Valeri Nichushkin

Valeri Nichushkin, born on March 4, 1995, in Chelyabinsk, Russia, is a professional ice hockey forward who plays for the Colorado Avalanche in the National Hockey League (NHL). Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 210 pounds, Nichushkin is known for his right-handed shooting. Drafted 10th overall in the 2013 NHL Draft by the Dallas Stars, his career has been marked by a blend of skill and physical play. Nichushkin made his NHL debut in the 2013-2014 season with the Stars, showcasing his potential early on. Over the years, he has developed into a key player for the Avalanche, contributing significantly to their offensive and defensive play. Throughout his career, Nichushkin has demonstrated a notable shooting percentage and has been effective on the powerplay, contributing goals and assists that highlight his ability to perform under pressure. His scoring touch was particularly evident in the 2023 season where he tallied 28 goals and added 25 assists, totaling 53 points in 54 games. This performance underlines his critical role in the Avalanche's lineup and his evolution as a player capable of making a significant impact on the ice. Nichushkin's contributions are not limited to offensive output; his defensive game is also commendable, often participating in penalty kills and using his physicality to the team's advantage. Throughout his time with the Avalanche, Nichushkin has been recognized for his on-ice contributions, earning accolades and being named one of the stars in several games, reflecting his importance to the team's success. His achievements include key winning goals and a notable shooting percentage, underscoring his efficiency in scoring and his clutch performance in critical moments of the game. Off the ice, Nichushkin's journey from Chelyabinsk to the NHL showcases his determination and the significant strides he has made in his career. With each season, he continues to refine his skills, contributing to the Avalanche's pursuits in the NHL and proving to be a valuable asset to the team's roster.