Valeri Nichushkin is a crucial player for the Colorado Avalanche, even if he does not receive the same recognition as his superstar teammates.
“It’s not a limited role, it’s a prominent role on our team …,” head coach Jared Bednar said. “Val had a little bit more of a rougher start to the season than he came for, but I just feel like his game’s elevated here over the last few. It’s important that he continues to dominate in the minutes that he’s given and give us that secondary scoring or primary scoring, really.”
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Nichushkin’s name is often overlooked when discussing the team’s leadership, yet he exhibits leadership in his own unique way.
“I don’t think I’ve ever played with a guy that’s that size, that skilled. He’s a very special player, and it’s fun to be a part of this group,” Gavin Brindley said. “Look around the locker room, there’s a lot of high-end hockey players. Helps me get better every day and learn new things, and it’s been awesome so far.”
Nichushkin missed eight games this season due to injury, but still ranks sixth in points (21) on the team. He possesses a unique talent that he can adapt to regardless of his position in the lineup.
Watch Bednar and Brindley’s insight on the 30-year-old Russian forward in the video above.
