The Colorado Avalanche have finalized a trade that sends veteran forward Valeri Nichushkin to the Columbus Blue Jackets, a move that reshapes both rosters ahead of the upcoming season.
A veteran’s new chapter
Nichushkin, who signed an eight‑year, $49 million extension after the 2022 Stanley Cup triumph, saw the deal front‑loaded with nearly $29 million earned in the first four years. He now carries a $6.125 million cap hit for the next four seasons with Columbus.
Over his 404‑game NHL career the Russian winger amassed 131 goals, 152 assists and 283 points, adding 27 goals and 40 points in 74 playoff appearances. His most productive stretch came in 2023‑24, when he combined for 37 goals and 26 assists across the regular season and the postseason, including nine goals in eight playoff games.
Blue Jackets officials say the addition of Nichushkin bolsters a forward group that has been seeking a proven scorer, and his experience could prove pivotal as the club aims to return to the playoffs. The trade also reflects a broader strategy by Colorado to acquire draft capital while resetting its salary structure.