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Valeri Nichushkin gets called out by his veteran Avalanche teammate


Samer Dagher
May 14, 2024  (11:08)
Colorado Avalanche defenseman Jack Johnson and forward Valeri Nichushkin
Photo credit: HabsLNH

A major controversy hit the Colorado Avalanche as Valeri Nichushkin, one of their top players during the playoffs, was suspended for six months by the NHL. He violated terms of the Player Assistance Program by failing a drug test during an intermission.

According to reports, Nichushkin recently failed a substance test. This isn't his first incident, as he missed playoff games last year after a 911 call in Seattle involving an intoxicated woman found in his room.
"#Avs forward Val Nichushkin has been suspended without pay for a minimum 6 months for violating terms of #NHL/#NHLPA Player Assistance Program.

Sources say Nichushkin recently failed a substance test. He missed playoff games last year after a 911 call in Seattle in which an intoxicated woman was found in his room."
Following the news, Avalanche players were asked to comment, and some expressed disappointment. Veteran Jack Johnson, known for his respected leadership, remarked that Nichushkin made his own decisions.
"#Avs Jack Johnson on Val Nichushkin:

«He made his decisions. That's all I'm going to say on that. He made his decisions.»

Nichushkin's nameplate has already been replaced in the Avs locker room."
Colorado swiftly removed Nichushkin's nameplate from the locker room, indicating their displeasure with his actions.
Considering the severity of the situation and repeated incidents, there are doubts about Nichushkin's future in the NHL.

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