The anticipation for the return of Russian forward Valeri Nichushkin has been very high for the Colorado Avalanche.
His presence on the ice has been greatly missed ever since his mysterious disappearance from the team in the middle of the first round against the Seattle Kraken last season. Some details revealed the reasons why he left the team, and not much more has been said since then.
Now as the season approaches, Nichuhskin has returned to Denver to prepare for the season. He has yet to face the media to discuss whatever transpired in the team hotel in Seattle or beforehand.
The Avalanche themselves have provided very little details on what occurred. It had been deemed a PR disaster by some, leaving fans clueless as to what happened with the star forward or if he’d even play in the league again. However, he has been cleared of any wrongdoing and will be in the lineup by the time October rolls around.
Hence, why would he or the team say anything more about the situation which unfolded in the Pacific Northwest? He has likely received instruction to dismiss any question about the situation in the team hotel and even if he hasn’t, he will likely keep the answer close to his chest.
It is likely something with little to no effect on him considering he has been cleared to play. Ultimately, it is his choice whether or not he chooses to share his story – which probably isn’t very likely. This will eventually all get swept under the rug and all parties involved will move on, with the Avs and fans hoping Nichushkin can focus and rebound with a great year on the ice this season.