Avalanche complete blockbuster trade ahead of NHL Draft

With the 2026 NHL Draft only hours away, one of the biggest moves of the offseason has already shaken up the league. The Colorado Avalanche and Columbus Blue Jackets pulled off a significant trade Thursday, sending veteran winger Valeri Nichushkin to Columbus in exchange for future draft capital. In return, the Avalanche will receive a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 third-round pick, and a 2028 fifth-round pick, giving Colorado additional assets as it continues to reshape its roster.

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Blue Jackets Add Proven Scoring Depth

For Columbus, the move brings in an experienced top-six forward with a lengthy track record of offensive production. Nichushkin appeared in 72 games last season, recording 49 points on 17 goals and 32 assists. He also contributed during the postseason with two goals and two assists in 12 playoff games, proving he can produce on hockey’s biggest stage.

At 31 years old, the Russian winger still offers size, skill, and playoff experience—qualities the Blue Jackets hope will strengthen their forward group as they continue building toward contention.

End of an Era in Colorado

Nichushkin leaves Colorado after spending the majority of his NHL career with the Avalanche, following his early years with the Dallas Stars. Across 11 NHL seasons, he has played 627 career games, totaling 154 goals, 203 assists, and 357 points. His résumé also includes 112 penalty minutes, 41 power-play goals, 24 game-winning goals, and six shorthanded goals, while posting an impressive +109 plus/minus rating and averaging 16:25 of ice time per game.

While Colorado parts with an important veteran presence, the return of three future draft selections provides additional flexibility as the franchise looks toward both the upcoming draft and future roster moves. With the NHL Draft set to begin later Thursday, this blockbuster may only be the first major domino to fall.

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