Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog is inching closer to a return to the ice after a nearly three-year absence due to a knee injury. He’s been loaned to…..

Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog is inching closer to a return to the ice after a nearly three-year absence due to a knee injury. He’s been loaned to the team’s American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Colorado Eagles, for a conditioning assignment ¹.

Landeskog’s Road to Recovery

Landeskog, 32, has been out since June 2022, when he helped the Avalanche win the Stanley Cup. He’s undergone cartilage transplant surgery on his right knee and has been on long-term injured reserve. Despite the setbacks, he’s made significant progress in his rehab, participating in non-contact drills and traveling with the team ².

Potential Return to the Lineup

Avalanche coach Jared Bednar says Landeskog is “looking good” and “making strides” in his recovery. While there’s no definitive timeline for his return, he could potentially be activated for Game 1 of the first-round playoff series. However, his return would depend on the team’s salary cap situation and his ability to get up to speed quickly ³.

Emotional Lift for the Team

Landeskog’s return would not only boost the team’s morale but also provide an emotional lift. His presence would be felt throughout the locker room, inspiring his teammates and potentially giving them an edge in the playoffs ⁴.

What’s Next?

With his conditioning assignment underway, Landeskog’s progress will be closely monitored. If successful, he could rejoin the Avalanche lineup in time for the playoffs, providing a much-needed boost to their chances of advancing ¹.