Landeskog Returns, Receives Power Play Spot for Game 4 Against Stars

DENVER — Gabe Landeskog is set to return for the Colorado Avalanche as they face the Dallas Stars in Game 4 of the Western Conference First Round at 9:30 p.m. ET on Saturday. This marks his first NHL game in nearly three years due to a knee injury.

Two days after his emotional comeback, Avalanche coach Jared Bednar announced that Landeskog will be promoted to the second line and join the top power-play unit. Bednar praised his captain’s performance in Game 3, despite the Avalanche losing 2-1 in overtime. “It’s remarkable, really. When you think about the time he’s been away, what he did under those circumstances was incredible,” said Bednar.

Landeskog, who logged 13:16 of ice time and led the team with six hits, played on the third line with Nathan MacKinnon and Brock Nelson. This game was his first since June 26, 2022, and he hopes to continue improving as the series progresses. “I think there’s some things that will come as I continue playing,” Landeskog said. “Every game is super useful. Every shift is super important.”

The Avalanche are currently down 2-1 in the best-of-seven series, having lost the last two games in overtime. Bednar noted adjustments are necessary for the team to increase their power-play effectiveness, having managed only two goals on 13 opportunities in the series.

Landeskog’s promotion comes as the Avalanche seek to regain control. “We weren’t great on our breakouts and entries. We need to be faster and create more traffic,” Bednar explained. His captain’s experience and skillset will be crucial for their upcoming match.

Dallas has outperformed Colorado in key situations, demonstrating more opportunism and success on the power play, currently leading the series. The Avalanche hope Landeskog’s return will provide the spark they need for an equalizer. “You can’t miss that much time and expect to jump back in without some adjustments,” Bednar added. “But we believe in Gabe’s ability to contribute.”

With Landeskog and the Avalanche looking to capitalize on this momentum shift, the stakes are higher than ever as they prepare for Game 4.