April 4, 2025 — Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog hasn’t played an NHL game since his team lifted the Stanley Cup in 2022, but according to teammate Erik Johnson, his return may be imminent. During an appearance on “NHL on TNT” ahead of a game against the Chicago Blackhawks, Johnson provided the most optimistic update yet on Landeskog’s recovery.
When asked about Landeskog’s status, Johnson expressed confidence, saying, “It’s a matter of ‘when, not if’ anymore. We’re excited for him to get back on the ice. I know he’s put in a lot of work, time, money, resources, everything. We’re pulling for him.”
This statement is the most encouraging public remark from anyone within the Avalanche organization. While head coach Jared Bednar has been cautious in his comments and Landeskog has refrained from setting specific return goals, Johnson’s words suggest that the team expects their captain to return during the 2025 playoffs.
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Landeskog, 32, underwent knee cartilage transplant surgery in 2023 and has not played since the Avalanche’s 2022 Cup victory. He has recently been practicing with the team and even joined the top power-play unit during non-contact drills. With the Avalanche clinching their eighth straight playoff berth, Landeskog could potentially join the lineup once he’s physically ready, as there are no salary cap restrictions during the postseason.
The captain remains under contract for four more seasons, following the eight-year, $56 million deal he signed in 2021, with a cap hit of $7 million.
