Avalanche captain Landeskog may return in first‑round playoff series
Colorado’s captain, still on long‑term injured reserve after a knee injury, has skated in the AHL and may be activated for the first‑round series against the Dallas Stars.
Key points
- Landeskog has not played an NHL game since June after knee surgery.
- He completed a two‑game conditioning stint in the AHL, scoring a goal and an assist.
- Avalanche coach Jared Bednar says Landeskog is an option for the series and is improving each day.
- He has been skating with the projected scratches at practice, raising doubts about an immediate return.
- The team hopes his return could boost their playoff push after the Stanley Cup win.
Gabriel Landeskog, the Colorado Avalanche captain, is suddenly the center of attention as the team prepares for its first-round playoff series against the Dallas Stars. Landeskog, who has not played an NHL game since June due to a severe knee injury and subsequent surgeries, recently completed a two-game conditioning stint in the AHL, recording a goal and an assist—his first minor-league action in his 12-year pro career.
Despite this progress, Landeskog remains on long-term injured reserve, and Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar has yet to confirm if he will be activated for Game. Bednar described Landeskog as “an option” for the series, noting that the captain is getting “a bit faster, more confident, and more self-assured” each day. However, Landeskog has been skating with the projected scratches at practice, casting doubt on his immediate return to the lineup.
Landeskog’s absence has been felt since the Avalanche’s Stanley Cup victory, and his potential return could provide a significant boost as the team seeks another deep playoff run. For now, fans are left waiting to see if the captain’s comeback story will continue on NHL ice this weekend.
Your questions, answered
Will Gabriel Landeskog play in the Avalanche's first‑round playoff game?
The Avalanche have not confirmed his activation; coach Bednar said he is an option and is improving each day.
How did Landeskog perform in his AHL conditioning stint?
He played two games, recording a goal and an assist, his first minor‑league action in a 12‑year career.
How does this story make you feel?
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