Alexander Nikishin declines numerous trade offers
Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Alexander Nikishin has become one of the NHL's most talked-about trade candidates, but according to insider Elliotte Friedman, the holdup isn't just Carolina's asking price.
The 24-year-old blueliner has reportedly rejected the idea of joining several interested clubs outright.
Nikishin's List Is Shorter Than Teams Expected
Friedman revealed on the latest 32 Thoughts update that Carolina's front office has fielded numerous calls this offseason, only to run into a wall on the player's side.
They tried to trade him this summer, but there's a lot of places where he doesn't seem too interested to sign.
That comment reframes months of speculation. Clubs like the Rangers, Blues, Kings, and Predators have all been floated as suitors, with varying degrees of seriousness attached to each pursuit.
If Nikishin is privately narrowing his list, it would explain why Carolina general manager Eric Tulsky has been unable to close a deal despite plenty of outside interest.
Nikishin, a restricted free agent coming off a strong rookie campaign, posted 33 points in 81 games last season and helped the Hurricanes capture the Stanley Cup.
His combination of size, mobility, and offensive instincts from the back end makes him a rare commodity, but his contract situation and now his reported preferences are complicating any potential trade.
What This Means For Carolina's Options
Without Nikishin's cooperation, Carolina's leverage narrows considerably. A trade that hinges on the player agreeing to sign long-term with his new team becomes far harder to execute if his list of acceptable destinations is limited.
For now, the Hurricanes remain stuck between finding a trade partner Nikishin will actually sign with and simply re-signing him themselves. Expect this situation to remain unresolved deep into training camp.
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