bottom-six depth during a stretch when the team was desperate for healthy, experienced bodies.
Still, that setback never dimmed his spirit. Bellemare remained his usual upbeat self in the locker room, serving as a steady mentor for younger players and bringing positivity to the group every day.
It's great to see him get this opportunity now. He's earned it.
Source:
Colorado Hockey Now
Former Avs Center Achieves Life-Long Dream - Awarded Captaincy for Winter Olympics
Colorado Hockey Now
Former Avs Center Achieves Life-Long Dream - Awarded Captaincy for Winter Olympics
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AOUT 8 | 23 ANSWERS Former Avalanche center's new role ahead of 2026 Olympics raises eyebrows Do you think France's mens' ice hockey team has a chance of earning a medal at the upcoming Winter Olympics? | ||
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