Less than a year after suffering a knee injury that derailed his entire 2024-25 season, top star was back on the ice last week at Avalanche Development Camp. A second-round pick by Colorado in the 2021 NHL Draft, he had been preparing to make his full professional debut with the AHL’s Colorado Eagles when a scrimmage injury in October abruptly ended his season before it began.
Reflecting on his long road to recovery, he admitted the rehab process was filled with both physical and emotional challenges.
“It’s a humbling experience—going from being at an NHL camp to struggling just to walk,” he said. “Some days the knee feels better than others, but you have to keep pushing forward and get the most out of each day.”
Although he wasn’t able to play, Behrens remained close to the team during his rehab and credited that experience for helping him stay connected and motivated.
“Being with the Eagles all year, getting a look at the daily life of pro hockey, that was huge,” he said. “And I can’t thank the medical staff enough for helping me through it all.”
Near the end of the season, Behrens found himself rehabbing alongside another Avalanche player working his way back—Gabriel Landeskog. Watching Landeskog’s journey back to the ice gave Behrens a relatable and inspiring perspective.
“You could tell he really missed the game, and I felt the same way,” Behrens said. “Not knowing if you’ll get to play that season is hard, so seeing him return was amazing.”
At development camp, Behrens focused on getting back into the rhythm of practices and regaining confidence in his movements. As he looks ahead to the 2025-26 season, his top priority is staying healthy.
“When I’m feeling good physically, that’s when I play my best,” he said. “I’ve spent the past year doing everything I can to prepare, and I’m confident I’ll be ready to go for a full season come training camp.”