Mikko Rantanen shares his thoughts on Gabriel Landeskog's return for Game 3 in Avalanche-Stars series

In an emotional on-ice reunion, Gabriel Landeskog finally donned the Colorado Avalanche jersey again on Wednesday night, marking his first appearance in nearly three years. The long-awaited comeback came in Game 3 of the Western Conference First Round against the Dallas Stars, a closely contested game that ended in a 2-1 overtime loss for Colorado.

Landeskog’s return is the culmination of a grueling journey, plagued by persistent right knee issues that required multiple surgeries—including a cartilage transplant on May 10, 2023—and numerous rehabilitation setbacks. His arduous path has been chronicled in the documentary series A Clean Sheet, which offers an intimate look at the physical and emotional toll of his recovery.

“Now it’s kind of go time,” Landeskog told Altitude Sports before the game, revealing a mix of nerves and anticipation surrounding his return. His last NHL appearance had come on June 26, 2022, in Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final, when Colorado defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning to capture the championship. In his return to the lineup, Landeskog logged 13:16 of ice time, though he did not register a shot on goal.

Rantanen commends Landeskog’s grit

Among those celebrating Landeskog’s comeback was former teammate Mikko Rantanen, now with the Dallas Stars. “It’s great. As a friend, I’m very happy for him,” Rantanen said.

Mikko Rantanen #96 of the Dallas Stars skates with the puck against Logan O’Connor #25 of the Colorado Avalanche during the third period in Game Three of the First Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Ball Arena on April 23, 2025 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

He added: “I was happy to see him play a couple games in the AHL. Well deserved, because the journey he’s been through—I don’t think anybody else in hockey has gone through what he’s gone through. It’s remarkable he’s coming back.“ Rantanen’s comments reflect the deep admiration shared across the league for Landeskog’s perseverance and leadership, qualities that have long defined his tenure as captain.

Landeskog: Looking ahead

Landeskog’s return provides both a symbolic and tactical boost for the Avalanche as they continue their playoff battle against Stars. Beyond the box score, his presence is a powerful testament to tenacity, commitment, and love for the game—an inspiration for teammates, fans, and the broader hockey community.