Avalanche complete blockbuster trade ahead of NHL Draft

The Colorado Avalanche and Columbus Blue Jackets completed a significant trade on Thursday, June 25, 2026, just hours before the 2026 NHL Draft. The deal involves veteran winger Valeri Nichushkin being sent as part of the blockbuster transaction between the two teams. The move is considered one of the biggest of the offseason and is expected to have a notable impact on the league.