Gabriel Landeskog’s Triumphant Return Begins in Loveland
Last night felt like a moment that Colorado hockey fans will never forget. For the first time in nearly three years—1,021 days to be exact—Gabriel Landeskog stepped onto the ice for a professional hockey game, and the moment hit harder than any slapshot. The Colorado Avalanche captain, who has been sidelined since the 2022 Stanley Cup Final, took his first strides toward an NHL return by suiting up for the Colorado Eagles in the AHL. And let me tell you—it was emotional.
Wearing No. 92 in a fresh Eagles jersey, Landeskog made his AHL debut against the Henderson Silver Knights. It wasn’t just a conditioning stint—it was a statement. After a grueling rehab process that included multiple surgeries, including a cartilage transplant on his right knee, Gabe is finally back in the mix, and he’s doing it with heart, grit, and a smile that says he knows just how far he’s come .
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The crowd at Blue Arena was buzzing. Chants of “Landy! Landy! Landy!” echoed through the stands. His first shift lasted just 46 seconds, but the place erupted like he’d just scored a playoff goal. And when he went to the penalty box? Fans cheered and laughed as his face popped up on the big screen, and he waved like a guy who’s just happy to be back in the fight.
He played just under 15 minutes, even found himself in a bit of a scuffle—yes, a literal headlock—and took a hooking penalty. But more importantly, he looked solid. Comfortable. Determined. He played on the penalty kill, stayed composed, and did what Landeskog does best: led by example.
After the game, he was honest. He said he felt good physically but admitted there was rust to shake off. He even laughed about trying to remember his pregame routine during warmups. “What did I used to do again?” he joked. But even through the nerves, the message was clear—he’s just grateful to be back.
And the support? Unbelievable. From fans lining up to buy his new jersey, to Avalanche teammates like MacKinnon and Makar making the trip to Loveland just to watch him lace ‘em up again, this comeback is bigger than just one player returning to action. It’s about perseverance. It’s about resilience. It’s about love for the game.
Landeskog has never looked too far ahead, and he’s keeping that same mindset now. If his knee holds up, he might even suit up again tonight. But he’s taking it one day at a time—grateful for every stride, every shift, and every cheer from the stands.
This might just be the beginning of one of the most inspiring comebacks in NHL history.
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