DENVER – Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog netted his first NHL goal in nearly three years during the second period of Saturday night`s Game 4 matchup against the Dallas Stars.
The goal, a snap shot that found the back of the net, instantly brought the crowd to its feet. His teammates quickly congratulated him by the boards, and Nathan MacKinnon offered a hug on the bench. The tally, assisted by Brock Nelson, extended the Avalanche`s lead to 3-0.
This marked Landeskog`s first goal since June 20, 2022, scored against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the Stanley Cup Finals. He played a part in the Avalanche`s Cup victory just six days later.
The 32-year-old forward had missed three consecutive regular seasons due to a persistent right knee injury. His much-anticipated return came in Game 3, 1,032 days after his previous NHL appearance.
Landeskog`s knee issue originates from the 2020 “bubble” playoffs when teammate Cale Makar`s skate accidentally cut him above the knee during a game against Dallas. He later underwent a cartilage transplant on May 10, 2023, and remained on long-term injured reserve until his return.
