The Calgary Flames face a crowded trade deadline in March, prompting many to speculate about the future of 27-year-old defenseman Noah Hanifin, who is set to become an unrestricted free agency this offseason. Hanifin is a smooth-skating top-four defenceman in the prime of his career. Many Flames fans would have preferred to see the Boston native sign a long-term agreement in Calgary, seeing him as an outstanding player to stay around amid a competitive retool.
However, it appears that supporters now have a better understanding of Hanifin’s objectives. Elliotte Friedman claimed on Hockey Night in Canada that Hanifin is expected to test the free agent market in July, implying that a trade from Calgary is quite possible. Hanifin now has a $4.9 million cap cost, with a significant increase expected on his next contract.
A Hanifin trade would be massive for contending teams.
Given Hanifin’s age and role, many NHL teams have expressed serious interest. There’s no denying that the desire for Hanifin among contestants is increasing as the date approaches March 8. On 32 Thoughts the Podcast, Friedman and Jeff Marek revealed that the Boston Bruins, Florida Panthers, Dallas Stars, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Toronto Maple Leafs had all exhibited interest.
Meanwhile, Frank Seravali of the Daily Faceoff mentions the Vegas Golden Knights and the New Jersey Devils as potential suitors for Hanifin. The point is that there is certainly a large market for his skills, and the Flames could find themselves in the heart of a bidding war if demand increases.
Elliotte says Hanifin is almost certainly going to market. The team and the agency do not want to discuss it. The number of teams interested is increasing; players cite Toronto, Dallas, Tampa, Boston, and Florida. #Flames #LeafsForever #TexasHockey #GoBolts #NHLBruins #TimeToHunt
According to TSN’s Insider Trading, Hanifin’s most likely destination is the American NHL market, as he has already stated that returning to America to be closer to home would be a welcome notion. Could we expect a homecoming with the Boston Bruins, for example? Their enthusiasm makes it possible.
It is worth mentioning that, while Canadian teams are not barred, getting Hanifin would most likely be a rental due to his preference.
The arrival of Hanifin would be crucial for competing teams hoping to make an impact in the playoffs. Blue line depth is always beneficial, and Hanifin’s salary offers them some cap freedom. He stands out as one of the more valuable assets available for trade at a manageable cap hit.
Will the Flames implement asset protection on Hanifin?
As the trade deadline approaches, NHL teams frequently begin to safeguard their key players to avoid injury. With the Flames being the top sellers this deadline, protecting trade assets is an important consideration for Conroy and his team. Pat Steinberg of Sportsnet wonders whether, with all of the rumors and increased interest, we will start to see guys like Hanifin and Chris Tanev sitting out games for injury precaution. Asking this question is prudent given the potential of players becoming injured around the deadline, diminishing their worth.
The Flames cannot afford an injury to Hanifin because it would severely reduce the amount they may obtain for him. Conroy may begin benching players in the coming weeks if trade talks heat up, signaling a good probability of progress.
A Bidding War May Be on the Horizon.
With so many teams aligned with Hanifin, it is not unreasonable to predict a bidding battle. As previously stated, a defenseman of Hanifin’s ability is rarely available at such a modest cap charge. If the Flames decide to sell him around the deadline, Conroy will not negotiate unless he believes the offer is fair. Hanifin is said to be valued as a first-round choice, prospect, and roster member. If a bidding war breaks out, the Flames are likely to obtain a higher return, as competing teams may grow desperate to complete a deal to acquire Hanifin and go all in.
Hanifin speculations will continue to circulate until a deal is reached, one way or another. Demand for the 27-year-old defenseman will only grow until the March 8 deadline.
