Flames and Oilers trade for D-man would be a GM 'career-ender,' says scribe

For Calgary Flames GM Craig Conroy, trading defenseman Rasmus Andersson to the rival Edmonton Oilers would be a monumental risk—and potentially a career-defining mistake. Given the two team’s heated rivalry, it’s not unheard of that they might trade with each other, but any deal that sends a key player like Andersson to Edmonton could get Conroy fired, writes Allan Mitchell of The Athletic.

At the very least, that trade would damage Conroy’s reputation, particularly if Andersson helps the Oilers make a deep playoff run or even captures a Stanley Cup. Conroy might never live it down and considering the market that is probably out there for Andersson, such a deal with the Oilers would put his job security in question.

Mitchell recently pointed out that Oilers GM Stan Bowman is expected to look for a veteran defenseman by the March trade deadline. He listed a handful of defensemen who might be a fit for Edmonton. Among them, Andersson, Henri Jokiharju. Artem Zub, Alexandre Carrier and Justin Barron. Mitchell noted that if trade discussions centered only around skill and the best fit, Andersson would be a top candidate.

Andersson currently leads the Flames in points with 10 in eight games. His two-way play, ability to handle tough minutes, and physical style would add valuable depth to Edmonton’s blue line. He’s also an ideal fit for a team with Stanley Cup aspirations and his cap hit is more than affordable for most teams at $4.55 million.

Flames would need to get a massive return from the Oilers

This is not to say a trade would be impossible, but if Conroy were to do it, any exchange involving Andersson, especially with a heated rival, would demand a massive return. It would likely have to be larger than what any other team might offer. It’s not clear the Oilers would be willing to pay that premium.