Canes hope Alexander Nikishin’s holdout near conclusion

The Carolina Hurricanes are attempting to resolve an ongoing contract dispute with restricted free agent defenseman Alexander Nikishin. Nikishin did not report to training camp after requesting a trade during the summer, leaving his status uncertain ahead of Carolina's regular-season opener against the Florida Panthers.

Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky stated that both sides understand each other's positions and are seeking a resolution. Nikishin, who recently changed his agent to Paul Theofanous, has drawn trade interest from the New York Rangers, St. Louis Blues, and Nashville Predators, according to reports.