In a dramatic twist to the Colorado Avalanche's playoff journey, captain Gabriel Landeskog was activated from injured reserve but ultimately did not play in Game 2 against the Dallas Stars on April 21, 2025. The anticipation was palpable as Landeskog led his team onto the ice for warmups, marking his first time back on the ice in nearly three years. However, just before the game, he was scratched from the lineup, leaving veteran forward Miles Wood to take his place.
Landeskog, who last played in an NHL game on June 26, 2022, when he helped the Avalanche secure their third Stanley Cup, had been sidelined due to a chronic right knee injury that required two surgeries and extensive rehabilitation. His path back to the NHL has been long and arduous, with a significant setback stemming from a freak accident during a 2020 playoff game against the very same Dallas Stars, where he was injured by a teammate's skate.
After a two-game conditioning stint with the Colorado Eagles, the Avalanche's AHL affiliate, Landeskog was finally activated for the playoffs. The team announced his return just hours before the game, igniting hope among fans and teammates alike. Coach Jared Bednar made the strategic decision to scratch Landeskog at the last moment, opting for Wood in the lineup instead, a move that added an element of surprise to the game.
"We felt that Miles Wood gives us a better chance tonight," Bednar explained, acknowledging the difficult decision. This choice reflects the Avalanche's focus on winning now, as they aim to repeat their championship success. Landeskog's presence on the ice, even as a warmup participant, was a significant morale boost for the team, which entered the game with a 1-0 series lead after a commanding 5-1 victory in Game 1.
As the game unfolded at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, the Avalanche showcased their depth and resilience, despite Landeskog's absence. The team is optimistic about his potential return in Game 3, scheduled for April 23, 2025, at Ball Arena in Denver. "We’re looking forward to having him back on the ice soon," said one teammate, reflecting the collective hope within the locker room.
The stakes are high for the Avalanche as they face a Dallas team already dealing with its own injury woes. The Stars will be without top defenseman Miro Heiskanen, who is recovering from knee surgery, and leading goal-scorer Jason Robertson, who suffered an injury in the final game of the regular season. This situation adds to the urgency for Colorado to capitalize on their current momentum, especially with Landeskog's return on the horizon.
For Landeskog, the emotional rollercoaster continues. Having been a pivotal player for the Avalanche since being drafted in 2011, his journey back to the ice has been filled with challenges. He underwent a cartilage replacement in May 2023, and his determination to return has been evident throughout his rehabilitation process. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if he can regain his previous form and contribute significantly to the team's playoff run.
As the Avalanche prepare for Game 3, the focus will remain on Landeskog's health and readiness. The team is hopeful that he will be able to suit up and make his long-awaited return to the NHL, which would not only boost the Avalanche's chances but also serve as a testament to his perseverance and dedication to the sport.
In the meantime, the Avalanche will continue to lean on their established stars and emerging players, aiming to build on their early playoff success. The excitement surrounding Landeskog's potential return only adds to the drama of this playoff series, making every game a must-watch for fans.
