Rumoured update on Colorado Avalanche Valeri Nichuskin surfaces

Colorado Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin has been absent from the Colorado Avalanche and the National Hockey League since earlier this season when he entered the league's player assistance program. As it had been reported at the time, Nichushkin entered the program at stage 3 which prevented him from participating or being a part of any of the Avalanche's activities for six months. Upon completion of this, he would have to apply for reinstatement.

A report recently surfaced that suggests that Nichushkin will be ready to go according to Sergey Fedotov, a former scout for the Russian National team.

While the news of his return is promising it should be taken with a grain of salt. As pointed out, stage three of the player assistance program clearly states that he must apply for reinstatement and therefore it's up to someone else's discretion as to whether the 29-year-old can return then, if at all.

Whatever the decision will be, it's quite clear that the Avalanche missed him while he was away. He had nine goals and ten points in eight games & sixty-three points in 62 games. When the right winger returns, he is sure to stand atop the Avalanche lineup as an option.

Source - Pro Hockey Rumours