Whether or not Gabriel Landeskog is able to return to the NHL at full strength, this chapter in his career will forever be a testament to his resilience, character, and love for the game
From Stanley Cup glory to months of painful rehab, he has remained steadfast in his pursuit of a comeback.
If and when he skates out in an Avalanche sweater again, it won’t just be another player returning from injury—it will be a symbol of perseverance and leadership that transcends the sport.
Landeskog’s next shift might not be his fastest or most dominant. But it could be his most meaningful.
Friday night’s game won’t just be about a hockey player stepping onto the ice. It will be a celebration of resilience, passion, and the deep bond between an athlete and his community.
Gabriel Landeskog’s journey back has been long and uncertain, but it now offers a rare chance for fans to cheer not just for a goal or an assist—but for the person himself.
As the puck drops at 9:05 p.m. EST, hearts will swell, cheers will echo, and a city will collectively hold its breath.
Because sometimes, the greatest victories in sports come before the final buzzer ever sounds.
Also Read: Gabriel Landeskog: Knee Surgery, Retirement Rumors, With Daughter, Bio, Wiki, Career and More
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Gabriel Landeskog’s Long Road Back to the Ice
When Gabriel Landeskog lifted the Stanley Cup above his head in June 2022 after the Colorado Avalanche’s Game 6 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning, it was a moment of triumph that cemented his legacy in Denver.1
Yet, few could have predicted that it would also be the last time he’d suit up in an NHL game—for nearly three years.
Since that victory, Landeskog has been sidelined by a serious and persistent knee injury. But now, at long last, the Avalanche captain is on the brink of a long-awaited comeback.
Landeskog’s absence has not been due to minor setbacks or recurring sprains. His injury, centered around his knee, has been chronic and complex—so much so that it required cartilage transplant surgery in May 2023, a highly rare and invasive procedure for professional athletes.
Throughout the 2022-23 and 2023-24 NHL seasons, the Avalanche were forced to move forward without their fearless leader. While the team has continued to find ways to win, Landeskog’s leadership and presence have been sorely missed—both on and off the ice.
Light at the End of the Tunnel: AHL Conditioning Assignment
Earlier this week, the Avalanche took a major step toward reintroducing Landeskog to competitive play.
He was officially loaned to the team’s AHL affiliate, the Colorado Eagles, for a conditioning assignment. This move indicates that his return is no longer a distant dream, but a realistic goal.
Landeskog joined the Eagles for several practices, participating in team drills and skating sessions. The focus, for now, remains on ensuring his body responds well to the rigors of live-action hockey.
One Step at a Time
During a recent episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman provided key insight into Landeskog’s return.
“He’s gonna take the morning skate Friday, that’s the plan. And then they’ll see,” Friedman noted. “Because he’s coming back from such a serious injury… you have to take everything one step at a time.”
The Avalanche are taking a highly cautious approach. Each phase—morning skate, post-skate evaluation, game participation—is being monitored closely.
The last thing anyone wants is to rush the process and risk further complications.
Gabriel Landeskog: The Risk Factor
Friedman also brought up the elephant in the room: the possibility that something might go wrong.2
From hitting an uneven patch of ice to a seemingly innocuous collision, anything could derail Landeskog’s comeback attempt.
“I was just wondering if he would skate and practice with the team but not play,” Friedman said. “Because if he goes into an AHL game and something happens… do you look at it there and say, unfortunately, this is not going to work?”
It’s a grim but necessary question. AHL games aren’t known for being light or casual; they’re fiercely competitive, and even a conditioning stint carries risk.
The Captain’s Commitment: A Testament to Leadership
What makes this return attempt even more inspiring is Landeskog’s unyielding desire to contribute. Lesser players might have quietly transitioned to a different role within the organization or stepped away entirely.
But Landeskog’s determination to fight through nearly three years of rehabilitation shows why he wears the “C” on his jersey.
His eagerness to return, despite the risk, demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the team, the game, and himself.
This kind of leadership goes far beyond scoring goals or delivering big hits—it’s about setting an example, even in the darkest times.
Contract Context: The Clock Is Ticking
Landeskog still has four years remaining on the eight-year, $56 million contract he signed just before free agency in 2021. At the time, it was viewed as a no-brainer extension—a cornerstone player locking in with the team he captains.
But since then, the Avalanche have essentially had to carry his cap hit without reaping the benefits on the ice.
For a contending team tight against the salary cap, having a $7 million player unavailable for multiple seasons has created some roster management challenges.
Still, the organization’s patience with Landeskog underscores how valuable he is. Colorado believes in his ability to return and contribute—not just sentimentally, but competitively.
Gabriel Landeskog: Impact on the Avalanche Locker Room
Landeskog’s leadership in the dressing room has long been an intangible yet invaluable part of the Avalanche’s culture.3
Even while injured, he’s remained close to the team—often present at home games and road trips, offering guidance and support.
Younger players like Bowen Byram and Alex Newhook (prior to his trade) have often spoken about the impact Landeskog had on their growth.
His return would not only boost the team on the scoreboard but would also restore a crucial piece of the Avalanche’s emotional and psychological identity.
What to Expect from a Returning Landeskog
If Landeskog is able to successfully complete his conditioning assignment with the Eagles, the next step would be evaluating how—and when—he could be reintroduced into Colorado’s NHL lineup.
Fans should temper their expectations. It’s unlikely that Landeskog will immediately return to his previous form as a 30-goal scorer and two-way force. Instead, his reentry will likely be managed in stages, with limited minutes and a focus on specific in-game scenarios.
