September 19th 2024.
The Avs had a busy media day on Wednesday, and if their power play is as impressive as their messaging, there might just be a parade in downtown come June. But amidst the excitement, there was one lingering topic that couldn't be ignored - the uncertain status of Val Nichushkin.
The talented player's availability has been a point of contention for the team, with his suspension in Stage 3 of the player assistance program holding the Avs hostage. As coach Jared Bednar and his teammates addressed the issue, I couldn't help but wonder if they were speaking from the heart or just reading off a teleprompter. But their words were clear - they were ready to welcome Nichushkin back with open arms.
It's no secret that the Avs are a stronger team with Nichushkin on the ice. In fact, it's safe to say that they can't win the Stanley Cup, their ultimate goal, without him. He's been described by defenseman Devon Toews as a "one of one" player - a unique talent that the team can't afford to lose. Unfortunately, their other star player Gabe Landeskog is also out with no clear timeline for his return, leaving the Avs in a tough spot. They once had Two of One, but now they have None of One.
If only they knew when Landeskog would be back and in top form, it would be easier to make a decision about Nichushkin's return in mid-November. But the problem is, when Landeskog does come back, it's uncertain what kind of player he will be. Will he need time to shake off the rust, or will he struggle to find his place in the team?
There's no doubt about Nichushkin's ability - he's a top player in the league when he's eligible to play. If that weren't the case, those open arms would quickly turn into locked chests. But the reality is, in professional sports, the better you are, the more chances you get.
Let's address the elephant in the room - as much as we value the person over the player, it's hard to forget the betrayal and disappointment that Nichushkin has caused in the past. He essentially derailed the team's hopes for back-to-back postseasons, and it wasn't a small mistake. It was a serious offense that resulted in him being removed from the team and banned from the league. It's no surprise that the players were angry and, if given the chance, might have voted against his return.
But here's the thing - the Avs are a family, and sometimes families have to stick together through tough times. As Bednar put it, "there's also got to be some forgiveness there." And with their sights set on winning the title, the Avs have no other option but to welcome Nichushkin back and hope for the best. They're limited by the salary cap, their captain's uncertain status, and the fact that they're not rebuilding but reloading.
Of course, they could try to trade Nichushkin, but that market would be slim, considering the risks involved. The Avs have a choice - they don't have to play him, but they also can't deny his talent and what he brings to the team when he's on the ice.
It's uncomfortable to talk about, and the situation itself is uncomfortable. After all that has happened, it might even feel more honorable to lose without Nichushkin than to win with him. But the truth is, when he's on the ice, everything clicks. His work ethic and contribution in front of the net are admirable, and the team speaks of him with certainty. Yet, there's always a hint of doubt - can he stay out of trouble this time?
Bednar insists that Nichushkin cares about the team, even after multiple suspensions. But their relationship seems like a troubled marriage - there are great times, but then there are also moments of betrayal and disappointment. The Avs want it to work, but it's hard to ignore the lingering doubts.
In the end, the Avs and I are ready to welcome Nichushkin back with open arms. But for me, it would be for the 10-year reunion of the 2022 championship team, not this season. Want more Avalanche news? Sign up for the Avalanche Insider to get all our NHL analysis.
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