Gabriel Landeskog, captain of the Colorado Avalanche, faces the possibility of missing a third consecutive regular season due to a persistent right knee injury that has sidelined him since June 2022. After undergoing a cartilage transplant in May 2023, he is currently on long-term injured reserve. Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland expresses concern over the duration of Landeskog's recovery, stating there is no definitive timeline for his return. While Landeskog occasionally participates in light skating, he hasn't practiced with the team, leaving his availability for the playoffs uncertain.

Landeskog, a significant player for the Avalanche, ranks among the franchise's top scorers and has been an integral part of the team's success, including their Stanley Cup victory. The Avalanche are hopeful for his return, especially with a $7 million salary cap exemption available while he is on LTIR, which could facilitate roster moves as the trade deadline approaches. MacFarland emphasizes the shared desire across the hockey community to see Landeskog back on the ice.