Alexander Nikishin`s representative based in North America is hopeful that his client will be able to don a Carolina Hurricanes uniform in the near future.
Ryan Barnes commented, “We have been collaborating with Carolina regarding Alexander`s situation. Our partners in Russia are simply looking forward to seeing Alexander compete for the Hurricanes, and we share that excitement.”
Barnes` statement was made in response to a report originating from Russia, where Nikishin`s Russian-based agent mentioned complications in the ongoing negotiations.
The previous week, Hurricanes team reporter Walt Ruff reported that the highly-touted defensive prospect received approval for his petition to travel to the United States from Saudi Arabia.
However, the progression of that plan appears to have slowed down somewhat.
The six-foot-four left-shot defenceman was highly effective in the KHL, scoring 17 goals and providing 29 assists for a total of 46 points in 61 games for SKA St. Petersburg.
Nikishin, currently 23 years old, was drafted 69th overall by the Hurricanes during the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. Earlier this month, SKA Saint Petersburg announced that the defenceman had been released by the club to pursue an opportunity in the NHL.
Subsequently, the Hurricanes confirmed that Nikishin had officially signed an entry-level contract with the NHL organization.
