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● LIVE Updated 14h ago · 24 sources tracked

Nichushkin traded to Blue Jackets by Avalanche

The Columbus Blue Jackets traded three draft picks to the Colorado Avalanche for forward Valeri Nichushkin. Columbus intends to use Nichushkin to improve special teams and shift the team culture to end a postseason drought spanning six seasons. The move comes as Colorado manages its roster after signing defenseman Cale Makar to an eight-year, $163.2 million extension. Makar will earn a $20.4 million annual average value starting in 2027-28, the highest payment in NHL history.

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What changed

Latest reports confirm Nichushkin was added specifically to boost the Blue Jackets special teams.

Live updates

  1. Columbus Blue Jackets acquire Valeri Nichushkin to end playoff drought

    The Columbus Blue Jackets traded three draft picks to the Colorado Avalanche for forward Valeri Nichushkin. Columbus intends to use Nichushkin to improve special teams and shift the team culture to end a postseason drought spanning six seasons. The move comes as Colorado manages its roster after signing defenseman Cale Makar to an eight-year, $163.2 million extension. Makar will earn a $20.4 million annual average value starting in 2027-28, the highest payment in NHL history.

    Why it matters

    Columbus is attempting to enter the 2026-27 campaign with a renewed mindset to secure a playoff berth. Colorado's roster restructuring follows the record-breaking financial commitment to Makar. Joe Sakic will continue as general manager for the Avalanche indefinitely.

    What is confirmed

    • The Columbus Blue Jackets traded three draft picks to the Colorado Avalanche for forward Valeri Nichushkin.
    • Cale Makar signed an eight-year, $163.2 million extension with an annual average value of $20.4 million starting in 2027-28.
    • Columbus has missed the postseason for six seasons.
    • Joe Sakic will remain the general manager for the Colorado Avalanche indefinitely.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Winger Kirill Marchenko may be moved before the season begins.
    • Defenseman Alexander Nikishin of the Carolina Hurricanes has requested a change of scenery.

    What to watch next

    • Official roster announcements for the 2026-27 season
    • Trade updates regarding Kirill Marchenko
    Sources used for this update (8)
    1. abc7chicago.com — Burning questions for all 32 NHL teams this preseason
    2. www.nytimes.com — NHL Bizarro-meter 2026: Which Western Conference team had the weirdest offseason?
    3. www.nhl.com — Fantasy hockey sleeper picks for 2026-27
    4. sports.yahoo.com — Zach Werenski Explains Why The Columbus Blue Jackets Will Make The Playoffs; Does He Want The "C"?
    5. www.clickondetroit.com — Joe Sakic plans to indefinitely stay in GM role for Avs with no search scheduled, AP source says
    6. heavy.com — Hurricanes’ Alexander Nikishin’s Top Landing Spot After ‘Change of Scenery’ Request
    7. sports.yahoo.com — NHL Rumor Roundup: Updates On Kirill Marchenko And Alexander Nikishin
    8. www.nhl.com — Blue Jackets season preview: Seeking to change culture, end playoff drought
    confidence 100%

  2. Columbus Blue Jackets acquire Valeri Nichushkin from Colorado Avalanche

    The Columbus Blue Jackets have traded three draft picks to the Colorado Avalanche for forward Valeri Nichushkin. Columbus intends to use the acquisition to shift the team mindset and end a six-season postseason drought for the 2026-27 campaign. The trade occurs as Colorado restructures its roster following an eight-year, $163.2 million extension for defenseman Cale Makar. Makar will receive a $20.4 million annual average value starting in 2027-28, which marks the highest payment in the history of the NHL.

    Why it matters

    This roster movement allows Colorado to manage its cap space while committing long-term to its defensive core. For Columbus, the move represents a push to return to the playoffs after six years of absence.

    What to watch next

    • Official confirmation of the three draft picks sent to Colorado
    • Nichushkin's role in the Blue Jackets lineup for the 2026-27 season
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. sports.yahoo.com — Former Vancouver Canucks Around The World: KHL
    2. thehockeynews.com — Best Bargain Additions From NHL Free Agency In 2026
    3. sports.yahoo.com — Who could make their NHL debut for the Avalanche in 2026-27?
    4. heavy.com — Carolina Hurricanes Rumors: Defenseman Alexander Nikishkin Linked to St. Louis Blues in Latest Report
    confidence 100%

  3. Columbus Blue Jackets Add Valeri Nichushkin via Trade

    The Columbus Blue Jackets acquired forward Valeri Nichushkin from the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for three draft picks. Columbus is targeting a mindset shift for the 2026-27 season to end a postseason drought lasting six seasons. This move coincides with a roster restructuring in Colorado, highlighted by a record-setting eight-year, $163.2 million extension for defenseman Cale Makar. Makar will earn a $20.4 million annual average value starting in 2027-28, the highest payment in NHL history.

    Why it matters

    The trade shifts a high-profile forward to a team struggling to return to the playoffs. Colorado is managing its salary cap to accommodate Makar's historic contract. These moves occur as NHL training camps are scheduled to begin in less than two weeks.

