The Calgary Flames are still trying to find their footing this season. Even though they’ve looked better lately, beating the Panthers 5-3 on Friday and winning four of their last five, they remain 31st in the NHL standings.
Trade rumors continue to swirl around the team, and defenseman Rasmus Andersson has become one of the biggest names in the conversation.
Insider Breaks Down Flames’ Rasmus Andersson’s Preferred Trade Landing Spots
On Daily Faceoff LIVE, NHL insider David Pagnotta discussed the Flames’ situation and shed light on Andersson’s future.
Pagnotta said he believes Andersson is likely to be moved at some point this season. While he doesn’t expect anything to happen immediately, he noted that Calgary is still a few weeks away from fully accepting that this may be a retooling year, unless they somehow go on a miracle run.
According to Pagnotta, Andersson’s trade market is strong, and two teams sit firmly at the top of his personal wish list: “It still sounds like Vegas and Dallas are the two teams that are at the top of his wish list and he would be willing to sign an extension there.”
MORE: Flames Star Rasmus Andersson Comes Out Swinging Against Insiders’ Reports
However, Pagnotta added that other teams could still enter the mix, especially contenders looking to bolster their blue line for a Stanley Cup run, even if Andersson becomes a short-term rental. “We’re going to pay a little bit extra, we’ll figure out the offseason stuff later,” he said, “If he leaves, he leaves like that that primary rental kind of guy.”
When asked whether Andersson might have to accept being traded to a team not on his preferred list, Pagnotta said it ultimately comes down to general manager Craig Conroy. “It’s really going to like whatever return he can maximize, then he’ll do it,” he said, “If he can get a better deal from either Dallas or Vegas because there’s an extension attached to it, he’ll do it. If not, if it’s, you know, whomever.”
For Andersson, the Stars or Golden Knights remain his preferred destinations. But if a deal sends him elsewhere, he’s expected to handle the long-term details once the season wraps up. His recent play has only helped his value, he’s put up 12 points in his last seven games, including a pair of assists in Friday’s win.
Pagnotta also noted that players like Blake Coleman and possibly others, such as Nazem Kadri, could start generating interest if the Flames decide to move more pieces.