The Colorado Avalanche have officially locked in the heart and soul of their franchise once again. After months of speculation and anxious anticipation from fans, the team has signed captain Gabriel Landeskog to a massive 4-year contract worth $129 million, securing the veteran left winger’s future in the Mile High City.
The deal, which averages out to $32.25 million per year, makes Landeskog one of the highest-paid players in NHL history—but for Avalanche faithful, it’s worth every penny.
“There’s no one like Gabe,” said Avalanche general manager Chris MacFarland. “He’s the emotional core of our locker room, a fierce competitor, and a leader who’s carried this team through every high and low.”
Landeskog’s new deal comes after an inspiring return to the ice earlier this year. The 32-year-old Swede had missed nearly two full seasons due to multiple knee surgeries, including a complex cartilage transplant in 2023 that cast doubt on whether he’d ever play again. But Landeskog, known for his unshakable grit and determination, defied expectations.
He made his comeback during the 2025 playoffs, skating with a physical edge and emotional intensity that re-energized the Avalanche lineup. Even in limited minutes, he managed to tally a pair of goals and an assist, drawing standing ovations every time he touched the puck.
Now, with his health restored and his leadership as important as ever, the Avalanche made a bold move to ensure Landeskog remains an integral part of their championship window.
“It’s not just about stats,” said head coach Jared Bednar. “What Gabe brings—intangibles like resilience, accountability, and unity—those things don’t show up on a scoresheet, but they win you playoff games.”
Since being drafted second overall by Colorado in 2011, Landeskog has become one of the franchise’s most iconic figures. He was named captain in 2012 at just 19 years old, making him the youngest captain in NHL history at the time. Over 13 seasons, he has tallied over 250 goals and 570 points, and played a pivotal role in Colorado’s 2022 Stanley Cup triumph.
The $129 million deal is a reflection not only of his past accomplishments but of the team’s belief in his future. Sources within the Avalanche front office confirm the contract includes both a full no-movement clause and performance-based incentives tied to games played and playoff milestones.
While some critics may raise eyebrows at the high price tag—especially for a player with recent injury history—those inside the organization are confident the investment is sound.
“People see a number like $129 million and think risk,” said Avalanche captain Nathan MacKinnon. “But we see reward. Gabe’s earned this, and he’s still got a lot left in the tank.”
Off the ice, Landeskog is just as vital. A fan favorite and frequent face in Denver community outreach, he’s become a beloved figure across Colorado. His charity work, especially with children’s hospitals and youth hockey programs, has only deepened his connection with the fan base.
For Landeskog, the feeling is mutual.
“Denver is home,” he said during the press conference announcing the deal. “This city, this team, these fans—they’ve stood by me through every setback. I’m beyond grateful to keep chasing another Cup right here.”
With the core of MacKinnon, Cale Makar, Mikko Rantanen, and now Landeskog locked in, the Avalanche are clearly doubling down on their quest for another championship. And if the captain’s comeback is any indication, the best may still be to come.
