BREAKING NEWS: Gabriel Landeskog Rejoins Colorado Avalanche After Nearly Three-Year Absence
April 16, 2025 — Denver, CO
In a moment Avalanche fans have been hoping for since 2022, team captain Gabriel Landeskog has officially rejoined the Colorado Avalanche lineup after a nearly three-year absence due to a debilitating knee injury. The 32-year-old forward, a cornerstone of the franchise and leader on and off the ice, is back just in time to bolster the team ahead of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Landeskog’s return follows a brief but promising conditioning stint with the AHL’s Colorado Eagles, where he registered one goal and one assist in two games. The team confirmed this morning that he has been activated from long-term injured reserve and will be available for the Avalanche’s opening-round series against the Dallas Stars.
“This is a huge moment for our team and for Gabe,” said Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar during a media briefing. “He’s worked incredibly hard behind the scenes for nearly three years to get back to this point. The leadership and physical presence he brings are immeasurable, especially during playoff hockey.”
Landeskog has not played an NHL game since June 2022, when he helped the Avalanche capture their third Stanley Cup in franchise history. Following the championship run, Landeskog underwent a complex cartilage transplant surgery on his right knee. Despite numerous setbacks and a lengthy rehab process, the Swedish forward never ruled out a return to the ice.
“This journey has tested me more than anything in my career,” Landeskog said in a press release issued by the team. “There were definitely moments when I didn’t know if I’d ever play again, but I always held onto hope. I’m incredibly grateful to the medical staff, trainers, my family, and the fans for supporting me through this. I’m ready to compete again.”
The Avalanche, who finished the regular season with a 49-29-4 record, are preparing for what they hope will be another deep playoff run. The return of their captain couldn’t have come at a better time. Known for his physical style of play, clutch scoring, and ability to inspire his teammates, Landeskog’s presence in the locker room and on the ice is expected to have an immediate impact.
“He’s our heart and soul,” said teammate Nathan MacKinnon. “To see him back out there with us, wearing that ‘C’ again, it’s emotional. He’s the guy you want in your corner when the games matter most.”
While the team plans to ease Landeskog back into the lineup, fans and analysts alike are hopeful he can regain his previous form. Prior to his injury, he was coming off a 30-goal, 59-point season and was a key contributor during the team’s 2022 championship run.
As the puck drops on the postseason, all eyes will be on Landeskog’s return. One thing is certain: his comeback has injected a wave of energy and optimism into a team that already has its sights set on another Stanley Cup.
Welcome back, Captain.