Avalanche Head Coach Breaks the Silence Regarding Their Captaincy

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Tom Banks
September 21, 2023 (10:43)

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The Colorado Avalanche have been one of the NHL's best teams over the past few years, and with many pointing to the success of Mikko Rantanen, Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, the leadership of Gabriel Landeskog often goes unnoticed.

A veteran leader

Landeskog has been a key piece of this Avalanche franchise for over a decade now, and after leading them to their third Stanley Cup in franchise history, it's become clear that he'll go down as one of the organization's greatest ever players.

In 738 games since being drafted No. 2 overall back in 2011, Landeskog has netted 248 goals and 591 points, but as a leader and a two-way players, there's very few players in the league better in their role.

A new captain?

However, Landeskog missed the 2022-23 season due to surgery on a knee injury suffered years ago, and it's been confirmed he'll miss the upcoming season too, so now, many have questioned whether the team need to add a new player into that role.

Head Coach Jared Bednar disagrees however, as the long-time captain will maintain his role, even without being on the ice, as the team have leaders without needing a 'C'.

Yeah I've thought about it, but I'm not going to do that.

- Bednar on naming a new captain

Ultimately, the team are set for leaders, and with Landeskog expected back in 2024-25, it makes sense for them to not name a new captain as they look to win their fourth Cup in franchise history in 2023-24.

As Read on Denver Sports - Landeskog will remain Avs captain even without playing