As the Colorado Avalanche gear up for the Stanley Cup playoffs, the spotlight is squarely on one player whose return could prove pivotal: Gabriel Landeskog, the teams captain. After a prolonged absence, Landeskog is poised to make his comeback, and the buzz around his potential return has the entire hockey world talking.
Landeskog, who has been sidelined for nearly two years due to a knee injury that required multiple surgeries, is on the cusp of rejoining the Avalanche roster. Fans and teammates alike are eagerly awaiting the moment when their captain will once again step onto the ice.
A Heros Journey: From Injury to Recovery
Landeskogs journey back to hockey has been nothing short of inspiring. Having gone through grueling rehabilitation after a series of knee surgeries, he has kept his focus on returning to full health, both physically and mentally. In recent weeks, his efforts have started to pay off.
In early April 2025, Landeskog made a brief appearance with the Colorado Eagles in the AHL, playing two games as part of his conditioning stint. In his second game, he scored a goal and recorded an assist, proving that his skills and leadership are intact. His performance was a significant step in his recovery process, and it sent a clear message to his teammates: Landeskog is ready to return.
Physically, I feel great, Landeskog remarked after his AHL stint. Its been a long road, but Im getting there. Mentally, its a work in progress. There are always things to improve on, but Im excited to get back with the team. His positive outlook has undoubtedly energized the Avalanche locker room, and his potential return has become a rallying point for the team.
Avalanche Teammates Share the Excitement
The excitement surrounding Landeskogs return isnt just limited to the fanshis teammates are equally thrilled. Nathan MacKinnon, one of the Avalanches star players, expressed his enthusiasm about seeing his captain back on the ice. Its been amazing to watch him come back, MacKinnon said. He looked great out there. Every game he played, he looked better, and its awesome to have him back with us as we head into the playoffs.
Fellow Avalanche players like Cale Makar, Devon Toews, and Jonathan Drouin have all shared similar sentiments. Toews, in particular, emphasized how valuable Landeskogs leadership is to the team, not just in terms of onice production but in fostering a positive, cohesive environment.
A Leadership Presence for the Playoffs
The timing of Landeskogs potential return couldnt be more crucial. As the Avalanche prepare for a firstround playoff matchup against the Dallas Stars, the addition of their captain would provide a significant mental and emotional boost for the team. Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar has acknowledged the impact Landeskog can have on the teams morale, even if he isnt fully back to 100 yet.
To have a guy of his caliber possibly back in the lineup is a huge boost, Bednar noted. Were taking it day by day, but if hes able to contribute in the playoffs, that would be incredible for us.
Despite his injury history and the uncertainty surrounding his return, the mere presence of Landeskog in the locker room is expected to motivate the Avalanche. His leadership and experience are invaluable assets, especially during the highstakes environment of the playoffs.
Whats Next for Landeskog and the Avalanche?
The Avalanche have not yet confirmed whether Landeskog will play in Game 1 of the playoffs against the Stars, but all signs point to his return being imminent. Following his AHL stint, Landeskog has participated in team practices, and he is expected to join the Avalanche for their final preparations before the postseason.
As the excitement builds, fans are holding their breath, hoping for the ultimate confirmation that their captain will once again lead them into the battle for the Stanley Cup.
Landeskogs return is more than just about his physical contributionsits a testament to his resilience, work ethic, and dedication to the game. Its a story that has inspired his teammates and captured the attention of the hockey world. If he does make it back for the playoffs, his presence on the ice could be just the spark the Avalanche need to make a deep run toward another championship.
For now, Colorado hockey fans are eagerly awaiting the official announcement. But one thing is certain: the potential return of Gabriel Landeskog has reignited hope and belief that the Avalanche are ready to take on the best in the league.