Val Nichushkin is off to a historic start to the 2022-23 NHL season, but Colorado’s leading goal-scorer is dealing with a “day-to-day” injury. Here’s what coach Jared Bednar says. by BennettDurando
Nichushkin is Colorado’s leader in goals scored and points as the first month of the season wraps up Saturday at the New York Islanders. He scored seven goals in the first seven games, making him the second Avalanche player ever to accomplish that feat, joining teammate Nathan MacKinnon. Nichushkin also has five assists.
He will still travel to Finland, and the hope is that he will be able to join the team for its first practice there. After facing the Islanders, the Avalanche will not play another game until a back-to-back against Columbus next Friday and Saturday in Finland. “He’s feeling better. Not ready to go tonight,” Bednar told The Post. “And then obviously we’ve got the travel over to Finland, which will give him another couple of days to get ready.”
Five of Nichushkin’s goals have been scored on the power play, as Colorado has emerged as the league’s most dangerous team with an extra man on the ice. But without him Friday in New Jersey, the Avs finished 0-for-6 on the power play in a 1-0 loss to the Devils. It was only the second time Colorado has been shut out in its last 154 games.