Some of the Colorado Avalanche core players were on the ice Monday morning, including Nathan MacKinnon and Gabriel Landeskog, who prepares for his first full season in more than three years.
Logan O’Connor had the ice to himself earlier in the morning. Reports suggest he is progressing faster than expected following his second hip surgery in as many seasons. O’Connor laced up the skates for the first time at the Colorado Avalanche practice facility in Centennial on Tuesday, and Mile High Hockey was
on hand.
An analysis of O’Connor’s recent on-ice session reveals that while he remains well short of game readiness, his return to the rink is nevertheless an encouraging sign. The session proceeded at roughly half the intensity of his typical skating pace, with a clear focus on edge work, angles, and transitions. However, his balance appeared compromised, especially when he attempted to skate backwards. Given these observations, it will likely be some time before O’Connor is in any condition to rejoin NHL competition. A conditioning assignment with the Colorado Eagles may prove a prudent step in his eventual return.
EJ Fights For His Career
Erik Johnson enters the upcoming season as an unrestricted free agent, and while he has remained active and committed in his offseason training, a return to the Avalanche appears unlikely. Colorado’s current roster includes a surplus of defensemen and a balanced complement of right-handed blue-liners, making Johnson the likely odd man out. It’s a reality he is almost certainly aware of—yet his demeanor on the ice suggests otherwise. Johnson skated with clear intent and determination, a testament to his enduring professionalism and competitive spirit. While a reunion may not be in the cards, his continued dedication underscores the loyalty and effort he has long brought to the organization. As he has often stated, he is willing to do whatever it takes for this team—and he continues to embody that mindset.
One of the biggest questions entering the offseason was whether Landeskog would be ready to go. Well, Landy answered that question pretty quickly, ripping two wristers that hit nothing but net. Even compared to the Landeskog that we saw during full team practice prior to the first round playoff series against Dallas last season, this version looked fresher and didn’t show any signs of rust. There shouldn’t be any issues there.
MacKinnon enjoyed an eventful offseason—representing his country at the World Championships, celebrating his marriage, spending time with longtime friend Sidney Crosby, and even enduring a playful encounter involving a giant lobster orchestrated by EJ at his wedding. But once MacKinnon returned to the ice, it was clear his focus had shifted fully back to business. Although he did get burned on a few defensive plays, MacKinnon responded with precision, dangles, and scintillating goals.
Also participating in the session was Jack Drury, who delivered a composed and solid showing. Newly acquired defenseman Brent Burns joined later in the skate, immediately chopping it up with Landeskog and MacKinnon before seamlessly transitioning into drills. Training camp is now just three weeks away.
