Carolina Hurricanes make it official for Alexander Nikishin

That is a sharp change in tone for a situation that looked ready to explode only weeks ago. The 24-year-old restricted free agent has skipped training camp and remains unsigned, while the reigning Stanley Cup champions open their title defense without him.

Nikishin asked for a trade after posting 11 goals and 33 points as a rookie, yet the market never delivered the result his camp wanted.

The New York Rangers came close to landing him, but talks collapsed over contract terms. St. Louis and Nashville have also been linked, while Carolina reportedly set a steep price of two first-round picks.

Nikishin also has little interest in signing in Winnipeg, which narrows his options further. As an RFA with no arbitration rights and no offer sheet path, he holds very little leverage under the CBA.

Carolina holds the edge. The club has roughly $9.8 million in cap space and no urgent need to settle things.

Returning would let Nikishin rejoin a deep blue line and start rebuilding his value, though whether he is willing to swallow that pride is the real question. Friedman's comment suggests the door in Carolina remains open.

For Hurricanes fans, that is encouraging news. Nikishin is young, left-handed and has already proven he can contribute on a championship roster. For other clubs hoping for a bargain, it is a clear signal to look elsewhere for now.

That also matters for the Connor Hellebuyck market, since Nikishin's status had been tied to Carolina's pursuit of the Jets goalie. The Hurricanes can afford to wait. The next move belongs to Nikishin.

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