Gabriel Landeskog Makes History with Dual Honors: Mark Messier Leadership Award and Masterton Memorial Trophy

DENVER (AP) — Gabriel Landeskog, captain of the Colorado Avalanche, celebrated a remarkable achievement on Tuesday by being awarded both the Mark Messier Leadership Award and the Masterton Memorial Trophy. This 33-year-old Swedish forward has made history as the first player to receive both prestigious honors in a single season.

Landeskog's journey back to the ice has been arduous, particularly following a significant knee injury. The Masterton Trophy recognizes the player who best embodies perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to the sport of hockey. In contrast, the Messier Award honors a player who showcases exceptional leadership both on and off the ice throughout the regular season while also contributing to the community and promoting the game.

In a heartwarming moment, Landeskog celebrated his accomplishments alongside his wife and young children, who played a role in keeping his Masterton win a secret until it was revealed in an NHL video. His knee troubles originated from a skate blade incident during the 2020 playoffs, but he fought through these challenges and was instrumental in leading the Avalanche to a Stanley Cup victory in 2022.

However, that championship clincher marked the beginning of a lengthy absence from the game for Landeskog. After sitting out an entire season, he underwent cartilage replacement surgery on May 10, 2023. Making a triumphant return, he played in Game 3 of the playoffs against Dallas, marking his first NHL appearance in 1,032 days. During the recent season, he recorded 14 goals and 21 assists across 60 regular-season games, contributing to the Avalanche’s strong performance with a record of 45-7-8 when he was in the lineup.

Landeskog's contributions extended beyond the rink, as he remained actively engaged in community service, participating in events like the Kroenke Sports and Entertainment Charity Brunch and leading the team’s hospital visits. His recovery journey was chronicled in a six-part documentary series titled “A Clean Sheet.” The Masterton Trophy, awarded by the NHL Writers’ Association, has been presented since the 1967-68 season, while the Mark Messier Leadership Award was established in 2006-07.