The Calgary Flames and Rasmus Andersson appear headed for a separation, with a potential trade between the Flames and Sabres becoming increasingly likely this offseason. The 28-year-old defenseman, since the beginning of his NHL career with Calgary, is reportedly seeking a long-term contract, which the team is currently hesitant to offer given their organizational direction.
Despite the amicable relationship between Andersson and the Flames, the circumstances suggest that a trade is on the horizon. Andersson’s $4.55 million cap hit for the 2025-26 season makes him an attractive acquisition for several teams, including contenders. However, the Buffalo Sabres, aiming to rebuild and push for success, have emerged as a leading candidate for his services.
Buffalo Sabres Eyeing Defensive Improvements
The Sabres, although boasting promising young talents throughout their roster, recognize a pressing need to strengthen their defensive lineup for the upcoming seasons. Last year, Connor Clifton occupied top-four minutes on the right side, but Andersson is considered a marked upgrade over Clifton’s play. Additionally, Andersson’s abilities surpass those of Mattias Samuelsson, who held a top-pairing role during the previous season.
If acquired, Andersson could immediately slot alongside fellow Swedish defenseman Rasmus Dahlin on the Sabres’ top pairing. This pairing would not only improve on-ice performance but would also infuse the young Sabres locker room with seasoned leadership. With 536 NHL games and 27 playoff appearances, Andersson brings valuable experience and has served as an alternate captain for Calgary for the past three years.
Sabres’ Urgency to Revitalize Franchise
The Sabres’ urgency to upgrade their roster is underscored by their record-setting 14 consecutive seasons without a playoff appearance, the longest drought in NHL history. This prolonged absence from postseason play has intensified front office efforts to reshape the team and end the stretch of underperformance.
Buffalo’s management sees Andersson as a critical piece in their turnaround plans, and their desperation may drive them to offer a high price to secure his services. Such motivation could enable the Flames to demand a significant return in any transaction involving the defenseman.
One potential asset for Calgary in a swap could be Bowen Byram, a promising 23-year-old defenseman who may be available this summer. Selected fourth overall in the 2019 NHL Draft, Byram is slated to become a restricted free agent. He recently posted career-best numbers with seven goals, 38 points, and a plus-11 rating over 81 games, while averaging nearly 23 minutes of ice time per contest.
Moreover, the Sabres possess multiple draft picks, including three first-round selections over the next three years. Their upcoming ninth overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft is a valuable asset that Calgary could target as they look to strengthen their roster, particularly at the center position.
Calgary’s Strategic Patience Amid Trade Talks
Currently, the Flames maintain control over Andersson’s future, as they can choose to keep him throughout the 2025-26 season and hope for a resurgence in his performance after a less impressive 2024-25 campaign. Nevertheless, the Sabres’ eagerness to improve quickly might lead them to present Calgary with an irresistible offer this offseason.
Such a move could not only enhance the Sabres’ defensive core but also reflect positively on Flames general manager Craig Conroy’s tenure, as he navigates challenging personnel decisions to position the team for long-term success.