Valeri Nichushkin update: Avs GM provides significant update on Avalanche forward's return timeline

Valeri Nichushkin is close to returning to the Colorado Avalanche as announced by Avalanche GM Chris MacFarlan, who mentions, Nichushkin is expected to come back by late October and could start practicing with the team in November.

Nichushkin was suspended in May 2024 under the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program for violating his treatment plan. He was suspended for six months and is eligible to apply for reinstatement in November.

At the Colorado Avalanche season opening media availability, MacFarland said:

"Val's doing well, first and foremost. All the reports back from the league program (NHLPLA Assistance Program) doctors is nothing but positive. We're still working through the reintegration process. We'll to go a point where the player is travelling back to Denver this month. At some point in November he'll be joining practice."

Nichushkin scored 28 goals and earned 53 points in 54 regular season games. His return will bolster the Avalanche's offensive lineup as they push for a strong season.

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The Colorado Avalanche have made final adjustments to their roster

The Colorado Avalanche announced roster updates for the upcoming season. Five players were reassigned to the Colorado Eagles (AHL): Adam Scheel (G), T.J. Tynan (C), Nikolai Kovalenko (RW), Ondrej Pavel (C) and Ivan Ivan (C).

Several players are not on the active roster due to injuries or suspension. Gabriel Landeskog (LW), Artturi Lehkonen (LW) and Tucker Poolman (D) are injured. Valeri Nichushkin (RW) is suspended but may return to practice in November.

The opening night roster includes key players like Nathan MacKinnon (C), Mikko Rantanen (RW) and Cale Makar (D). New additions include Jonathan Drouin (LW) and Parker Kelly (C). Alexandar Georgiev (G) and Justus Annunen (G) will handle goaltending duties.

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Valeri Nichushkin earlier received support from the Avalanche coach and MacKinnon

According to Mile HighSticking in September, Colorado Avalanche coach Jared Bednar and Nathan MacKinnon have shown support for Valeri Nichushkin’s return. They said they would welcome him back with “open arms.”

However, Nichushkin may need time to get ready as he missed training camp. The Avalanche want him back because trading or releasing him would be risky as another team may sign him and he could perform well elsewhere. Instead, the Avalanche plan to ease him back into the lineup.

Despite salary cap challenges, keeping Nichushkin makes sense for the team. His scoring ability can help the Avalanche later in the season.