North Raleigh Today

Caniacs, the dedicated fans of the Carolina Hurricanes, are familiar with the talents of Alexander Nikishin and Bradly Nadeau. However, their skills have now been recognized on a broader scale as both players were named among ESPN's top NHL prospects currently competing outside the league. Nikishin was ranked third, while Nadeau secured the 44th spot on this prestigious list.

Alexander Nikishin has shown significant progress since being selected 69th overall by Carolina in 2020. Known for his versatility as a defenseman, he is frequently cited among the best players outside the NHL. He trails only Ivan Demidov and Artyom Levshunov in ESPN's rankings. As team captain for SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL, Nikishin became his club's all-time highest-scoring defenseman earlier this month with 132 points. His career totals stand at 143 points over 243 KHL games.

ESPN commented on Nikishin's potential impact in the NHL: "There is little doubt that Nikishin will be a towering presence on the Carolina blue line soon. He's comfortably the best defenseman in the KHL and projects to be a top-pairing blueliner in the NHL."

Bradly Nadeau joined Carolina near the end of the 2022-23 regular season after an impressive year at the University of Maine. Drafted 29th overall in 2023, Nadeau led his college team with notable statistics including goals and assists. Starting his professional career with Chicago Wolves, he scored his first goal earlier this month against Hershey Bears.

ESPN praised Nadeau's abilities: "His package of skill and playmaking is undeniable, and gives the Canes options to fill their lineup with three scoring lines in the next couple of years."