Some positive news on the front for a talented player.
On Monday, the National Hockey League announced Colorado Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin has been cleared by the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program to rejoin his team, and return to practice.
In a release, the league says Nichushkin has entered the follow-up care phase of the program, but has yet to be cleared to return to game action.
Nichushkin entered the program last month, marking the second time he has taken a leave of absence in the last year. The Russian native left the Avalanche during their playoff series against the Seattle Kraken last season.
When entering the program, Nichushkin released the following statement explaining his decision:
“I have made the decision to seek help and enter the player’s assistance program. My goal is to address my issues and prevent any negative outcomes once and for all. I want to thank my wife and family, my friends, the Avalanche organisation, and all of our fans for their understanding and support. I will do everything I can to get back on the ice and join my teammates as soon as possible.”
The Player’s Assistance Program was established to allow players to find help for a variety of issues, including alcohol and substance abuse, that they experience while playing in the NHL.
Before leaving the team, the 28-year-old was on pace for a career season. In 40 games, Nichushkin has scored 22 goals and 20 assists, well on track to surpass the 52-point mark that he hit during the 2021-22 season, the same season the Avs won their third Stanley Cup in franchise history.
Just two games away from hitting the 500 mark on his career, Nichushkin has scored 110 goals and 153 assists, adding 25 points in 64 playoff games.
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