As expected, Kelly McCrimmon and the Vegas Golden Knights went gambling and hit big.
On Sunday, the Golden Knights completed a deal to acquire Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson.
According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, the Flames are retaining half of Andersson’s salary. In exchange, the Golden Knights are sending defenseman Zach Whitecloud, the signing rights to University of North Dakota defenseman Abram Wiebe, a 2027 first round pick, and a 2027 second round pick. The second would turn into another first round pick should the Golden Knights win the Stanley Cup.
Despite Calgary’s struggles, Andersson has put together a strong season for the Flames. His ten goals are tied for eighth among all NHL defensemen, and he leads all Flames defensemen with 30 points.
The trade reunites Andersson with former defensive partner Noah Hanifin, who the Golden Knights traded for at the trade deadline in 2024.
Interestingly, there is currently no contract extension in place between Andersson and the Golden Knights. However, it is important to note that Hanifin signed an extension weeks after he was acquired, so this is not exactly uncharted territory for McCrimmon and the front office.
Vegas fans will now see if Andersson is the piece that secures the top-four defensive group for the foreseeable future.