LAS VEGAS — Kelly McCrimmon, the general manager for the Vegas Golden Knights, understood that defenseman Rasmus Andersson’s availability was unlikely to extend past the Olympic pause, necessitating a swift move if he aimed to reinforce his defensive lines.
Consequently, in a pattern reminiscent of numerous prior instances since the club’s establishment in 2017, McCrimmon executed a significant mid-season acquisition, securing a highly desirable player just ahead of another anticipated postseason charge.
On Sunday, the Knights brought in the 29-year-old offensive defenseman, sending defenseman Zach Whitecloud, promising talent Abram Wiebe, a conditional first-round draft selection in 2027, and a conditional second-round pick in 2028 in return.
“We believe that with Rasmus, we are bringing in a top-tier defenseman,” stated McCrimmon on Monday, preceding the Knights’ game versus the Philadelphia Flyers. “He’s effective at controlling the puck, capable of executing strategic plays, proficient during transitions, and assertive in the offensive third – we anticipate he will significantly enhance our team.”
The Flames committed to holding onto half of Andersson’s remaining compensation for the concluding year of his six-year deal, valued at $27.3 million.
“Achieving this deal with Vegas was possible because they accepted the terms without a new contract in place, as it had become evident to us within the preceding approximately twelve hours that no extension would be finalized with any interested clubs,” remarked Flames general manager Craig Conroy. “This particular condition certainly altered our negotiation strategy and the compensation we ultimately received.”
McCrimmon mentioned that the organization developed an interest in Andersson during the off-season, and once the discussions between the veteran of a decade and Calgary regarding a contract renewal reached an impasse, talks for a trade commenced.
Given Vegas’s expressed interest and the knowledge that Andersson would be playing for Sweden in the upcoming month’s Olympics, it grew crucial for the Flames to finalize a transfer prior to the hiatus.
“He’s known for his robust playing style,” McCrimmon commented. “I believe a potential injury presented a significant concern for Calgary. My long-standing perception was that Calgary would likely not delay trading Rasmus beyond the Olympic interlude. This is because, from their standpoint, you wouldn’t want a player participating in the Olympics, possibly incurring an injury, and thereby forfeiting a valuable trade prospect.”
McCrimmon stated that the team is currently “processing Andersson’s immigration,” and until this matter is resolved, there is no established date for his initial appearance with the Knights.
Upon his eventual arrival, Andersson is expected to rejoin defenseman Noah Hanifin, who played over five seasons in Calgary prior to his trade to Vegas in March 2024.
This season, Andersson has appeared in every one of Calgary’s 48 matches, accumulating 30 total points, comprising 10 goals and 20 assists, alongside an impressive plus-3 differential. His 30 points represented the highest tally among Calgary’s defensemen, and his 10 goals placed him jointly in eighth position among all NHL defensemen.
