The only reason I can think the Avs are willing to keep Bednar is Sakic has realistic expectations that next year is another rebuilding year and rebuilding with Bednar is just as good as rebuilding with another coach. If Sakic expected the team to compete next year then he'd be forced to bring in another coach, which he may very well do early into the season when the Avs struggle again.
The entry draft is going to be critical for determining what kind of season management is looking for. The worst thing Sakic can do is nothing.
Babcock would disagree.
Results would be similar, but getting rid of the loser's stink in the locker room would go a long way.