The Colorado Avalanche’s preseason games may not impact the standings, but for Gabriel Landeskog, they carried tremendous meaning. After enduring multiple surgeries and nearly two full seasons away from the ice, the captain finally returned to action in Colorado’s exhibition slate—capping his comeback with a heartfelt message to Avalanche Nation.
Landeskog’s absence has been one of the biggest storylines in Denver hockey. The beloved captain sat out both the 2023–24 and 2024–25 campaigns because of serious knee issues, sparking doubts about whether he would ever play again. Yet, through relentless rehab, grueling training, and sheer determination, he pulled on the burgundy and blue once more this September.
Each time Landeskog stepped onto the ice during preseason, the crowd erupted. The games may have been tune-ups, but for Avs fans, every shift carried the weight and energy of a playoff moment.
Following Colorado’s final preseason matchup, Landeskog shared his emotions with fans online. In a touching post, he thanked them for their patience, unwavering support, and encouragement through the most difficult chapter of his career.
“I can’t put into words how much your love and support has meant to me over these last two years,” Landeskog wrote. “Hearing you cheer again when I stepped on the ice is something I’ll never forget. You’ve kept me motivated, and I’m proud to be back in this sweater, ready to fight alongside my teammates.”
He also delivered a rallying message, declaring that the Avalanche are hungrier than ever to chase another Stanley Cup.
The fan response was emotional and electric:
@AvsFaithful: “Chills. Absolute chills seeing Landy skate out of the tunnel again. Welcome home, Captain. ❤️ #GoAvsGo”
@HockeyMom303: “I cried in my seat. Didn’t even care who saw. Landeskog is the heart of this team and of this city.”
@StanleyCupDreamin: “The cheers were louder than some playoff games. Landy back = Avalanche complete.”
@NHLWestWatcher: “If you’re not an Avs fan but saw that crowd reaction, you still felt it. What a moment.”
@AvsKidsClub: “Our kids have only known Landy as their favorite player. Tonight was special. Thank you, Captain.”
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While his ice time will likely be managed carefully by coach Jared Bednar, Landeskog’s return is about more than goals and assists. His leadership and presence in the locker room could be the deciding factor for the Avalanche in 2025–26.
After two years of adapting without him, Colorado suddenly looks more complete. With Landeskog joining a core that already includes Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Martin Nečas, the Avs enter the new season loaded with talent and momentum.
The regular season begins with sky-high expectations, and Landeskog’s comeback only strengthens the belief that Colorado is once again primed for a Stanley Cup run.
For Landeskog, his message was more than a thank-you—it was a reminder of the powerful bond between captain and city, one that no injury could break.
Avalanche fans waited patiently for this moment. Now, with their captain back on the ice, the wait is finally over.