Rumors abound pending free agent is closing in on a new deal with Calgary
Although reports abound that Noah Hanifin is closing in on a new contract with the Flames, the Calgary defenseman is not willing to share how far along in the process things are situated.
“They’re definitely having discussions right now,” Hanifin told the assembled media after Monday’s practice at the Saddledome. “When there’s news to report, I’ll let you guys know.”
Hanifin is in the final season of a six-year contract with a $4.95 million salary cap hit. The 26-year-old defenseman is among the team’s leaders in ice time.
He is among a handful of key players due to become unrestricted free-agents, and his age and importance to the club has made Hanifin a key target to keep in the fold on a long-term deal.
During the club’s recent road swing, Hanifin became the first player from the 2015 draft to reach 600 games, a draft that includes Connor McDavid, Jack Eichel, Mitch Marner and Mikko Rantanen.
“But 26 is still young,” coach Ryan Huska said. “You’re getting to the point where you’re mid-range as a defensemen, and now it’s time to take the next step, but he’s a really solid defenseman.”
Hanifin has collected four assists in six games this season. In 604 career games, he has netted 49 goals and 243 points.
Calgary’s list of pending UFAs also includes top-line center Elias Lindholm and defensemen Chris Tanev and Nikita Zadorov.