The Colorado Avalanche have traded forward Valeri Nichushkin to the Columbus Blue Jackets, according to reports from Elliotte Friedman and Marc-Olivier Beaudoin on June 25, 2026.
In exchange, the Avalanche received a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 third-round pick, and a 2028 fifth-round pick from Columbus.
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The move clears Nichushkin's contract from Colorado's books. The winger recorded 53 points in 54 games during the 2024 season.
Trade Sparks Roster Speculation
The addition of Nichushkin creates a forward surplus in Columbus.
This has fueled rumors that the Blue Jackets might trade winger Kirill Marchenko, who reportedly rejects signing an extension past next year.
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Marc-Olivier Beaudoin noted that the surplus could facilitate the departure of another forward from Columbus.
The Montreal Canadiens hold serious interest in acquiring Marchenko, according to David Pagnotta.
The Utah Mammoth are also pursuing the forward using assets from their previous JJ Peterka trade.
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Additionally, the Blue Jackets have started listening to trade offers regarding defenseman Zach Werenski as the team potentially enters a rebuilding phase during the offseason.
