Colorado Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin has been suspended for at least six months without pay for violating the NHL/NHLPA Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program. The suspension, announced by the league on Wednesday, is effective immediately.
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Colorado Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin has been suspended for at least six months without pay for violating the NHL/NHLPA Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program. The suspension, announced by the league on Wednesday, is effective immediately.
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Nichushkin, 27, has been placed in stage 3 of the league's player assistance program. This is the most serious stage of the program and requires the player to undergo intensive treatment and counseling.
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The suspension is a significant blow to the Avalanche, who are currently in the midst of a playoff push. Nichushkin has been a key contributor to the team's success this season, scoring 25 goals and adding 29 assists in 62 games.
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Nichushkin's suspension is the latest in a string of recent substance abuse-related suspensions in the NHL. In the past year, several players have been suspended for violating the league's substance abuse policy, including Evander Kane, Mike Hoffman, and Josh Brown.
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The NHL has taken a hard line on substance abuse in recent years, and the league's substance abuse policy is one of the strictest in professional sports. The policy requires players to undergo regular testing for drugs and alcohol, and violators can face significant penalties, including suspensions and fines.
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Nichushkin's suspension is a reminder of the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of seeking help if you are struggling with addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please reach out for help.
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The NHL/NHLPA Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program is a confidential program that provides players with access to treatment and counseling for substance abuse and other mental health issues. The program is designed to help players get the help they need to overcome their addiction and return to a healthy lifestyle.
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If you are concerned about a player's substance abuse, you can report it to the NHL/NHLPA Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program by calling 1-844-NHL-HELP (1-844-645-4357).
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Nichushkin's suspension is a reminder that substance abuse is a serious issue that can affect anyone, regardless of their age, profession, or background. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please reach out for help.
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The NHL/NHLPA Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program is a confidential program that provides players with access to treatment and counseling for substance abuse and other mental health issues. The program is designed to help players get the help they need to overcome their addiction and return to a healthy lifestyle.
