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Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog could return in 2023-24 playoffs

By Graham Tiedtke

May 3, 2022; Denver, Colorado, USA; Colorado Avalanche left wing Gabriel Landeskog (92) during the third period of game one against the Nashville Predators of the first round of the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
May 3, 2022; Denver, Colorado, USA; Colorado Avalanche left wing Gabriel Landeskog (92) during the third period of game one against the Nashville Predators of the first round of the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Colorado Avalanche were without star captain Gabriel Landeskog for the entire 2022-23 season due to an injury to his knee.

There is some hope that Landeskog could return sooner than expected. While Landeskog will miss the entire 2023-24 regular season, General Manager Chris MacFarland hinted at the possibility that Landeskog could return as soon as the 2023-24 playoffs. That’s if—and I’d bet it’s a small if—the Avalanche even make it to the postseason.

"“We’re hoping,” MacFarland said. “There’s still so much that needs to be gleaned in this so it’s hard to put a timeline on it.”– Colorado Avalanche General Manager Chris MacFarland on captain Gabriel Landeskog’s possible return."

Personally, I do not see them having as much trouble getting to the postseason in 2023-24. I think that their returning players such as Nathan MacKinnon, Valeri Nichushkin, and Cale Makar are going to have a tremendous year. If all three of them stay healthy, it should be pretty easy for the Colorado Avalanche to get back to their postseason form.

While Landeskog is out, the Avalanche are able to use his money elsewhere. That money he is owed does not count against the salary cap.

In terms of Landeskog’s return, it remains to be seen when he will hit the ice again but it would make sense to keep all expectations of his return at a minimum. You’re talking about a guy who will have missed two entire seasons coming back from a serious injury like he did. Landeskog hasn’t even taken hits and won’t be taking hits for quite some time. It would be very shocking if the Colorado Avalanche have him ready to go and in shape to endure that type of physicality that comes with playing in the playoffs. Will he be ready for the hits? It doesn’t seem likely.

Is it impossible? No, but it just seems like a dream scenario and wishful thinking.

The Avalanche made a couple of roster moves this offseason that could make up for the loss of Landeskog as well as some other players, those of which left in free agency.

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