Avalanche’s Energy Up with Gabriel Landeskog on the Ice

It was lots of smiles and laughs on the ice Friday morning for the Colorado Avalanche ahead of its matchup with the Washington Capitals. And who was the loudest — the guy who isn’t even in the lineup, but remains a huge impact on the team.

Gabriel Landeskog skated with his team for a bit and even participated in a few drills before he exited. The captain is still rehabbing from his knee cartilage surgery in May 2023 but has recently rejoined the Avs on the ice after a months-long hiatus.

Landeskog’s energy was felt by his teammates and appreciated by his coach.

‘I Don’t Think it’s Anything Unexpected’: The Latest on Gabriel Landeskog

“It’s great to see him out there. I mean, usually, when he’s out there, you start wondering what it would be like to have him back,” head coach Jared Bednar said. “You know, we’re not quite there yet, but I think anytime he gets on with the guys, and he’s around the room more it helps.”

The 31-year-old skated well and took some shots where he could. His presence on the same day three key players returned added to the already uplifted mood around the team.

When I asked Bednar if Landeskog and the team’s heightened energy intensified the game even more, his response was “I hope it does. Can’t say for certain yet.”

The 6-foot-3 Swede had not been seen on the ice until this week for bit and there was speculation that he suffered a setback. Bednar clarified his situation.

“There’s ups and downs throughout the course of his rehab, especially now when he’s feeling better and getting closer to play,” Bednar said after an optional practice last week. “He’s pushing himself into different areas and sometimes he reacts well and moves on to the next thing and then the next thing might not feel great for him. I don’t think it’s anything unexpected.”