The Colorado Avalanche are gearing up for training camp with some important matters to address. Avalanche coach Jared Bednar revealed that team captain Gabriel Landeskog and forward Artturi Lehkonen are dealing with injuries and their return dates are uncertain. Additionally, forward Val Nichushkin is suspended until mid-November due to circumstances that have kept him off the ice for the past two postseasons.

Nichushkin has been suspended without pay and placed in stage 3 of the league’s player assistance program. Bednar emphasized the need for the team to discuss expectations regarding effort, attitude, and commitment when Nichushkin returns. Despite Nichushkin’s challenges, Bednar expressed belief in his potential growth as a player and a teammate.

The Avalanche are currently awaiting further details from the league regarding when Nichushkin can rejoin team activities. Nichushkin left the team abruptly during the 2023 first-round playoff series against Seattle, causing him to miss the remaining games of the postseason.

While Landeskog strives to recover from a knee injury that has kept him sidelined for two seasons, the team remains patient and supportive of his progress. Similarly, Lehkonen is being given ample time to address his recovery from shoulder surgery before returning to the ice.

Amidst the challenges, the Avalanche are aiming to maintain a supportive and forgiving team environment, recognizing the importance of unity and understanding within the squad. The team is optimistic about the potential return of Landeskog and the gradual recovery of Lehkonen as they prepare for the upcoming season.