Promising defenceman Alexander Nikishin is set to make his NHL debut for the Carolina Hurricanes as the team nears a potential spot in the Eastern Conference Final.
According to Sportsnet`s Elliotte Friedman, the talented Russian blueliner is slated to appear in Thursday night`s crucial Game 5 matchup against the Washington Capitals.
Carolina confirmed just before the game that Jalen Chatfield was sidelined due to an undisclosed injury, creating the opportunity for Nikishin to be inserted into the lineup.
His eligibility for the Stanley Cup Playoffs was confirmed when the Hurricanes officially registered his contract on April 26.
In late April, his agent, Ryan Barnes, informed Friedman that discussions regarding Alexander`s status were ongoing with Carolina. Barnes conveyed the excitement of both their Russian counterparts and themselves about seeing Alexander join the Hurricanes.
Barnes` comments came in response to reports from Russia suggesting there had been complexities in earlier negotiations involving Nikishin`s Russian agent.
Earlier reports indicated the highly-touted defence prospect had received approval for his travel petition to the U.S., though progress appeared to slow down in the days leading up to the announcement.
The 6-foot-4 left-shooting defenceman posted strong numbers in the KHL this past season, tallying 17 goals and 29 assists for a total of 46 points in 61 games with SKA St. Petersburg.
The 23-year-old Nikishin was originally a 69th overall pick by the Hurricanes in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. SKA Saint Petersburg recently announced his release to pursue an NHL career, followed by the Hurricanes confirming he had signed his entry-level contract.
With Carolina`s final step of officially registering his NHL contract, the long-awaited debut of Alexander Nikishin is now confirmed.
Fans can watch Nikishin and the Hurricanes as they aim to clinch the series against the Capitals. The game is scheduled for Thursday, with puck drop at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.
