Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog was named the recipient of the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 [1].

The honor recognizes Landeskog's impact on his team and the league, marking a significant milestone for the Denver-based captain. By securing this award, Landeskog joins an elite group of players recognized for their ability to guide their teammates through the pressures of professional hockey.

The Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award is presented annually to the player who exemplifies great leadership qualities to his team, both on and off the ice [2]. The league said the honor was announced June 9, 2026 [1], designating Landeskog as the winner for the 2025-26 season [3].

In addition to the leadership award, Landeskog was also named the recipient of the Bill Masterton Trophy [4]. The Masterton Trophy is traditionally awarded to the player who has best exemplified the courage and perseverance of the game of hockey.

Landeskog has served as the captain of the Colorado Avalanche, where he has been a central figure in the franchise's culture. The dual recognition of the Messier and Masterton awards highlights a season defined by resilience, and a commitment to the collective success of the organization.

The NHL's decision to honor Landeskog reflects the league's valuation of captaincy that extends beyond statistical performance. The award serves as a testament to the influence a player can have in the locker room and within the community—factors that often define the trajectory of a professional sports team.

“Gabriel Landeskog was named the recipient of the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award”

Winning both the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award and the Bill Masterton Trophy in a single season is a rare achievement. This suggests that Landeskog's contribution to the Colorado Avalanche in 2025-26 was defined as much by his mental fortitude and character as by his on-ice play, cementing his legacy as a foundational leader in the NHL.