"Well, first of all, in Tampa, there is definitely a feeling that that is Noah Hanifin's preferred destination, and that is Tampa Bay."
Friedman's report indicates a strong preference for Tampa Bay as Hanifin's desired destination, complicating matters for the Bruins.
With both the Lightning and the Bruins lacking high-end draft picks, trade negotiations may hinge on player exchanges rather than draft picks.
The Bruins now face the challenge of assembling a competitive trade package to rival Tampa Bay's potential offer for Hanifin, as they seek to strengthen their defense before the trade deadline.