Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland Addresses Valeri Nichushkin's Future
Valeri Nichushkin's NHL future was reaffirmed by Colorado Avalanche general manager Chris MacFarland at a news conference.
Despite scoring 10 points in nine games throughout the playoffs, Nichushkin's stellar effort in the second round against the Dallas Stars was soon forgotten. The Russian forward betrayed the organization's confidence by failing a drug test, receiving a six-month suspension from the NHL, and being placed on the third phase of the Player Assistance Program.
Since then, a great deal of conjecture has surrounded Nichushkin's future in the NHL and with the Colorado Avalanche franchise.
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The team's general manager, Chris MacFarland, discussed that matter in detail at his post-season media availability. Although ending his contract isn't an option for now, he said, it won't be simple to regain that trust:
"MacFarland confirms termination of Nichushkin's contract «at this point, is not an option.»
Says rebuilding that trust will be difficult."
"It's very plausible that he will be back with the Avalanche."
Says rebuilding that trust will be difficult."
"It's very plausible that he will be back with the Avalanche."
Even though no team wants to be connected to cheaters, contracts are difficult to break.
Although they can still choose to buy him out, doing so will put the team at a significant financial disadvantage going forward due to the salary cap. Furthermore, given Nichushkin's reputation and his $6,125,000 AAV deal with a no-movement provision, it would be shocking to see them pull off a trade.
| POLL | ||
23 MAI | 240 ANSWERS Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland Addresses Valeri Nichushkin's Future After his ban, do you believe Valeri Nichushkin will play for the Colorado Avalanche? | ||
| Yes | 53 | 22.1 % |
| No | 187 | 77.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
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