Valeri Nichushkin, a forward for the Colorado Avalanche, has been suspended for six months without pay, according to a recent announcement. This decision comes just before the Avalanche’s Game 4 matchup against the Dallas Stars on May 13. Nichushkin, who signed an eight-year, $49 million contract with the team in July 2022, will be sidelined without pay for the next six months. He still has six years remaining on his contract, which pays him $6.125 million annually.
The NHL and the NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) revealed that Nichushkin has been placed in Stage 3 of their Player Assistance Program. As per the program’s guidelines, Nichushkin’s suspension will last a minimum of six months, after which he may apply for reinstatement.
NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported that Nichushkin’s suspension is due to a failed drug test. Seravalli’s sources indicated that this recent drug test failure was a key factor in the disciplinary action.
This is not the first time Nichushkin has missed playoff games. Last year, during the Avalanche’s series against the Seattle Kraken, he was absent after a police incident involving a “highly intoxicated” woman found in his room. Although no charges were filed, Nichushkin missed the remainder of the series due to “personal reasons.” The specifics of the incident were never fully disclosed, and Nichushkin has since declined to elaborate on it.
During the 2023-24 regular season, Nichushkin had a notable performance with 28 goals and 25 assists in 58 games. Despite his efforts, the Avalanche are currently trailing 2-1 in their first-round playoff series against the Dallas Stars. They lost Game 3 at home, and head coach Jared Bednar criticized the team for missed opportunities and mistakes that allowed Dallas to capitalize. Bednar emphasized the need to increase pressure on Dallas’ goalie, Jake Oettinger, and correct errors to avoid further setbacks.
Game 4 is scheduled for May 13, where the Avalanche will aim to level the series. Game 5 will take place in Dallas on May 15.