The Colorado Avalanche have consistently been one of the most dominant teams in the NHL over the past decade, but in recent seasons, they’ve had to contend with the absence of a vital member of their roster. Since lifting the Stanley Cup in 2022, the Avalanche have been without their captain, Gabriel Landeskog, a player who has been a cornerstone of the franchise for years. His absence has been particularly noticeable, considering the leadership and skill he brings to the team, and it has now been nearly three full seasons since he last played in a game. Despite the challenges, there remains a glimmer of hope for his eventual return to the lineup.
Landeskog’s journey back to full health has been a long and difficult one. He initially underwent a minor procedure to address an ongoing issue, but after a brief period of improvement, the pain resurfaced during the 2021-22 season. This led to another surgery, and although he was able to return in time for the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs, his recovery wasn’t without its challenges. Despite playing through significant discomfort, he appeared in all 20 games during the Avalanche’s championship run, a testament to his determination and resilience.
However, the offseason following the Cup victory brought more setbacks. Landeskog had the same procedure done once again, but this time, it failed to deliver lasting relief. After several unsuccessful attempts to address the issue, the decision was made to pursue a more drastic approach—an innovative cartilage transplant surgery in May 2023. This procedure was unlike anything any NHL player had undergone before, and although it was a risky move, it provided the best chance for Landeskog to return to full health.
Despite the setbacks, Landeskog remains optimistic about his future in the game. At 32 years old with four years left on his contract, he believes he still has a lot of hockey left to play. While it’s uncertain whether he’ll make his return to the ice this season, the fact that he has been able to skate alongside his teammates in recent weeks offers a sense of optimism. His determination to come back stronger and continue contributing to the Avalanche’s success is inspiring, and both fans and players alike are hopeful that this talented leader will once again be a force for the team in the near future.
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