Trade Rumors Still Dog Flames Defensemen Chris Tanev and Noah Hanifin

Calgary Flames defensemen Chris Tanev and Noah Hanifin have been fixtures in the rumor mill all season, and there's another round of speculation this week as the clock ticks.

The Calgary Flames trading center Elias Lindholm last week to the Vancouver Canucks served to stoke speculation about the futures of Chris Tanev and Noah Hanifin.

Both defensemen have been fixtures in the NHL rumor mill since last summer. They're slated to become UFAs on July 1, prompting some pundits to muse over their future with the Flames.

The Hockey News Calgary's Steve MacFarlane pointed out that Tanev has drawn plenty of interest in the trade market. The 34-year-old blueliner carries a 10-team no-trade clause, but MacFarlane doesn't see that as an impediment to sending him to a contender.

Tanev was reportedly close to being part of the trade that sent Lindholm to the Canucks. MacFarlane speculated they might circle back and try to bring the rugged right-shot rearguard back to Vancouver, where his NHL career began. He also mentioned the Toronto Maple Leafs, Dallas Stars and Winnipeg Jets as possible suitors. Late in January, the Ottawa Senators were also rumored to be interested in getting Tanev, whether it's before the trade deadline or during free agency.

TSN's Pierre LeBrun considers Tanev to be the best defenseman available in the trade market. He said the Flames' asking price is believed to be a second-round draft pick plus another asset. However, for clubs lacking a second-rounder (like the Maple Leafs), it's a first-round pick.

Meanwhile, Hanifin has had an on-again, off-again contract extension discussions with the Flames this season. LeBrun's colleague Chris Johnston reported Tuesday that the 27-year-old defenseman's agents are expected to meet with management soon to present their final position. He expected Hanifin could be shopped before the deadline if the two sides should fail to reach an agreement on a new contract.

While Tanev is seen as a playoff rental, Hanifin's all-around skills could draw interest from clubs with more long-term plans in mind. Trade talks could center around his willingness to sign an extension with his new club.