DENVER — Gabriel Landeskog's right knee feels “really good” two days after his first NHL game in nearly three seasons. No issues whatsoever. His thumbs may soon be a different story. The Colorado Avalanche captain vowed to respond to the more than 130 unread text messages from family, friends and fellow players congratulating him on his comeback.

The Avalanche captain had 13:16 of ice time without a shot on goal in his return. The 32-year-old hadn't played in the NHL since June 26, 2022, when the Avalanche defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning 2-1 in Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final to win the Stanley Cup.

The Colorado Avalanche are looking to get back in front in their first-round series against the Dallas Stars after letting a golden opportunity slip away in Game 2, allowing the Stars to come back and win it 4-3 in overtime to even the series at one apiece before heading to Denver.