Avalanche Captain Landeskog Prepares to Return in Critical Game 3

DENVER, Colorado — Captain Gabriel Landeskog is set to make his return to the Colorado Avalanche‘s active roster as they gear up for Game 3 against the Dallas Stars on Wednesday night.

After spending 1,030 days sidelined due to knee issues, Landeskog was activated from long-term injured reserve and participated in warmups ahead of Game 2. However, he did not play in that game, which ended in a regrettable 4-3 overtime loss for the Avs.

“He’s a really good player,” said Stars forward Mikko Rantanen, who previously played with Landeskog. “We’ve got to be ready for him and adjust our game.” Rantanen acknowledged the captain’s significant efforts to return after multiple surgeries, highlighting the emotional weight of his comeback.

Avalanche coach Jared Bednar emphasized the urgency of the upcoming matchup. Following a split in the first two games of the playoff series, the team needs to capitalize on its home ice advantage at Ball Arena. “It’s time to drop the emotional hammer,” he said.

Colorado had high expectations entering the postseason, but their Game 2 defeat was particularly frustrating, especially after leading the series 1-0 and considering the Stars were missing key players, including their top scorer, Jason Robertson.

Although Landeskog did not play in Game 2, his presence during warmups signaled a hopeful step towards his return. He logged two games for the Colorado Eagles recently, scoring a goal and an assist during his conditioning assignment.

“He looked good out there,” Rantanen said of Landeskog’s performance in those games. “It’s been a grind for him, and I was really happy to see him back on the ice.”

Bednar hinted at potential line adjustments, noting that bringing Landeskog back would offer more options for the team. The Avalanche must also address the absence of Ross Colton due to injury, creating more pressure to implement effective strategies against the Stars.

The stakes are high. History indicates that the team leading 2-1 in a playoff series has often gone on to win. The Avalanche are determined to flip the momentum in Game 3 and secure a crucial victory.

“We need to capitalize on our chances and prevent theirs,” Bednar added, stressing the importance of strategic adjustments ahead of their showdown with Dallas. “Every chance counts in the playoffs.”