Avalanche's Nichushkin Enters NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program

This marks the second time in a year that Nichushkin has stepped away from the team, following a previous absence during last season's playoffs.

Valeri Nichushkin, forward for the Colorado Avalanche, has entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program and will be away from the team for an unspecified duration.
This is the second time Nichushkin has stepped away from the team in the past year, with the previous instance occurring during the playoffs last season due to undisclosed personal reasons.
Nichushkin's absence from a recent game against the Toronto Maple Leafs was initially attributed to illness, but it now appears to be related to his entry into the Player Assistance Program.
Nichushkin is the second Avalanche player to enter the program this season, following defenseman Samuel Girard, who sought treatment for anxiety, depression, and alcohol abuse.
Despite his off-ice issues, Nichushkin has been performing well this season, recording 22 goals and 20 assists in 40 games.