Colorado Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin suspended for 6 months prior to Game 4 vs. Dallas Stars

Colorado Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin suspended for at least six months without pay, missing rest of postseason after violating program terms.

Valeri Nichushkin, forward for the Colorado Avalanche, has been suspended for a minimum of six months without pay and placed in stage 3 of the league's player assistance program before Game 4 of the second-round series with Dallas on Monday night. This marks the second time this season that Nichushkin has entered the program, with stage 3 indicating a violation of program terms.

At 29 years old, the Russian forward will be absent for the remainder of the postseason and the first month of the next season. Despite leading the team with nine playoff goals this season, Nichushkin's off-ice issues have led to his extended absence.

Earlier in the season, Nichushkin was away from the team for nearly two months to seek care from the NHLPA/NHL Player Assistance Program for undisclosed reasons. This came after missing the final five games of a playoff series last season due to personal reasons.

Nichushkin joins teammate Samuel Girard in entering the program during the regular season, with Girard citing anxiety, depression, and alcohol abuse as reasons for his absence. Nichushkin's departure during a playoff series last spring in Seattle raised concerns, as officers responded to a crisis call at the Four Seasons Hotel before Game 3.

The Avalanche physician informed authorities that team employees found a heavily intoxicated woman in Nichushkin's presence, leading to the request for EMS assistance. Nichushkin has been evasive when questioned about these incidents, choosing to keep details private.

The National Hockey League and National Hockey League Players' Association made the announcement shortly before the start of the game against the Stars. AP Hockey Writer Stephen Whyno contributed to this report, shedding light on the ongoing challenges faced by Nichushkin and the Avalanche organization.

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