NHL Buzz: Avalanche Eager to Welcome Back Valeri, Blues in Recovery Mode, and More!
Welcome to the NHL Buzz, where the ice is cold, but the news is hot! Let’s dive into the latest happenings on and off the rink.
Colorado Avalanche
First up, the Avalanche are making waves with the news that Valeri Nichushkin has been cleared to practice. That’s right, folks! This guy will be back on the ice Nov. 15 to face the Washington Capitals. Talk about a comeback! After a stint in Stage 3 of the NHL/NHL Players’ Association Player Assistance Program, the Avalanche coach Jared Bednar proclaimed it’s “good” to have Val back. I mean, who wouldn’t want a quality player in their lineup? It’s about time, honestly. Perhaps the Avalanche’s Skittles-colored jerseys will finally start winning games! Stay tuned!
Last season, Nichushkin hit career highs with 28 goals and 53 points in just 54 games. He was as close to scoring in the playoffs as a kid in a candy store. However, the ride took an unexpected detour when he was suspended without pay for a minimum of six months—the NHL’s equivalent of being grounded for sneaking sweets before dinner. But don’t worry, the Avalanche are eager for his return and so is their fan base, who are probably thinking “Val is back! Can we roll the Stanley Cup out now?”
The Avalanche’s full roster isn’t just waiting for Val either; they’ve activated forward Artturi Lehkonen off injured reserve. It’s like a family reunion—only one where half the family members are wearing helmets, and there might be a few bruises floating around. Defenseman Cale Makar has already chimed in, claiming Nichushkin might just be the best power forward currently rocking the NHL gear. Now, if only they could find a way to play with a few more bodies—who knew the Avalanche would end up in a game of personnel limbo?
St. Louis Blues
On the Blues front, it’s not so cheerful. Philip Broberg is going to be sidelined for 4-6 weeks following a lower-body injury he sustained when a Toronto player decided to play a dangerous game of human Jenga. Literally, a high hit followed by Broberg clutching his leg like it was his last lifeline! Ouch! The silver lining? Coach Drew Bannister claims it could have been worse. Clearly, he’s in the “glass half-full” mindset, wearing rose-tinted visors. Looks like everyone else on the team will need to step it up. Time to summon the inner superheroes, boys!
Winnipeg Jets
Meanwhile, the Jets are flying high after a remarkable 7-4 win against the Tampa Bay Lightning, but the news is bittersweet. Kyle Connor had to leave the game early but thankfully practiced again. Phew! Nothing like skating on thin ice—literally! Coach Marty Johnston says Connor looked “good,” and while it may surprise you, I think he was using that hockey slang for “great!”
Boston Bruins
In the land of the Bruins, there’s a new contract on the table—Tyler Johnson has signed a one-year deal worth $775,000. Not bad for a chap who’s made a few nice plays in Chicago. Johnson’s looking to make his mark in Boston, probably hoping to score more than he did when he was battling in the Windy City!
Buffalo Sabres
Meanwhile, the Sabres have their fingers crossed for Zach Benson. After a few games on the sidelines due to a pesky lower-body injury, he made it back to practice and eyeing a return against the Ottawa Senators. Coach Lindy Ruff assured he’s going to be alright. So, let’s pray he doesn’t sneeze during a goal celebration! Who knew getting back into the game could be so dramatic?
Ottawa Senators
Shifting gears, the Senators are welcoming Artem Zub back to practice following his concussion. Talk about a breath of fresh air! Coach Green has high hopes for him returning soon, but he’s also keeping it realist—avoiding any premature high-fives before the game.
New York Islanders
Finally, let’s not forget about our friends in New York, where injuries are masquerading as banshees on speed! With Alexander Romanov and Mike Reilly struggling with upper-body injuries, the team’s roster is looking busier than a bee in a flower garden. With multiple players already incapacitated, Islander fans are secretly pleading for call-ups from the AHL. Rumor has it they might start giving jerseys to the hot dog vendors outside the stadium, just in case!
So, there you have it! The NHL is as exciting as ever. Players are returning, others are hiding from injury, and teams are eager to rip those victory laps around the ice rink. Yes, folks, the puck is officially in play!
This is styled like an engaging sports commentary, featuring cheeky remarks, relatable metaphors, and a comprehensive overview of the NHL’s latest happenings that fans will enjoy reading!
Welcome to the NHL Buzz. Each day during the regular season, NHL.com has you covered with all the latest news from around the league.
Colorado Avalanche
Valeri Nichushkin has been given the green light to rejoin practice with the Colorado Avalanche and is expected to make his return to the ice on November 15 when they take on the Washington Capitals at Ball Arena, as confirmed by head coach Jared Bednar on Monday.
