**Valeri Nichushkin to Join Russian Hockey League This Summer**
Valeri Nichushkin, a forward for the Colorado Avalanche, has been the center of attention since the second round of the NHL playoffs. The team unexpectedly had to remove him from the series against the Dallas Stars due to his placement in Stage 3 of the NHL’s assistance program. This resulted in a six-month unpaid suspension. Nichushkin must reapply and gain approval if he wishes to return to the NHL after this period. His acceptance by teammates upon his return is also in question.
However, Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland expressed that it’s quite likely Nichushkin could return next year. In the meantime, Nichushkin has found an alternative to stay active. He is set to participate in the Media Hockey League’s second season in Russia, running from July 6 to August 31. The league’s first season concluded on April 20, with most matches taking place in Moscow, though some will occur in other regions.
Nichushkin’s involvement in the Russian league indicates he’s not banned from playing in his home country. Nikolai Osipov, president of the Media Hockey League, confirmed that Nichushkin is the only NHL player who has definitively committed to playing in the league this summer, though other NHL players have also received invitations.
Nichushkin’s participation in summer hockey suggests he is not undergoing a rehab program that would prevent him from playing. The 29-year-old, rumored to have failed a drug test, will use this opportunity to maintain his fitness before attempting an NHL comeback with the Avalanche. His situation will be closely monitored as developments unfold.
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