Colorado Avalanche RW Valeri Nichushkin Has Been Suspended Indefinitely After Testing Positive for a Banned Substance
Denver, CO – The NHL has placed Colorado Avalanche right wing Valeri Nichushkin on an indefinite suspension today, as the veteran forward tested positive for a banned substance, sources confirm via Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli .
Under the rules of the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program, Nichushkin has been moved into Stage 3, triggering a minimum six-month suspension without pay, after reportedly failing a drug test while already in the program
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This action removes Nichushkin from playoff contention and sidelines him at least through the end of the 2023–24 season—and likely into the start of the 2024–25 campaign. He will only be eligible to apply for reinstatement once the suspension concludes
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At 29 years old, Nichushkin made a major impact this postseason, racking up nine goals in eight games, including a hat‑trick in the first round—making his absence all the more significant for Colorado’s Stanley Cup push
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This isn’t the first time Nichushkin has been removed from the ice for personal issues. He abruptly left the team during the 2023 playoffs following an incident in a Seattle hotel involving an intoxicated woman. Although no criminal charges were filed, he entered Stage 1 of the Player Assistance Program then and missed the remainder of the series
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Avalanche teammates have publicly supported him, expressing hope for both his recovery and return to the lineup once he’s eligible again .
📰 What This Means
Nichushkin’s career pause: At minimum, six months off the ice with no salary; further absence possible if he enters Stage 4 of the program.
Avs’ depth tested: Colorado loses a key playoff scorer and must adjust strategy mid-series.
Player support system: The Player Assistance Program reflects the league’s approach to handling substance abuse—focusing on treatment but enforcing strict suspensions for violations.
Let me know if you’d like insight into how Stage 3 differs from other tiers in the Player Assistance Program, or how this may impact team dynamics in upcoming playoff games