    What is confirmed

    • The Colorado Avalanche traded forward Valeri Nichushkin to the Columbus Blue Jackets for three draft picks.
    • Cale Makar signed an eight-year, $163.2 million extension with an annual average value of $20.4 million starting in 2027-28.
    • The Columbus Blue Jackets have missed the postseason for six seasons.

    What to watch next

    • The start of NHL training camps in late September
    • Performance of Nichushkin in the 2026-27 regular season
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. sports.yahoo.com — Blue Jackets' 2026-27 Player Preview: Valeri Nichushkin
    2. sports.yahoo.com — Four Former Avalanche Players Remain on UFA Market as Training Camp Nears
    3. www.rotowire.com — Metropolitan Division 2026-27 Preview: Fantasy Hockey Outlook for Every Team
    4. sports.yahoo.com — Blue Jackets' 2026-27 Player Preview: Kent Johnson
    5. thehockeynews.com — Four NHL Teams With The Best Depth Heading Into 2026-27
    confidence 100%

  4. Avalanche trade Valeri Nichushkin to Blue Jackets for three draft picks

    The Colorado Avalanche traded forward Valeri Nichushkin to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for three draft picks. Columbus intends to end a six-season postseason drought and change the team mindset for the 2026-27 season. Colorado is restructuring its roster, which includes an eight-year, $163.2 million extension for defenseman Cale Makar. This contract gives Makar a $20.4 million annual average value starting in 2027-28, making him the highest paid player in NHL history.

    Why it matters

    The move comes as the Carolina Hurricanes enter the 2026-27 season as Stanley Cup champions. Colorado is managing its cap and roster depth while integrating young talent like Fabian Lysell.

    What is confirmed

    • The Colorado Avalanche traded forward Valeri Nichushkin to the Columbus Blue Jackets for three draft picks.
    • Cale Makar signed an eight-year, $163.2 million extension with the Avalanche.
    • Makar's deal carries a $20.4 million annual average value starting in 2027-28.
    • The Carolina Hurricanes are the Stanley Cup champions entering the 2026-27 season.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Buffalo Sabres can expect to win all their games against a disappointing Columbus Blue Jackets team.
    • Fabian Lysell's success in Colorado depends on whether he can get out of his own way.

    What to watch next

    • Performance of Valeri Nichushkin during the 2026-27 season with Columbus
    • Integration of Fabian Lysell into the Avalanche active roster
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. sports.yahoo.com — Previews And Bold Predictions For The NHL 2026-2027 Season: Metropolitan Division
    2. www.stadiumrant.com — Previews And Bold Predictions For The NHL 2026-2027 Season: Metropolitan Division
    3. thehockeynews.com — Know Your Enemy: Sabres Must Take Advantage Of Puny Blue Jackets
    4. ca.sports.yahoo.com — Fabian Lysell Has Everything He Needs To Break Out In Colorado
    confidence 90%

  5. Colorado trades Valeri Nichushkin to Columbus Blue Jackets

    The Colorado Avalanche traded forward Valeri Nichushkin to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for three draft picks. Columbus is attempting to end a six-season postseason drought and shift the team mindset for the 2026-27 season. Colorado is currently restructuring its roster, a process that includes signing defenseman Cale Makar to an eight-year, $163.2 million extension. This deal makes Makar the highest paid player in NHL history with a $20.4 million annual average value starting in 2027-28.

    Why it matters

    The trade comes as Colorado faces external scrutiny over its roster strength. Columbus is simultaneously managing contract negotiations for restricted free agent Adam Fantilli before training camp begins.

    What is confirmed

    • The Colorado Avalanche traded Valeri Nichushkin to the Columbus Blue Jackets for three draft picks.
    • Cale Makar signed an eight-year extension with the Colorado Avalanche worth $163.2 million.
    • Makar's deal carries an annual average value of $20.4 million beginning in 2027-28.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Columbus Blue Jackets management is confident they will sign restricted free agent Adam Fantilli before training camp.

    What to watch next

    • The signing of Adam Fantilli's contract
    • The start of the 2026-27 NHL regular season
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. thehockeynews.com — NHL Off-Season Rankings: No. 8, Colorado Avalanche
    2. sports.yahoo.com — Avs defenseman Cale Makar signs richest deal in NHL history at $163.2 million over 8 years
    3. www.usatoday.com — Kirill Marchenko remains on track to play for Columbus Blue Jackets
    4. www.tsn.ca — Waddell ‘confident’ Blue Jackets will sign RFA Fantilli before training camp
    5. sports.yahoo.com — Puck Drop Preview: 2026-27 Colorado Avalanche
    confidence 95%

  6. Valeri Nichushkin discusses departure from Avalanche after trade to Blue Jackets

    Valeri Nichushkin has spoken about his trade from the Colorado Avalanche to the Columbus Blue Jackets in an interview with RB Sport. The Avalanche received three draft picks for the forward as part of a team revamp. Columbus acquired Nichushkin while attempting to return to the playoffs after missing the postseason for six consecutive seasons. The team is currently working to change its mindset for the 2026-27 season, while Colorado faces external assessments regarding its roster strength heading into the new campaign.

