BREAKING: Colorado Avalanche Captain Gabriel Landeskog Set to Return After 1,027 Days, A Massive Boost for Stanley Cup Contenders
After missing two full seasons recovering from surgeries on his right knee and cartilage transplant procedures, Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog is poised for a remarkable comeback in Game 1 of the Western Conference First Round against the Dallas Stars. The 30-year-old winger has been out since October 2022, tallying over 1,027 days away from NHL action. Despite the long layoff, the Avalanche see Landeskog’s return as a significant boost, with teammate Charlie Coyle praising his versatility and leadership. Landeskog has amassed 571 points in 738 regular-season games and 67 points in 69 playoff games since joining the team as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2011 NHL Draft.
Gabe Landeskog Set to Make Triumphant Return: Avalanche Ready for Impact
The Colorado Avalanche is gearing up for the playoffs, and there’s a significant boost on the horizon. After a lengthy absence, team captain Gabe Landeskog is poised for a potential comeback that could make waves in the Western Conference.
Landeskog’s Road to Recovery
Landeskog’s journey back to the ice has been a challenging one. The 31-year-old, who was drafted second overall by the Avalanche in 2011, had a standout 2022 playoff run with 22 points in 20 games. However, his season ended prematurely due to right knee surgery in October 2022. A subsequent cartilage transplant surgery in May 2023 further extended his absence, spanning two full seasons so far.
Landeskog’s injury history includes a previous right quad surgery following a skate laceration in the 2020 postseason and another knee surgery in March 2022. Despite these setbacks, the Avalanche remain optimistic about his return.
Did you know?
Landeskog has tallied 571 points (248 goals, 323 assists) in 738 regular-season games and 67 points (27 goals, 40 assists) in 69 playoff games throughout his career.
Avalanche’s Optimistic Outlook
“For Gabe, honestly, it is day by day,” says Avalanche general manager, Chris MacFarland. “We’re getting information every day to see how he feels. These are all new milestones for him.”
Landeskog’s potential return for Game 1 of the Western Conference First Round against the Dallas Stars could mark an extraordinary 1,027 days since his last NHL game. Despite the length of his absence, the Avalanche sees his impact as palpable.
Landeskog’s Versatility on Ice
Teammate Charlie Coyle praises Landeskog’s adaptability: “He can play up and down the lineup and bring any type of game… He can out-skill you, outwill you, out-compete you. Those guys are hard to come by.”
Landeskog’s ability to play any situation, coupled with his competitive spirit, makes him a formidable presence on the ice. His skillset, combined with his work ethic, makes him a valuable asset to the Avalanche as they chase another Stanley Cup.
Will Landeskog’s return propel the Avalanche to playoffs success?
Fans eagerly await his comeback to வழfind out if he can replicate his 2022 playoff performance and help the Avalanche make a deep run in the playoffs.
Unanswered Questions
As Landeskog inches closer to his potential return, questions linger about his role, ice time, and integration into the team’s current dynamics. Here are some key FAQs:
Will Landeskog reclaim his captaincy?
Given his leadership and team bond, it’s likely he will resume his role as team captain once he’s fully integrated back into the lineup.
What will his role be upon return?
The Avalanche will likely ease him back into action, gradually increasing his ice time and responsibilities as his fitness improves.
How will his absence impact the team?
The Avalanche has adapted to Landeskog’s absence over the past two seasons, and his return is expected to bolster the team’s chemistry and performance.
Looking Ahead: Landeskog’s Impact and Legacy
Landeskog’s impending return signifies more than just an addition to the Avalanche roster. It’s a testament to his resilience, determination, and commitment to the game. With playoffs around the corner, the Avalanche faithful looks forward to witnessing his inspiring comeback story.
As Landeskog prepares for his long-awaited return, one thing is certain: the hockey world can’t wait to see what the relentless captain will bring to the table.
Stay tuned to 247Sports for more updates on Gabe Landeskog’s recovery and the Colorado Avalanche’s playoff journey.