Thursday night Calgary Flames GM Brad Treliving checked off the final big item on his summer to-do list by signing Noah Hanifin to a six-year contract extension.
His base salary will be an even $4.95 million the whole way through the deal. There are no fluctuations in money earned on a year-to-year basis, nor are there any signing bonuses. CapFriendly has all the details.
Noah Hanifin's new 6 year deal with the #Flames also includes a Limited NTC in the 5th and 6th season (would be UFA years) in which he can submit an '8 team No Trade' list. pic.twitter.com/JpsB8aXAsQ
— CapFriendly (@CapFriendly) August 31, 2018
It was speculated back in June – prior to Hanifin even being traded – that his camp was seeking a six-year deal worth $30 million. After months of haggling, Hanifin ended up signing for $29.7 million total – a dip of $50K per year from his initial ask.
I'm not sure why it took so long to agree to such small alterations but the important thing is the deal is done in advance of training camp.
On the surface, it may seem like a lot of money for a restricted free agent without arbitration rights.
With that said, it's hardly a stretch to say Hanifin deserves to be paid in the same ballpark as *checks notes* Marc Methot, Danny DeKeyser, Andy Greene and Andrew MacDonald.
Hanifin's point totals, Relative Corsi For%, and Relative Goals For% have increased each year in the league and, at 21, there is still plenty of room for growth.
He is an effortless skater, he is excellent breaking out of the defensive zone, and transporting the puck into the offensive zone.
Hanifin's neutral zone defense could use some work, however, a player with his skating ability and reach should be able to improve in that area with more coaching and reps.
He might not be a $4.95 million player right now but I don't think he is too far off. If he continues to get better this deal could look really solid down the road.
If his development stagnates and he essentially remains what he is right now, it's hardly a cap killer. This seems like a reasonable contract.