Colorado captain Gabriel Landeskog will soon make his NHL plans public

Gabriel Landeskog, the captain of the Colorado Avalanche, is at a pivotal crossroads as he prepares to address his future with the team, having been sidelined by a relentless injury for the past two years.

Since helping drive the Avalanche to a Stanley Cup victory in 2022, Landeskog has not stepped onto the ice for a game, a disheartening reality for both the player and his fans. Despite repeated hopes of a comeback each season, he has been continuously ruled out, leading to mounting speculation about his career's longevity. His decision to engage with the media about his future has ignited discussions across the hockey community, with many bracing for the possibility of his retirement.

Landeskog's struggle with the same injury since 2020, undergoing multiple surgeries, underscores the severity of his condition. Recurring injuries in the same area not only challenge a player's ability to perform but can also threaten their career's viability. This pattern has led to disappointing seasons for the Avalanche, who have keenly felt the absence of their leader.

At 31 years old, Landeskog still has significant time left on his contract, with five years remaining at a 7M AAV. His contract, currently placed on Long-Term Injured Reserve (LTIR), poses a significant financial challenge for the Avalanche, who are already navigating a tight budget.

The upcoming announcement carries weight for more than just Landeskog and the Avalanche; it holds implications for the entire NHL community. Fans and players alike are hopeful for a positive update that could see this admired captain lace up his skates once again. However, the harsh reality of professional sports is that injuries can abruptly curtail even the most promising careers. As the hockey world watches, the hope is that Landeskog's next steps, whatever they may be, honor his contributions and dedication to the sport he loves so dearly.