Avalanche's Nichushkin Placed in Stage 3 of NHL/NHLPA Assistance Program

Colorado Avalanche winger Valeri Nichushkin has been placed in Stage 3 of the NHL/NHLPA Assistance Program, resulting in a six-month suspension without pay.

Avalanche's Nichushkin Placed in Stage 3 of NHL/NHLPA Assistance Program for Violating Terms

Denver, Colorado - The Colorado Avalanche have announced that winger Valeri Nichushkin has been placed in Stage 3 of the NHL/NHLPA Assistance Program following a violation of the program's terms. This development comes hours before the Avalanche's Game 4 matchup against the Dallas Stars in the Western Conference semifinals.

Nichushkin's placement in Stage 3 of the program marks the second time this season that he has entered the program. According to the joint statement released by the NHL and NHLPA, Nichushkin will be suspended without pay for a minimum of six months and will be eligible to apply for reinstatement after that period.

Earlier in the season, Nichushkin was out for nearly two months, receiving care from the program for undisclosed issues. His absence came after he missed the final five games of the Avalanche's playoff exit last season due to what the team cited as personal reasons.

During the Avalanche's playoff series against the Seattle Kraken last season, Nichushkin abruptly left the team for personal reasons. His departure occurred after officers were called to a crisis at a hotel prior to Game 3 of the series. A 28-year-old woman was reportedly found in an ambulance when police arrived, and medics were instructed to consult with an Avalanche team physician for further information.

A Seattle police report indicated that the Avalanche physician informed officers that team employees discovered the woman while checking on Nichushkin. The physician described the woman as heavily intoxicated and unable to leave the hotel on her own.

Prior to the start of the current season, Nichushkin downplayed the incident, stating that there was nothing noteworthy about it.

In the 54 games he played during the 2023-24 season, Nichushkin scored 28 goals and tallied 53 points. His absence from the Avalanche's lineup will be a significant blow, as he has been one of the team's top goal scorers throughout the playoffs.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Additional Details:

Nichushkin's suspension is retroactive to May 13, 2024.

The Avalanche will face the Dallas Stars in Game 4 of their Western Conference semifinals series without Nichushkin.

Nichushkin will be eligible to apply for reinstatement to the NHL on or after November 13, 2024.

The NHL/NHLPA Assistance Program is a confidential program that provides support and resources to players who are struggling with substance abuse, mental health issues, or other personal problems.

The program is jointly administered by the NHL and the NHLPA and is designed to help players get the help they need to overcome their challenges and return to the ice.