I think "I don't want to play for the Flames" and "I'm not sure I want to commit for 8 years" are two completely different things. Pretty sure Hanifin is firmly in the second bracket, and I get it - there's uncertainty right now as to where this team is going. I've always liked Hanifin and I have no ill will towards him whatsoever if he decides to move on. If Conroy has his answer, there's more than enough time to facilitate a trade and work on a possible sign-and-trade.
I fully expect Hanifin to fetch a very, very healthy return, especially with an extension in place. As much as I like Noah, this is exciting ... in addition to the Lindholm and Tanev trades, it could set the Flames up extremely well for the future.
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