Lightning Linked To Flames' Defenseman In Huge Deadline Trade

With the most recent move by the Calgary Flames, they are definitely selling all the assets they can by the trade deadline this season. That means UFAs like Noah Hanifin and Chris Tanev are most likely the next players to be moved out as the Flames need to commit to the rebuild or retool this season and get what they can in return.

While Tanev should bring in a nice return, Hanifin is a player that teams may not only look at for this season for a Cup run, but to acquire and have the time to negotiate a deal to keep him around long-term. The team that has most recently been linked to Hanifin is the Tampa Bay Lightning according to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period.

The Lightning are now firmly in a playoff spot and aren't looking back. With two players already moved by the Flames, it doesn't seem like they are wasting any time in selling, so Hanifin could be gone sooner than later. Tampa Bay just so happens to be in desperate need of a top-four left defenseman with Mikhail Sergachev just getting injured pretty seriously.

Not only do the Lightning need a defensive upgrade for this season with their injuries, it could also be an investment for the future with a 33-year-old Victor Hedman nearing the end of his current contract after next season. The cap goes up and the Lightning should be able to afford Hedman, Sergachev, and Hanifin for one year and give themselves a good chance at winning still. This team is still in their Stanley Cup window as long as they have the elite talent they possess on their roster. Expect them to make a big move and Hanifin would fit the bill perfectly.