What a year it’s been for Alexander Nikishin.
The touted prospect finally made his way to North America after years of hype and was even able get a few games under his belt in the NHL playoffs too.
The 23-year-old defenseman made his NHL debut facing one of his hockey idols in Alex Ovechkin, playing in Game 5 of the Carolina Hurricanes’ second-round series against the Washington Capitals.
While that game wasn’t necessarily one to remember for him, Nikishin was forced back into the lineup due to additional injuries to the Hurricanes blueline and that’s when he really started to impress.
Despite facing the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers in the Eastern Conference Final, Nikishin looked calm and composed and was even tasked with playing significant minutes.
He looked every bit an NHL regular despite that inexperience.
But before he was in North America, he was finishing up his sixth season in the KHL.
Nikishin’s final year in Russia was another big one as the 6-foot-3 defender racked up 17 goals and 46 points in 61 games while captaining SKA St. Petersburg.
The talented blueliner was an integral piece for SKA, playing 20+ minutes nightly and in all situations.
As such, he was recognized at the end of the year as one of six players selected to the 2025 KHL All-Star Team.
Former Hurricane Josh Leivo was also named to the 2025 All-Star Team as he set the KHL single-season scoring record with a 49-goal campaign.
Here is the 2024-25 KHL Season All-Star Team!#KHLAwardspic.twitter.com/eOduKByWWf
— KHL (@khl_eng) May 29, 2025
Stay updated with the most interesting Carolina Hurricanes stories, analysis, breaking news and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News to never miss a story.
Read the full article here