Two young stars from Russia are making their mark in different corners of the NHL, but don’t expect any manufactured drama between them. While fans love to create rivalries where none exist, Alexander Nikishin and Ivan Demidov’s paths diverged naturally, not through competitive tension or strategic maneuvering.
Why Did Alexander Nikishin Choose Carolina Over Other NHL Options?
Alexander Nikishin is finally on his way to a full season in the NHL. Drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes in the third round of the 2020 NHL draft, the 23-year-old signed his entry-level contract with the Canes in April, officially committing to North American hockey.
As the team’s press release reads, “Eric Tulsky, General Manager of the National Hockey League’s Carolina Hurricanes, today [April 11, 2025] announced that the team has agreed to terms with defenseman Alexander Nikishin on a two-year, entry-level contract. The deal will pay Nikishin $832,500 for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons, and he receives a signing bonus of $185,000.”
The defenseman proved his readiness with an impressive KHL campaign, tallying 46 points (17 goals and 29 assists) in 61 games with SKA St. Petersburg during the 2024-25 season.
His playoff debut with Carolina also showed promise, with one point in four postseason games. Nikishin plans to travel to the United States in early September, officially beginning his NHL journey.
What Makes Ivan Demidov Such a Special Prospect for Montreal?
Meanwhile, Montreal Canadiens’ rising star Ivan Demidov continues to turn heads across the hockey world. The 19-year-old forward has become known for his exceptional puck movement and hockey IQ, establishing himself as an offensive force who has shattered all expectations.
In February, Craig Button ranked Demidov No. 1 in his Top 50 NHL-affiliated prospects list, offering high praise for the young talent. “Creative, skilled, competitive. He moves the needle,” Button said of Demidov’s impact potential.
The contrasting paths of these former teammates for SKA Saint Petersburg became clear during their respective preparation periods. While Demidov remained in Canada to train and immerse himself in his new environment, Nikishin returned to Russia for personal reasons that required his attention.
How Do Nikishin and Demidov Feel About Their NHL Paths?
Speaking to RG.org, Nikishin explained the practical realities behind their different choices.
“Vanya enjoys Montreal; he really embraced the atmosphere right away. But I had some personal reasons that made it necessary to return to Russia. There was no way I could spend the whole summer there this time,” he explained.
Despite joining organizations that will face each other throughout the season, the two maintain their friendship without any manufactured tension.
“We call and chat, but not every day — maybe once a week or once every two weeks,” Nikishin shared, describing their ongoing relationship.
When directly asked about rumors suggesting he joined Carolina specifically to create a rivalry with Demidov’s Canadiens, Nikishin was emphatic in his denial.
“No, that’s not true. We never even discussed it. He went his own way, I went mine. Our contracts ended, and each of us made our own choice.”
Nikishin clarified his position, emphasizing that no rivalry exists between them. Instead, the defenseman expressed gratitude for having fellow Russian players in the league, acknowledging how crucial that support system has been for his transition.
“Of course! Everything is different. Without the Russian guys, it would have been much harder. My English was worse than Vanya’s. He prepared more — he studied the language seriously, while I took it easier. I regretted that a bit. But the guys helped me,” Nikishin revealed.
The former teammates will inevitably meet on the ice when their teams clash during the upcoming season. Still, the narrative of a personal rivalry appears to be nothing more than fan speculation. Both players have chosen their paths based on their own circumstances and opportunities, not some grand plan to face off against each other in different jerseys.