The time for tough decisions is coming for the Colorado Avalanche.
Valeri Nichushkin is expected to return to the lineup Friday, assuming he is fully reinstated by the NHL and NHLPA from the player assistance program. Avs coach Jared Bednar intimated that Jonathan Drouin and Miles Wood, who have shed the non-contact jerseys for two days, could also be back against the Washington Capitals at Ball Arena.
That means three forwards have to come out of the lineup, and at least two players have to be removed from the active roster. The most intriguing question? Will rookies Ivan Ivan and Nikolai Kovalenko be among the players who stay?