Avalanche Trade Valeri Nichushkin to Blue Jackets in NHL Draft Week Shake-Up

Context of the Trade

The Nichushkin trade is the third major move for Colorado in draft week alone. Earlier, the Avalanche sent centers Ross Colton and Jack Drury to the Nashville Predators — trades orchestrated by the outgoing Chris MacFarland (who left to run the Predators) and incoming GM Joe Sakic, who returned to the role for a second stint.

By moving Colton ($4 million AAV), Drury (RFA), and now Nichushkin ($6.125 million AAV), Colorado has created significant salary cap flexibility. This positions them to potentially pursue impact free agents or absorb contracts in future trades.

What Nichushkin Brings to Columbus

Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell described the 31-year-old as a "big, strong forward who skates exceptionally well, can score goals, win puck battles and doesn't shy away from playing in the hard areas." At 6-foot-4 and 210 pounds, Nichushkin fills multiple needs for Columbus: speed, size, and scoring.

The Blue Jackets finished 19th in the NHL last season, averaging just three goals per game and missing the playoffs for the sixth consecutive year. Nichushkin is expected to slot into the top six, likely alongside young center Adam Fantilli and Kirill Marchenko, or on the second line with Sean Monahan.

The Bigger Picture in Columbus

There is mounting pressure on the Blue Jackets to improve. Rumors have swirled that Norris Trophy-winning defenseman Zach Werenski — who has two years left on his contract at a $9.583 million cap hit — may not re-sign. Waddell acknowledged ongoing conversations with Werenski's agent but offered no definitive plans, keeping the situation fluid.

Nichushkin's Background

Drafted 10th overall by the Dallas Stars in 2013, Nichushkin initially struggled to find his footing in the NHL, spending two seasons in Russia before being bought out by Dallas. He revitalized his career with the Avalanche, becoming a two-way force who appeared on Selke Trophy ballots in four of seven seasons. His peak came in 2023-24 with 28 goals and 53 points in just 54 games.

Notably, Nichushkin faced personal challenges during his time in Colorado, entering the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program twice — the second time in Stage 3 (resulting in a minimum six-month suspension without pay) after violating program terms. He returned to action in November 2024 and has not re-entered the program since.

What did the Colorado Avalanche receive in return for Valeri Nichushkin?

The Avalanche acquired a 2026 second-round pick (43rd overall, from St. Louis via Pittsburgh), Columbus's 2027 third-round pick, and a 2029 fifth-round pick.

How much cap space did Colorado free up with these trades?

By moving Nichushkin ($6.125M AAV), Ross Colton ($4M AAV), and Jack Drury (RFA), the Avalanche have created substantial salary cap flexibility for future moves.

Why are the Blue Jackets under pressure this offseason?

Columbus has missed the playoffs for six straight seasons, and there are questions about star defenseman Zach Werenski's long-term future with the team as he approaches unrestricted free agency in 2028.

How did Nichushkin perform during Colorado's 2022 Stanley Cup run?

He was dominant, recording 9 goals and 15 points in 20 playoff games, helping the Avalanche capture the championship.

Do you think the Avalanche are better off without Nichushkin, or will they regret trading away a player with his two-way ability? Will the Blue Jackets finally break their playoff drought? Let us know your thoughts!

Share this article with fellow hockey fans who want to stay ahead of the latest NHL offseason drama.

Share on Twitter/X • Share on LinkedIn • Share on Reddit

*Share this with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!*