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Alexander Nikishin is the Carolina Hurricanes Next Defensive Star

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Carolina’s track record of developing a world-class defensive core isn’t going anywhere with the impending addition of Alexander Nikishin. Standing tall at 6’4″, and 216 lbs, the Russian monster is regarded as one of the world’s top prospects. Since he has spent his entire post-draft career in the KHL, Nikishin remains relatively unknown outside of Hurricanes fans and those like us watching prospects not currently in the show. However, with his blend of offence, and physical power, he’s expected to become a household name as soon as he joins the NHL. Nikishin projects to be a top-four defenceman for the Hurricanes potentially as early as the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

All Signs Point to the Carolina Hurricanes Prospect Alexander Nikishin a Star

One of the aspects that makes Nikishin so desirable is his ability to put up points. Over the past two seasons, he has led all KHL defencemen in scoring, posting back-to-back campaigns of 55 and 56 points. Now, this season, he is on pace for 48 points in 62 games. That would be the lowest of his point totals with SKA St. Petersburg. However, it would mark his highest goal total at 18. The majority of his goals come as a result of a booming slapshot from the point. Something that you don’t see as much in modern-day NHL. In addition to his shot, he succeeds at jumping down the boards and slipping into open ice for a pass. He has all the tools to be a future NHL power play quarterback.

More Offensive Potential

Another offensive strength would be his transitional ability. He skates well and can quickly accelerate through the neutral zone and transition with ease. In the process, he slows down the game and finds openings for his teammates. While his overall passing abilities are a strength, his decision-making can sometimes falter. He will occasionally force the puck to dangerous areas of the ice, putting his teammates in tricky positions and causing turnovers. His playmaking ability is promising, but he will need to refine his decision-making to avoid costly mistakes in the NHL’s faster environment.

The Defensive Side

With Nikishin’s large frame, he brings some physicality to his defensive game. He’s not afraid to get under a player’s skin and push them around when defending his net. Alexander’s ability to box out opponents, seal the puck, and control the net-front area is already at an NHL level. He can accelerate quickly to engage in board battles and his size gives him an advantage when battling forecheckers.

With this being said, his defensive instincts still need some fine tuning. Despite the quick acceleration, Nikishin can be slow to identify when he needs to engage and struggles at times to scan the ice. This results in Alexander being slightly out of place, leaving open passing lanes for the opposing team. Additionally, his gap control off the rush is another area that could use improvement, as he tends to give up space to attacking forwards. Nikishin must continue to develop a heightened sense of urgency and awareness if he hopes to thrive in the NHL.

 

A Matter of When, Not If

Despite some natural flaws in his game, Nikishin’s potential is immense and the NHL will know his name before too long. He is not only an offensive defenceman but a well-rounded player who can impact all areas of the ice. Scouts are confident that Alexander should be able to sort out his game and be an effective NHL player. This biggest issue is his arrival date from over seas, and how he will adjust to hockey in North America.

Carolina Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky has already expressed a strong desire to sign Alexander Nikishin once his KHL contract ends on June 1st. There is a small chance that if SKA St. Petersburg’s season ends early, his contract could be terminated and he could join the hurricanes as soon as that happens. For right now, however, the more likely outcome is that he will be in the Hurricanes line-up on Opening Day. Patience is required, but it appears that waiting for Alexander Nikishin will be well worth the wait for Carolina.

Main Photo Credit: George Walker IV-Imagn Images

The post Alexander Nikishin is the Carolina Hurricanes Next Defensive Star appeared first on Last Word On Hockey.