The Calgary Flames have made a trade. Veteran defenceman Rasmus Andersson has been sent to the Vegas Golden Knights. At this point there is no contract extension in place, but that could change. The Calgary Flames are also retaining 50% of the remaining contract. The return in the deal is Zach Whitecloud, a 2027 first-round pick, and a conditional second in the same year along with Abram Wiebe from the University of North Dakota. It’s become a foregone conclusion for several months that this would be the final outcome for the 2015 second-round pick of the Flames. Andersson has spent his entire career with the Flames and has been quoted as saying he’s “loved every second” of his time in Calgary.
Andersson to Vegas with 50 per cent retained
Return:
Whitecloud
2027 1st
2027 2nd, becomes a first if Vegas wins Cup this year
Abram Weibe, a defenceman at UND— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) January 18, 2026
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Following the Trade, What Andersson Brings to Vegas
The return for Andersson was expected to be high considering he was the best available defender since the Quinn Hughes trade to Minnesota. That return was the equivalent of four first round picks. For example, each of Liam Ohgren, Marco Rossi, and Zeev Buium were all selected in the first round. While Andersson isn’t quite on the level of a Hughes, he is still a top three defenceman on any contending team. What he truly brings is a leadership quality of pulling guys into the battle, along with a wicked shot when he uses it.
Rasmus Andersson has been having one of his best seasons, so far. Pitching in 10 goals and 30 points for the Flames. Over his career in Calgary, he played 584 games in the Flaming C. In that time he’s managed to produce 261 points, good for 35th in Flames history and sixth among defencemen.
The issue around Andersson is how often he uses his shot. Several coaches have tried to unlock that trait from him for a long time. However, when he does unleash his secret weapon, it is incredibly dangerous. It’s either in the net or creates a second chance in front. Moreover, he brings the stare-down of opponents fans after he scores, just for fun. He also brings a sense of security on the backend, playing an average of around 24 minutes a game.
What the Flames Are Getting in Trade Return
Even with the return for Rasmus Andersson, the biggest thing for the Flames is getting their top prospect, Zayne Parekh into the lineup on a consistent basis. The Andersson trade opens up a spot on the right side for Parekh to become a full time NHLer. Likely coming after a conditioning stint with the AHL’s Wranglers.
Whitecloud is a great piece for Calgary to bring in. He’s 29, and brings veteran leadership from a defensive defenceman perspective. Moreover, this would allow him to develop the next generation of Flames. Parekh would be a great example. Furthermore, in 47 games this year, he has two goals and five assists, playing nearly 19 minutes a night.
Main Photo Credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images