Valeri Nichushkin, who is having a successful season, has been involved in a surprising move by the Avalanche.
The Colorado Avalanche has announced that their winger, Valeri Nichushkin, will be unavailable for an indefinite period.
Nichushkin has been instrumental in his team's recent success, playing a pivotal role in helping the Avalanche clinch the 2021-2022 Stanley Cup championship and achieving career-best stats. However, he was unable to participate in the game against the Florida Panthers due to illness.
According to NHL insider Chris Johnston, Valeri Nichushkin will be returning to the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program, a move that has left the Avalanche team and fans disappointed since they are currently in contention for the playoffs.
Valeri Nichushkin has entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program and will be away from the #avs for an indefinite period.� Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) January 15, 2024
The team has been performing exceptionally well, and Nichushkin has been a key contributor to their success this season, scoring 20 goals and 22 assists, resulting in a total of 42 points in 40 games.
Valeri Nichushkin (@Avalanche) to receive care from the Player Assistance Program of the @NHL and @NHLPA.
More details: https://t.co/LsohdeU6nb pic.twitter.com/8Z0Ri2NAyf� NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) January 15, 2024
The team is yet to release any information regarding the nature of Nichushkin's illness or the duration of his absence.
This is not the first time the Avalanche has had to deal with a player's absence due to personal issues, as Samuel Girard was the first player from the team to enter the assistance program this season, citing anxiety and alcohol abuse.
The NHLPA has not provided any further details regarding Nichushkin's current situation, leaving Avalanche fans wondering when their valuable winger will be back on the ice.
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