Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog may miss his third consecutive regular season due to a lingering right knee injury. His potential return for the playoffs remains uncertain, leaving both the team and fans hopeful yet unsure about his future.
Landeskog has not played since June 26, 2022, when he helped Colorado secure the Stanley Cup against the Tampa Bay Lightning. His absence has been prolonged due to a cartilage transplant surgery he underwent on May 10, 2023, which placed him on long-term injured reserve.
Uncertain Recovery Timeline: Landeskog’s Rehabilitation Progress and Hopes for a Comeback
General manager Chris MacFarland acknowledged the unpredictable nature of Landeskog’s recovery, stating that there is no set timeline for his return. Despite undergoing intensive rehabilitation, the injury has lasted much longer than anticipated. MacFarland remains supportive, recognizing Landeskog’s determination to make a comeback.
He referenced Chicago Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball, who underwent a similar surgery and returned within a few months, as a potential comparison for Landeskog’s recovery timeline.
Gabriel Landeskog (NHL)While Landeskog has been spotted on the ice performing light skating and puck-handling drills, he has not yet resumed full team practices. With the Avalanche focused on their playoff push, his participation in the season remains unlikely. MacFarland suggested that the situation is leaning towards continued uncertainty but expressed optimism that progress is still being made. Although Landeskog’s return remains possible, it is not imminent, and his rehabilitation process continues without a definitive endpoint.
Landeskog’s Legacy and Future: A Valuable Leader Amid Uncertain Comeback
Despite his extended absence, Landeskog remains one of the most accomplished players in Avalanche history. Since being drafted second overall in 2011, he has amassed impressive career statistics, placing him among the franchise’s top players in goals, assists, games played, and hits. His leadership and experience make him a valuable asset, even as he remains off the ice. The Avalanche have been able to use his $7 million salary as an exemption under the long-term injured reserve (LTIR) rules, providing flexibility for roster moves, including recent acquisitions ahead of the trade deadline.
Landeskog, now in his 13th season as Avalanche captain, is one of the longest-serving leaders in the NHL. He still has four years remaining on his eight-year, $56 million contract, and the organization continues to support his recovery with the hope that he will return to play. MacFarland emphasized that the entire hockey community is eager to see him back on the ice. While his future remains uncertain, there is still belief that Landeskog’s story in the NHL is not yet over.
