Hurricanes End Nikishin Holdout With One-Year, $3 Million Deal

The Carolina Hurricanes signed defenseman Alexander Nikishin to a one-year, $3 million contract, ending his restricted-free-agent holdout and speculation about a possible trade. Nikishin missed training camp and Carolina’s first 13 games while the sides negotiated; reports said he sought a larger salary and had concerns about his role. The 25-year-old had 11 goals and 33 points in 81 games during his rookie season, earned NHL All-Rookie Team honors and helped Carolina win the Stanley Cup with one assist in 17 playoff games. He could be eligible to play against Boston, but may need practice time to get up to speed before making his season debut.