The St. Louis Blues reportedly have strong interest in Carolina Hurricanes' Alexander Nikishin, but no deal has materialized. With the recent public trade request, could this help the Blues' pursuit of the 24-year-old blueliner?
It's been noted on multiple occasions that the St. Louis Blues have real interest in acquiring defenseman Alexander Nikishin from the Carolina Hurricanes.
Their moves this off-season indicate they are looking for proven NHL talent in their early to mid-twenties, and Nikishin fits the bill. The Blues want to improve their current roster and keep competitive without hemorrhaging their future.
Nikishin is an ideal fit, and many analysts believe St. Louis is the perfect location for him.
But no progress has been made since the rumors began circulating in July. Nikishin hasn't been dealt yet, and the Hurricanes haven't offered the current restricted free agent a deal. Nikishin is also not offer-sheet eligible, which is why no team has tried to acquire him through an offer sheet.
But recently, TSN's and The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun revealed that Nikishin has formally requested a trade from the Hurricanes, citing that he wants a change of scenery. At first glance,...