Comments on: 10 Observations: The Valeri Nichushkin Whisperer Was at It Again (+) https://coloradohockeynow.com/2025/03/01/10-observations-the-valeri-nichushkin-whisperer-was-at-it-again/ The home of Aarif Deen and the best coverage of the Colorado Avalanche Sat, 01 Mar 2025 18:09:24 +0000 hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 By: mtheelsgal https://coloradohockeynow.com/2025/03/01/10-observations-the-valeri-nichushkin-whisperer-was-at-it-again/#comment-72608 Sat, 01 Mar 2025 18:09:24 +0000 https://coloradohockeynow.com/?p=15913#comment-72608 In reply to Glendon Gulliver.

I would trust Colton to move up for a limited time, but other than him? 😬

]]> By: Glendon Gulliver https://coloradohockeynow.com/2025/03/01/10-observations-the-valeri-nichushkin-whisperer-was-at-it-again/#comment-72599 Sat, 01 Mar 2025 17:28:45 +0000 https://coloradohockeynow.com/?p=15913#comment-72599 I hope that the Avs understand that just because someone other than a 1st liner scored, the Avs still have a depth problem. The return of Nichushkin pushed a 4th liner/healthy scratch from playing on the 2nd line. The Avs do not have anyone in the bottom 6 who can replace someone in the top 6. They still need a middle 6 forward to can play on the 3rd line, but can fit in on the 2nd line if needed. Especially without Manson, the defense lacks anyone of size. Watching battles in front of the Avs net, no one is pushing the opposing players away from the crease. They fight for the puck by extending their sticks, not putting their body between the opposing player and the net. Great to see the energy from the entire team and their contributions, but the Avs still need help.

]]> By: ricoflashback https://coloradohockeynow.com/2025/03/01/10-observations-the-valeri-nichushkin-whisperer-was-at-it-again/#comment-72594 Sat, 01 Mar 2025 15:47:43 +0000 https://coloradohockeynow.com/?p=15913#comment-72594 It’s obvious that the Avs are a different and much better team with Big Val in the lineup. Besides Mac, Marty & Makar – Nichushkin is the only other Av that can create space and control the puck for long periods of time while generating scoring opportunities for other players. And MacKenzie has been stellar in goal. Huge saves when needed.

When the Avs play with speed and physicality while following up on their checks, they can beat anyone. Smart clear outs and above all, a “sense of urgency,” defensively. I do not know why they can’t play this way all the time. Or at least try. When Colorado goes through the motions and nonchalantly skates up and down at a slow pace – – they always get in trouble. Be the aggressor. Hit them in the mouth first. Play to our strength – – tremendous team speed. Above all – – play tough nosed defense. Offense can come and go. Defense can stay with your forever if you have the right attitude.

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