The Vegas Golden Knights pulled off the trade of the summer by landing Mitch Marner, but they’re not done making moves. Word around the league is that Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson sits at the top of their wish list. The chemistry is there, the interest is mutual, but there’s one massive problem standing in the way: the salary cap.
Why Is Rasmus Andersson Perfect for Vegas Despite the Cap Crunch?
Andersson, a 28-year-old right-shot defenseman, has drawn widespread interest across the NHL this offseason. With just one year remaining on a reasonable $4.55 million cap hit, he’s seen as a valuable target, especially for contending teams looking to make a championship push.
According to The Athletic’s Shayna Goldman, Vegas has emerged as a front-runner thanks to Andersson’s existing chemistry with former teammate Noah Hanifin and mutual interest in a longer-term commitment. The connection makes sense on paper, but fitting him under the cap tells a different story altogether.
Vegas is clearly high on Andersson and vice versa. He’s a proven top-four blue-liner with strong two-way ability and has been a stabilizing presence on Calgary’s back end for years. His current deal is widely viewed as one of the best values among top-four defensemen, especially with the market price for skilled right-handed defensemen climbing each year.
Rasmus Andersson’s preferred trade destination is the Vegas Golden Knights, sources tell @PierreVLeBrun.
The Flames defenseman possesses a modified no-trade clause and becomes a free agent in 2026.
Vegas and Calgary have had numerous discussions over the past week, but still no… pic.twitter.com/0G7kKO4ZQE
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) June 30, 2025
That combination makes him attractive, not just to Vegas, but to other potential suitors like the Bruins, Stars, Red Wings, and Lightning. Still, no team appears more aggressive than the Golden Knights. They see Andersson as a key piece in their push for another deep playoff run.
However, there’s a significant obstacle. Vegas doesn’t currently have the cap flexibility to make the move cleanly.
Andersson’s next deal is expected to land in the $7-8 million range annually. The team already has big decisions looming with Jack Eichel and Pavel Dorofeyev due for extensions. To make room, the Golden Knights would likely need to part with contracts and possibly even core players.
Meanwhile, the Flames aren’t in a rush to make a deal. They’re reportedly hesitant to deal Andersson within the division unless the return truly moves the needle.
While Vegas could dangle top prospects like Trevor Connelly or Mathieu Cataford, Calgary is said to prefer NHL-ready talent. One name that’s come up: Pavel Dorofeyev, Vegas’ leading scorer in 2024-25, netting 35 goals. But it’s unclear if the Knights are willing to include him in any potential package.
What’s Calgary’s Strategy With the Trade Deadline Approaching?
Calgary seems content to wait and see how the market develops. According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, the Flames believe Andersson’s trade value could climb as the 2024-25 season progresses. If teams become desperate for defensive depth ahead of the deadline, Calgary may find a stronger market and a better return.
Of course, holding onto him carries risk. An injury or performance dip could change the landscape entirely. But for now, the Flames are betting that patience pays off, especially if it keeps Andersson away from a division rival.
Coming off an 81-game campaign where he matched a career-high 11 goals and notched 31 points, Andersson remains a key part of the Flames’ roster while trade discussions continue.
Calgary goal!
Scored by Rasmus Andersson with 04:11 remaining in the 3rd period.
Assisted by Matt Coronato.
Calgary: 3
Seattle: 2#SEAvsCGY #Flames #SeaKraken pic.twitter.com/EgrusgcSoY— NHL Goals (@nhl_goal_bot) March 26, 2025
With over 536 games under his belt, his reputation as a reliable top-four option is well-earned and continues to attract interest from contending teams.
As talks continue and rosters evolve throughout the season, Andersson’s name isn’t going away anytime soon. Whether he ends up in Vegas or elsewhere, his next move will be one of the more intriguing storylines to follow as the trade deadline approaches.
The roadblock is Vegas doesn’t have what Calgary wants for Andersson. No top prospects or high draft picks.
Lol…Who would have thought they would get Mitch Marner for Nicklas Roy….Never say never…