It’s seemed likely all season long that the Calgary Flames would eventually trade star defenseman Rasmus Andersson in the ultimate 12 months of his contract — and it looks like that point is coming.
The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun reported on Friday that talks have intensified during the last several days, and a possible deal getting the Swede a change of scenery could possibly be accomplished by the tip of the weekend.
A day later, TSN’s Darren Dreger added much more fuel to that fireplace, reporting that Andersson’s market had been narrowed right down to 4 teams.
“Things can develop quickly. Nonetheless, sources say 4 teams remain in the combination for Flames Dman, Rasmus Andersson,” Dreger wrote on X on Saturday. “Two teams within the East and two within the West. Boston and Vegas are strong contenders. Unless there’s progress, there’s an honest probability Andersson plays today for Cgy.”
The hockey insider didn’t specify the opposite two teams, but despite the noise, Dreger expects Andersson to play for the Flames against the Latest York Islanders on the Saddledome on Saturday afternoon.
Flames’ Rasmus Andersson saga finally concluding?
Andersson has played his entire profession with the Flames after being chosen 53rd overall within the 2015 NHL Draft. He’s emerged into the highest defenseman on the team in 2025-26, quarterbacking the highest powerplay unit and managing 10 goals and 29 points in 47 games.
That is third on the roster behind only Nazem Kadri and Michael Backlund, who’ve 32 and 31, respectively.
Since Andersson’s name hit the trade block last season, he’s continued to be one in all the highest players available ahead of the March 6 NHL Trade Deadline.
He’s been linked relentlessly to the Golden Knights and Dallas Stars, and there have been previous reports that he turned down a trade to the Los Angeles Kings. The Ottawa Senators even have documented interest within the veteran during the last couple of weeks, although Canada’s capital could possibly be on his six-team no-trade list.
LeBrun reported that Flames general manager Craig Conroy has finally received the variety of offer he’s comfortable with to part ways with the pending unrestricted free agent blue liner.
Andersson was once considered a cornerstone of Calgary’s defense, however the trade rumors began during a difficult 2024-25 season — and considering his expiring contract.
His play at each ends of the rink has improved drastically this 12 months, nevertheless it seems management cannot justify giving him a major financial commitment with the franchise not having made the Stanley Cup Playoffs since 2021-22 — and currently thirtieth in NHL standings.
It’ll be interesting to see if Andersson’s days in Alberta conclude before the tip of the weekend.