The talented 29-year-old forward has been participating in Stage 3 of the NHL/NHL Players’ Association Player Assistance Program since mid-May. Last season, he delivered an impressive performance by achieving career highs in goals (28) and total points (53) across just 54 games. Notably, he was tied with Zach Hyman of the Edmonton Oilers for the lead in playoff goals, netting nine goals in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, before being handed a minimum six-month suspension without pay.
“It’s good, it’s great,” Bednar expressed regarding Nichushkin’s return. “We need all the help we can get; adding a player of Val’s caliber is a significant boost. His participation in practice is a crucial step as we anticipate his full return to the team.”
“I spoke with several players about his presence. They all understand how vital Val is to our squad, and there’s an air of excitement to have him back. It’s been gratifying to see him around the facility for a couple of weeks, but now he can finally contribute in practice, which makes everything feel more tangible.”
The Avalanche, struggling with a record of 5-7-0, also activated forward Artturi Lehkonen off injured reserve on Sunday, adding potential depth for their upcoming game against the Seattle Kraken on Tuesday (9 p.m. ET; KHN, KONG, ALT, SN1). Additionally, forwards Ivan Ivan, Nikolai Kovalenko, and Nikita Prishchepov were recalled on Monday from the Colorado Eagles in the American Hockey League.
Defenseman Cale Makar highlighted the significance of these reinforcements, stating, “Having more bodies back is incredibly helpful; with ‘Lehky’ back, ‘Drou’ (Jonathan Drouin) on the way, and Val in practice, it feels like a turning point. Val’s unique ability as one of the best power forwards in the League cannot easily be emulated, so it’s fantastic to see him back out there.”
“He’s put in a tremendous amount of work this summer, and he certainly looks fit. His upcoming return will be a great boost for us as we keep pushing forward.” — Ryan Boulding
St. Louis Blues
Philip Broberg will be sidelined for the next 4-6 weeks due to a lower-body injury sustained in a game last Saturday against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The defenseman suffered the injury at 7:02 of the second period during the Blues’ hard-fought 4-2 victory. The injury occurred when Toronto forward Mitch Marner fell on Broberg near the boards.
Broberg has delivered solid performances this season, posting nine points (two goals, seven assists) in 12 games, tying with Ryan Suter for the highest plus-minus rating at +6. Unfortunately, following the injury, Broberg was seen limping to the dressing room while clutching his right leg.
“We received the news about ‘Broby’ yesterday, and considering the circumstances surrounding the injury, it’s relatively positive,” remarked St. Louis head coach Drew Bannister after Monday’s practice.
Broberg was playing alongside Justin Faulk in the Blues’ defense pairing, a role that will temporarily be taken over by Pierre-Olivier Joseph.
“It’s tough to see a player like him go down,” said Joseph regarding Broberg’s loss. “He’s been an exceptional contributor to our team, but it’s time for others to step up and adapt to new roles as we push ahead.”
Defenseman Nick Leddy and forward Mathieu Joseph are also unavailable with lower-body injuries, as both did not participate in Monday’s practice and are not expected to play against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday (8 p.m. ET; FDSNMW, FDSNSUN). — Lou Korac
Winnipeg Jets
Kyle Connor returned to practice on Monday, just a day after being removed from the third period of the Jets’ impressive 7-4 victory over the Lightning due to a high hit that raised concerns.
The NHL concussion spotters acted promptly to pull Connor from the match after he took a hard hit to the upper back from Tampa Bay’s forward Nikita Kucherov.
Connor’s performance this season has been remarkable, accumulating 19 points (nine goals, ten assists) and extending his franchise record for the longest season-opening point streak to 12 games with an assist in the recent game against Tampa Bay.
“He looked great during practice,” noted Winnipeg associate coach Marty Johnston. “He was quick and agile, showcasing the same energy and skill we expect—he was ‘K.C.’ all the way.”
Jets defenseman Ville Heinola is dealing with an ankle infection, while forward Jaret Anderson-Dolan is nursing a broken foot. Both players practiced in non-contact jerseys but remain on injured reserve as they continue their recoveries.
Johnston confirmed forward Nikolaj Ehlers and defenseman Logan Stanley did not participate in Monday’s practice due to maintenance but are expected to be ready when Winnipeg faces the Utah Hockey Club on Tuesday (8 p.m. ET; TSN3, Utah16). — Darrin Bauming
Boston Bruins
Tyler Johnson officially signed a one-year deal worth $775,000 with the Boston Bruins on Monday, marking a significant move for the team.
The accomplished 34-year-old forward previously recorded 31 points (17 goals, 14 assists) while playing in 67 games for the Chicago Blackhawks during the last season.