More than anything, his presence alone will be a win. Just having #92 back on the bench and in the lineup will serve as an emotional lift for the entire team.
The Bigger Picture: A Career in the Balance
At 32 years old, Gabriel Landeskog should still have productive years ahead of him. But the seriousness of his injury and the length of his recovery have sparked questions about how his career will unfold from here.
Will he be able to maintain his power-forward style of play? Can he still be a top-six forward? Or will he need to reinvent himself as more of a complementary piece?
These are questions that only time—and a healthy knee—can answer.
Avalanche fans have waited patiently for Landeskog’s return, and news of his conditioning stint has sparked a wave of cautious optimism. Social media lit up with support and encouragement after the team posted photos of him skating in an Eagles jersey.
But there’s also a nervous energy. Supporters understand how delicate the situation is. Everyone wants to see Landeskog make a triumphant return, but nobody wants to see it come at the cost of long-term health.
Also Read: Who Is Gabriel Landeskog Wife Melissa Shouldice? Their Wedding And Children Details
Gabriel Landeskog: Three Years Away
A Difficult Journey
Landeskog’s prolonged absence was the result of a chronic knee injury that eventually required cartilage transplant surgery—a rare and risky procedure for professional athletes.
His recovery has been cautious, strategic, and, at times, uncertain. There were moments when doubt crept into the hockey community about whether the captain would ever return to full strength.
During this time, Landeskog remained close to the team, offering mentorship and support from the sidelines. But for a player with his drive, not being on the ice was undoubtedly a frustrating experience.
This upcoming stint with the Colorado Eagles represents not only a physical comeback but also a significant mental triumph.
Fans Fueling the Frenzy
It’s not just the Avalanche organization that is thrilled about Landeskog’s potential return—the fans are equally electrified.
The news of his conditioning stint has caused a massive spike in ticket demand for Friday night’s Colorado Eagles game, with prices soaring as high as $600.
That’s an extraordinary figure for an AHL matchup and a testament to Landeskog’s popularity.
Fans from across Colorado and even out-of-state have expressed interest in attending. Social media is flooded with posts about his comeback, with many supporters planning to make the trek to see their captain in action—even if only for a few shifts.
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A Conditioning Stint with High Stakes
Although Friday’s game is classified as a “conditioning stint,” it carries immense weight. This isn’t just about getting a few practice shifts in. Landeskog’s entire NHL return may hinge on how he performs in the AHL.
His skating speed, recovery time, puck-handling, and stamina will all be under the microscope. A positive showing could accelerate his return to the Avalanche, while any setbacks may push the timeline further.
Landeskog has always been a player who elevates his game under pressure, and the stakes in this matchup—despite it being an AHL game—are sky-high.
The Importance of Leadership on the Ice
One of the biggest losses for the Avalanche during Landeskog’s absence has been his leadership. While other players have stepped up, no one fully embodies the captain’s role like him.
His return to the lineup, even in a limited capacity, could provide an emotional lift for the team.
Young players in the Eagles’ locker room will also benefit. Playing alongside someone of Landeskog’s caliber is a rare opportunity in the AHL.
His presence, professionalism, and intensity could leave a lasting impact on the next generation of Avalanche hopefuls.
Gabriel Landeskog: Expectations for the Night
Expect the arena to be electric. The puck drops at 9:05 p.m. EST, but fans are likely to arrive early just to catch a glimpse of Landeskog during warmups.
His jersey will undoubtedly be the most worn item in the crowd. While it’s unclear how many minutes he’ll play, or whether he’ll be eased into action slowly, fans will be watching his every move.
There’s also a good chance Landeskog will receive a ceremonial welcome before the game—possibly a tribute video or a standing ovation when he first steps onto the ice.
These moments are what make hockey special: the unity of a fanbase rallying around one of their own.
Teammates React to the Comeback
Several of Landeskog’s current and former teammates have expressed their excitement at seeing him return.
Avalanche stars like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar have often spoken about how much Landeskog means to the team. The possibility of getting their captain back as the playoff race intensifies is a massive boost.
For the Eagles players, the experience will be surreal. Playing with someone who’s won a Stanley Cup and been through the highs and lows of the NHL can be incredibly motivating.
Assuming all goes well during his conditioning stint, Landeskog could be back with the Avalanche sooner rather than later. His return would come at a crucial time as teams make their final push toward playoff positioning.
The Avalanche are already a strong contender, but adding Landeskog back into the mix would give them a significant advantage.
That said, the organization will tread carefully. The medical staff, coaches, and Landeskog himself all understand the importance of pacing the comeback correctly. Another setback could be devastating, so every step forward will be measured and deliberate.
What This Means for Colorado’s Cup Hopes
- If Landeskog returns at even 80-90% of his previous form, the Avalanche become an even more dangerous team.
- His net-front presence, faceoff ability, and leadership in tight playoff games are invaluable. Few players in the league possess his blend of physicality, skill, and poise under pressure.
- The Avalanche already have elite talent, but Landeskog’s return could be the final piece they need for another deep postseason run.
- It wouldn’t be the first time he’s led the charge toward a Stanley Cup—and fans are dreaming of him doing it again.
- More than just a hockey story, Landeskog’s comeback is a story of resilience and determination. Athletes at the highest level face incredible pressures, and to overcome a potentially career-ending injury is no small feat.
- His journey back to the ice is a source of inspiration for fans, teammates, and even fellow athletes recovering from injuries.
- It’s a reminder that setbacks can be temporary, and with enough patience, support, and hard work, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome.
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