Carolina Hurricanes sign defenseman Alexander Nikishin to one-year, $3 million deal

The Carolina Hurricanes have signed defenseman Alexander Nikishin to a one-year contract worth $3 million, WRAL reported. Nikishin, a restricted free agent, had been in a contract stalemate with the team throughout the offseason.

Nikishin, 25, was named to the NHL's All-Rookie team last year and ranked second among rookie defensemen. He was part of the Hurricanes' Stanley Cup championship team last year.

The sides had been at odds with Nikishin seeking a long-term deal and reportedly requesting a trade. However, the contract agreement ends the dispute and allows him to return to the Hurricanes' roster.

Carolina currently leads the NHL with 20 points through 13 games, holding a 9-2-2 record. Nikishin has not played this season, making him one of the few members of last year's Stanley Cup team not to return to the ice so far.

Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky expressed optimism about Nikishin's return, stating the team looks forward to his contributions as the season progresses.