In a dramatic turn of events for the Colorado Avalanche, Gabriel Landeskog has been activated from long-term injured reserve, marking a potential return to the ice for the first time in nearly three years. The Avalanche captain, who has not played since June 26, 2022, when he lifted the Stanley Cup, was reactivated on April 21, 2025, just hours before Game 2 of their opening-round playoff series against the Dallas Stars.
Landeskog's return comes at a crucial time for the Avalanche, who are looking to build on their 1-0 series lead after a decisive 5-1 victory over the Stars in Game 1. However, despite his activation, Landeskog was not included in the lineup for Game 2, leaving fans and teammates eager for his return in the upcoming games.
The 32-year-old forward has faced a long and arduous recovery from a right knee injury that has sidelined him for 1,030 days. His journey has included multiple surgeries, including a cartilage replacement procedure in May 2023. Throughout this challenging period, Landeskog has shown remarkable determination, recently completing a two-game conditioning stint with the Colorado Eagles, where he scored a goal and provided an assist.
“I was happy to see him play for the Eagles,” said Avalanche star Mikko Rantanen. “I watched his first game. He looked good out there. It’s been a grind for him, and he’s a good friend of mine, so I was happy to see him back on the ice.”
In the lead-up to Game 2, Landeskog participated in warm-ups and was seen leading the team out onto the ice, sporting the captain's 'C' on his jersey. However, he was ultimately a late scratch, with head coach Jared Bednar opting to start Miles Wood in his place, as Ross Colton was also sidelined due to a lower-body injury sustained during Game 1.
Colton's injury, which limited him to just one shift in the previous game, has raised questions about the Avalanche's lineup strategy moving forward. Bednar commented on Colton's condition, stating, “Not great,” and added that the team would evaluate their options as they prepare for future matchups.
Landeskog's absence from the official lineup has been a disappointment for fans and players alike. However, his presence during practice and warm-ups has reinvigorated the team spirit. “He’s a really good player,” Rantanen acknowledged. “So when he comes back, we’ve got to be ready for him and adjust our game.”
The Avalanche have been performing exceptionally well, and the addition of Landeskog, when he is ready, could provide a significant boost to their playoff aspirations. In his absence, the team has relied on a strong core of players, but the veteran leadership and skill that Landeskog brings to the ice are irreplaceable.
Throughout his career with the Avalanche, Landeskog has accumulated 571 points (248 goals, 323 assists) in 738 regular-season games and has also made a mark in the playoffs, scoring 67 points (27 goals, 40 assists) in 69 playoff games. His experience and competitive spirit are invaluable, especially in high-stakes situations like the playoffs.
As the Avalanche prepare for Game 3, the anticipation surrounding Landeskog’s return continues to build. Fans are hopeful that he will be able to suit up soon, with Bednar hinting that the decision will depend on Landeskog's readiness and physical condition. “He’s getting close enough that every day they reevaluate,” Bednar noted.
Landeskog's journey back to the NHL has been documented in a series titled "A Clean Sheet," which chronicles his recovery process and personal struggles. The series has aired on TNT and is available for streaming on Max, providing fans with an inside look at the challenges he has faced during his lengthy rehabilitation.
With the Avalanche leading the series and Landeskog on the verge of a comeback, the excitement is palpable. Fans are left wondering when they will see their captain back on the ice, contributing to the team's quest for another Stanley Cup. As the playoffs progress, all eyes will be on the Avalanche as they navigate the challenges ahead and await the return of one of their key players.
The Avalanche will face the Stars again in Game 3, and with Landeskog potentially set to return, the stakes could not be higher. The team’s depth and resilience will be tested, but the prospect of having their captain back in the lineup could be the spark they need to push further into the playoffs.
