Avalanche captain drops powerful message ahead of first season opener in four years
Photo credit: NHL.com
It's been four long years since Gabriel Landeskog last suited up for a season opener, and the captain is eager and determined to finally play a full season with the Colorado Avalanche.
Landeskog has been out for four years due to multiple knee surgeries .
Gabriel Landeskog is ready for a full season with the Colorado Avalanche.
With the regular season just around the corner, Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog says he can feel the excitement building, according to Ryan Boulding of NHL.com.
"I was probably a little bit more tense and nervous the night before training camp, to be honest, [and] the first day at camp. But now, weeks into it, I feel good. I feel confident with where I'm at. Team feels great." -Landeskog
Landeskog caught everyone off guard last postseason by returning in Game 3 of the first-round series against the Dallas Stars, finishing with 4 points, 1 goal and 3 assists, over 5 games.
Heading into the season, it's unclear how many games Landeskog will play. With NHL players returning to the Olympics this year, the additional schedule and travel could take an even greater toll on his body.
"Now, as Landeskog enters new territory for the first time in years, there still may be some load management involved this season. It will mostly be based on how his body responds to his return to regular play." -Boulding
General manager Chris MacFarland provided some clarity on Landeskog's usage rate this season.
"We're going to glean information on how he does in back-to-backs or three-in-fours or four-in-sixes and his practice schedule. But we've got a pretty good grip on that, and I trust our staff and 'Landy' himself." -MacFarland
All in all, it's not just the Colorado Avalanche thrilled to have Landeskog back, the entire hockey world celebrated his return. Here's hoping he's back for good and at full strength.
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