Valeri Nichushkin of the Colorado Avalanche is facing a prolonged absence from the ice due to a setback in his recovery from a lower-body injury. Coach Jared Bednar has categorized Nichushkin's status as "week-to-week," raising concerns among teammates about the impact of his absence on the team's performance. Previously, Nichushkin seemed close to returning, having practiced on Sunday, but was unable to complete the session.

Mikko Rantanen empathized with Nichushkin’s struggles, reflecting on his own experiences with injury setbacks and emphasizing the mental challenge that accompanies recovery. Nichushkin, who has 11 goals and six assists this season, has not played since December 31 and was previously placed in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program last May, missing crucial playoff moments for the Avalanche. His presence is pivotal, as the Avalanche has a significantly better record with him in the lineup.