Top Pairing Defenseman Almost Traded To Bottom Feeding Team

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Dawson McKenzie
November 9, 2023 (11:42)

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This top-pairing defenseman was surprisingly nearly traded to one of the worst teams in the NHL right now.

Hanifin Nearly Traded to the Last Place San Jose Sharks

As reported by Elliotte Friedman, Noah Hanifin nearly had to pack his bags and catch a flight from Calgary to San Jose, as the Sharks expressed interest in the defenseman.

Kinda suspect the Sharks called Calgary about Noah Hanifin. Don't see that as a fit. Another team I wonder about is Arizona. Coyotes have the second-best goal differential in the Central, and a desire to push for the playoffs. As this situation plays out, I am curious to see if an extension becomes part of the conversation. It benefits Hanifin, and benefits the Flames in any return.

The Sharks are definitely looking for a rebuild this year, so it is interesting to see that they would go for Hanifin. As Friedman notes, it is not a great fit which is likely why it didn't work out.

Hanifin Extension Is Necessary to Move Forward With Any Trade

As Friedman also notes, an extension would greatly help both Hanifin and the Flames get something done if they want to make a trade. It would net the Flames a better return on any potential deal, which would also result in Hanifin being traded sooner rather than later.

With the Flames struggling, they could also look to offload some assets for the future near the deadline. This should include Hanifin, as many teams are looking for a top-level defenseman.

The Calgary Flames are now 2-7-1, and have a bunch of pending UFAs.

The big names include:
-Elias Lindholm
-Noah Hanifin
-Chris Tanev
-Nikita Zadorov

There's still some time to turn things around, but it looks like they could be the focal point of this season's trade deadline.

As seen on Sportsnet - "32 Thoughts: What will be Edmonton's next move?"