Gabriel Landeskog of the Colorado Avalanche made a highly anticipated return to the ice after almost three years due to injury, participating in the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs. Despite the Avalanche's playoff exit, Landeskog's comeback was a silver lining for the team. The former second overall draft pick, who won the Calder Trophy as a rookie, contributed significantly to the Avalanche's success, including their 2022 Stanley Cup victory. With a cap hit of $7 million per year until 2029, his 248 goals and 323 assists in 738 games showcase his value.