Hurricanes provide unfortunate update on Alexander Nikishin's trade request

The Stanley Cup champions confirmed Wednesday that their unsigned restricted free agent defenseman is staying away as his summer trade request remains in place.

General manager Eric Tulsky addressed the situation in a brief statement and made clear the club does not plan to elaborate further.

Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic reported that Nikishin and his representation requested a trade after Carolina's championship run ended, and that as of this week the request remains firmly in place.

The 24-year-old has been connected to trade talks for months, including a June report that named him as a centerpiece of a potential offer for goaltender Connor Hellebuyck.
Daily Faceoff

Nikishin is coming off a strong rookie campaign, posting 33 points in 81 games, a new franchise record for a rookie defenseman, while adding 132 hits and 94 blocked shots. He added one assist in 17 playoff games as Carolina lifted the Cup.

With Nikishin unsigned and camp opening Thursday at Lane Arena in Morrisville, Carolina must decide whether to hold its ground or find a trade partner.

Reports indicate the Hurricanes have been seeking a roster player in return rather than draft picks, and no team has met that price yet.
Gino Hard

For now, the door remains open, but neither side appears ready to move.

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