Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog is one step closer to a potential return to the NHL after playing his second straight game for the Colorado Eagles of the American Hockey League (AHL) on Saturday night. The 32-year-old forward, who has been sidelined for nearly three years due to a surgically repaired knee, took another significant step towards recovery by suiting up for the Eagles’ 2-0 win against the Henderson Silver Knights.
Landeskog’s injury, which occurred in 2022 during the NHL bubble season, required a cartilage transplant procedure and kept him on long-term injured reserve. However, with his recent return to action, Landeskog is now focusing on regaining his game and potentially joining the Avalanche for their first-round playoff series.
“It was a lot of fun,” Landeskog said after Friday’s game. “Physically, I feel great, and it’s been a long time since I’ve played in a competitive hockey game again.”
The Avalanche are currently seeded as the Central Division’s No. 3 team and will open their postseason on the road. If Landeskog completes his conditioning assignment successfully, he may be activated for the playoff series, marking a significant milestone in his remarkable comeback story.
A documentary series called “A Clean Sheet: Gabe Landeskog” has been following Landeskog’s journey, offering fans a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of his recovery. With each successful game, Landeskog is one step closer to reclaiming his spot on the Avalanche roster and contributing to the team’s playoff push.
Source: https://www.nbcsports.com/nhl/news/landeskog-to-play-in-second-straight-game-with-ahls-eagles-as-he-mounts-nhl-comeback