Gabriel Landeskog’s long-awaited NHL return remains questionable, according to Colorado Avalanche general manager Chris MacFarland. Speaking with The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun, MacFarland stated that the Avalanche captain’s recuperation is progressing but that there is no set schedule for his return because nothing has changed in his circumstances. “Nothing new materially, but I will say he’s continuing the process of skating and the rehab,” MacFarland reported. “I know it’s been a long time, and I’m sure everybody-us being first in that line-wants something sort of on the horizon, but it’s still where he’s not in practices.”He’s gone for some morning skates. He skates consistently and continues to grind.”
Landeskog was last spotted ice skating on January 16, as photographed by Jesse Montano of Guerilla Sports.
Landeskog, 32, has not played since the Avalanche won the Stanley Cup in June 2022, due to complications from a knee injury that necessitated cartilage transplant surgery in May 2023. On January 18, 2024, MacFarland told Frank Seravalli on “Frankly Speaking” that Landeskog was supposed to be out for 12-16 months, but the captain’s absence had now lasted more than 20 months since his last game. When asked about Landeskog on January 16, head coach Jared Bednar reiterated MacFarland’s cautious optimism.
“I sure hope (he becomes a full participant this season),” remarked Bednar. “I don’t have extensive discussions with Gabe on a daily, or even weekly, basis because it’s been a while. But he’s in excellent spirits, and I believe he’s making improvement. “That’s all I can say.” MacFarland stated that the team does not yet have a return timeline, let alone a definite date for Landeskog’s return, or that he is expected to return at some point over the remainder of the season. “We do not,” MacFarland replied about such a timeline. “Not at this time.” He needs to get into regular practice and contact. “He must be able to defend himself and move appropriately.”Right now, everything is under control.
Hockey is anything but that. He will need to be able to test and figure out certain things. With Landeskog and his $8.9 million salary hit placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR), the organization now has the cap space to make additional roster adjustments, likely pursuing a second-line center. According to PuckPedia, the Avs have just under $4 million in salary space, and with Friday’s blockbuster trade of Mikko Rantanen, it would be logical for Colorado to look for a replacement.
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