WILL ALEXANDER NIKISHIN TAKE THE NHL BY STORM?

Alexander “Boom” Nikishin is an aptly nicknamed prospect. The dude hits like a freight train, has a cannon of a shot and is one of the top young defensemen in Russia. He’s so highly valued that it took nine players plus monetary compensation to pry him from Spartak Moscow, so now he’ll be playing in a top role for SKA St. Petersburg. Nikishin’s game is well rounded and likely puts him in a top four role whenever he does make it to the NHL. He’s a strong skater with great top speed and decent edges, responsible defensively, smart and physical. Nikishin has shown flashes of strong offensive ability at the KHL level, albeit not on a consistent basis. Yes, his shot is heavy and accurate, but you’re not really scoring from point shots at the NHL level unless there’s a deflection. I’d like to see Nikishin scan the ice and make better passes, because I feel that most of his play in the offensive zone revolves around shooting from the point. If he can work the puck down low, he’ll be much more effective, even if it doesn’t always result in a goal.
Nikishin excels at stopping offensive rushes at the blue line, usually by delivering a thunderous hit. When he’s not hitting, however, Nikishin is able to poke the puck off of the stick and outwork the attacking forward, forcing them to lose the puck. Nikishin negates a large amount of offensive opportunities and will do whatever he can to prevent shots on goal. This is a player that could play NHL games as soon as he comes over to North America. While it’s unclear as to how long Nikishin will be in Russia (he is currently under contract until 2025), it’s safe to say that Nikishin will be an NHL defenseman if and when he does come to North America.
Here is a video highlighting his skills!
• Alexander Nikishin wil...

[@dealy9268]

One year to go. Been waiting for him to get to NC! Rumor here in N Carolina is the Canes owner is trying to work a deal to get him here sooner. Gap control is a big part of the Canes success on the blueline. As a Canes fan, former player and coach i can't wait to see him in a Canes jersey.

[@user-ui6hf1jp3q]

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