Colorado Avalanche star Valeri Nichushkin has been making headlines during the NHL postseason, but not for the reasons he would have hoped. The Russian forward player was suspended just moments before the team was set to face off against the Dallas Stars in the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Nichushkin, known for his impressive goal-scoring abilities, celebrated his first career hat trick earlier in the playoffs. However, his journey was abruptly halted when news broke of his suspension by the NHL and National Hockey League Players’ Association.
The team was stunned by the announcement, as Nichushkin was a key player tied for most goals scored during the playoffs. His absence was sorely felt during the Avalanche’s losing effort in game four of their second-round series against the Stars.
The suspension stems from Nichushkin failing a drug test, leading to his placement in stage three of the league player’s assistance program. As a result, he will be suspended for at least six months without pay, meaning he will miss the remainder of the postseason and possibly the start of the next season.
Nichushkin, who married his wife Svetlana Lyuk in 2018, has had a successful career in the NHL. He was drafted by the Dallas Stars in 2013 and later signed with CSKA Moscow before returning to the Stars in 2018. Since then, he has been a valuable player for the Colorado Avalanche, helping them win the Stanley Cup championship in 2022.
While the news of his suspension is disappointing for the Avalanche and their fans, it remains to be seen how this setback will impact Nichushkin’s future in the NHL.
