Valeri Nichushkin officially resumes his hockey career overseas

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Julien Trekker
June 5, 2024 (12:17)

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Valeri Nichushkin during a game with the Colorado Avalanche.

Photo credit: Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers

The controversial Colorado Avalanche player, currently suspended in the NHL, left North America and will play in the Media Hockey League; a summer league, alongside other NHLers and celebrities.

"Colorado Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin will participate in the second season of the Hockey Media League. This was announced to TASS by Nikolai Osipov, President of the Media League, at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF).

"The second season of the league will start on July 6 and will end on August 31," said Osipov. "The matches will take place in Moscow, but we plan to hold some games in other regions. Among NHL players, it is certain that Valeri Nichushkin will play."

Nichushkin is serving a six-month suspension that is set to end next November. During the NHL playoffs, the player failed a drug test and joined the third phase of the Player Assistance Program.

After playing a key role against the Winnipeg Jets in the first round and a great start against the Dallas Stars in the second round, where he tallied 10 points in eight games, he was forced to abandon his team, which was eventually eliminated by the Stars.

"MacFarland said it's going to be up to Nichushkin to rebuild trust with the organization.

"We've looked at all options, like we always do, and the obvious question is termination, right? And that's not an option."

Previously on HouseOfHockey

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Insider reveals major update in regards to Mitch Marner's future

Friedman shares the framework for blockbuster trade between the Canucks & Canes

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5 JUIN \| 114 ANSWERS Valeri Nichushkin officially resumes his hockey career overseas Do you think the Colorado Avalanche would make a mistake by keeping Valeri Nichushkin after his suspension?
Yes	70	61.4 %
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