Valeri Nichushkin is going to return Wednesday night against the New Jersey Devils. He’s been out since Dec. 31 with a lower-body injury. He’s expected to start on the second line and the second power-play unit.

It’s a years-long trend since he arrived in Denver and had a breakout season when the Avs won the Stanley Cup. Just in the years since the title, Colorado is 89-30-10 during the regular season when Nichushkin plays and 46-43-6 when he doesn’t.

Head coach Jared Bednar wouldn't confirm Nichushkin's return to the lineup but it appears the winger is trending in the right direction. For now, Nichushkin remains on injured reserve and will need to be activated before he can hit the ice. Once given the all-clear, Nichushkin should be in the mix for a spot in the Avs' top six.

The Avalanche are getting Valeri Nichushkin back on Wednesday, head coach Jared Bednar announced during his weekly radio segment. The 29-year-old forward has missed every game since the calendar turned to 2025.

Hopefully he’s back to Valeri form. He looks pretty good out there." Avalanche coach Jared Bednar said there will be no restrictions with Nichushkin. He also will help out on special teams.

After practice on Tuesday, Avalanche coach Jared Bednar was coy ... barring a last-minute setback, Valeri Nichushkin will return to the lineup Wednesday against the New Jersey Devils.

Colorado Avalanche Head Coach Jared Bednar told the media that Valeri Nichushkin, who hasn't played since December 31st, is a potential option for Wednesday's game against the New Jersey Devils. Nichushkin was seen in a second-line sweater (maroon) at Tuesday's practice,

It took 25 seconds for Valeri Nichushkin to make an impact Wednesday ... I think he really helps those guys,” Avs coach Jared Bednar said. “He’s the type of player with what he provides ...