Nichushkin back in the player support program, suspended for six months

The Colorado Avalanche will get a key player back in the lineup for Game 4, but will lose an even bigger player in Valeri Nichushkin.

Nichushkin, who leads the Avalanche and is tied for the NHL lead with nine goals scored in the playoffs, will miss Game Four and beyond. I learned this morning that this could be a possibility, but it’s even bigger than what I had heard.

Here is the release from the NHL…

“The National Hockey League and the National Hockey League Players’ Association announced this forward today Valery Nichushkin of the Colorado avalanche has been placed in Level 3 of the NHLPA and NHL’s Player Assistance Program.

Under the terms of the joint program, Nichushkin will be suspended without pay for at least six months and may then apply for reinstatement.”

Yes, you read that correctly. Six months. This is a very big deal. Not only does this impact the current series, but it also has a massive impact on next year. A six-month suspension sets him free until November, and one has to imagine the Avalanche will explore other options.

The 29-year-old winger missed time earlier this season while joining the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. Of course, everyone remembers why he missed time in the postseason last year, and his absence was a big reason the Avalanche couldn’t get past the Seattle Kraken.

This news comes just hours before Colorado plays its crucial fourth game against the Dallas Stars. We have more time to discuss this and will update everyone soon when more information becomes available, but for now the Avalanche will have to find their act without one of their top players. I hope Val can get the help he needs in the future.