Colorado Avalanche vs New Jersey Devils Picks and Predictions February 26th 2025

Valeri Nichushkin a ‘Possibility’ to Return for Avalanche vs. Devils

The Colorado Avalanche have stumbled out of the 4 Nations Face-Off break, but they could receive a major boost when they host the New Jersey Devils on Wednesday night.

Winger Valeri Nichushkin, who has been sidelined since Dec. 31 with a lower-body injury, practiced with the team on Tuesday. While head coach Jared Bednar remained noncommittal, he hinted at a potential return for the Russian forward.

“He is a possibility for (Wednesday),” Bednar said after practice. “He’s one of the top players in the league, so getting him back—when we get him back—will be helpful.”

Nichushkin’s return would be a significant lift for a Colorado team that has managed just two goals in two games since the break. He has been highly effective in limited action this season, scoring 11 goals and six assists in just 21 games. The Avalanche are currently in the midst of the Western Conference wild-card battle, making every game critical down the stretch.

Avalanche Struggling to Regain Momentum

Colorado lost consecutive road games at Nashville and St. Louis, scoring just one goal in each contest. The lack of offensive production has prevented them from gaining ground in the standings, even as they begin a favorable six-game homestand.

Despite their recent struggles, the Avalanche still possess one of the NHL’s most potent attacks, led by Nathan MacKinnon, who is having an MVP-caliber season with 87 points (21 goals, 66 assists). Cale Makar, the league’s highest-scoring defenseman, has contributed 22 goals and 42 assists, while Martin Necas (20 goals, 44 assists) and Artturi Lehkonen (23 goals, 11 assists) round out the team’s top offensive threats.

Even with Nichushkin missing 38 games, his 11 goals tie him for fifth among active Colorado players. His return would provide much-needed scoring depth as the Avalanche attempt to reclaim their form.

Devils Look to Build Consistency

New Jersey arrives in Denver after an impressive 5-0 victory over Nashville, continuing its pattern of alternating wins and losses. The Devils have not won or lost consecutive games since the end of January, making it difficult to build momentum.

Jack Hughes continues to lead the team with 26 goals and 42 assists, while Jesper Bratt (17 goals, 51 assists) and Nico Hischier (24 goals, 22 assists) have provided additional offensive support. Hughes, who participated in the 4 Nations Face-Off for the United States, did not practice Tuesday but is expected to be ready for the game.

Goaltender Nico Daws is coming off a standout performance, recording his first NHL shutout in Sunday’s win over the Predators. Daws has been stellar in limited action this season, going 2-0-0 with an 0.84 goals-against average and an impressive .986 save percentage.

“He was unreal,” Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton said of Daws’ play Sunday. “We gave up some chances, some looks, and they were playing hard. We just capitalized on some chances.”

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Key Storylines to Watch

• Nichushkin’s Possible Return: If he suits up, how much of an impact can he make after missing nearly two months?
• Avalanche Offense: Can MacKinnon, Makar, and company find a spark after two underwhelming performances?
• Daws’ Strong Play: Will the Devils’ young goaltender continue his hot streak against a high-powered Avalanche team?

Colorado begins a six-game homestand with a chance to reestablish itself as a top contender in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, New Jersey looks to find consistency and strengthen its playoff push in the East. With Nichushkin potentially returning, this matchup could be a pivotal moment for both teams as they head into the final stretch of the season.