Ahead Valeri Nichushkin will return to the Avalanche lineup for the first time in practically 2 months

The Russian ahead will attempt to spark a sputtering Avalanche offense that’s scored two targets in back-to-back losses since getting back from the break for the 4 Nations Face-Off match.

The sport towards the New Jersey Devils might be Nichushkin’s first since Dec. 31.

“You’ll be able to’t underestimate how a lot he means to this staff,” defenseman Cale Makar stated after Wednesday’s morning skate. “Will probably be an enormous addition for us. Hopefully he’s again to Valeri type. He appears fairly good on the market.”

Avalanche coach Jared Bednar stated there might be no restrictions with Nichushkin. He additionally will assist out on particular groups.

The 29-year-old Nichushkin had 11 targets and 6 assists in 21 video games earlier than getting harm. He missed the opening 17 video games of the season after being suspended final Could and positioned in Stage 3 of the NHL/NHLPA Participant Help Program.

Colorado is 209-74-27 with Nichushkin within the lineup.

“In regard to the facility forwards, you may say he’s the most effective on the earth,” ahead Logan O’Connor stated. “Only a big-body ahead on the market for us. … It’s going to be large to have again within the lineup.”

The 6-foot-4, 210-pound Nichushkin might help out making an attempt to attain gritty targets in entrance of the online — an space the place the Avalanche have struggled at instances. It was the forte of captain Gabriel Landeskog, however he hasn’t performed because the Avalanche hoisted the Stanley Cup in 2022 as a consequence of a lingering knee damage.

“There are such a lot of issues he does with that body of his,” ahead Jonathan Drouin stated of Nichushkin. “He’s a beast and we’re going to want him.”

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