[activeStick]

I believe Hanifin.

https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article...line-decision/

Noah Hanifin wants to set the record straight on the parameters surrounding his departure from Calgary.

His love and respect for the organization, and city he was proud to call home for six years, means too much for him to ignore the narrative he felt tainted his final weeks as a Flame.

“I was never holding the Flames hostage,” said the 27-year-old defenceman from his hotel room in suburban Vegas.

“That was one of the more difficult things to hear towards the end because I personally felt I was never doing that.

“Talking to Connie (Flames GM Craig Conroy) I don’t think either side felt that.”

“I was so honoured and humbled by the belief Connie and the organization had in me to commit to me for eight years, but ultimately it was a family decision and Connie totally understood,” said Hanifin, who had two assists in his second game with Vegas Saturday.

“Connie has been such an important person in my career, even before he was GM.

When I was 22 and 23, and finding my game, he was a guy who encouraged me and gave me confidence and told me I could take another step and be a better player.

“That’s what made the decision so hard.

“He’s a good man and he’s going to put them in a good spot.”