The trade winds are picking up in Calgary, and Rasmus Andersson’s name is right in the middle of the storm. The 29-year-old defenseman is drawing serious interest across the league, and the Detroit Red Wings are one of the teams keeping close tabs on the situation. But as with most big-name trade targets, the path to a deal is anything but simple.
Detroit’s interest is real, but it comes with conditions. Under GM Steve Yzerman, the Red Wings have been deliberate and disciplined when it comes to major moves.
That was evident during past discussions involving high-profile defensemen like Quinn Hughes, where Yzerman reportedly stuck to a firm asking price. So, it’s no surprise that any pursuit of Andersson would likely hinge on a contract extension being part of the deal.
The Red Wings aren’t in the business of renting talent unless there’s a long-term payoff.
That’s where things get interesting. Would Andersson be willing to commit to Detroit beyond this season? That question could ultimately determine whether Yzerman decides to push his chips to the center of the table or fold early.
The trade clock is ticking louder by the day. Multiple insiders, including Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman and TSN’s Pierre LeBrun, have indicated that both the Flames and Andersson are hoping to get a deal done before the NHL’s trade freeze kicks in ahead of the Olympics on February 4. LeBrun has even suggested a trade could materialize as early as this weekend, signaling that talks are heating up fast.
And it’s not just idle chatter. According to Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli, front offices around the league are ramping up their offers, sensing that Calgary is nearing a decision. “Now is the time to get in those best and final offers,” Seravalli reported, adding that teams believe the Flames are “getting closer to pulling the trigger.”
Friedman also noted that teams are approaching the Andersson sweepstakes with different strategies. Some are pushing for an extension as part of the deal, while others are open to acquiring him as a rental. That flexibility could expand the market, but it might also push Detroit out of the running if they’re unwilling to pay a premium for a short-term piece.
And that’s where things get a little murky for Red Wings fans. While Detroit is certainly in the mix, they haven’t been mentioned as one of the most aggressive suitors.
Friedman has pointed to the Boston Bruins and Vegas Golden Knights as two of the more active teams, with the Dallas Stars also expected to be serious players. Compared to that trio, Detroit’s pursuit has been a bit quieter.
Still, don’t count the Red Wings out just yet. Daily Faceoff’s Jeff Marek mentioned Detroit as a team to watch, saying he’s “most wondering about” the Red Wings when it comes to Andersson’s next destination. He also highlighted Dallas as another strong contender.
From a resources standpoint, Detroit is in a strong position. They’ve got cap space, a well-stocked prospect pipeline, and plenty of draft picks to work with.
That gives them the kind of flexibility that teams like Dallas-who’ve already spent heavily in recent years-might not have. If Yzerman decides to go all-in, he has the tools to make it happen.
But this isn’t just about who can offer the most. It’s also about fit and timing.
Teams like Vegas and Dallas are firmly in win-now mode and can offer Andersson a clearer shot at a Stanley Cup run this season. They also have the roster structure to slot him in seamlessly, which could be a major selling point if Andersson is prioritizing immediate contention.
So, what’s next? That depends on how aggressive Yzerman is willing to be.
He’s got the assets to outbid almost anyone, but he’s also shown a consistent willingness to walk away if the price doesn’t align with his long-term vision. That was the case with Quinn Hughes, and it could be the case again here.
The clock’s ticking toward the Olympic break, and the Flames are clearly motivated to make a move. Whether Detroit is the team that steps up-or steps back-could be one of the defining questions of this deadline season.