Sunday NHL Rumor Roundup – October 22, 2023
Sunday NHL Rumor Roundup – October 22, 2023
An update on Noah Hanifin’s contract talks with the Flames plus the latest on the Canucks’ Conor Garland, the Capitals’ Anthony Mantha, the Canadiens’ Joel Armia and more in the Sunday NHL Rumor Roundup.
UPDATE ON HANIFIN’S TALKS WITH THE FLAMES
SPORTSNET: Elliotte Friedman reports the Calgary Flames have made progress with Noah Hanifin in their discussions regarding a contract extension. The 26-year-old defenseman is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent after this season.
Friedman cautions that nothing is done until it’s done. Nevertheless, he indicates that there is optimism the two sides can reach an agreement.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: Hanifin was the subject of considerable trade speculation throughout the offseason following reports claiming he informed management about his reluctance to sign an extension. However, the blueliner indicated during training camp that he merely wanted time to digest what had happened during a disappointing 2022-23 season. He subsequently said that he wouldn’t rule out re-signing with the Flames.
The Flames already had one key potential free agent under contract when they signed captain Mikael Backlund to a two-year extension last month. If Hanifin agrees to stay it could help management in their efforts to re-sign first-line center Elias Lindholm.
TRADE TARGETS WORTH WATCHING
SPORTSNET: Elliotte Friedman notes there isn’t much going on in the NHL trade market right now. However, there are a few situations worth watching.
The Montreal Canadiens recalled winger Joel Armia from their AHL affiliate where he started the season.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: It’s been rumored the Canadiens are exploring possible trade options for Armia. The 30-year-old two-way forward lacks no-trade protection and carries a $3.4 million average annual value through 2024-25.
The Habs are already retaining salary on Joel Edmundson and Jeff Petry but have one retention slot remaining for this season. Perhaps they’ll consider using it if they can find a decent return for Armia.
Everyone knows Conor Garland’s situation as the Vancouver Canucks have given him permission to speak with other clubs about a trade.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: Garland’s been linked to the Columbus Blue Jackets, Nashville Predators and Winnipeg Jets. The Canucks are reportedly willing to retain 30 percent of the 27-year-old winger’s $4.95 million AAV which runs through 2025-26.
The Hockey News’ Stefen Rosner reported the New York Islanders inquired about Garland after he recently changed agents. Given the Isles’ limited cap space, Rosner believes a third team would have to get involved to broker the deal by taking on part of Garland’s AAV.
San Jose Sharks winger Kevin Labanc played his first game of the season on Oct. 19.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: Labanc, 27, was a healthy scratch through their first three games. The club swiftly denied a recent report claiming that the Sharks intended to place him on waivers.
The Washington Capitals have been “looking around” on winger Anthony Mantha.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Capitals have been peddling the 29-year-old Mantha since last season without success. Given his declining production, his $5.7 million cap hit for this season and $6.5 million in actual salary, it’s unlikely they’ll find many takers with so many clubs carrying limited cap room at this stage in the schedule.
Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Andrew Peeke has played only one game this season.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: Peeke was mentioned as a trade candidate following a recent report claiming the Blue Jackets were looking into trading one of their defensemen. He’s been a healthy scratch since their season opener. They’ll have to get him into more games to showcase him for a trade.