Carolina’s Hellebuyck Pursuit Just Got a Lot More Complicated

Speaking on the FAN Hockey Show, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman weighed in on Carolina’s ongoing discussions involving Alexander Nikishin. And, more importantly, the team’s reported interest in Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck.

Friedman’s biggest takeaway was simple: nothing appears imminent, but the conversations are very real. This isn’t a situation where teams have stopped talking and are just waiting for the season to begin. According to Friedman, active discussions are still happening behind the scenes.

Honestly, that makes sense. A deal like this could change quickly. As Friedman put it, everything could shift with one phone call.

The Hurricanes and Rangers Trade Fell Apart Because of the Numbers

The Hurricanes and Rangers apparently had a trade agreement, but the deal fell apart because the Rangers and Nikishin couldn’t agree on his contract. Friedman said Nikishin had been looking for roughly five years at $9 million per season, and the Rangers apparently didn’t get there. Carolina’s desired return is reportedly the equivalent of two first-round picks, but that wasn’t the reason the Rangers deal collapsed.

But Nikishin may not be the only major piece involved here. Friedman believes the Hurricanes remain very interested in Hellebuyck. Carolina clearly sees him as a major upgrade in net and could view him as the type of goaltender who gives the team a better chance to make a deep playoff run. The problem is Winnipeg.

The Hellebuyck Trade Must Come With Some Insurance

Hellebuyck’s situation includes a signability issue, meaning any team acquiring him would probably want some confidence that he’d be willing to stay there long-term. That makes things difficult for Carolina, especially if Hellebuyck won’t commit to the Hurricanes beyond the current season. That’s where a potential three-way trade comes into play.

Friedman suggested Carolina could be exploring whether another team could acquire Nikishin, with the Hurricanes then using that part of the deal to help bring Hellebuyck to Raleigh. St. Louis has reportedly been connected to the discussions, while Nashville may also be involved.

It’s a complicated setup, but it could solve Carolina’s biggest problem. They need to find a way to land Hellebuyck without convincing Winnipeg to take back a player it may not be able to sign.

For Now, Nothing Seems Close to Happening with Hellebuyck

For now, nothing is guaranteed. But the talks are active, Carolina still wants Hellebuyck, and Nikishin could be the key piece that unlocks the entire trade.

So, if one phone call changes everything, don’t be surprised if this story gets very interesting before the season begins.

Related: Big Nikishin Trade to Rangers Fell Apart, But Carolina Still Wants Hellebuyck