New report raises eyebrows around Avalanche star forward Valeri Nichushkin

Valeri Nichushkin has never needed loud headlines to matter in Denver. His impact shows up in puck battles won, rebounds created, and defensive details that tilt games over time.

Colleen Flynn from Mile High Sports writes that the Avalanche have leaned on Nichushkin during uneven stretches this year, especially when injuries and lineup shuffles tested Jared Bednar's forward depth. When he is healthy, the ice seems to tilt toward the offensive zone more consistently.

Nichushkin's size and skating combination remains rare. At six foot four and 210 pounds, he still closes quickly on defenders and arrives at the crease with purpose. That blend fuels Colorado's cycle game and opens space for linemates.

His scoring touch has followed. Nichushkin has produced at a top six rate again, building on the trust he earned during the 2022 Stanley Cup run. He continues to score ugly goals, the kind playoff series are decided by.

Fans sometimes forget how fragile Colorado's forward depth can look without him, especially when the schedule tightens and games turn heavy. Nichushkin stabilizes lines without demanding the puck constantly.

Flynn also highlighted how Jared Bednar values Nichushkin's consistency and versatility, whether he plays alongside Nathan MacKinnon or anchors another scoring unit. That flexibility matters when matchups change night to night.

Nichushkin was originally drafted tenth overall by Dallas in 2013, and his NHL path was anything but smooth. His resurgence in Colorado remains one of the league's better development stories.

He has continued to rank among the team leaders in points despite missing time, reinforcing how efficient his minutes are. His net front work on the power play also remains a quiet difference maker.

The Avalanche often talk about five man units and connected hockey. Nichushkin embodies that idea, tracking back defensively and supporting exits before charging up ice again.

Colorado's window remains open as long as its stars stay supported. Nichushkin's presence keeps that structure intact, and the Avalanche look far more complete when he is in the lineup.