Valeri Nichushkin and Trent Miner Rally Avalanche
Valeri Nichushkin's performance on Thursday night was exceptional, with one phrase to describe it:
C'est magnifique. The Avalanche debuted their Quebec Nordiques throwbacks but struggled with turnovers and defense early on, as well as power-play issues throughout the game.
However, Nichushkin came through late to secure a point in a 5-4 shootout loss to the Carolina Hurricanes at Ball Arena. His second goal of the night, on the seventh power-play opportunity, helped Colorado recover from a 4-1 deficit at 14:09 of the third period.
Coach Jared Bednar praised Nichushkin, saying
I thought he was having a great game, maybe his best of the year, which led to his promotion to the top power-play unit before scoring the game-tying goal.
Author's summary: Nichushkin shines in Avalanche's shootout loss.