Avalanche Uncertain on Return Dates for Gabriel Landeskog and Artturi Lehkonen

As the Colorado Avalanche gear up for training camp, they face a number of challenges, including injuries and suspensions that need to be addressed. On the eve of camp, head coach Jared Bednar discussed the current roster situation, notably the absences of key players.

The team’s captain, Gabriel Landeskog, is dealing with a knee injury that has sidelined him for two consecutive seasons. It remains uncertain when he will be able to return to the ice. Similarly, forward Artturi Lehkonen is recovering from shoulder surgery, with no specific timeline for his recovery either.

Another notable absence is forward Val Nichushkin, who is serving a suspension that will last until mid-November. Bednar recognized the need to address Nichushkin’s situation with the team both now and when he is ready to return. The talented forward has faced challenges off the ice, leading to his absence during the last postseason and subsequently putting him in stage 3 of the league’s player assistance program.

This news was made public just before an important playoff game against the Dallas Stars on May 13, which saw the Avalanche on the brink of elimination in the second round.

Bednar emphasized the importance of communication within the team, stating, “Time heals all wounds.” He highlighted the necessity of discussing expectations regarding effort, attitude, and personal responsibility among teammates. He added that while Nichushkin has let the team down, personal circumstances complicate the issue.

“Val has kind of let us down in that regard the last couple years,” Bednar remarked, while also expressing confidence in Nichushkin’s dedication and potential to be a strong teammate. “He’s got some growing to do,” he noted, reflecting on the developmental journey of the player.

The Avalanche are currently awaiting updates from the league regarding when Nichushkin can begin training with the team. Notably, he left the team abruptly during a first-round playoff series against the Seattle Kraken, missing the final five games of that postseason. Despite these setbacks, Nichushkin remains under contract until the 2029-30 season after signing an eight-year, $49 million deal with the team in 2022.

Bednar expressed optimism for Nichushkin’s reintegration into the team, saying, “I’m sure Val is going to have some things he wants to say to the group.” He acknowledged that the team functions like a family, highlighting the importance of support and forgiveness as they navigate these challenges together.

As for Landeskog, Bednar is hopeful but keeps expectations realistic. The captain has not played since leading the Avalanche to victory in the Stanley Cup Final against Tampa Bay in 2022, where he helped secure the championship. The coach stated, “His timeline is when he says he’s ready to go,” emphasizing that Landeskog has been making progress but no set return date can be established.

This cautious approach reflects the team’s commitment to ensuring the health and readiness of its players. Bednar concluded with a similar sentiment regarding Lehkonen’s recovery. “We’re going to try and give him as much time as we possibly can,” he stated, indicating a focus on long-term player well-being.

As training camp approaches, the Avalanche’s ability to adapt to these challenges will be critical in their pursuit of success in the upcoming season.