Gabriel Landeskog Sparks Colorado Avalanche with Emotional Return

DENVER — Gabriel Landeskog‘s return to the Colorado Avalanche lineup is energizing the team both on and off the ice. Landeskog scored his first goal in nearly three years during Game 4 against the Dallas Stars, helping the Avalanche tie their playoff series 2-2.

“There’s only one Gabe Landeskog in the world,” said Nathan MacKinnon after the game. “We missed him; there was a big hole in our room for three years. He means the world to all of us.” Landeskog’s goal represents more than just a number on the scoreboard; it symbolizes a turn toward success for the Avalanche.

In Game 4, Landeskog logged nearly 15 minutes of ice time, with only four other forwards playing longer. “It’s not just that he scored, it’s the way he’s playing,” said Avalanche defenseman Josh Manson, who assisted on the goal. “He’s such a smart player, navigating his game so well. It shows how mentally and physically prepared he was.”

Teammates celebrated Landeskog’s goal with palpable joy. “My wife was laughing at my face in the picture after the goal,” Manson recalled. “That’s a memory I’ll have for the rest of my life. That’s what hockey is all about—celebrating your teammates.”

Landeskog’s relentless effort over the past thousand days culminated in this moment of triumph. “I think everyone was just so jacked up for him,” said forward Brock Nelson, who assisted on the goal. “The road he’s been on to get back to this point is special.”

Logan O'Connor, an Avalanche forward and DU alum, expressed the uniqueness of the moment. “Normally you don’t take a moment in a playoff atmosphere, but we all just soaked it in.”

Despite the accolades, Landeskog remains humble. “I don’t want to make it about myself all the time,” he stated. “It’s about the team. We understand what a long road it’s been, but I think it’s important to enjoy it.”

With the series heading back to Dallas tied, the Avalanche appear to have regained their confidence. If Landeskog continues to perform at this level, the team may very well lift Lord Stanley’s Cup.