The Carolina Hurricanes will have to start their second-round series against the Philadelphia Flyers without rookie defenseman Alexander Nikishin, who remains sidelined in concussion protocol.

Nikishin, the talented Russian blueliner, has been out since taking a heavy hit from Ottawa Senators defenseman Tyler Kleven in Game 4 of the first round. While there was early optimism surrounding his recovery—he practiced with the team in the days leading up to Game 1—he has not yet cleared the final stage of concussion protocol.

Head coach Rod Brind'Amour had expressed hope that Nikishin would be available, noting that the rookie was showing minimal symptoms and looked sharp in practice. However, the team confirmed that he still needed to pass one more test before being cleared for game action, and unfortunately, he was unable to do so.

In Nikishin's absence, veteran defenseman Mike Reilly will draw into the lineup. Reilly, a steady presence on the blue line, brings playoff experience and reliability—qualities that will be crucial against a Flyers team known for its physical forecheck.

For Hurricanes fans, this is a tough break, but the team has shown depth all season. Nikishin's return could come later in the series if he clears protocol, but for now, the focus shifts to Game 1 without him. As the saying goes in playoff hockey: next man up.