Fans speechless after former Avalanche player drops stunning truth about Gabriel Landeskog's emotional return
Photo credit: Matthew Stockman / Mile High Sticking
Avalanche fans were left stunned after a former Colorado player Tyson Barrie opened up, revealing surprising and emotional insights into Gabriel Landeskog's highly anticipated return to the NHL.
Landeskog made his first season opener appearance in four years on Tuesday night, contributing strongly in a defensive forward role as the Colorado Avalanche secured a decisive victory over the Los Angeles Kings.
Tyson Barrie gets emotional talking about Gabriel Landeskog's heroic return.
Todd Matthews from Mile High Sticking writes that earlier that day, former teammate Tyson Barrie shared his perspective on Landeskog's return to the ice for the regular season during an appearance on The Sheet with Jeff Marek, alongside Greg Wyshynski.
"You just felt for him. You know, he was off. He was down. He wasn't himself, and then I got to see him this summer, and, (laughs) he's back. He's buzzing, he's having a good time. You could see it in his eyes, and he just looks like himself." -Barrie
Having played alongside Landeskog for eight seasons, Barrie has a unique perspective on just how valuable the captain is to the Avalanche.
While the two shared only one deep playoff run together, Landeskog's leadership and presence were pivotal in shaping the team that ultimately became Stanley Cup champions.
"And to say Landeskog deserved serious consideration for the Conn Smythe Trophy is an understatement. While the Smythe ultimately went to Cale Makar, Landeskog put up 22 points and 11 goals in 20 postseason games, garnered a plus-15 rating, and averaged 20:58 of ice time.
Fans may not see that version of Landeskog in 2025-26, but Barrie's quip about where Landeskog was and where he is now drives home the point that his passion and dedication to the Avs are still front and center." -Matthews
Fans may not see that version of Landeskog in 2025-26, but Barrie's quip about where Landeskog was and where he is now drives home the point that his passion and dedication to the Avs are still front and center." -Matthews
No matter what role Landeskog takes on, whether limited fourth-line minutes or something more prominent, he is expected to be the glue holding this championship-caliber Avalanche team together.
After spending three seasons working his way back, he isn't just here to fill a roster spot; he will make his presence felt throughout the 2025-26 season.
"In the 2025 playoffs, he showed he could still play at a high level, and you will see shades of that this year. But if the Avs need him to put up gritty play in every shift, that's what he will do. The rest of the team will look at Landeskog as an inspiration, and his presence puts a chip on their shoulder to win another Cup for their captain." -Matthews
Over the past three seasons, the Avalanche remained one of hockey's top teams and consistent contenders, but there was always something missing.
With Landeskog back on the ice for 2025-26, that void has been filled, and no one understands that better than Tyson Barrie.
Source:
Mile High Sticking
Former Avalanche player opens up on Gabriel Landeskog's return that hits different
Mile High Sticking
Former Avalanche player opens up on Gabriel Landeskog's return that hits different
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