What does the future hold for Alexander Nikishin and the Carolina Hurricanes?
Well, after the 25-year-old didn't report to Carolina's training camp as a restricted free agent, it doesn't seem like Nikishin will be on the move any time soon.
"I'm under the impression right now there's absolutely no trade possibility on the immediate radar," Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman said during the latest Saturday Headlines segment. "I think the biggest question is if he's going to go back.
"I think the Hurricanes would take him back. The contract would have to be determined. And I think right now, teams are beginning to wonder if that'll be his move."
The defenceman had 11 goals with 33 points in 81 regular-season games in 2025-26. During the team's run to a Stanley Cup championship, Nikishin had one assist in 17 games.
Before the season began, Carolina head coach Rob Brind'Amour appeared on The Fan Hockey Show and said that the team wouldn't dwell on Nikishin's status as the Hurricanes began their title defence.
"Whether they figure that out or not, who knows?" he said. "If he's here, great. If he's not, we're moving on. So we don't have a choice there."
Even without Nikishin, Carolina's season has gotten off to a strong start. The Hurricanes entered Saturday's game against the Chicago Blackhawks with a 3-1-1 record and 18 goals in five games.
