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. This marks the second time this season that Nichushkin has been in the program. Stage 3 suggests that he violated the program’s terms. As a result, the 29-year-old Russian forward will be out for the remainder of the postseason and the first month of next season at the very minimum. Nichushkin leads the team with nine playoff goals this season and his absence will surely be felt by the Avalanche.
Earlier this season, Nichushkin was absent for nearly two months in order to receive care from the NHLPA/NHL Player Assistance Program for undisclosed issues. He had missed the final five games of a playoff loss last season for personal reasons as well. This marked the second time an Avalanche player has entered the program during the regular season, with defenseman Samuel Girard having done so previously due to anxiety, depression, and alcohol abuse. Girard returned in mid-December, but Nichushkin’s situation seems more complicated and has led to his suspension now.
During a first-round playoff series last spring against Seattle, Nichushkin suddenly left the team citing personal reasons. This happened after officers responded to a crisis call at the Four Seasons Hotel in Seattle. A 28-year-old woman was found to be heavily intoxicated, too much so to have left the hotel via a ride share or cab service. The Avalanche physician on-site requested EMS assistance, leading to questions about the nature of the incident. Nichushkin refused to provide details at the time, merely saying that it was not something interesting and should be closed.
Nichushkin’s suspension leaves a significant void in the Colorado Avalanche lineup, as he has been a key contributor with nine playoff goals this season. The team will have to navigate the remainder of the playoffs without his presence on the ice, which will surely impact their performance. The nature of his violation of the league’s player assistance program remains undisclosed, leaving many with questions about what led to this suspension. With a lack of clarity surrounding the situation, it raises concerns about his well-being and what steps will be taken to support him during this difficult time.
The National Hockey League and National Hockey League Players’ Association announced Nichushkin’s suspension just before Game 4 against Dallas, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. Being placed in stage 3 of the player assistance program signifies a significant breach of the program’s regulations, indicating a need for more intensive care and support. The absence of Nichushkin will undoubtedly impact the Avalanche’s playoff run, as he has been a key player for them throughout the season. The focus now shifts to providing him with the necessary support and resources to ensure his well-being and recovery moving forward.
The incident involving Nichushkin and the subsequent suspension shine a spotlight on the mental health challenges that professional athletes face. The stigma surrounding mental health in sports, particularly in high-profile leagues like the NHL, remains an issue that needs to be addressed. Players like Nichushkin and Girard coming forward to seek help and support set a positive example for others who may be struggling. It is crucial for teams and leagues to prioritize the mental health and well-being of their players, providing them with the resources and support they need to navigate difficult times. The situation with Nichushkin serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues openly and providing a safe space for athletes to seek help when needed.
