The Colorado Avalanche might recover from injury setbacks soon. Last week, the Avalanche got some devastating news that forward Gavin Brindley is out with a lower-body injury. The former Michigan Wolverine took a nasty hit in the game against the New York Rangers in the second period. The Avalanche has ruled out Brindley week-to-week. Colorado may have two players that close to being ready to return. On Monday, we had some encouraging sights that fans could enjoy with the Thanksgiving break underway.

Gabriel Landeskog promoted

Captain Gabriel Landeskog has had some recent trouble getting going during the first quarter of the season. He had his first three goals overturned because of offsides and goaltender interference, but he finally tallied one against Anaheim on November 11. Head coach Jared Bednar had moved him down from the second to the third line hoping to motivate him and light a spark in him. So far, it has worked. Last game, Landeskog moved back to the second line and onto the first power-play unit. His net-front presence is something that the Avalanche have missed over the last three years, and they need something to get the power-play going. Landeskog held the spot in Tuesday’s practice, which is a good sign that he will remain there for Wednesday’s game.

Joel Kiviranta will be back

Tuesday was the second day that we got to see Joel Kiviranta take part in practice while wearing a normal sweater. The first day was optional, but was encouraging. On Tueday, Kiviranta skated in the full practice. He was part of both penalty-killing units. This was his normal role before the injury, so it is a good sign that he will be back soon. Bednar said on Tuesday that Kiviranta is ready and will return to the lineup.

No sign of Logan O’Connor

Eight days ago on November 17, we reported that Logan O’Connor had a setback that had nothing to do with his hip. Since then, we have not seen him on the ice. O’Connor also posted on Instagram that he and his wife had their first child as well. There has been no indication of when he might be back with the team.

The return of Kiviranta will have a big impact on the organization. He is one of the best penalty killers and loves to put pressure on the opposing team. Having the Finn back will also mean that the Colorado Eagles do not have to send a player up every game. The snowball effect has been massive as the Eagles have lost some of their best players during the injuries with Tristen Nielsen and Taylor Makar. This will help everyone in the long run.