The Colorado Avalanche and Valeri Nichushkin are facing a significant decision following Nichushkin’s placement in Stage 3 of the NHL/NHLPA Assistance Program a few weeks ago, resulting in his suspension without pay for at least six months due to a failed drug test.
Frank Seravalli, a Daily Faceoff insider, discusses the impending decision on Daily Faceoff Live.
Tyler Yaremchuk highlights the pivotal question surrounding Nichushkin’s situation: how it impacts the team’s financial flexibility. Seravalli notes that terminating Nichushkin’s contract is not currently an option, but the team must consider how to address the issue.
He suggests that they may be inclined to sever ties with him, acknowledging the seriousness of addiction while emphasizing the repeated drug-related incidents over the past two years, which have damaged trust within the team and management.
The Avalanche must carefully navigate this situation considering its impact on their roster and salary cap.
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