Valeri Nichushkin breaches contract, could have his contract terminated
The Colorado Avalanche had their playoff run take an unfortunate turn in the middle of their series against the Dallas Stars. The franchise received the surprising news that of their crucial pieces, forward Valeri Nichushkin had been suspended for six months and placed placed in Stage 3 of NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
Nichushkin missed from Jan. 13 to Mar. 7 earlier in the season because he was spending time in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
Avalanche general manager Chris MacFarland said it's very probable that Nichushkin will be back with the team once his six month suspension has expired and he gets approval from the league.
The 29 year old, Russian native appears to have found something to keep him busy as he bides his time waiting to get back in the the NHL.
Nichushkin is scheduled to take part in a summer hockey league in Russia called the Media Hockey League. He is joining for the second season which is scheduled to run from July 6 to August 31. The first season ended on April 20.
Most of the games will be held in Moscow, with some taking place in the regions. 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.
The only problem with this choice is that Nichushkin has a valid NHL contract which prevents him from playing in other leagues. This decision could be the final straw and the item that finally allows the Avalanche to terminate Nichushkin's contract. While the current NHL collective does not allow a player in the player's assistance program to have their deal terminated a material breach of contract would surely be enough.
| POLL | ||
Does Valeri Nichushkin return to the Avalanche next season? | ||
| Yes, everyone is rooting for him | 42 | 20.7 % |
| No, the demons he is battling are too much | 161 | 79.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
