Hurricanes Top Prospect Alexander Nikishin Finally Expected To Arrive in NHL

It's been a long time coming, but finally, we're getting word that Carolina Hurricanes top prospect Alexander Nikishin is expected to sign a contract to come to North America and join the Canes this spring.

Per source, Alexander Nikishin will sign a contract with with the @Canes. The Hurricanes want to see the player join the team this season, but he is under contract with the SKA until June 1, 2025. Currently, the American club is negotiating with the SKA and his agents. #RaiseUp

— Daria Tuboltseva (@DariaTuboltseva) April 8, 2025

With SKA St. Petersburg eliminated from the KHL playoffs, it's opened up the possibility, even though his contract officially runs through the end of May. And not only are the Hurricanes negotiating with SKA to get this done, insider Marco D'Amico says that Nikishin's camp is also working to negotiate the early termination of his contract.

D'Amico adds, SKA "is playing hardball, but sources indicate that he has more leverage, given his tenure and having 'paid his dues'."

Nikishin was the Hurricanes' third-round selection (#69 overall) in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, but has been locked in with the KHL ever since, first at Moscow Spartak for a couple of years, and then with SKA for the last three seasons. 

He has become a true dominant force on the blueline, posting 157 points in 193 games at St. Petersburg, with a plus/minus rating of +70. The 23-year-old is now SKA's all-time points leader for a defenseman, while the 6'4" D-man is also an imposing physical presence, using his body to deliver punishment to opposing skaters. 

If Carolina is able to add him in time for the Stanley Cup playoffs, it would be a huge boost to the team's chances.