In a significant move leading up to the NHL Trade Deadline, the Calgary Flames have traded defenseman Noah Hanifin to the Vegas Golden Knights. The full trade details include the Flames retaining 75% of Hanifin’s contract, involving the Philadelphia Flyers, and picking up a player whom the Flames immediately signed to a two-year contract extension.

Flames GM Craig Conroy said of the move, “It’s never easy. These deals are hard. But we’re very happy with the return and now we’re looking forward to moving forward.” All in all, Conroy was a busy first-year GM, making multiple moves over the course of a few months. He sent out Tyler Toffoli, Nikita Zadorov, Elias Lindholm, Chris Tanev, and Hanifin. He brought in two first-round picks, a 2nd, four 3rds, a 4th, a 5th, Igor Sharangovich, Andrei Kuzmenko, Artem Grushnikov, Joni Jurmo, Miromanov, and Hunter Brzustewicz. One of the 3rd’s can become a 2nd if conditions are met and one 4th can become a 3rd.

Full Trade Details:

• To Vegas: Noah Hanifin (75% retained)
• To Flames: Conditional 2025 1st Rd Pick (can be traded at this season’s deadline, turning into a 2026 first if traded), Daniil Miromanov, Conditional 3rd Rd Pick (upgrades to 2nd if VGK wins one round in ‘24)
• To Flyers: 2024 5th Rd Pick

As a part of the intricate deal, the Philadelphia Flyers sent the rights of reserve list player Mikhail Vorobyov to the Golden Knights. Vorobyov, a player with 41 points in 61 games in the KHL this season, had previously played in 35 NHL games with the Flyers.

The Flames Signed Miromanov Right Away

The Flames acquired Miromanov in the trade and signed him to a two-year extension on Wednesday evening at an annual average salary of $1.25 million.

The Flames Need to Move on From Hanifin

Hanifin, a prominent figure in trade rumors throughout the season, had declined an extension with the Flames, signaling his intention to explore free agency. While the Tampa Bay Lightning were rumored to be the frontrunners, the Vegas Golden Knights, known for making unexpected moves, secured the defenseman’s services.

This trade not only meets Hanifin’s desire to return to the U.S. but also aligns with the Golden Knights’ push for a deep playoff run. The addition of Hanifin strengthens their blue-line depth, contributing both defensively and offensively. With 11 goals and 35 points in 60 games, Hanifin brings skill, experience, and exceptional hockey IQ to the Golden Knights’ defensive roster, alongside players like Alex Pietrangelo, Brayden McNabb, Shea Theodore, Alec Martinez, and Zach Whitecloud.

This move positions the Golden Knights as formidable contenders as they gear up for the intense battles of the Stanley Cup playoffs.

Next: Oilers Eye Blue Line Add After Landing Henrique, Carrick in Trade