Predators Ended Trade Talks for Alexander Nikishin
The Nashville Predators have halted discussions for the Carolina Hurricanes defender following a recent roster acquisition.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Hockey
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The Nashville Predators have ceased trade negotiations with the Carolina Hurricanes regarding restricted free agent Alexander Nikishin. This decision follows the team's move to bolster its defensive lineup with another player.
Why it matters
The Nashville Predators are seeking to address defensive performance gaps, but negotiations stalled over salary expectations. Nikishin's camp is reportedly targeting an annual salary of $9 million for a five-year term.
Alexander Nikishin recorded 11 goals and 33 points across 81 games last season. His camp is requesting a $9 million annual salary, positioning his demand near the $9.38 million annual value of Zeev Buium's recent contract.
The players
Nashville Predators
The Nashville Predators are a professional NHL team based in Tennessee that competes in the Western Conference.
Carolina Hurricanes
The Carolina Hurricanes are a professional NHL team based in North Carolina that won the Stanley Cup last season.
Alexander Nikishin
Alexander Nikishin is a professional hockey player and restricted free agent currently associated with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Jayden Struble
Jayden Struble is an NHL defenseman who was acquired by the Nashville Predators from the Montreal Canadiens last week.
The details
The Nashville Predators recently acquired defenseman Jayden Struble from the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for a 2027 second-round draft pick. Nikishin remains a restricted free agent for the Carolina Hurricanes, who won the Stanley Cup last season, while he reportedly remains dissatisfied with his position on their current depth chart.
Timeline
Last week: The Nashville Predators acquired Jayden Struble.
Last Tuesday: The Nashville Predators lost a lead against Toronto.
Last month: The Nashville Predators were first linked to Alexander Nikishin.
2025-26 season: Alexander Nikishin's entry-level contract expired.
Season Trajectory
The acquisition of Jayden Struble signals a pivot in the Nashville Predators defensive strategy as the club attempts to navigate the current season. This move alters the team's trade market priorities after negotiations for a high-salary defender reached an impasse.
The trade for Jayden Struble signals a shift in the Predators defensive rotation as the team moves away from high-cost acquisition targets. Fans should look for different pairings on the blue line following the loss of a 2027 second-round draft pick to secure depth.
The takeaway
Teams must balance the immediate need for defensive upgrades against long-term salary cap constraints. Evaluating the true value of restricted free agents remains a critical challenge for front offices aiming to remain competitive.
Further reading
Find more analysis on the team's roster moves in the Nashville Hockey section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sportskeeda.
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