Blue Jackets Land Stanley Cup Champion in Major Trade

Credit: © Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

The Columbus Blue Jackets made one of the biggest moves ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft, acquiring veteran winger Valeri Nichushkin from the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick (No. 43 overall), a 2027 third-round pick, and a 2028 fifth-round pick.

The 31-year-old is coming off a season in which he recorded 17 goals and 32 assists for 49 points in 72 games while adding four points in 12 Stanley Cup Playoff contests. While these numbers are solid, they fell short of the production he displayed during Colorado's Stanley Cup-winning years, when he emerged as one of the league's premier playoff performers.

Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell believes Nichushkin can have an immediate impact on Columbus' lineup.

"Valeri is a big, strong forward who skates exceptionally well, can score goals, win puck battles and doesn't shy away from playing in the hard areas. He is an accomplished two-way player who competes at a high level, and we are very excited to welcome him to the Blue Jackets family."

The acquisition addresses one of Columbus' biggest needs entering the offseason: adding an established top-six winger who can contribute offensively while also playing a complete 200-foot game. The Blue Jackets have a talented young core led by Zach Werenski, Adam Fantilli and Kent Johnson, and adding a proven veteran gives them another experienced piece as they continue their push toward becoming a consistent playoff team.

Ultimately, this deal has the potential to benefit both organizations. Columbus acquires an experienced top-six winger capable of elevating its young roster, while Colorado gains valuable financial flexibility and additional draft assets as it looks to remain a Stanley Cup contender.