NHL Rumors: Lou Lamoriello & Islanders "Actively Inquiring" About Top Available Trade Piece

General Manager Lou Lamoriello and the New York Islanders have taken center stage in the NHL trade rumor mill with their persistent inquiries about acquiring Calgary Flames defenseman Noah Hanifin, according to Elliotte Friedman and NHL Trade Rumor.com 's Rob Ellis.

These rumors gained significant momentum following Elliotte Friedman's revelation on the Jeff Marek radio show, confirming Lamoriello's active pursuit of Hanifin.

Noah Hanifin responds in an instant for Calgary, tying up the score at 1!#Flames pic.twitter.com/KoC59jXbKw
— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) November 23, 2023

The Flames' blueliner is coveted for his robust defensive skills and emerging offensive prowess, but his reported contract extension demands, hovering around $7 million, have raised eyebrows, given the Islanders' existing commitments on their blue line.

In pursuit of Hanifin, the Islanders face the challenge of integrating him into their current defensive lineup, which boasts several long-term contracts.

Yes, it’s still extremely early — this season’s trade deadline won’t arrive until March 8 — but we are starting to see the initial outlines of how the trade market is taking shape.

Here’s a look at @reporterchris' Big Board, starting with Noah Hanifin:https://t.co/iBgiNE9PIo pic.twitter.com/DmKlzjItco
— The Athletic NHL (@TheAthleticNHL) November 29, 2023

Speculations surrounding the potential trade involve the inclusion of promising young assets like Alex Romanov, who has one year left on his contract, a first-round pick, and likely another intriguing young player, to secure Hanifin's services.

Despite the swirling trade rumors, Hanifin has had a strong start to the season, racking up four goals and 10 total points across 22 games played, along with a +2 plus/minus rating.

As the Islanders navigate this trade scenario, they must meticulously balance their immediate defensive needs with the complexities of salary cap management and the imperative for future roster flexibility, all while vying with other interested teams in the pursuit of Noah Hanifin. Photo Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports