Bad news confirmed for Alexander Nikishin.

Although the Carolina Hurricanes successfully completed their sweep of the Ottawa Senators on Saturday, that triumph was tempered by concerns regarding the health of Hurricanes defenseman Alexander Nikishin.

Nikishin left Game 4 against the Senators after he was on the receiving end of a huge hit from Senators defenseman Tyler Kleven along the boards, a hit that appeared to briefly separate Nikishin from consciousness. Although his eyes would remain open, Nikishin stared off into space as if he wasn't there and even when he did regain his faculties it was clear not everything was alright.

As he rose to his feet, Nikishin nearly plunged back down to the ice face first but was saved by the teammates who had taken a firm hold of him.

On Sunday, the Hurricanes confirmed that Nikishin will miss time as a result of the injury he suffered, a concussion. Additionally the Hurricanes confirmed that Nikishin will be headed back to Raleigh, North Carolina and will be in the National Hockey League's concussion protocol moving forward. As is always the case with the league's concussion protocol, it is virtually impossible to tell how long he may be out.

That being said, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman has revealed that Nikishin was spotted celebrating with his teammates after the game which is a good sign given how bad he looked after the hit.