The Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog took warmups before Game 2 of their first-round playoff series against the Dallas Stars on April 21, 2025, but was ultimately scratched from the lineup. This decision came as a surprise to many, as Landeskog had been activated from injured reserve earlier that day, raising hopes for his return after a long absence.
Initially, Landeskog was listed in the lineup to replace Ross Colton, who left Game 1 with a lower-body injury. However, in a dramatic twist, head coach Jared Bednar opted to scratch Landeskog at the last moment, allowing Miles Wood to take his place on the third line. This decision was seen as a strategic move by the Avalanche, designed to keep the Stars guessing about their lineup.
For Landeskog, this moment marked a significant milestone. It had been 1,030 days since he last played an NHL game, which was on June 26, 2022, when he lifted the Stanley Cup with the Avalanche. His absence from the ice has been due to a series of knee surgeries, including a cartilage replacement procedure in May 2023. Despite the setback of not playing in Game 2, there’s optimism that Landeskog could make his long-awaited return in Game 3 at Ball Arena on April 23, 2025.
Landeskog had recently participated in two games with the Colorado Eagles, the Avalanche’s AHL affiliate, where he scored one goal and provided one assist. His performance in those games was a positive sign, showcasing his readiness to return to the NHL. "We'll see. I haven't decided yet," Bednar said regarding Landeskog's potential playing time in Game 2, leaving the door open for speculation.
Throughout his career, Landeskog has been a pivotal player for the Avalanche, recording 571 points (248 goals, 323 assists) in 738 games over 11 seasons. His leadership and skill on the ice have been sorely missed during his lengthy recovery. The Avalanche, currently in a playoff battle, are keen on securing another championship, and the return of their captain would undoubtedly bolster their chances.
As the Avalanche prepared for Game 2, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Fans were eager to see if Landeskog would finally return to the ice, but the decision to scratch him added an element of intrigue. This was not just a game; it was a moment that could define the Avalanche’s playoff run.
With Landeskog’s absence, the Avalanche had to rely on their depth, and Wood stepped into the lineup, ready to contribute. The team’s strategy was clear: they needed to adapt quickly and effectively to the changing circumstances. The pressure was on as they faced a tough opponent in the Stars, who were looking to capitalize on any advantage.
The playoffs are always a time for drama, and the Avalanche’s decision to scratch their captain only heightened the stakes. Would Landeskog be able to return in Game 3? The fans could only hope that the wait would soon be over. As the game unfolded, the focus remained on the ice, where every play could shift the momentum of the series.
In the end, the Avalanche’s strategy paid off, with the team showing resilience in the face of adversity. The players rallied together, knowing that they were fighting not just for themselves, but for their captain who had endured so much. The camaraderie and determination were palpable, and it was clear that Landeskog’s presence, even if not on the ice, was felt throughout the team.
The anticipation for Game 3 is already building, and fans are eager to see if Landeskog will finally take to the ice. His journey back has been long and fraught with challenges, but if there’s one thing that’s certain, it’s that the Avalanche will be ready to support their captain every step of the way. The playoffs are a test of character, and the Avalanche are proving that they are up for the challenge.
