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Avalanche's Gabriel Landeskog Update Emerges on Tuesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Abhilasha Aditi | Last updated Jan 27, 2026 2:15 PM ET

Gabriel Landeskog’s potential return ahead of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics remains uncertain, but recent updates offer cautious optimism for both the Colorado Avalanche and Team Sweden.

After being sidelined since the early January game against the Florida Panthers with an upper-body injury, the Avalanche captain has begun skating again and increasing his workload in the gym. He is signaling gradual improvement even as the Olympic break approaches in early February.

Now, NHL insider Pierre LeBrun has reported that Landeskog was back on the ice in Toronto as he continues to work toward a return, with hopes of being ready to represent Sweden. The Avalanche recently defeated the Maple Leafs 4-1 in their road game.

Avs captain Gabriel Landeskog on the ice here in Toronto as he continues to work his way back from injury, hopefully in time for the Olympics for the Sweden captain. pic.twitter.com/6Nq6uCn16M
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) January 27, 2026

The Avalanche are close to securing an official playoff berth, with a 35-6-9 record as January approaches its end. Head coach Jared Bednar acknowledged that the timeline is tight, noting that Landeskog is progressing in his recovery while still dealing with soreness and limitations.

Bednar previously said Landeskog is eager to play in the Olympic tournament, though there is concern about rushing him back before full recovery.

“He really wants to play, and I really want him to go play,” Bednar said, adding that the team hopes he can represent Sweden again. With the men’s hockey tournament beginning Feb. 11, Landeskog faces a narrow window to regain full game readiness.

Asked Avs HC Jared Bednar for an update on Gabriel Landeskog two weeks away from Milan:
``Getting better. He’s doing more and more in the gym, he’s hitting the ice now, he’s still limited a little bit, he’s sore. Time will tell, but the goal would be for him to be able to go play…
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) January 25, 2026

Landeskog’s international track record explains why his Olympic availability matters. He earned a silver medal with Sweden at the 2014 Olympics, has won two World Championship gold medals, and has long been viewed as a leader at every level.

Now 33, the former second overall pick in the 2011 NHL Draft continues to contribute in a two-way role for Colorado. This season, he has seven goals and 15 assists for 22 points along with a plus-18 rating.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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