Valeri Nichushkin signs new contract, could have NHL deal terminated

During their series with the Dallas Stars, the Colorado Avalanche's playoff run took an unexpected turn. The team was shocked to learn that forward Valeri Nichushkin, one of its key players, had been suspended for six months and put in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program's Stage 3.

Earlier in the season, Nichushkin was absent from action from January 13 to March 7 due to his participation in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.

General manager Chris MacFarland of the Avalanche stated that Nichushkin's return to the team when his six-month suspension is over and he receives league approval is quite likely.

The 29-year-old native of Russia seems to have found a way to occupy his time while he waits to return to the NHL.

Nichushkin is expected to play in the Media Hockey League, a summer hockey league in Russia. He is coming on board for the next second season, which runs from July 6 to August 31. On April 20, the first season concluded.

A portion of the games will be played in the provinces, but the majority will take place in Moscow.

Media Hockey League president Nikolai Osipov, revealed that of all the NHL players, Nichushkin was the only one who had confirmed his attendance with 100% certainty.

Nichushkin's ability to play in other leagues is restricted by his NHL contract, which is the main issue with this decision. This could be the tipping point, the thing that gives the Avalanche the authority to end Nichushkin's contract. Even if a player enrolled in the player's aid program cannot have their contract terminated due to the current NHL collective, a material breach of contract would undoubtedly be sufficient.