Flames’ Rasmus Andersson trade talks reportedly depend on Sabres’ decision regarding young star

The trade market surrounding Rasmus Andersson has emerged as one of the most closely watched developments in this NHL offseason. As the Calgary Flames defenseman enters the final year of his contract, teams are expressing growing interest. However, insiders report that the trajectory of Andersson’s trade possibilities is deeply connected to a separate negotiation involving a young blueliner with the Buffalo Sabres.

NHL insider David Pagnotta revealed that the outcome of the Sabres’ situation with their promising defenseman Bowen Byram could significantly influence how the market for Andersson shapes up. With multiple contenders watching closely, the fate of these two defenders may be linked in a strategic domino effect.

Meanwhile, Andersson himself has expressed clear preferences about his next destination, complicating the Flames’ efforts to find a suitable trade partner.

A defensive domino effect

Pagnotta explained on The Big Show that teams like the Dallas Stars and Vegas Golden Knights are monitoring the Buffalo Sabres’ negotiations with Bowen Byram. Whether Byram re-signs or is traded will impact the urgency and nature of potential offers for Andersson.

The two defensemen share similar roles as top-four, puck-moving blueliners. Analysts suggest that whichever player moves first could set a precedent for the other’s market value and contract negotiations.

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Andersson’s preferred destination: Vegas

Reports indicate that Andersson is primarily interested in a long-term deal only if traded to the Vegas Golden Knights. He has reportedly exercised his partial no-trade clause to block offers from other interested teams, including the Los Angeles Kings, Ottawa Senators, and Columbus Blue Jackets.

According to The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun and TSN’s Darren Dreger, Andersson recently declined a compelling offer from Los Angeles, underscoring his preference to join Vegas. However, with the Golden Knights likely focused on Byram, Andersson’s situation remains in limbo.

Looking ahead

As the NHL offseason continues, the interplay between the Sabres’ decision on Byram and the Flames’ trade talks involving Andersson will be a storyline to follow closely.

Should Byram re-sign with Buffalo, teams eager to acquire Andersson may need to recalibrate their approach. Conversely, a Byram trade could accelerate negotiations and open doors for Andersson’s relocation. For now, all eyes remain on these pivotal moves that could reshape the defensive corps for multiple franchises.