Megna Continues to Lead by Example
By Luke Purvis
Nov 9, 2026
Scoring two goals in your first game back is uncommon in any professional sports setting.
Except for Captain Jayson Megna, who did it in his first game back against the Bakersfield
Condors on October 23rd, after missing the first six games of the season due to injury.
Megna called that night special; “You’re back out there playing with the guys, and the fact that I was able to help contribute to a win was everything I could ask for.”
This was a meaningful moment for the Eagles captain, who has played with the team since
2019. After undergoing facial surgery and going through multiple setbacks, Megna thought to himself the end was in sight. He faced an uncertain recovery as additional procedures kept shifting his timeline.
“The hardest part was just not knowing it was,” Megna said. “I still love the game, and I love
being around the boys.” He credits his family and his love for hockey for keeping him
motivated throughout his recovery.
After playing 204 NHL games for the Penguins, Canucks, Rangers, Avalanche, and Ducks
and spending several seasons with the Eagles, Megna has become a veteran presence in Colorado's locker room, guiding younger players trying to establish their game and make it just like he did.
“Just having gone through it myself throughout my career, I'm able to kind of help these young guys out and find their way. It doesn't even have to be on the ice. It could be a lot of things off the ice. They have some different habits. So, I'd say it's my role now, and I really enjoy it and love trying to help guys get to accomplish their dreams in the NHL.”
Northern Colorado has become an important part of his life off the ice. Megna was named the Colorado Eagles' IOA/American Specialty AHL Man of the Year in 2025 for his contributions to local charities and community organizations. He helped lead several charitable efforts, including the Eagles' annual Pot of Gold fundraiser, which raised $147,849 for the family of 9-year-old Josh Mellon, who was battling childhood-onset dystonia.
The community has also supported him and his family.
During his recovery, Megna received support from neighbors and families he had met through his daughter's school.
“I think the people, I mean, they're so kind. Megna said. “It goes a long way for someone who's not from here but has spent a lot of time here and fallen in love with the place.”
Megna and his wife Taylor welcomed their second daughter, Jacqueline, on September 29,
2026. They both have developed strong connections throughout the community, making it a special place to raise their children.
“It's an incredible community. It's an awesome place to live, a great place to raise kids,” Megna said.
When asked which Eagles teammate he would switch lives with for a day, Megna picked
Yanick Turcotte because of his toughness on the ice.
“No one messes with him on the ice, and it seems like he can beat up anybody,” Megna said.
“That's not in my bag, so it would be nice to feel that for once.”
