Avalanche fans brace for disaster as key player faces possible setback
Photo credit: AP Photo / Julio Cortez
The Colorado Avalanche enter this season as clear contenders to lift the Stanley Cup, however with a clear lack of depth, an injury setback to any of their top 6 forwards could jeopardize all of that.
The clear candidate to be on the LTIR is star forward and captain Gabriel Landeskog.
Colorado's fate synonymous with health of Landeskog.
Nestor Quixtan of Mile High Sticking reports the Avalanche are well on their way to have a successful season. With an impressive top 6 forward core, 4 solid defensemen, and more than capable starting goaltender everything seems to be shaping up for a solid contender.
But this can all change if Landeskog can no longer handle the wear and tear of an 82 game schedule.
"That enviable core looks like it's ready to lead the Avalanche back to the Stanley Cup Final. But one player stands out as the most important in the group: Captain Gabriel Landeskog. Landeskog made a triumphant return to NHL ice last spring. He suited up for the Avs during the Stanley Cup playoffs and didn't look out of place. It looked like he hadn't missed a day after spending nearly three years on the shelf with a knee injury." -Quixtan
While as exciting it was for his return, he has not played enough games to convince any of us he can withstand the severity of this sport anymore.
"As long as Landeskog does not miss extended periods, the Avalanche will be fine. But what if Landeskog's knees give up on him? What if it turns out his body can't handle the grind? If the Avalanche lose Landeskog for an extended period, that could become a major problem. Again, if it's just a matter of rest, it won't be a big deal. But if Landeskog heads back to LTIR, the Avs could have a major issue on their hands." -Quixtan
This begs the question, do the Avs need to go look for another top six winger? With the uncertainty surrounding Landeskog's health, and the bottom six looking quite lacklustre, the Avs season is as fragile as Landeskog's knee.
Everyone is excited to see a full season for the captain but if that does not become a reality the head office needs a backup plan.
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