DENVER — Valeri Nichushkin is set to rejoin the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday night, marking his return to the lineup for the first time in almost two months following a recovery from a lower-body injury.
The Russian forward aims to invigorate an Avalanche offense that has been struggling, recently scoring only two goals in consecutive losses after taking part in the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament.
Nichushkin will be in action against the New Jersey Devils, his first game since December 31.
Defenseman Cale Makar expressed the significance of Nichushkin’s return during a morning skate session, emphasizing the substantial boost he provides to the team, saying, “You can’t underestimate how much he means to this team. It will be a huge addition for us. Hopefully he’s back to Valeri form. He looks pretty good out there.”
Coach Jared Bednar confirmed that Nichushkin will have no limitations upon his return and will contribute on special teams.
The 29-year-old Nichushkin scored 11 goals and provided six assists in 21 games before his injury. He had missed the first 17 games of the season because of a suspension imposed last May and subsequent placement in Stage 3 of the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
Colorado holds an impressive record of 209-74-27 when Nichushkin is part of the lineup.
Forward Logan O’Connor praised Nichushkin’s capabilities, stating, “In regard to the power forwards, you can say he’s the best in the world. Just a big-body forward out there for us. … It’s going to be massive to have back in the lineup.”
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 210 pounds, Nichushkin’s presence is expected to enhance the team’s performance in scoring challenging goals near the net, an area where the Avalanche has occasionally faltered. This is a role previously filled by captain Gabriel Landeskog, who has been absent from the game due to a protracted knee injury since the Avalanche clinched the Stanley Cup in 2022.
Teammate Jonathan Drouin reiterated Nichushkin’s unique contributions by stating, “There are so many things he does with that frame of his. He’s a beast and we’re going to need him.”
