Valeri Nichushkin shared pictures from vacation in Italy amid suspension from NHL (Image Credit: Valeri Nichushkin on Instagram)

In Photos: Valeri Nichushkin shares pictures from his vacation to Italy with NHL future still uncertain

Modified Jul 05, 2024 19:07 GMT

Valeri Nichushkin's future with the Colorado Avalanche is uncertain due to his suspension and rehab. In 2022, Nichushkin signed an 8-year contract with the Avalanche.

The deal was worth $49 million with an annual cap hit of $6,125,000. Nichushkin received a six-month suspension before Game 4 against the Dallas Stars in the playoffs.

Recently, there were talks of the Chicago Blackhawks considering a trade for him, but they decided against it. The Avalanche can trade him if he agrees due to his no-movement clause, but they currently show no interest.

Nichushkin, facing uncertainties with the Avalanche, is on vacation in Italy. He posted photos of the Mediterranean Sea and Italian architecture on Instagram.

Valeri is on vacation in Italy (Valeri Nichushkin on Instagram)

Colorado Avalanche postponed Valeri Nichushkin trade talks until November

NHL insider Chris Johnston said Colorado will support Nichushkin during his rehab. Nichushkin's in Stage 3 of the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program, so he can't play until at least mid-November. Despite his talent, his long contract and recent suspension could complicate any potential trade.

“And then you have Valeri Nichushkin, who is in stage three of the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program,” Johnston said (via Chris Johnston Show). ... "The Avalanche are telling teams right now, ‘we’re not trading him during this window.’ They’re hoping to help rehabilitate the player and the person.”

Avalanche management, including general manager Chris MacFarland, receives regular updates on Nichushkin's progress.

“I think Val is over in Russia, to our knowledge, doing his rehab work as part of the NHL program,” MacFarland said (via Colorado Hockey Now). “I’ll get periodic updates from Mark Gandler (His agent) or the league, as directed, or if they feel there’s something that we need to be kept in the loop on, but we assume he’s doing well at this juncture and that’s really all we know.”

During the playoffs, Nichushkin ranked sixth in goals despite playing fewer games. His absence for the first 16 games next season affects team plans. His potential return could significantly impact team dynamics. Nichushkin remains on the Avalanche roster, with his situation expected to change this summer.