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Latest Update on Flames and Rasmus Andersson Trade Talks

Originally posted on Trade Talk Sports | By Jim Parsons | Last updated Jan 18, 2026 1:59 PM ET

Trade discussions around Rasmus Andersson are intensifying, and multiple NHL insiders believe a deal could come together within the next 24–48 hours.

According to Darren Dreger, four teams remain in the mix — two in the East and two in the West — with Boston and Vegas identified as the strongest contenders.

The Boston Bruins continue to emerge as the frontrunner, despite some less-reliable reports prematurely claiming the trade is already complete. More credible insiders, including Jimmy Murphy and Elliotte Friedman report that Boston, Calgary, and Andersson are now “on the same page,” a shift from earlier indications that extension talks were a hurdle. However, the Bruins reportedly want a contract extension as part of the deal before they commit to the trade.

One factor working in Boston’s favor: Andersson’s familiarity with former teammates Nikita Zadorov and Elias Lindholm, who are reportedly helping recruit him. Add in a competitive roster featuring Jeremy Swayman, Charlie McAvoy, David Pastrnak, and a growing youth pipeline, and the Bruins present a compelling long-term fit.

From a hockey standpoint, Andersson checks every box Boston is looking for. As Joe Haggerty notes, he’s a right-shot, top-four defenseman capable of logging 24 minutes per night, even managing to stay a plus player on a struggling Flames team. Defenseman Mason Lohrei is widely believed to be a likely part of any return.

The Flames Want This Done Before the Olympic Break

Calgary is pushing for urgency. Insiders report the Flames have asked interested teams to get their best offers in, with the goal of completing a trade before the Olympic roster freeze on February 4. Both Frank Seravalli and Pierre LeBrun confirm talks have heated up, with LeBrun suggesting this feels different than previous stalled negotiations.

On the 32 Thoughts podcast, Friedman noted that Calgary — and Andersson himself — would prefer to have the situation resolved before the Olympic break. Friedman confirmed strong Bruins interest, added that Vegas remains a lurking presence, and suggested Dallas and Vancouver are also involved, with other teams quietly checking in.

As for contract status, both an extension and a rental scenario remain in play. If Boston lands Andersson, most insiders expect an extension to be part of the deal. Should talks drag on, the likelihood of Andersson testing free agency increases. If Vegas lands him, they are less worried about an extension as they are under the impression he would like to sign one with them.

With a $4.5 million cap hit and playoff-tested credentials, Andersson is one of the most valuable defensemen available. With Calgary clearly motivated and contenders circling, this situation appears to be reaching a tipping point.

This article first appeared on Trade Talk Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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