Gabriel Landeskog a frontrunner for Masterton Trophy in 2024-25

When Gabriel Landeskog and the Colorado Avalanche ended their 2022 postseason run, they sat on top of the hockey world. But as Landeskog hoisted the Cup, no one could have envisioned the Avs would be missing their captain for the next two seasons.

At the time, very few were in the know about how serious Landeskog’s knee injury really was. He had been through multiple knee surgeries before, but nothing quite like the cartilage transplant procedure he would undergo in 2023.

All told, the Avs’ captain has been away from the ice for two full seasons. In the meantime, the Colorado Avalanche have continued playing like one of the league’s best teams. However, Landeskog’s leadership and guidance have been sorely missed.

Fast-forward to 2024, Landeskog has stated he wants to hit the ice this upcoming season. NHL.com quoted Landeskog’s humorous comments regarding the timeline for his return:

“Between mid-September and start of April.”

That’s quite a wide timeline. But jokes aside, Gabriel Landeskog is serious about coming back. How effective he may be, that’s another matter for another day.

Just the fact that he’s coming back from what has been labeled as a career-ending injury, should be cause for admiration. We’ve seen other athletes stubbornly keep playing despite their bodies not responding.

Nevertheless, there’s a point where professional athletes need to prove to themselves, that they’re done for good. That’s where Landeskog stands at his point. If he can come back, he’ll be lauded for his efforts. Otherwise, he’ll be praised for his hard work and determination.

Gabriel Landeskog an Early Frontrunner for the Masterton Trophy

The Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy honors NHLers who “best exemplify the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey.”

In general, the Masterton Trophy is given to those players who come back from significant setbacks. These setbacks include devastating injuries, personal tragedy, or overcoming extenuating circumstances.

For instance, Mario Lemieux received the award after fighting off Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Former New Jersey Devils blueliner Ken Daneyko won the Masterton after overcoming alcoholism. Then, there was Bryan Berard who returned to the ice after losing sight in one eye following an on-ice accident.

These players are among the many examples of players who have battled through various types of injuries and adversity. As such, Gabriel Landeskog could capture the award if and when he hits the ice for the Avalanche again.

Gabriel Landeskog’s story is one of dedication to hockey. Even if he doesn’t hit the ice ever again, he will be remembered as one of the hardest-working players in NHL history. He can hopefully put on the Avalanche jersey again this season and help the club go on another deep postseason run.