September 17, 2026 • 3:03 AM EDT
Updated 1 hours ago
Hockey is almost back in Raleigh, and you can feel the buzz brewing for the Carolina Hurricanes. With training camp firing up on Thursday at Wake Competition Center, we’re less than two weeks from Opening Night, and there’s a lot more than just drills and scrimmages to keep your eyes on. In fact, by the weekend, you’ll see real NHL players back on the ice and, soon after, another banner being raised at Lenovo Center thanks to last season’s Cup run.
All eyes are on the Canes because they’re heading into camp with one of the most stable cores in the NHL. The roster is almost untouched after last year’s Stanley Cup victory, making them a rare breed in the league where big changes are usually the norm. But don’t think it’s all smooth sailing—this camp isn’t lacking for drama or competition.
According to Yahoo Sports, here’s what matters as things get underway:
- Alexander Nikishin is missing camp amid a tense contract standoff.
- The Hurricanes lost just one player from last year, with virtually their entire Cup squad returning.
- Competition is wide open for at least one roster spot—maybe more depending on Nikishin’s situation.
- The schedule shift to 84 games brings a shorter, more intense training camp and fewer preseason opportunities.
- Seth Jarvis isn’t expected to start the season as he recovers from a shoulder injury.
Let’s break down the storylines that could shape the Hurricanes’ season right out of the gate.
Nikishin’s Absence and Contract Standoff
This camp kicks off without Alexander Nikishin, who, after a much-hyped arrival from Russia last season, is sitting out due to contract gridlock. Nikishin’s side wants a deal reflecting the new paydays going to young talent, but Carolina holds most of the cards. Without a contract, there’s no incentive for Nikishin to risk injury in camp, but he’s also not earning anything while he waits. On the flip side, the Hurricanes have already firmed up their blue line since last year. They swung a deal for K’Andre Miller, brought in depth, and have several young defenders eager for that open spot. Right now, neither side is budging—but there’s always a deadline or a trade rumour to watch.
Stable Core Returns, But Competition is Fierce
This year’s training camp isn’t a rebuild or retool; it’s a restocking. The only departure from last season’s Cup roster is Frederik Andersen, replaced internally by Pyotr Kochetkov, who’s back healthy and motivated. That’s almost unheard of for a defending champ, and it means coach Rod Brind’Amour can focus on refining what worked rather than fixing what didn’t. Still, there’s at least one job up for grabs, particularly with Jarvis out rehabbing his shoulder. There’s also the question of who steps in if Nikishin stays out, which adds intrigue for young defenders and fringe forwards alike.
Camp splits into two: the Cup team, and the group more likely to start in Greensboro or Chicago. The action heats up in the pre-season—those four games are the make-or-break audition for anyone dreaming of cracking the opening night lineup.
Who Steps Up With Jarvis Sidelined?
Seth Jarvis, fresh off a year that saw him shine in major international events and come up big in the Stanley Cup Final, isn’t rushing back from his shoulder surgery. He’s right to think long-term, but it leaves a prime spot on the table. Will young guns like Bradley Nadeau get a chance? Is there room for a hard-nosed fourth line with Nicholas Deslauriers? Is this Kotkaniemi’s final shot to impress—or get moved? The lines will shuffle, and there’s a golden chance for someone to leap up the depth chart before Jarvis returns.
Lightning-Fast Camp and the 84-Game Grind
Blink and you’ll miss this year’s lead-in, thanks to the NHL’s move to 84 regular season games. Players managed to secure a shorter preseason—meaning this camp is quick and intense, with just four pre-season matchups and less time to gel. That hits Carolina in particular as the Cup hangover is real—the party just ended, and the grind starts up immediately. With a tighter window, coach Brind’Amour will have to get creative in camp drills and decisions, and you can expect the tempo to be set from day one.
Once camp wraps, the transition to the regular season will be sharp. The Canes finish preseason on Saturday, then drop the puck for real just three days later. Social media and news from camp are going to move faster than usual, so stay tuned if you want the inside track on final lineups and roster moves.
Key Developments to Watch
- Nikishin’s contract impasse and its potential impact
- Kochetkov seizing his chance in net
- How Jarvis’s absence shifts line combinations
- Open spots for young or fringe players, especially on defense
- Condensed preseason and its effect on preparation
Key Takeaways for Bettors and Fans
- Nikishin’s situation is fluid, so keep tabs week-to-week on trade buzz or contract updates.
- Expect early line changes and surprise names in the first few weeks.
- The core returning intact gives the Hurricanes strong continuity, a big plus for futures bets.
- Kochetkov’s performance in preseason could set a tone for the goalie rotation.
- Younger players have a real shot to force the issue with a short preseason; watch for breakout candidates.
- Jarvis’s recovery timeline matters—his absence could impact the offense in October.
- The 84-game schedule could mean more injuries or fatigue late, so depth is crucial.
- The short gap between camp and opening night means hot starts could matter more than usual.
More coverage: latest NHL news, NHL analysis and odds and NHL expert picks.
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