    Why it matters

    The trade removes a key forward from the Colorado roster during a period of organizational restructuring. Columbus is targeting a playoff return after a prolonged drought. The move coincides with the lead-up to NHL training camps for the 2026-27 season.

    What is confirmed

    • The Colorado Avalanche traded Valeri Nichushkin to the Columbus Blue Jackets for three draft picks.
    • Columbus has missed the playoffs for six straight seasons.
    • Valeri Nichushkin discussed leaving Denver in an interview with RB Sport.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Colorado Avalanche are among five NHL teams that look noticeably weaker heading into the 2026-27 season.
    • Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Alexander Nikishin may be traded before the 2026-27 season starts.

    What to watch next

    • Disclosure of the specific draft picks received by Colorado
    • Official roster announcements for the 2026-27 season
    • Columbus Blue Jackets performance in upcoming training camps
    Sources used for this update (8)
    1. www.nhl.com — Inside look at Columbus Blue Jackets
    2. sports.yahoo.com — Five Teams That Should Target Alexander Nikishin In A Trade
    3. www.nhl.com — Columbus Blue Jackets fantasy projections for 2026-27
    4. sports.yahoo.com — Blue Jackets Ranked Among NHL's Worst Teams By THN
    5. sports.yahoo.com — Three Current, Two Former Avalanche Make The Athletic’s ‘Hall of Fame Tiers’ List
    6. sports.yahoo.com — Valeri Nichushkin Opens Up About Avalanche Trade, Leaving Denver In Russian Interview
    7. sports.yahoo.com — Colorado Avalanche Team News - Yahoo Sports
    8. hockeysverige.se — Fem NHL-lag som ser märkbart svagare ut inför 2026/27
    confidence 90%

  7. Colorado Avalanche trade Valeri Nichushkin to Columbus Blue Jackets

    The Colorado Avalanche have traded Valeri Nichushkin to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Colorado received three draft picks as compensation for the player. This move serves as a component of a broader team revamp for the Avalanche. The transaction is confirmed, though specific details regarding the draft picks involved have not been disclosed.

    Why it matters

    Nichushkin's departure alters the Avalanche roster as the team seeks to improve its competitive standing. This trade follows a period of organizational restructuring aimed at long-term success.

    What to watch next

    • Disclosure of the specific draft picks acquired by Colorado
    • Nichushkin's first game back against the Avalanche
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. heavy.com — Hurricanes Star Reveals Huge Contract Demands Amid Trade Talks
    2. sports.yahoo.com — Blues Remain Interested In Hurricanes' Alexander Nikishin; Plenty Of Complications Exist
    3. www.nytimes.com — Why these 7 NHL teams are in danger of getting stuck in the mushy middle
    4. thehockeywriters.com — 10 Best NHL Return Games to Watch in 2026-27
    5. sports.yahoo.com — Flyers Defense Prospect 'One of the Best' at World Junior Summer Showcase
    confidence 100%

  8. Nichushkin traded to Blue Jackets by Avalanche

    The Colorado Avalanche traded Valeri Nichushkin to the Columbus Blue Jackets, receiving three draft picks in return. This trade is part of the Avalanche's team revamp. The trade details remain confirmed, but no additional information has been added.

    What's confirmed:

    • Valeri Nichushkin was traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets by the Colorado Avalanche.
    • The Avalanche received three draft picks in exchange for Nichushkin.
    Sources used for this update (2)
    1. Former Avalanche Goalie Announces Retirement
    2. Avalanche’s T.J. Hughes Among NHLPA Rookie Showcase Participants
    confidence 100%

  9. Colorado Avalanche trade Valeri Nichushkin to Columbus Blue Jackets

    The Colorado Avalanche have traded Stanley Cup winner Valeri Nichushkin to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Colorado received three draft picks in exchange for the player. This move is part of a broader team revamp by the Avalanche.

    What's confirmed:

    • The Colorado Avalanche traded Valeri Nichushkin to the Columbus Blue Jackets.
    • The Blue Jackets acquired Nichushkin in exchange for draft picks.
    • Valeri Nichushkin is a Stanley Cup winner.

    Still unconfirmed:

    • Valeri Nichushkin was traded for three draft picks.
    • The Avalanche are revamping their roster.
    Sources used for this update (14)
    1. Blue Jackets acquire Valeri Nichushkin from Avalanche in exchange for draft picks: Sources
    2. Now might be the time for the Avalanche to trade Val Nichushkin
    3. Avalanche continue revamp, trade Valeri Nichushkin to Blue Jackets
    4. Breaking: Val Nichushkin traded for three draft picks
    5. Crowd favorite Av, Stanley Cup winner traded to Blue Jackets
    6. Nichushkin traded to Blue Jackets by Avalanche
    7. Colorado Avalanche's Valeri Nichushkin Traded to Columbus Blue Jackets
    8. NHL UFA guide: Which teams should add in free agency, which should sit it out
    9. 5 Columbus Blue Jackets questions before NHL free agency
    10. The Hockey News Weekly Recap: International Hockey - June 30th, 2026
    11. NHL PUCK DROPS: Big changes to the Avalanche, Panthers
    12. Did Avalanche make moves in the right direction?
    confidence 90%