It’s probably impossible to exceed the hype of Alexander Nikishin finally coming to North America and joining the Carolina Hurricanes. But let’s try anyway. The Hurricanes, having signed their top prospect to a two-year entry-level contract on Friday after SKA St.

Carolina drafted him in the third round in 2020, and Nikishin helped the Russians reach the Olympic final in Beijing in 2022. His contract is worth $832,500 a year — prorated this season — and includes a $185,

The Hurricanes’ third-round draft pick in 2020 played for SKA in the Russian pro league, but has had his contract terminated, allowing him to come to NHL.