Flames’ Backlund on Andersson: ‘He’s getting traded’

Rasmus Andersson may not be long for Calgary — at least, according to his captain.

“The team wants value. He wants a big contract. So he wants to play well. The team needs him to play well. So, just go out and play. I talked to him, too, and he doesn’t want to be a distraction. So it’s all good. It’s too bad it’s come to this. I don’t think that they’re close to getting an agreement or anything, but you never know. Things could change. We’ll see,” Backlund said during the NHL’s European media tour,

Andersson, 28, will earn $4.5 million during the final year of his contract next season, making him a prime candidate for trade before reaching free agency.

He played 81 games last season, compiling 11 goals, 20 assists and a minus-38.

The Swede has spent his entire career with Calgary since it selected him in the second round of the 2015 draft, suiting up in 536 contests and recording 231 points (47 goals, 184 assists).

However, he has been the subject of trade speculation even dating back to the 2024 deadline, when Calgary shipped out fellow blue liners Chris Tanev, Noah Hanifin and Nikita Zadorov.

Andersson has a six-team no-trade list, per PuckPedia.

He also appeared on the final off-season edition of Real Kyper’s trade board, with Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos writing that a trade remains the most likely outcome.

“For the Flames to get the most in a return, Andersson would have to be open to re-signing with the team that acquires him, and it’s believed his list of preferred destinations is very short,” Kypreos wrote.

Calgary missed the playoff last season before mostly standing pat in free agency.