Original Six team keeps surfacing in Alexander Nikishin trade buzz as $8 million question looms

The 24 year old Hurricanes defenseman is still unsigned as an RFA heading into training camp, and Carolina general manager Eric Tulsky has made clear he is open to whatever move improves the roster, trade included.

Nikishin cannot sign an offer sheet, which strips away one of the usual pressure valves in a standoff like this and leaves Carolina holding most of the cards on a new contract or a return package.

Boston has been floated as a fit for months now, and the interest makes sense on paper.

The Bruins need help on the back end, and Nikishin just finished a rookie season with 11 goals and 22 assists in 81 games, plus a plus 18 rating that ranked near the top of all first year defensemen in the league.

That is where things get complicated.

Reports have Nikishin seeking something in the $8 million range annually, and possibly more, which creates a cap puzzle for a Bruins team already managing tight numbers on the blue line.

Carolina has also shown no appetite for a futures only offer, so any package likely needs young NHL talent attached, not just picks.

With $9.88 million in cap space and no other unsigned regulars, the Hurricanes are not desperate to move him.

That gives them room to wait out a stronger offer, or simply sign him and keep one of their most promising young defenders in house.

Boston fans have plenty to think about this week.

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