Avalanche Captain Landeskog’s Possible Return Stirs Playoff Anticipation

DALLAS — Gabriel Landeskog could play his first NHL game in three years when the Colorado Avalanche face the Dallas Stars in Game 2 of the Western Conference First Round at American Airlines Center on Monday at 9:30 p.m. ET.

The Avalanche activated Landeskog from injured reserve on Monday, raising hopes for his return. Colorado coach Jared Bednar indicated that Landeskog is a viable option for the lineup after forward Ross Colton left Game 1 due to a lower-body injury.

“Not great,” Bednar said about Colton’s condition when asked how he was feeling. “We’ll see what the day brings.” When pressed on whether he is leaning toward using Landeskog if Colton cannot play, Bednar responded, “I haven’t decided yet.”

Landeskog has been sidelined since June 26, 2022, when the Avalanche claimed the Stanley Cup after defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 6 of the Final. He participated in a conditioning stint with the Colorado Eagles in the AHL earlier this month and skated during an optional morning practice on Monday.

“If and when he joins us, we’re looking forward to having him back,” said Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar. “Just any type of minutes he can give us is going to be key, along with the leadership he brings.”

In Game 1, the Avalanche showcased a strong performance, winning 5-1 against the Stars. Goalie Mackenzie Blackwood, making his NHL playoff debut, stopped 23 of 24 shots. Star center Nathan MacKinnon had a productive evening as well, recording two goals and one assist.

MacKinnon, who tallied 116 points (32 goals, 84 assists) during the regular season, is the fastest active player to reach 50 playoff goals. He achieved this milestone in just 89 playoff games.

On the Stars’ side, Coach Pete DeBoer confirmed that defenseman Miro Heiskanen remains out with a lower-body injury. DeBoer hinted at potential lineup changes but did not provide specifics. Dallas has now lost Game 1 in eight consecutive playoff appearances. Historically, they have won Game 2 five times and have managed to win best-of-seven series four out of those eight times.

“They’re a fast team, really good in transition,” said Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon on the Stars. “We have to be ready for Game 2.”

The stakes are high for the Stars, who hope to bounce back and avoid falling into a deeper deficit in the series. “We have a lot of belief in this group,” said Stars center Tyler Seguin. “We believe we can beat this team, and we believe we can win the Stanley Cup.”

As puck drop approaches, the anticipation builds for both teams, with Landeskog’s potential return adding an extra layer of drama to the unfolding series. Both teams will have their sights set on claiming the critical Game 2 as the series progresses.