Avalanche Captain Landeskog Activated, Misses Game 2 Despite Optimism

DALLAS, Texas — Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog has been activated from long-term injured reserve, but he did not play in Game 2 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs on Monday night against the Dallas Stars.

Landeskog’s activation came just hours before the game, raising hopes he would return to the lineup. He led the team in warmups, wearing his captain’s jersey, but ultimately did not take the ice for the game.

“He’s a really good player,” said Stars forward Mikko Rantanen, a former Avalanche player. “So when he comes back, we’ve got to be ready for him and adjust our game.”

Rantanen noted the significance of Landeskog’s return after an extended absence due to a knee injury. “It’s been ups and downs and disappointments and excitement,” he added. “To see him now do well and be back on the ice, I am happy for him.”

Landeskog has not played in the NHL since June 26, 2022, when he celebrated a championship with the Avalanche after winning the Stanley Cup. He has undergone multiple procedures on his right knee since then, including a cartilage replacement surgery in May 2023.

Head Coach Jared Bednar mentioned that Landeskog practiced with the team leading up to Game 1, where he participated in a morning skate but skipped an optional practice the next day. “He’s kind of on his own page when it comes to when he goes on the ice,” Bednar said. “He’s still building to the point of a return.”

Landeskog last played professionally for the Colorado Eagles in the AHL, where he recorded a goal and an assist in two games earlier this month. “I watched his first game. He looked good out there,” Rantanen recalled.

As the playoffs continue, questions remain about Landeskog’s return to the ice, especially with Ross Colton’s injury, which limited him to just 15 seconds of play in the previous game. Bednar stated, “Not great,” when asked about Colton’s condition and remained uncertain on who would fill in if Colton is unable to play.

Landeskog’s recovery journey has been chronicled in a docuseries called “A Clean Sheet” that aired on TNT, detailing his challenges and triumphs on the road to recovery.

As the series unfolds, fans are eager to see if Landeskog can finally make his anticipated return to the NHL ice.