Big things are expected of Alexander Nikishin this season, especially with how long the Hurricanes and their fans waited for his arrival from Russia. We, and the league, got a small taste of what he brings to the table during the playoffs, making his NHL debut in Game 5 against the Washington Capitals. Now, we're getting him for a full 82-game season.
While the Hurricanes don't hit the ice until mid-September for their preseason opener, Nikishin has duties he must attend to before training camp convenes next month. Nikishin was selected to represent the Hurricanes at the 2025 NHLPA Rookie Showcase on September 3rd.
The event, hosted by Upper Deck, will primarily serve as a way for the company and the league to snap some picture and videos of the rookies for their rookie cards, though a light scrimmage is expected to take place between the 31 players in attendance. Brady Nadeau attended the event last season, while Logan Stankoven was present in 2023 for the Dallas Stars.
This opportunity serves as a good chance for Nikishin to showcase himself on multiple fronts, while also familiarizing himself with the other up-and-comers in the league and parts of the press process in North America.
The event will take place in Arlington, Virginia next Wednesday. It's the first of several big things for Nikishin as he embarks on his rookie campaign with the Hurricanes. With a loaded incoming rookie class, Nikishin is already getting himself prepared for the grind of the NHL season. Hopefully, we're celebrating even greater moments in the coming months.