It was a night full of emotions for Colorado Avalanche fans as their team captain, Gabriel Landeskog, returned to NHL action after almost three years. Landeskog played his first game since June 2022, when the Avalanche won the Stanley Cup. After a long and difficult recovery from a serious knee injury, the 32-year-old finally stepped back onto the ice, and the crowd couldn’t have been happier.
A Short But Powerful First Shift
Before the game, Landeskog had predicted that his first shift would be short. He was right—it lasted just 33 seconds. But those few seconds were enough to light up the arena. Fans cheered loudly every time he touched the puck and even gave a huge roar when he knocked down his old teammate Mikko Rantanen.
The moment was not just about hockey—it was emotional. Thousands of fans waved rally towels and chanted “Landy, Landy, Landy” as he got ready. Landeskog’s two young children were also present, proudly holding a sign that read, “So proud of you Daddy!” He made their night extra special by giving them both a puck.
A Grand Welcome from the Fans
As the players lined up before the game for the national anthem, Landeskog got another huge cheer. When the announcer said his name as part of the starting lineup, the stadium erupted again. The fans clearly missed their captain and were excited to see him back on the ice.
A Long Journey Back After Injury
Landeskog’s road to recovery wasn’t easy. He had a serious right knee injury that required multiple surgeries, including a cartilage transplant in May 2023. He had several setbacks but never gave up. Talking to Altitude Sports, he said he had imagined this moment for a long time and was grateful for all the support he received during his recovery.
His last real game action before this return was in April, when he played for the AHL’s Colorado Eagles to get back into shape.
Teammates Show Their Support
Landeskog’s return also meant a lot to his teammates. Erik Johnson said the captain had every reason to give up during his tough recovery, but he chose to fight through it. Defenseman Cale Makar shared his excitement, saying it was great to have their leader back in the dressing room and on the ice.
The Captain is Calm and Ready
Before the puck dropped, Landeskog shared that he felt surprisingly calm. He knew he would feel nervous at some point, but mostly he was excited. His second shift lasted 18 seconds, and his third shift went for over a minute.
With Landeskog back, the Avalanche are now aiming to take control of their playoff series against the Dallas Stars. It’s clear that his return has boosted the team’s energy—and the fans’ hopes.
Gabriel Landeskog’s return to the NHL after nearly three years is more than just a sports comeback—it’s a story of strength, patience, and heart. His return has given a big emotional lift to the team and fans alike. Though his first few shifts were short, the impact was massive. With the captain back, the Colorado Avalanche look stronger and more united as they chase another Stanley Cup dream.
