Avalanche Trade Nichushkin to Columbus for Package of Draft Picks

The Colorado Avalanche have parted ways with forward Valeri Nichushkin, shipping him to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 third-round pick, and a 2028 fifth-round pick.

“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,” said Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell. “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.”

We have 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. pic.twitter.com/wjNxpsZscA

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) June 25, 2026

Nichushkin, 31, has totaled 154 goals and 203 assists for 357 points in 627 NHL games over 11 seasons with the Avalanche and Dallas Stars, adding 112 penalty minutes, 41 power-play goals, 24 game-winners, six shorthanded goals, and a +109 rating while averaging 16:25 of ice time.

This past season, he recorded 17 goals and 49 points in 72 games, with 26 penalty minutes and a +9 rating, while averaging 17:44 per game.

The move brings an end to a complicated chapter in Denver. Nichushkin was once one of the more physically imposing power forwards in the league, playing a key role in Colorado’s 2022 Stanley Cup championship run. However, his tenure with the Avalanche was ultimately defined as much by off-ice difficulties as on-ice contributions, including a lengthy absence from the league.

For Colorado, the trade is largely a roster and salary management move, clearing space while recouping future assets. The return — headlined by a second-round pick in 2026 — is modest but reasonable given the circumstances surrounding Nichushkin’s situation.

For Columbus, the acquisition is a low-risk, high-upside gamble. The Blue Jackets are in the midst of a rebuild, and this offseason will likely see them lose Boone Jenner, Mason Marchment, and others. Following the draft, the team will also sit down with Norris Trophy winner Zach Werenski to discuss his future. The hope is that the organization won’t have to take big steps backward.

For the Avs, this is a cap dump. For Nichushkin, a fresh start. If he can rediscover the form that made him a feared presence on Colorado’s top six, the Blue Jackets will have landed a significant piece. If not, they’ve committed little beyond draft capital they could afford to move.

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