Nichushkin cleared to practice by player assistance program

Valeri Nichushkin has been cleared to resume practicing with the Colorado Avalanche and has entered the follow-up care phase of the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program, the league and the union jointly announced Monday.

The forward has yet to be cleared to play in a game.

Nichushkin entered the program in mid-January. He's been away from the club while receiving care.

The Russian winger, who'll turn 29 on March 4, has 22 goals and 20 assists in 40 games this season.

Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine and Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov also entered the program in 2023-24.