x
NHL Rumours: Dustin Wolf Extension and Rasmus Andersson Trade Would Alter Calgary Flames Future Defensively
Main Photo Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

In this edition of NHL rumours, we check in on the Calgary Flames. They appear to be staying busy this offseason. Recently, reports are circulating about a potential contract extension for goaltender Dustin Wolf. Meanwhile, defenceman Rasmus Andersson continues to draw trade interest from several Western Conference contenders. Let’s take a look at these rumours and figure out what they mean for the future in Calgary.

NHL Rumours: Changes for Calgary Flames Defensively in the Future

Rumour: Discussion and the likelihood of a Dustin Wolf contract extension being done soon.

Analysis: Given Wolf’s stellar play, you’d have to think Calgary doesn’t want him to delay signing the extension. 

The 2025 Calder Trophy runner-up made his long-awaited NHL breakthrough this past season. He started all 53 games he appeared in and posted a .910 save percentage. According to TSN’s Calgary Bureau Chief Salim Valji, Wolf seems committed to staying in Calgary. The California native has chosen to remain in the city and immerse himself in the local community rather than returning to the U.S. during the offseason.

With a year left on his contract, the Flames may be poised to lock up the 23-year-old goaltender. Wolf has emerged as a cornerstone of Calgary’s rebuild. His position within the organization seems to have solidified over the past few days of free agency with the decision to allow former backup and competitor for the starting spot, Dan Vladar, to walk, and adding Ivan Prosvetov as Wolf’s official backup.

Rumour: Flames Remain Patient on Andersson Trade Talks

Analysis: With all the feelings of a rebuild, it makes sense Andersson wants to move on.

Meanwhile, on the blueline, Rasmus Andersson has emerged as a potential trade chip. The 27-year-old right-shot defenceman has reportedly drawn interest from the Vegas Golden Knights, Los Angeles Kings, and Dallas Stars, according to NHL Rumour Report on X (formerly Twitter). Andersson is set to become an unrestricted free agent following the 2025-26 season. He could help the Flames recoup future assets if Conroy opts to move the veteran.

Vegas could use another right-handed option on the blueline. With the blockbuster sign-and-trade of Mitch Marner, Andersson’s pass-first approach could be a seamless fit alongside the Golden Knights’ high-octane offenslce.

It appears the Kings were prepared to go all-in for the Swedish blueliner, potentially offering high-end prospects or multiple early-round draft picks.

Dallas is fresh off another deep playoff run. They could be eyeing Andersson to bolster their top-four. His two-way play and offensive instincts would bring additional spark to a Stars blueline that leans heavily on its top pair.

Still, trading Andersson wouldn’t be an easy call. He’s been a dependable fixture for Calgary, logging big minutes and serving in all situations as he’s been called on. But as the Flames continue to lean into a youth-focused rebuild, the decision may come down less to performance and more to aligning timelines.

For Conroy and the front office, the question isn’t whether Andersson still holds value—it’s whether he fits Calgary’s long-term picture.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!