The Colorado Avalanche received a major boost on Sunday as the team activated star forward Artturi Lehkonen from injured reserve. The gritty winger had been sidelined since undergoing shoulder surgery in the offseason, but is now poised to make his much-anticipated return to the defending Stanley Cup champions’ lineup.
Lehkonen’s availability comes at a crucial juncture for the Avalanche, who are looking to maintain their position atop the highly competitive Central Division. The 29-year-old Finn played a pivotal role in Colorado’s championship run last season, notching 11 points in just 11 playoff games after being acquired at the trade deadline from the Montreal Canadiens.
A Proven Playoff Performer
Lehkonen’s clutch performance in the 2022 postseason was no fluke. The versatile forward has consistently elevated his game when the stakes are highest, dating back to his time in Montreal. In the Canadiens’ surprising run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2021, Lehkonen tallied 10 points in 16 playoff contests, including the series-clinching overtime winner against the Vegas Golden Knights in the semifinals.
He just does so many little things well. He’s always in the right spot, he battles hard, and he’s got that knack for scoring big goals. We’re definitely excited to have him back in the lineup.
– An Avalanche teammate speaking about Lehkonen’s impact
Depth and Versatility
One of Lehkonen’s greatest strengths is his ability to seamlessly slot in up and down the lineup. Whether playing on a checking line or riding shotgun with skilled playmakers, the determined winger finds ways to contribute with his relentless forechecking, responsible defensive play, and timely goal-scoring.
In 45 regular season games with the Avalanche last season, Lehkonen tallied an impressive 34 points while playing a variety of roles. His return adds yet another dangerous weapon to an already stacked Colorado forward group featuring the likes of Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen, Gabriel Landeskog, and Valeri Nichushkin.
The Road Ahead
As the Avalanche gear up for another grueling postseason run, Lehkonen’s return could not have come at a better time. His experience, grit, and clutch performance will be invaluable assets as the team looks to navigate the tightly contested Western Conference playoffs and defend their Stanley Cup title.
Getting a player of Artturi’s caliber back in the lineup is huge for us. He’s a proven winner who brings it every night. We’re a better team with him out there, no question.
– Comments from a member of the Avalanche coaching staff
With Lehkonen now back in the fold, the Colorado Avalanche appear poised to make another deep postseason run. As the regular season winds down, all eyes will be on the Mile High City to see if this talented group can once again hoist hockey’s ultimate prize.
The return of Artturi Lehkonen is not just a boost for the Avalanche, but a testament to the organization’s depth and resilience. As the playoffs approach, fans in Denver and around the hockey world will be eager to see if this determined group can etch their names in the history books once more, with their gritty Finnish forward leading the charge.
