Colorado Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin has been suspended for at least six months without pay and placed in stage 3 of the league’s player assistance program before Game 4 of a second-round series with Dallas. The NHL and NHLPA made the announcement just before the game started, with Nichushkin being in this program for the second time this season. Stage 3 indicates that he has violated the terms of the program, leading to his suspension. The 29-year-old Russian forward, who leads the team with nine playoff goals this season, will miss the rest of the postseason and likely the first month of the next season.
Nichushkin had previously been absent for nearly two months earlier this season to receive care from the NHLPA/NHL Player Assistance Program for undisclosed issues. This absence followed missing the final five games of a playoff loss last season for personal reasons. He had also left a first-round playoff series against Seattle abruptly last spring, with the situation involving a crisis call at the Four Seasons Hotel in Seattle before Game 3. It was reported that officers found a heavily intoxicated woman at the hotel when they were checking on Nichushkin, leading to the involvement of medical personnel.
Nichushkin’s struggles have been part of a larger issue within the Avalanche organization. Defenseman Samuel Girard also entered the player assistance program during the regular season last year, citing anxiety, depression, and alcohol abuse. Girard returned in December after receiving treatment. Nichushkin’s history of leave from the team and personal issues have been concerning, but details have been sparse, with Nichushkin dodging questions about the situation before the season. The team is dealing with the absence of one of their top playoff performers as they try to advance in the postseason.
The situation with Nichushkin sheds light on the challenges faced by professional athletes, who often deal with personal issues behind the scenes while competing at a high level. The NHL and NHLPA have programs in place to support players dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues, but the stigma around seeking help remains a challenge. Nichushkin’s latest suspension and placement in stage 3 of the program indicate a serious violation of the terms, leading to his extended absence from the team and the game.
The Avalanche will have to adjust without Nichushkin’s contributions on the ice as they continue their playoff run, facing a tough series against Dallas. The team has had success despite these challenges, highlighting the resilience of the players and the support system in place within the organization. The hope is that Nichushkin can return to the team in a healthier state, both mentally and physically, after his time away from the game. The NHL community will continue to monitor his progress and offer support as he works through his personal struggles.
