Avalanche winger suspended 6 months in the middle of a playoff run

The timing for this suspension couldn't be worse for Nichushkin and the Avalnche, who are down 2-1 in their 2nd round series against the Dallas Stars ahead of tonight's Game 4.

Nichushkin's suspension was a mandatory penalty for entering Stage 3 of the Player Assistance Program. According to Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli, Nichushkin is believed to have failed a drug test. Elliotte Friedman confirmed the report during intermission of tonight's Rangers/Hurricanes game.

Per TSN's Chris Johnston, as a result of his placement in the program, Nichushkin will be suspended without pay for the next 6 months and will be able to apply for re-instatement following the 6 month ban.

A massive loss for the Avalanche, as Nichushkin already has 10 points in 8 games in these playoffs.

This is the 2nd time in the last two seasons that Nichushkin has been involved in the program.