Russian hockey prospects: Carolina Hurricanes sign Russian top prospect Alexander Nikishin with 2-year deal
The 23-year-old Russian star will reportedly receive a base salary of $832,500 a year, a high in the 2024-25 season. With that, he will receive a $92,500 annual signing bonus. The deal also includes a performance clause that will receive an additional bonus if Nikshin claims to receive Conn Smythe Trophy.
The arrangement was reportedly the same as the contract signed by Montreal’s Ivan Demidov and Washington’s Ryan Leonard.
Carolina Hurricane thanks SKA
According to ESPN’s report, Hurricane General Manager Eric Tulsky expressed his gratitude to Nikishin for his development. He said the European Prime Minister’s hockey franchise helped him develop into one of the top prospects for hockey.
Tarski further pointed out that the size and skills of Russian hockey players have given him a record career in the KHL, and they believe he will have an impact in the NHL, too.
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From KHL Star to NHL Contender
Nikishin’s 6’4″ and 214 pounds (214 pounds) was originally drafted by Carolina in the third round of the 2020 NHL Draft. Although he signed his first NHL contract at the age of 23, his resume was impressive enough to compete for the best first-round pick.
Nikishin reportedly won 157 points (45 goals, 112 assists) in 193 KHL games since the 2022-23 season. During this time, he led all KHL defensive players to score.
The player served as SKA captain in the 2023-24 season and also led by KHL assists (44) in 2022-23. He reportedly even surpassed the league’s top forward. He ended his KHL career with a +71 rating, which included a league-best +32 in 2023-24.
Nikishin continued to shine with 17 goals and 29 assists in 61 games as Ska’s season fell. The report added that his balance and stability and Olympic experience of the 2022 Beijing Russian Olympic Committee have added to his strength as a completed two-way blue chip team.
What happened next to Nikishin, Carolina
As the Hurricane has consolidated in the second place in the Mets, Niksin should report to the team immediately. He may get ice time in one of the last games of the regular season before the playoffs begin. Media reports say that despite this, his initial function is yet to be determined as Shayne Gostisbehere, Dmitry Orlov and Jaccob Slavin are in front of the defensive depth chart on the left.
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Looking forward to next year, Nikishin is expected to step in and fill the gap left by Orlov, who is confined to unrestricted free agents, releasing more than $6.75 million in salary for the Hurricanes. Even if it could be seven defensemen in the playoffs, he provides high-quality depth to Carolina’s Stanley Cup wishes.
FAQ
Question 1: When will Alexander Nikishin make his debut for the Carolina Hurricane?
Although a specific date has not been confirmed, Nikishin may appear in the Hurricanes’ final regular season game before the NHL playoffs begin.
Question 2: How much is Niksin’s contract worth?
Nikishin will earn $832,500 a year, earn $832,500 this season and a $185,000 signing bonus over two years. Performance bonuses can be added based on playoff success.
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