May 23, 2024 | 12:30pm ET
TheFourthPeriod.com

LANDESKOG FOCUSED ON RETURNING NEXT SEASON

Gabriel Landeskog, forward

Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog is not hanging up his skates, and while he does not have a definitely timeline as to when he will be back to return to game action, he’s aiming to get back on the ice at some point next season.

“Mid-September to the start of April,” Landeskog joked with reporters on Thursday when asked for a timeframe as to when he’ll be back.

The 31-year-old even contemplated returning during the playoffs, but ultimately decided now is not the right time.

“Laying the foundation and playing in an NHL playoff game is very different,” he said.

“Mentally, I felt pretty close at times. But I think the best decision was made to just focus on what I was doing (rehabbing his knee). As hard as it was and was much as I wanted to be out there, it as ultimately the best decision for my health and long-term for this organization, as well.

Landeskog indicated he hasn’t had any setbacks, thus far, and admitted “I just can’t wait to be back out there,” but he does have a plan and a program in place that will allow him to return.

Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland acknowledged the difficulties in trying to retool next season’s roster with an uncertain timeline as to when Landeskog and his $7 million cap hit will be back, but was quick to point out the team cannot replace a player of Landeskog’s calibre.

“Absolutely, it’s a cap challenge. It’s reality,” MacFarland said. “We’ll stay in touch with Gabe and pull for him.

“He’s earned the right to take as much time as it takes to get back on the ice.”