In a moment that sent shockwaves through the Ball Arena, Gabriel Landeskog scored his first goal in nearly three years, propelling the Colorado Avalanche to a commanding 3-0 lead against the Dallas Stars in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series. The goal, a slap shot past Dallas goaltender Jake Oettinger, came during the second period, marking a significant milestone in Landeskog's remarkable comeback story.
After being sidelined for 1,032 days, Landeskog's return to the ice was highly anticipated. He had last played on June 26, 2022, during the Avalanche's triumphant Stanley Cup victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning. Since then, the captain faced numerous challenges, including multiple knee surgeries, the most notable being a cartilage replacement procedure in May 2023. Landeskog's journey back to the NHL is unprecedented, as he became the first player to return from such an operation.
"It’s a unique situation, and I can appreciate that for what it is," Landeskog said after his first game back on April 23. He was greeted with cheers from the crowd when he stepped onto the ice for the first time in over two years, despite the Avalanche falling to the Stars 2-1 in overtime that night. Landeskog played 13 minutes and 16 seconds, contributing six hits but no points in his return.
As the Avalanche prepared for Game 4, trailing the series 2-1, the atmosphere was electric. The fans rallied behind their captain, chanting his name in a show of support. "The place is still electric. Most amped I’ve ever seen for a non-OT playoff winner," remarked Will Petersen, a local sports reporter.
Landeskog's goal not only marked a personal triumph but also revitalized the Avalanche's playoff hopes. "Landy scores his first in three years!" exclaimed the official Avalanche Twitter account, capturing the excitement of the moment. The goal was a testament to his resilience and determination to return to form.
Head coach Jared Bednar acknowledged the significance of Landeskog's return, stating, "He just has a skill set that we hope to utilize in a bunch of different ways in this series." Bednar had kept Landeskog's minutes limited in his first game back, but the Avalanche were looking to increase his role, especially on the power play, where they struggled in Game 3.
"We were 0 for 6 on the power play in Game 3, including one for four minutes at the end of regulation that carried into the extra period," Bednar noted. The Avalanche needed a spark, and Landeskog's presence on the ice provided just that.
After the game, Landeskog reflected on his journey and the support he received from teammates and fans. "My thumbs may soon be a different story," he joked, referring to the over 130 unread text messages he received congratulating him on his comeback. While he acknowledged the attention surrounding his return, he emphasized that his focus remained on helping the Avalanche win games.
"I’ll continue to improve on it and continue working — excited to get another crack at it," he stated, showcasing his competitive spirit. The Avalanche's captain is committed to adapting quickly to the pace of playoff hockey, understanding the urgency of the situation as they aim to even the series.
As the game progressed, the Avalanche maintained their lead, with Landeskog's goal serving as a pivotal moment in the match. The crowd erupted with joy, and the players rushed to embrace their captain, fully aware of the significance of his return and the impact it could have on their playoff run.
Landeskog's journey back to the NHL has been nothing short of extraordinary. From a career-threatening injury to scoring in the playoffs, he has shown incredible determination and resilience. His goal in Game 4 not only symbolizes his personal victory but also reignites hope for the Avalanche as they fight to advance in the playoffs.
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Landeskog and the Avalanche. With the momentum shifting in their favor, the team looks to capitalize on this newfound energy as they continue their quest for another Stanley Cup. The playoffs are a time for heroes to rise, and Gabriel Landeskog is poised to be one of them.
