Avalanche’s Landeskog, Lindgren Prepare for Playoffs; Practice Lines Revealed
The Colorado Avalanche are ramping up their preparations for the Stanley Cup playoffs, holding their first full-team practice today with a clean bill of health across the roster. The only notable exception? Captain Gabriel Landeskog, who’s working his way back from injury but couldn’t be more thrilled to be back on the ice.
“Really excited to see him get back on the ice and do what he loves to do.” – Chris MacFarland, Avalanche General Manager
Landeskog’s Return in the Spotlight
Fresh off a two-game conditioning stint in the AHL, Gabriel Landeskog hit the ice with his Colorado Avalanche teammates today, taking full-contact reps and ramping up his conditioning. While the team can’t officially activate him off long-term injury reserve until Friday, Landeskog’s return is a significant boost for the Avalanche as they gear up for the playoffs.
His status for Game 1 is still uncertain, but it’s leaning towards him being in the lineup. If he plays, he’ll likely displace either Parker Kelly or Joel Kiviranta, according to Colorado Hockey Now.
Ryan Lindgren’s Status Uncertain
Defenseman Ryan Lindgren skated on his own before practice, joining the team for about 15 minutes before leaving early. His status for the start of the playoffs remains uncertain, and his availability will become clearer as the week progresses. The Avalanche are off on Thursday and expect to release the schedule for Game 1, likely on Saturday at American Airlines Center, soon.
In better news, Josh Manson, who’s been out since March 14, fully participated in practice for the second day in a row. While the Avalanche aren’t revealing much about player availability, Manson seems to be trending towards readiness for the playoffs.
Avalanche Practice Lines
- Artturi Lehkonen — Nathan MacKinnon — Martin Necas
- Jonathan Drouin — Brock Nelson — Valeri Nichushkin
- Joel Kiviranta — Charlie Coyle — Ross Colton
- Parker Kelly — Jack Drury — Logan O’Connor
- Gabriel Landeskog — Miles Wood — Jimmy Vesey
Defense participants: Cale Makar, Devon Toews, Samuel Girard, Erik Johnson, Josh Manson, Keaton Middleton, and Sam Malinski (Ryan Lindgren for 15 minutes)
Goaltenders: Mackenzie Blackwood, Scott Wedgewood
Did you know?
Pro Tip: Landeskog’s return to form could be a game-changer for the Avs in the playoffs. As captain and a physical presence, his experience and leadership will be invaluable.
Looking Ahead
With the regular season winding down, the Avalanche are focused on getting their star players healthy and rounding into form for the playoffs. Keep an eye out for updates on Landeskog’s and Lindgren’s progress as Game 1 approaches this weekend.
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