Rasmus Andersson’s Trade Saga Ends in Vegas-But It Nearly Went a Lot of Other Directions First
After nearly a year of swirling rumors, near-deals, and behind-the-scenes negotiations, Rasmus Andersson is finally a member of the Vegas Golden Knights. The Flames sent the 29-year-old defenseman to Vegas in exchange for a first-round pick, a second-rounder, veteran blueliner Zach Whitecloud, and defensive prospect Abram Wiebe. It’s a haul that reflects Andersson’s value-and the fact that this deal had been brewing for a long time.
But what’s most intriguing about this trade isn’t just the final outcome. It’s everything that almost happened along the way.
The Trade That Almost Was: Los Angeles
Andersson recently opened up about the twists and turns of his trade journey, confirming that a deal to send him to the Kings was nearly finalized over the summer. The framework was there, but it hinged on one key detail: a long-term extension. Andersson wasn’t ready to commit to that kind of deal with L.A., and without that agreement in place, the trade collapsed.
That wasn’t the only close call.
A Not-So-Short List
After the Los Angeles talks fell apart, Andersson gave Calgary a list of teams he’d be willing to sign with. And while the term “shortlist” usually implies a handful of options, Andersson's list included seven teams-giving the Flames some flexibility but also adding layers of complexity to any potential move.
There were a few moments when it looked like something might come together with other teams on that list, but cap complications got in the way. Andersson is playing on a team-friendly $4.55 million AAV this season, but the challenge for several clubs was figuring out how to make the numbers work beyond this year. Without a clear path to a long-term fit, those talks fizzled.
Staying Locked In
To his credit, Andersson didn’t let the trade noise affect his play. He came back to Calgary this season and delivered a strong first half, tallying 10 goals and 20 assists in 48 games while averaging more than 24 minutes of ice time per night-just edging past his career high. That kind of consistency, especially under the cloud of constant trade speculation, says a lot about his professionalism and focus.
The Boston Deal That Fell Apart
Just days before the Vegas trade went down, Andersson was nearly headed to Boston. That deal reportedly included a seven-year, $63 million extension-until the Bruins made some late changes to the contract’s structure and trade protections.
Andersson wasn’t on board with the tweaks, and after three days of radio silence from Boston, he pulled out of talks altogether. Without an extension in place, the Bruins were no longer a viable trade partner.
That decision may have been the tipping point.
Vegas Steps In
Shortly after Andersson shut the door on Boston, Vegas came calling with a serious offer. This time, everything aligned. The Golden Knights were one of the seven teams on Andersson’s approved list from the summer, and they didn’t waste time getting the deal done.
Since the trade, Andersson has suited up for eight games with Vegas, notching a goal and three assists. Now, he’s with Team Sweden at the Olympics, which means his All-Star break will be a little shorter than most. But for a player who’s been living in limbo for nearly a year, a little less rest might be a fair trade for finally landing where he wants to be.
What Comes Next?
The next step is clear: work out a long-term extension in Vegas. The near-deal with Boston gives us a rough idea of what that might look like financially, and with Andersson already on the record as open to staying in Vegas, there’s reason to believe both sides can get something done.
It took longer than expected, and there were plenty of detours along the way, but Andersson has reached the first major checkpoint: a trade to a contender of his choosing. Now the focus shifts to the second half of the equation-locking in a deal that keeps him in Vegas for the long haul.