Full Breakdown
Valeri Nichushkin Traded to Columbus for Draft Picks
6/26/2026, 6:48:02 AM
Trade Overview
On Thursday, the Columbus Blue Jackets acquired right wing Valeri Nichushkin from the Colorado Avalanche for three future selections: the 43rd-overall 2026 second-rounder (originally St. Louis via Pittsburgh), Columbus’s 2027 third-rounder, and its 2028 fifth-rounder.
Background & Context
Colorado, after winning the Presidents’ Trophy and losing the Western Conference final, has been shedding salary to preserve cap space for extensions to Cale Makar and Artturi Lehkonen. Columbus, which ranked 19th in goals per game and missed the playoffs for six straight seasons, prioritized adding a proven top-six scorer.
Key Statistics
Nichushkin recorded 17 goals, 32 assists (49 points) in 72 games last season, plus a +9 rating. His career totals are 154 goals, 203 assists (357 points) in 627 NHL games. He remains under a $6.125 million cap-hit contract through 2030 with four years left. Colorado receives a 2026 second-round (43rd overall), a 2027 third-round and a 2028 fifth-round pick.
Impact on Both Clubs
Colorado frees roughly $11 million of projected cap space and adds three mid-round picks for future roster building. Columbus gains a top-six forward with Stanley-Cup experience, addressing a scoring shortfall that has kept the club out of the postseason. The trade also leaves Columbus with about $26 million in cap flexibility for other signings.
Official Statements & Responses
Waddell highlighted Nichushkin’s size, skating and two-way play, noting the club’s excitement to add him. Colorado’s announcement framed the three draft picks as the primary compensation. Sakic’s strategy of clearing forward contracts to protect core talent was noted.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts note a decline in Nichushkin’s defensive play and off-ice concerns. Sources report he missed 22 games in 2023-24 for a player-assistance program and received a six-month suspension for a failed drug test in May 2024, raising concerns about his availability.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Valeri is a big, strong forward who skates exceptionally well, can score goals, win puck battles and doesn’t shy away from playing in the hard areas.” — Don Waddell, Blue Jackets GM
- “He is an accomplished two-way player who competes at a high level and we are very excited to welcome him to the Blue Jackets family.” — Don Waddell, Blue Jackets GM
- “There are some matters we're dealing with that should probably stay internal. We've had conversations with his agent, but there's been no definitive plan, for sure,” — Don Waddell, Blue Jackets GM (regarding Zach Werenski)
- “DENVER – The Colorado Avalanche Hockey Club announced today the team has acquired a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick in the NHL Draft from the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for forward Valeri Nichushkin.” — Colorado Avalanche press release
Outlook
Colorado will add the three picks to its 2026-2028 draft strategy and evaluate cap space for extensions. Columbus expects Nichushkin to slot into its top six forwards for the 2024-25 season as the club seeks a playoff return.
