The Carolina Hurricanes will begin defending their Stanley Cup title Tuesday — likely without one of their rising stars on defense. Blueliner Alexander Nikishin remained an unsigned restricted free agent ahead of the Hurricanes' home opener against Florida. The 24-year-old did not report to training camp and hasn't backed down from the trade request he made over the summer.

Carolina general manager Eric Tulsky said Monday that, despite an ongoing stalemate, the organization hasn't given up on getting a deal done eventually. “It’s unusual to get to this point with a player unsigned,” Tulsky said. “We understand where they are. They understand where we are. We’re trying to find a resolution.”

Nikishin tallied 11 goals and 33 points as a rookie in the 2025-26 season, which culminated with the Canes as Cup champions. Shortly after that victory, he approached management about a change of scenery. Carolina’s stacked blue line has made it difficult for Nikishin to grab hold of a larger opportunity commensurate with the pay increase he’s seeking.

To try to get what he wants, Nikishin switched agents last week to Paul Theofanous of TMI LLC. Last week, Sportsnet reported there was nearly a deal to send Nikishin to the New York Rangers, but it fell apart. Other clubs — including Nashville and St. Louis — have reportedly shown interest. “We’re trying to find a resolution,” Tulsky reiterated.