Penguins Must Act Fast as Top Insider Reveals Flames Defenseman Rasmus Andersson Open to Trade

The NHL off-season has slowed down, but the chatter is now about potential trades, specifically on defense. Many of the most important unrestricted free agents are now under contract, and small transactions are the only ones trickling in.

The biggest story now involves Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson. Rasus Andersson, 29, is in his last year of his contract, worth $4.55 million.

He's a pending UFA and one of the leading candidates to don the Swedish jersey at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

His cap-friendly deal makes him a desired rental for title contenders, and while Calgary would prefer to keep him, re-extending his contract isn't feasible.

The Flames will likely trade him before the deadline, with his long-term contract desires said to be north of $8 million annually. Among potential trade destinations, the Pittsburgh Penguins are a safe bet.

Elliotte Friedman recently suggested that if Andersson gets dealt at the deadline, he will likely be going to any competitive team, including Pittsburgh, as it won't just be Stanley Cup contenders.

The Penguins, currently in a rebuild and with Erik Karlsson likely to be on his way out, may have room for a quality veteran on a blue line that has holes.

Erik Karlsson, whose troubles on defense have been an issue, has two years left on his deal. But his scoring has not blossomed in Pittsburgh's weak system, and a trade could open a spot on the back line.

Andersson, younger, more reliable, and less apprehensive, would be a natural fill-in. Kyle Dubas, if he is going to secure the Penguins' blue line with a reliable upgrade, may have to act sooner rather than later before another team does.