Avalanche Forward Nichushkin Back on Ice, But Team Remains Thin at Forward

Suspended Valeri Nichushkin has been cleared to practice with the Colorado Avalanche. However, he remains in Stage 3 of the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program and is ineligible to play in games. His return would bolster a team that’s already thin at forward this season. The Avalanche could soon have back Artturi Lehkonen, who was activated from injured reserve Monday.