What happened: Contract negotiations between the Carolina Hurricanes and unsigned blueliner Alexander Nikishin, who hired agent Paul Theofanous on Sept. 25, are advancing toward a resolution, according to Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC). Nikishin has sat out the opening stretch of the 2026-27 regular season into late October while the two sides worked through their contract impasse.

Why it matters: An agreement would end months of trade speculation after Carolina left the door open to moving the defenseman in August. His unsigned status also factored into autumn trade talks across the league, including St. Louis pursuing him during the Connor Hellebuyck sweepstakes before New Jersey acquired the goaltender from Winnipeg on Oct. 24.

What to watch: A formal announcement of contract terms and salary cap figures from Carolina is the next hurdle before Nikishin can join the active roster for his 2026-27 debut.