Speculation surrounding Rasmus Andersson’s future with the Calgary Flames intensified this week, with multiple insiders pointing toward a likely trade before the March 6 deadline.
The Athletic’s Chris Johnston discussed the situation on Thursday’s episode of “The Chris Johnston Show,” saying on his show that while the Flames haven’t closed the door on extending Andersson, the most realistic scenario is a deal.
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“I’d say, if you’re setting the odds or the most likely scenario is that I do believe Rasmus Andersson will be traded before March 6, or at March 6 at the trade deadline,” Johnston explained.
Similar to what Pierre LeBrun did on Tuesday, Johnston compared the situation to that of Brock Boeser and the Vancouver Canucks. Boeser seemed to be on the outside of the franchise looking in, but ultimately stayed.
Johnston, however, admitted he isn’t betting on that outcome for Andersson in Calgary.
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TSN’s Pierre LeBrun reported the defenseman’s contract demands are high, making a trade more probable than an extension.
“The sides have talked again since what transpired in June, and they left the door open for possible extension talks again at some point,” LeBrun wrote. “But for now, the Flames have indicated they’re focused on starting the season and seeing where things go.”
If Andersson gets to market, the Dallas Stars might be waiting to pounce as the Western Conference contenders have emerged as a front-runner to land him.
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Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson (4).David Kirouac-Imagn Images
R.org’s Jimmy Murphy reported that Dallas general manager Jim Nill remains “hell bent” on acquiring a top right-shot defenseman, and Andersson fits the bill.
“The Dallas Stars are still very interested,” Murphy wrote. “If there’s still one thing Jim covets more than anything, it’s a top right-shot d-man. He is hell bent on that, and he’s been keeping tabs on Andersson since before the last trade deadline.”
Adding Andersson would elevate the defense corps of the Stars immediately, balancing their blue line and providing a bona fide top-pair starter.
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Andersson, 28, is entering the final season of his six-year, $27.3 million contract. He logged 24 minutes a night last season, leading Calgary in penalty-kill usage and contributing 31 points (11 goals, 20 assists) across 81 regular-season games.
Related: Flames Bracing for Rasmus Andersson Decision as Most Likely Scenario Gets Revealed
Related: Calgary Flames’ $27 Million Defenseman Calls Out ‘Fake Information’ on Contract Talks
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Sep 27, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.