Alexander Nikishin`s North American representative expressed hope that the defenseman will be able to join the Carolina Hurricanes soon.
“We have been working with Carolina regarding Alexander’s status,” stated Ryan Barnes, as reported. “Our Russian partners are eager to see Alexander play for the Hurricanes, and we share that excitement.”
Barnes` comments were in response to a report from Russia where Nikishin’s Russian agent mentioned complications in negotiations.
Last week, it was reported that the top defense prospect had been granted permission to travel to the U.S. from Saudi Arabia.
However, it seems the progress on this plan may have slowed.
The 6-foot-4 left-shot defenseman recorded 17 goals and 29 assists, totaling 46 points in 61 games, while playing for SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL.
Nikishin, who is 23 years old, was the 69th overall pick by the Hurricanes in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. His KHL club, SKA Saint Petersburg, announced earlier this month that the defenseman had been released from his contract to facilitate a move to the NHL.
Following this, the Hurricanes announced that Nikishin had signed an entry-level contract with the NHL team.
Tristan Blackwood