Gabriel Landeskog returns to the ice after nearly three years away
- Gabriel Landeskog has been sidelined for nearly three years due to a knee injury and multiple surgeries.
- He made his comeback with the Colorado Eagles, the Avalanche's AHL affiliate, receiving a warm welcome from fans.
- Landeskog's return is crucial for the Avalanche as they prepare for the playoffs, potentially playing in the first round.
In Loveland, Colorado, Gabriel Landeskog, the captain of the Colorado Avalanche, made a significant return to ice hockey after nearly three years of being sidelined due to a serious knee injury. The last game he played was during the Avalanche's 2022 Stanley Cup victory. Landeskog has undergone multiple surgeries over the past years, including a knee cartilage transplant in May 2023, which has kept him on long-term injured reserve. His condition has been a topic of discussion among fans and teammates, highlighting his persistence and dedication to returning to play despite the challenges he faced. In preparation for his comeback, Landeskog was assigned to the Colorado Eagles, the Avalanche's AHL affiliate team, for a conditioning assignment. This assignment was crucial for him to regain his form and assess his readiness to play in the postseason. The Eagles hosted the Henderson Silver Knights, where Landeskog received an enthusiastic welcome from a full house of fans eager to see their captain back on the ice. Even though he didn’t score a goal, his presence alone brought excitement to the game. During the match, Landeskog showed signs of his competitive spirit which has been an essential part of his playing style. He was involved in the action from the outset, taking a penalty for a high check and later participating in scrums that again demonstrated his grit. His performance offered valuable insights into his current condition and readiness to rejoin the Avalanche. The Colorado Avalanche are preparing for their playoff run, aiming for another championship title. If Landeskog's conditioning stint continues to progress positively, he could potentially play for the Avalanche in the first round of the playoffs against the Dallas Stars. Observers have noted the importance of Landeskog's experience and leadership not only on the rink but also in fostering team dynamics with new players since his absence. He has a long-standing rapport with key team members which could expedite their collective on-ice effectiveness as they advance through the playoffs.