Valeri Nichushkin makes his anticipated return to the Colorado Avalanche lineup after a two-month absence due to a lower-body injury. His presence is expected to ignite a struggling Avalanche offense that has only managed two goals in their last two games since returning from the break. With Nichushkin’s record of 11 goals and six assists in 21 games prior to his injury, the team is hopeful for an offensive resurgence against the New Jersey Devils. Notably, he will participate in special teams, bringing much-needed depth.

Defenseman Cale Makar emphasized Nichushkin's importance, stating, 'You can’t underestimate how much he means to this team.' With the Avalanche lacking in scoring grit since losing captain Gabriel Landeskog to injury, Nichushkin's return is viewed as a critical boost. Teammates praised his physicality, indicating that his ability to score and play in front of the net could be the key to their offensive turnaround.

Forward Valeri Nichushkin of the Colorado Avalanche is facing a setback in his recovery from a lower-body injury, with coach Jared Bednar stating that his status is now deemed week-to-week. Nichushkin had recently practiced with the team and appeared close to returning, yet he was unable to complete the session. Teammate Mikko Rantanen empathized with Nichushkin, recognizing the mental challenges associated with rehabilitation and setbacks. This marks a significant concern for the Avalanche as Nichushkin plays a critical role in their offense, having tallied 11 goals and six assists in just 21 games this season.

Nichushkin, who also faced a six-month suspension last May and missed the first 17 games of this season, has not played since New Year’s Eve. The Avalanche have historically performed better with him in the lineup, boasting a 209-74-27 record with him on the ice. Teammate Logan O’Connor highlighted the difficulty of pushing recovery too quickly, which can lead to setbacks like Nichushkin's recent one. The Avalanche will need to navigate this absence as they prepare to face off against the Winnipeg Jets.

Valeri Nichushkin of the Colorado Avalanche is facing a prolonged absence from the ice due to a setback in his recovery from a lower-body injury. Coach Jared Bednar has categorized Nichushkin's status as "week-to-week," raising concerns among teammates about the impact of his absence on the team's performance. Previously, Nichushkin seemed close to returning, having practiced on Sunday, but was unable to complete the session.

Mikko Rantanen empathized with Nichushkin’s struggles, reflecting on his own experiences with injury setbacks and emphasizing the mental challenge that accompanies recovery. Nichushkin, who has 11 goals and six assists this season, has not played since December 31 and was previously placed in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program last May, missing crucial playoff moments for the Avalanche. His presence is pivotal, as the Avalanche has a significantly better record with him in the lineup.

Jared Bednar, coach of the Colorado Avalanche, expressed dissatisfaction following his team's 3-2 overtime victory against the New York Rangers, calling the performance 'unimpressive.' Despite the win marking their 14th comeback of the season, Bednar lamented the lack of collective effort, stating that only half the team seemed engaged. He credited goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood for his stellar play, making 27 saves and keeping the game close despite numerous scoring chances against.

Bednar highlighted Blackwood's reliability since joining the team, noting his impressive record since the trade. Devon Toews scored the game-winning goal in overtime, with critical assists from Logan O’Connor and Nathan MacKinnon. The coach also praised the penalty-kill unit for their resilience in a challenging moment. However, he voiced concerns about the over-reliance on a small number of players, expressing frustration with the overall team effort.

The Colorado Avalanche secured a dramatic 3-2 overtime victory against the New York Rangers, but coach Jared Bednar was far from satisfied with his team's performance. He described the effort as 'unimpressive,' indicating that too many players were not contributing effectively.

Despite the win, Bednar emphasized that the Avalanche relied heavily on a few key players, including goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood, who made 27 saves and was described as the best player on the ice. Devon Toews ultimately clinched the victory with a goal in overtime.