April 13, 2025 – Denver, CO — Netflix is gearing up to drop a powerful new sports documentary that dives deep into the legacy of two Colorado Avalanche icons: Tony Granato and Joe Sakic. Titled “Justice Has to Be: The Moment Has Arrived”, the film is set to premiere later this month and promises an emotional, in-depth exploration of the lives, careers, and enduring impact of these hockey legends.
Produced in collaboration with NHL Studios and directed by Emmy Award-winner Daniel Silver, the documentary takes viewers on a journey through decades of grit, leadership, and perseverance. Granato, a former forward and head coach of the Avalanche, and Sakic, the revered captain who helped lead the team to two Stanley Cup titles, are presented not just as elite athletes but as men who shaped the culture of an entire franchise.
The film opens with a stirring look at the Avalanche’s move from Quebec to Colorado in 1995, setting the stage for a new era of hockey in the Rocky Mountains. Through rare archival footage, behind-the-scenes interviews, and intimate conversations with teammates, coaches, and family members, Justice Has to Be paints a vivid portrait of how Granato and Sakic helped build one of the NHL’s most respected teams.
Tony Granato, known for his intensity and resilience, is highlighted not only for his playing days but also for his transition to coaching, including his inspiring comeback after a life-threatening brain injury. His story adds emotional depth to the documentary, showing a man whose passion for the game could not be deterred by personal trials.
Joe Sakic’s narrative, meanwhile, is one of quiet strength and consistent excellence. Widely regarded as one of the greatest captains in NHL history, Sakic’s leadership style — calm, composed, and relentlessly focused — becomes a central theme of the film. His Hall of Fame career, his loyalty to the Avalanche, and his current role as the team’s President of Hockey Operations are all explored, highlighting his lifelong commitment to the franchise.
Interviews with current Avalanche stars, including Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, show how Sakic’s influence continues to guide the team’s present-day success. Meanwhile, Granato’s impact as a mentor and motivator resonates with players he coached, both in Colorado and later during his time with Team USA and the University of Wisconsin.
Netflix has described the film as “a tribute to two icons who gave everything to the game — and to the fans who believed in them.” The documentary also touches on the broader cultural significance of hockey in Colorado and the Avalanche’s role in uniting a community through sport.
Justice Has to Be: The Moment Has Arrived will be available for streaming on Netflix starting April 28, 2025. For hockey fans and sports lovers alike, this documentary promises to be a moving, must-watch experience.
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