Rasmus Andersson Trade Talks Reach Critical Phase
The long-running trade saga surrounding Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson is now reaching a decisive point. Multiple sources confirm that negotiations have significantly heated up in recent days. Several NHL teams are actively pushing to acquire the talented right-shot defenseman before the fast-approaching trade deadline.
Potential Final Game in Calgary Uniform
Andersson played what might have been his last game for the Flames on Thursday night. He logged nearly 27 minutes of ice time during Calgary's 3-1 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks. The 29-year-old Swedish defenseman has been at the center of trade speculation since last summer as he approaches unrestricted free agency in July.
"Things have heated up on the Rasmus Andersson trade front," reported NHL insider Pierre LeBrun earlier today. "Talks have intensified. Let's see where it goes over the next 24-48 hours."
Multiple Teams Show Strong Interest
Several franchises have emerged as serious contenders for Andersson's services. The Dallas Stars, Vegas Golden Knights, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Detroit Red Wings have all expressed significant interest in acquiring the defenseman. The Golden Knights nearly completed a deal during the offseason, though those negotiations ultimately collapsed.
The Ottawa Senators have also shown interest, but reports indicate they face an additional hurdle. Andersson reportedly included Ottawa on his six-team no-trade list, potentially complicating any deal with the Canadian franchise.
Calgary Sets Steep Asking Price
Flames general manager Craig Conroy has established a substantial asking price for his top defenseman. Calgary is reportedly seeking the equivalent of two first-round picks in return for Andersson. This package would include a 2026 first-round selection plus either an NHL-ready defenseman or a top prospect nearing NHL readiness.
Andersson has delivered strong performance this season despite the trade speculation. He has recorded 10 goals and 29 points through 47 games while averaging a team-high 24 minutes and 12 seconds of ice time per game. The defenseman quarterbacks Calgary's power play and represents one of the most valuable right-shot defensemen available on the market, especially with his manageable $4.55 million salary cap hit.
Flames Positioned as Sellers
Calgary's current record of 20 wins, 23 losses, and 4 overtime losses firmly positions them as sellers ahead of the trade deadline. The team has lost five of its last six games, strengthening their motivation to acquire future assets. The Flames already possess two first-round picks for 2026 from the Noah Hanifin trade to Vegas and could add another through an Andersson deal.
Olympic Timing Adds Urgency
The approaching Winter Olympics create additional urgency in these negotiations. Andersson is scheduled to captain the Swedish national team next month after leading them to a bronze medal at last spring's World Hockey Championship. Calgary management prefers to complete any trade before Andersson departs for Milano Cortina, making the next 48 hours potentially decisive in ending months of speculation about his future.
The coming days will determine whether Andersson remains in Calgary or begins a new chapter with another NHL franchise as the trade deadline pressure mounts.
