Noah Hanifin says the Calgary Flames and his agent are “definitely having discussions” about a long-term contract extension and while he’s focused solely on playing hockey, the defenseman is eager to stick around in Calgary. He noted he “loves it here” and that the original thought he wasn’t looking to extend, he responded, “Sometimes being patient with things helps and it give yourself some time to think about the process and what you want to do. But for me, I’ve always loved Calgary. “
Noting that there’s lots to like and his parents love it there too, Hanifin seemed confident that something was going to get done, but he didn’t have anything new to report. He noted, “when there’s news to report, I’ll let you guys know.”
Hanifin called the location a great place to play hockey and said the fans “here are unbelievable.” It’s not that he ever had anything negative to say before, the but impression throughout the summer seemed to be that he didn’t want to stay where he was and would be looking for other options. Either everyone had that wrong, or the defensemen has had a major shift in thinking.
He added that there is a great group of guys from players to coaches and management in Calgary. He almost seemed surprised that anyone would think he didn’t want to stick around in an environment like that. It’s not clear what changed — perhaps Mikael Backlund signing and Elias Lindholm wanting to — but whatever it is, he seems determined to find a middle ground and make it work. When asked about Backlund, Hanfin said it helps when guys like him want to stick around.
Great News for the Flames
That’s great news for Flames fans who didn’t want to see another pending free agent depart the team or there be a risk of losing the player for pennies on the dollar near the trade deadline.
Obviously, nothing is done. That said, this is the closest anyone has had to confirmation that an extension might be just around the corner.
Next: Canadiens’ Injuries Open Door for Big Trade Opportunity
