Alexander Nikishin is set to make his NHL debut with the Carolina Hurricanes against the Washington Capitals in Game 5 after Jalen Chatfield's injury. The 23-year-old defender was the first to hit the ice for warm-ups, partnering with Dmitry Orlov. A KHL standout, Nikishin finished his last season with 46 points and played as captain for SKA Saint Petersburg. His entry-level contract with the Hurricanes comes on the heels of SKA's early exit from the playoffs. A win would advance the Hurricanes, while a Capitals win necessitates Game 6.
Nikishin was the first Carolina Hurricanes skater on the ice, taking his rookie lap before the rest of the Canes jumped on the ice for warmups.
The Orel, Russia native also skated before Game 4 in Raleigh but ultimately did not dress in Carolina's 4-2 victory.
Nicknamed 'The Captain,' he recorded 46 points in 61 games during the KHL regular season and recently signed a two-year contract with the Hurricanes.
The Hurricanes can eliminate the Capitals with a win in Game 5; if the Capitals win, the second-round series returns to Raleigh for Game 6.
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