Gabe Landeskog's recent return to the Colorado Avalanche's locker room marks a significant milestone in his recovery journey. The captain participated in practice for the first time since the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, engaging in non-contact drills. Though he jested about playing in Toronto, his presence is a hopeful sign as he continues to recover from knee surgery. Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar noted Landeskog's positive spirits and progress, despite the non-linear path of rehabilitation.

Landeskog has faced a long road back, with setbacks including a torn patella tendon. As the team prepares for Saturday's game in Montreal, it will be nearly 1,000 days since he last played. Despite recent statements suggesting he might miss the regular season, Landeskog remains optimistic about returning for the 2025 playoffs. The Avalanche’s management and coaching staff continue to support his journey, with Bednar highlighting the invaluable energy Landeskog brings to the ice.

Sam Malinski makes his return to the Colorado Avalanche lineup after being a healthy scratch for three games, just in time for a crucial Central Division matchup against the Winnipeg Jets. Head coach Jared Bednar emphasized the importance of Malinski contributing both offensively and defensively in a 200-foot game. Malinski, who previously earned his spot due to a strong training camp, struggled recently and had a minimal impact in a game against the New York Rangers, leading to his exit from the lineup.

Malinski acknowledges the frustration of being scratched but views it as a developmental process, expressing confidence in his ability to find his game again. The Avalanche's deep defensive corps makes Malinski a critical asset, especially as he can create offense in a third-pairing role. Bednar's comments highlight the need for offensive support in games where top lines do not dominate, particularly against a defensively strong team like the Jets.

As the trade deadline approaches, Malinski's performance in upcoming games is vital for securing his role with the Avalanche. His resilience in overcoming this adversity will be closely watched by both the coaching staff and teammates, as they believe in his potential to contribute significantly to the team's success.

Cale Makar, the dynamic defenseman for the Colorado Avalanche, recently reached the landmark of 100 career goals in just 362 NHL games, becoming the fifth-fastest defenseman to reach this milestone since the 1943-44 season. Makar downplayed his achievement, focusing instead on the team's success. Teammate Mikko Rantanen emphasized Makar's exceptional talent, labeling him as one of the greatest defensemen in history.

This season, Makar leads all defensemen in points, boasting 15 goals and 37 assists, averaging 1.07 points per game. His coach, Jared Bednar, and fellow defenseman Keaton Middleton both praised Makar's unique skills and contributions on the ice. Makar's versatility and work ethic continue to shine, making him a pivotal player for the Avalanche as they aim for further success.

Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche reached a significant milestone by scoring his 100th career goal in just 362 NHL games, making him the fifth-fastest defenseman in history to achieve this feat. The only defensemen faster than Makar were Hall of Famers Bobby Orr, Paul Coffey, Ray Bourque, and Denis Potvin. Despite his achievement, Makar remains humble and downplays the importance of milestones, viewing them as just part of the journey.

His teammates and coach Jared Bednar, however, have no qualms about praising Makar, calling him one of the best defensemen ever. Makar currently leads all defensemen in points this season and is averaging over a point per game in his career. His unique blend of skill, skating, and intelligence has made him a key player on the Avalanche.

Mackenzie Blackwood has emerged as a top-tier goaltender in the NHL, demonstrating remarkable consistency and resilience after overcoming injury challenges early in his career. His recent performances have drawn attention, particularly during a pivotal overtime victory for the Colorado Avalanche against the New York Rangers, where he was praised by his coach for being the standout player on the ice.

Since joining the Avalanche, Blackwood has maintained an impressive streak, allowing two or fewer goals in all 12 of his starts, significantly stabilizing the goaltending situation for a team that had struggled earlier in the season. His mindset has shifted to prioritizing positioning over athleticism, which has led to his current success.