Rasmus Andersson’s future with the Calgary Flames remains unresolved, with trade speculation intensifying as he enters the final season of his six-year, $27.3 million contract.
The 28-year-old defenseman logged 24 minutes per game last season, leading Calgary in penalty-kill ice time and contributing 31 points in 81 games.
Advertisement
While Andersson’s offensive production has declined since he had a career-high 50-point season in 2021-22, Andersson remains a top-pair, right-shot defenseman and has a profile of player that hardly, if ever, reaches free agency.
TSN’s Pierre LeBrun reported on Tuesday’s edition of “Insider Trading” that while the player has not shut the door on an extension, a trade continues to feel like the most likely outcome because of Andersson’s sky-high demands and expectations.
Advertisement
“I do think Andersson might potentially listen if there was an eight-year offer on the table, but right now I just don’t think the team is ready to go there,” LeBrun said. “We’ll see where this all goes. I think more than likely a trade is still the likeliest option before the March 6 trade deadline.”
Andersson nearly moved to the Vegas Golden Knights this summer before talks fell through, with teammates acknowledging a trade is inevitable.
LeBrun added, however, that both sides would be happy to start the season together and revisit negotiations later, but that might only be geared toward boosting his value ahead of free agency or, in the event of a trade, March’s deadline.
Advertisement
Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson (4) reacts during a stoppage in play.Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

Andersson admitted earlier this month that rushing into an extension may not be wise.
“Is it smart of me to re-sign now after last season? I don’t know. I mean, I’ve read all season how much I suck,” Andersson said before training camp. “So I just got to come out of the gates hot and just worry about myself and get the team in the best position possible.”
Entering unrestricted free agency in July 2026 would also give Andersson the chance to maximize his value as one of the top defensemen available, and that might be one of the reasons he hasn’t agreed to a deal in advance.
Advertisement
Related: Flames’ Rasmus Andersson Situation Draws Comparison to Brock Boeser’s Saga
Related: Elliotte Friedman Links Kirill Kaprizov’s Payday to Connor McDavid’s Next Deal
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Sep 24, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.