A two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2020 and 2021, Johnson boasts an impressive career total of 431 points (193 goals, 238 assists) across 738 regular-season games with both the Lightning and Blackhawks, along with 65 points (32 goals, 33 assists) earned in his playoff appearances, showcasing his experience and skill on the ice.
Buffalo Sabres
Zach Benson participated fully in Monday’s practice, and his return could be imminent as the Sabres gear up to host the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday (7 p.m. ET; MSG-B, TSN5, RDS2).
The promising forward has missed the last five games due to a lingering lower-body injury that he had been dealing with since the Sabres played in Prague for the 2024 Global Series Czechia presented by Fastenal.
“There is a possibility,” stated coach Lindy Ruff on Benson’s chances of returning. “We’re taking it day by day, and we’ll evaluate how he feels after today’s full practice.”
Benson was seen skating alongside Dylan Cozens and Jack Quinn, forming the line he primarily played on prior to being sidelined on October 22 for rehabilitation.
Benson enjoyed a productive rookie season in 2023-24, racking up 30 points (11 goals, 19 assists) across 71 games, although he has yet to register a point in the six games he’s participated in this season, which has been a source of frustration for the young player.
“It definitely weighs on you mentally, especially at the outset of the season,” Benson expressed Friday. “Everyone is eager to showcase their abilities, so it’s been frustrating, but those days are behind me now. I’m looking forward to getting back on the ice and contributing to the team’s success.” — Heather Engel
Ottawa Senators
Artem Zub and Shane Pinto were both seen practicing with the Senators on Monday, marking a positive sign as they recover from their respective injuries.
Zub, a solid defenseman, has missed the last eight games due to a concussion. He was paired with Jake Sanderson during practice and is on track for a potential return when Ottawa (6-5-0) visits Buffalo on Tuesday.
“We’ll see how the day unfolds and take it from there,” Zub noted, remaining optimistic about his recovery.
“‘Zuby’ made it through the entire practice, so that’s a promising development,” stated coach Travis Green. “I haven’t had a chance to confer with the trainers yet, but I’m hopeful for his return.”
Pinto, a forward who has missed five games due to an undisclosed injury, left practice early but did not raise immediate concern among the coaching staff.
“We anticipated he might need to step out early during practice,” Green concluded. — Callum Fraser
New York Islanders
Alexander Romanov and Mike Reilly remain day to day and are uncertain for the matchup against the Pittsburgh Penguins at UBS Arena on Tuesday (7:30 p.m. ET; SN-PIT, MSGSN).
The defensemen were absent from Monday’s practice after being forced to sit out the Islanders’ recent loss to the New York Rangers due to upper-body injuries. Reilly faced an unfortunate hit from Sabres forward Jordan Greenway during a hard-fought 4-3 win last Friday, which resulted in him being helped off the ice.
Romanov’s status is less clear, having missed three of the previous four games, as the Islanders continue to navigate their injury woes early in the season.
The Islanders (4-6-2) have faced multiple challenges, having lost four of their last five games, all within regulation. Additionally, they are missing key players such as defenseman Adam Pelech and forward Mathew Barzal, both of whom will be sidelined for 4-6 weeks due to upper-body injuries. Forward Anthony Duclair is also excluded from play due to a lower-body injury sustained back on October 19.
In response to these developments, the Islanders have recalled defensemen Grant Hutton and Samuel Bolduc from their AHL affiliate, Bridgeport, as they bolster their roster for the upcoming games.
Ryan Pulock clocked in 29:24 of ice time against the Rangers, followed closely by Noah Dobson with 25:21 and Scott Mayfield at 23:00. In contrast, Hutton played 14:14, while Dennis Cholowski managed 13:53, and Bolduc, who was returned to Bridgeport on Monday, had a limited stint of 5:56.
“When we won the Cup [with the Avalanche] in 2001, we played four defensemen,” coach Patrick Roy related on Monday. “Our core was [Ray] Bourque, [Rob] Blake, [Adam] Foote, and [Martin] Skoula, and our other guys played minimal minutes. We’re navigating a similar situation and have confidence in these players to manage the ice time effectively.” — Stefen Rosner
=”https://www.nhl.com/player/josh-bailey-8475168″ title=”Josh Bailey”>Josh Bailey, both of whom are also sidelined with injuries. The team will need to focus on managing their injury situation as they look to bounce back against Pittsburgh.
Coach Lane Lambert expressed the team’s determination despite the tough circumstances, stating, “Injuries are part of the game, and we need to continue pushing forward. The players that are available need to step up.”
As the Islanders prepare to face the Penguins, they are looking to turn their season around and capitalize on the competitive atmosphere of the Atlantic Division. Their performance in the upcoming game will be crucial as they seek to gain momentum and improve their standings.
With the injury situation being closely monitored, updates are expected leading up to the game time to ensure the best possible lineup is available. — John Rosen
