Welcome to the NHL Buzz. Each day during the regular season, NHL.com has you covered with all the latest news. Quinn Hughes will be a game-time decision for the Canucks against the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday (10 p.

The Avalanche realized what a difference one player can make to a team. Valeri Nichushkin helped boost his team to a 5-1 win over the New Jersey Devils Wednesday night. His skill and size have been noticeably absent from the lineup.

Valeri Nichushkin returns to the Colorado Avalanche lineup Wednesday night for the first time in nearly two months after recovering from a lower-body injury. The Russian forward will try to spark a sputtering Avalanche offense that’s scored two goals in back-to-back losses since coming back from the break for the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament.

Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin, who hasn't played since Dec. 31 due to a lower-body injury, will return against the Devils on Wednesday.

The Avs have also missed other key players for chunks of this season, but Nichushkin’s presence has been a difference-maker. Colorado is 14-7 when Nichushkin plays and 19-17-2 when he doesn’t this season.

The Avalanche are preparing to welcome Valeri Nichushkin back into their lineup for the first time since late December.

The Colorado Avalanche (33-24-2) begin a crucial six-game homestand against the New Jersey Devils (32-21-6). Puck drop is scheduled for 7:38 p.m. MT. READ MORE: NHL Trade Deadline 2025: Desperate For Depth Scoring — Avalanche Trade Board 3.

Colorado Avalanche left wing Valeri Nichushkin scored a hat trick during their victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday evening. In the opening frame, Nichushkin found the back of the net twice,