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.

Landeskog last played in an NHL game on June 26, 2022. Now, he's back with the Avalanche for their first-round series versus the Stars.