With Alex Pietrangelo now on season-ending LTIR, the Vegas Golden Knights have a significant amount of cap space to play with, and the hockey world is buzzing with speculation. One name that keeps surfacing in connection with Vegas is Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson. For months, it’s been rumored that Vegas is his preferred destination, but NHL insider Elliotte Friedman has shed new light on the situation, suggesting that the Golden Knights may not be the only team in the running for the talented blueliner.
Is Rasmus Andersson Still Destined for the Vegas Golden Knights?
As an NHL analyst, I’ve been following the Rasmus Andersson situation closely, and while the Vegas Golden Knights seem like a natural fit, I don’t believe it’s a foregone conclusion that he’ll end up in Sin City. Friedman’s comments on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio confirm what I’ve been hearing from my sources: Andersson is open to other possibilities. The Los Angeles Kings were also in the mix last year, and although he reportedly vetoed a trade to LA, it shows that other teams are actively pursuing him. The fact that the Flames and Golden Knights couldn’t agree on a trade last season also indicates that Calgary is not willing to part with him for anything less than a substantial return.
So, what does this all mean for the Golden Knights? While they now have the cap space to make a significant move, they are not the only team with the assets and desire to acquire a top-four defenseman like Andersson. The bidding war for his services is likely to be intense, and the Flames are in the driver’s seat. They can afford to be patient and wait for the best possible offer, whether it comes from Vegas or another contender.
The Future of the Flames and the Golden Knights
Ultimately, I believe that Rasmus Andersson’s future will depend on two factors: the trade package that the Flames receive and his willingness to sign a long-term extension. While Vegas remains a strong contender, don’t be surprised if another team swoops in and makes an offer that Calgary can’t refuse. One thing is for sure: the Rasmus Andersson sweepstakes are far from over, and it will be fascinating to see where he lands.
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