The Nashville Predators are looking to make changes to their defense, but a move for Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Alexander Nikishin does not appear to be close. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman said on the 32 Thoughts podcast that talks between Nashville and Carolina have gone quiet.
“I don’t know that anything’s been going on there for a while with Nashville and Carolina. I think it’s kind of gone cold, but the word is that definitely the Predators want to do some remaking of their defense,” Friedman said.
Friedman had linked Nashville to Alexander Nikishin last month, reporting that the Predators were exploring the possibility. The 24-year-old is a restricted free agent after his two-year, $1.85 million entry-level contract expired at the end of the 2025-26 season.
Nashville has continued to make changes to its defense under president of hockey operations and general manager Chris MacFarland. Last week, the Predators acquired Jayden Struble from the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for a 2027 second-round pick.
The Predators have struggled defensively this season, giving up too many quality scoring chances. They also let a big lead slip away against Toronto last Tuesday, and coach Andrew Brunette has stressed the need for better play on the back end.
Alexander Nikishin’s role in Carolina adds to trade uncertainty
Alexander Nikishin’s place in Carolina’s defensive lineup is reportedly one reason he may be looking for a change. Frank Seravalli said on Frankly Hockey that the defenseman was not happy with his chances of moving up the depth chart, with several established players ahead of him.
“The guys that are in front of him, as great as last year was from a team perspective, I don’t think he was very thrilled with his upward mobility in the Canes lineup” Seravalli said.
Alexander Nikishin’s contract demands are another factor. His camp has reportedly discussed a five-year deal worth around $9 million annually, while the Hurricanes have been working with his new agent, Paul Theofanous, on a possible trade, according to Seravalli.
The 24 year old recorded 11 goals and 33 points in 81 games last season as Carolina won the Stanley Cup. His camp is reportedly seeking an annual salary above $8 million, and Elliotte Friedman suggested Zeev Buium’s eight-year, $9.38 million deal with Vancouver could push that figure higher.
Carolina still holds Nikishin’s rights as a restricted free agent. If another team submits an offer sheet, the Hurricanes can match it or receive draft-pick compensation if they decline, depending on the contract’s value. A trade remains another possible route if the two sides cannot agree on a deal.
Edited by Sonali Verma
