Suspended forward Valeri Nichushkin and others return to the ice; how will that change the Avalanche’s roster, and how will that benefit their season?
The Colorado Avalanche have experienced a rocky start to the season, and things didn’t improve when Miles Wood and Jonathan Drouin were sidelined by injuries. Despite a standout performance from talented defenseman Cale Makar, the team still finds itself with a 9-9 record. However, with several players returning to health—including suspended forward Valeri Nichushkin—the Avalanche has a promising chance to turn things around.
Nichushkin is a skilled player and will likely find his way into Colorado’s top six. However, he has just come off a lengthy suspension that began during last season’s playoffs. He spent six months in the NHL’s Player Assistance program and made his return in the Avalanche’s 5-2 loss to Washington on Friday. If he can regain his previous form, Nichushkin’s return will significantly bolster the roster. Last season, he played 54 games and recorded 53 points, including 28 goals. Scoring nearly 30 goals in under 60 games is impressive, but Nichushkin needs to find a way to maintain his health.
The return of Drouin is another major boost for the Avs’ top six, as he has been an underrated player throughout his career. Drouin is a reliable two-way forward who contributes both offensively and defensively. In 79 games last season, he logged 56 points. The Avalanche have faced goaltending challenges, and the situation may not improve with starter Alexander Georgiev listed as day-to-day due to an upper-body injury. Having forwards who can play strong defense will be crucial as the season progresses.
As for Casey Mittelstadt, his situation is worth monitoring. After joining the team at the trade deadline from the Buffalo Sabers last season, he scored 10 points in 18 games and continued to show promise in the playoffs. This season, he has begun strongly, earning 16 points in 18 games. However, with some players returning from injury, Mittelstadt might see his role diminish, which could impact his ice time and placement on the power play.
Although removing a productive player like Mittelstadt from the power play isn’t typically advisable, the Avalanche might consider it. Players like Artturi Lehkonen, Nichushkin, and Drouin are also strong contributors, and their inclusion on the power play may be essential for the team’s success. It will be intriguing to see how Colorado manages the lineup moving forward, and I’m eager to see how this team progresses.
The Avalanche have long been regarded as one of the top teams in the Western Conference. With key players regaining their health, the rest of the league should take notice. Additionally, the return of captain Gabriel Landeskog, who has been out since injuring his knee in 2022, could provide a massive boost. If he returns alongside other healthy players, the Avalanche could reclaim their position at the top of the Western Conference.
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