Valeri Nichushkin (Image Credits: Imagn)

Why Did Avalanche’s Valeri Nichushkin Miss The Game Against Capitals?

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Swati Bhatia | Last updated Jan 20, 2026 10:14 AM ET

The Colorado Avalanche took the ice on Monday against the Washington Capitals with several regular starters missing from the lineup. However, one name stood out as a surprise. Forward Valeri Nichushkin was not in the lineup before puck drop.

Nichushkin’s absence immediately raised questions. The 30-year-old has already dealt with injuries this season and has been playing a key role when available. The lack of detail before the game only added to the uncertainty around his status.

After the Avalanche closed out a 5-2 win at Ball Arena, head coach Jared Bednar addressed the situation and revealed the real reason behind Nichushkin missing the game.

Valeri Nichushkin Misses Game vs Capitals After Car Accident

Valeri Nichushkin (Image Credits: Imagn)

Bednar confirmed that Nichushkin was involved in a multi-car accident while traveling to Ball Arena ahead of the afternoon game. According to the coach, icy road conditions following an overnight snowfall contributed to a collision involving multiple vehicles. While no serious injuries were disclosed, Nichushkin was ultimately ruled unfit to play.

“Just not good enough to play tonight. We’ll see what tomorrow brings for him,” Bednar said after the game. He added that the decision was made out of caution and that the team will monitor Nichushkin’s condition ahead of their next outing on Wednesday.

Valeri Nichushkin was in a car accident on the way to the game and that's why he missed. He was checked out at the arena and they determined he wasn't good enough to play, but they'll check him out again tomorrow.

Sustained minor injuries.
— Evan Rawal (@evanrawal) January 20, 2026

Notably, this is not the first time the forward has missed a game. He has missed eight games earlier this year due to a lower-body injury. Despite that, he has still managed to contribute offensively, recording 11 goals and 16 assists so far this season.

With Nichushkin unavailable, the Avalanche quickly adjusted. The team called up forward Alex Barre-Boulet from the AHL to help fill the gap in the lineup.

On the ice, Colorado delivered a strong response. Nathan MacKinnon scored two goals and added an assist to reach 1,100 NHL points. Victor Olofsson finished with a goal and an assist, while Parker Kelly and Artturi Lehkonen also found the net. Martin Necas chipped in with two assists, and goaltender Scott Wedgewood made 22 saves.

The win snapped a brief skid for Colorado, improving their record to 34-5-8. They will next face the Anaheim Ducks.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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