Insider: Hanifin Only Interested In One Landing Spot

Rumors have picked up once again on the likelihood and destinations of a Noah Hanifin trade. But according to Insider Renaud Lavoie of TVA on a recent appearance on Sportsnet radio, the Calgary Flames are facing a bit of an uphill battle, as he says that teams could be shying away of the impending unrestricted free agent because of his preferred landing spot. 

The thing with Hanifin is, he's been on the market, if I'm not mistaken, for the last two years. But the problem is, everyone knows that he wants to play for the (Boston) Bruins. So, no one's ready to make that move, because that connection with the Bruins is there. It kind of handcuffs everyone, because they all know that at one point he'll sign with (Boston). So it's a tricky situation for him. 

                                                                          —Hockey Insider Renaud Lavoie 

Hanifin is Boston-born and bred, and played a year in the NCAA at Boston College. He's been linked to the Bruins in past years, and in fact, Bruins' GM Don Sweeney tried to trade up to acquire the defenseman at the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, He wound up going at No. 5 overall to the Carolina Hurricanes, and Sweeney has coveted him ever since. One source told Boston Hockey Now, "If I was a betting man, I’d be betting on the Bruins to eventually get Hanifin. I’d be shocked if Boston isn’t at the front of the line there.”

The 26-year-old is having another strong season, with 12 points in 24 games, while logging a career-high 22:53 per night, and posting a plus/minus of +3. 

Photo: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports