Colorado Avalanche captain Gabe Landeskog made history by becoming the first NHL player to return after undergoing knee cartilage replacement surgery, a process that sidelined him for over 1,000 days. He was honored with the 2026 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for his perseverance and dedication, as well as the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award. These accolades highlight not just his comeback but also his integral role in leading the Avalanche, particularly following their Stanley Cup win in 2022. Landeskog's journey is characterized by remarkable resilience, facing multiple injuries while posting impressive stats during his return season.

By the Numbers
  • Landeskog played in 60 regular-season games, his most since 2018-19.
  • He scored 14 goals and tallied 35 points, including six goals and 11 points in 13 playoff games.
State of Play
  • Landeskog's return marked a successful season, contributing to the Avalanche winning the Presidents’ Trophy.
  • Despite facing injuries, he played every game without missing time due to his knee.
What's Next

Looking ahead, Landeskog's future will involve maintaining his health while continuing to be a pivotal leader for the Avalanche. The team aims to build on their recent successes with Landeskog as a core player.

Bottom Line

Gabe Landeskog's story is a testament to overcoming adversity and redefining leadership in hockey. His achievements not only secure his legacy but also inspire future generations of players.