Surprising Update in Rasmus Andersson Drama in Calgary

Rasmus Andersson, Calgary Flames defenseman

When it comes to the Calgary Flames and veteran defenseman Rasmus Andersson, it's always been a matter of 'when', not 'if' he is traded. Heading into the final year of his contract, an extension in Cowtown has never been thought to be on the table.

However, insider Pierre LeBrun has reported on TSN's Insider Trading that "the door is not closed" on an extension with the Flames. At least, not slammed shut.

Neither side wants to totally close the door on maybe having extension talks again at some point this year. But for now, what the team has told Andersson is, 'Hey, let's start the year and see how things go here and then maybe we'll revisit this at some point.'

LeBrun added that Andersson was very nearly dealt to the Vegas Golden Knights earlier this summer, so certainly a trade is still a very real option. He still calls the trade path the most likely scenario, but the two sides are obviously keeping an open mind.

If the Flames get off to a roaring start and look like a playoff contender this season, that would likely change the calculus a bit here, but would a long-term extension in Calgary ever be a possibility?

Rasmus Andersson extension in Calgary hasn't been ruled out

"I do think Andersson would listen if there was an eight-year offer on the table," said LeBrun, "but right now, I just don't think the team is ready to go there." Ultimately, for a soon-to-be 29-year-old, that doesn't seem to make a lot of sense for a team admittedly trying to rebuild with youth.

In the meantime, the two sides are in a good place.

"Everyone is an adult in the room. He's ready to play his best for the Flames, and they're happy to have him back."

Andersson had 11 goals and 31 points in 81 games last season with 24 minutes of ice time a night, and is still a solid top-four defender on the Flames blueline.